Bingham Facility for the Over-Capable and Deformed

by Star Sentinel

After mutants reveal themselves during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the United States government is in a panic. They begin developing a mysterious program dubbed "Sentinel." While Charles Xavier is busy creating a safe haven for mutants during this chaotic time, he is approached by James Beuford, director of a program that claims to rehabilitate it's students.

"This is more humane than the alternative." The man smoothed out his tie, eyes darting around the room. Two guards stood at the door, armed to the teeth with assault rifles, flack jackets, grenades, and riot shields. The room was otherwise bare and unadorned, with off-white walls and cement floor. In the center of the room, James Beuford adjusted his tie again and squirmed in his seat before addressing his guest: Charles Xavier.

"We're like a pound. We don't put down feral dogs, we treat them and give them new homes." Xavier's jaw noticeably clenched, and Beuford hastily added, "No doubt you have read the intel we gave you regarding the United States government's latest plans regarding the… as you call it… mutant population."

Xavier placed the fingertips of each hand together, forming a steeple. "The Sentinel program."

"If you support Bingham, the Sentinels will be politically slaughtered." Beuford leaned forward on the desk. "You are an important voice, Mr. Xavier-"

"Professor."

James waved his hand dismissively. "Professor Xavier. Think of all the lives you could be saving if you spoke out. Have you seen the schematics for those monsters? They're as large as a two story building." He stroked his jowls thoughtfully, appraising Xavier. "And they have some of the greatest engineers and scientists at their disposal. They could really make these things. Do you have any idea-"

"I understand the gravity of the situation." He stared intently back.

"Bingham Facility for the Over-Capable and Deformed will help normalize these… mutants. It will help society accept them, learn about them, and no longer fear them. Furthermore, the research obtained studying some subjects may glean priceless information… how to cure cancer, fly, turn invisible!" Beuford paused, examining the professor. "You seem troubled."

Xavier stood up, pushing his chair behind him. "That would be an understatement."

"Why?"

"Your program, as well meaning as it may be, is misguided and misrepresentative. It implies that mutants are a problem that needs to be fixed, and that they are test subjects rather than people."

"But can you really expect to teach them at this school of yours like a bunch of kids and everything will be hunky dory?" Beuford slammed a fist against the desk. "Do you really expect to put a bunch of those time bombs in one place and have nothing go wrong? The destruction you freaks can cause is immeasurable-"

Professor Xavier shoved the chair under the desk and smiled coldly. "And now your true hand is revealed, Mr. Beuford. I'm glad that you've finally spoken it out loud in front of witnesses rather than constantly insulting me with your thoughts."

James stared up in horror.

"Mutants are not a force that needs to be neutralized or tamed. While I thank you for the information regarding the Sentinel program, you do not, and never will, have my support, financially or otherwise, for Bingham." He moved towards the door, but heard the screech of Beuford's seat behind him, followed by hoarse rage.

"You cannot seriously expect to keep your freaks sheltered from the world, Xavier!"

Charles exhaled through his nose, pressing his lips firmly together. Then he placed two fingers on his temple. Without turning, he addressed Beuford. "Will you call off your guards?"

"L-Let him go." The pair glanced at each other before lowering their guns. One of them even had the courtesy to open the door for him.

Before exiting, Xavier spun, locking eyes with Beuford. "I highly suggest you shut down all attempts to start this program. You have been warned." And with that, he strode out.