After School
There was a knock on Xavier's door.
"Come in, Mr. Kelly."
"All right," Kelly said, entering Xavier's office, "seriously, did you have to read my mind?"
"I was just directing young Miss Pryde in the Danger Room. Please hold on a second while I put the razor-sharp blades on delay."
"Danger Room? Razor-sharp blades? Wait a minute – In? You have someone in a place called -"
"Oh, it's more of just a nostalgic output, Inspector," Professor X explained. "No one ever dies in the Danger Room. Broken bones? Yes. Head injuries? Yes. Vegetative state? Yes. Wishes for death? Yes. But actual death? No way – that would be far too merciful."
"Xavier, we have a problem." Xavier chuckled. "What's so funny?"
"Oh, nothing. It's just that the way you said that, it sounded like you were an astronaut. You know, as in 'Houston, we have a problem...' Just – just go on."
"Well, you see, Xavier, I have noticed that in just these past two days alone, six people at your school have died, three of whom have been students."
"Well, it is Marvel," the professor declared, "and in Marvel -"
"That's Thing's line, Mr. Xavier."
"Hey! Nobody calls me Mister!" Xavier yelled, eyes narrowing.
"The problem, Mister Xavier," Inspector Kelly smirked, "is that all these people are dying and you didn't even take attendance!"
Silence.
"Um... Oops..." Xavier finally responded.
"Remember the attendance, Mr. Xavier! It is vital!" Inspector Kelly bellowed, and then stormed out.