[ Erik's right that there seems to be something to human nature and all the forms it takes. Humans can be stronger than just about anyone, with wills made of steel; but they can also do terrible, ugly things.

And it does seem to come down to approach, even when the ultimate goal is the same.

It makes Steve wonder what Erik's methods had been, to put him so at odds with the rest of the mutant team, but he realizes that's a pretty invasive question.

The observation about the Summoned is also spot-on, and Steve nods. Right now they're mainly surrounded by Draconae, but it doesn't take him long to spot some familiar faces of Summoned in the distance as they also explore the forge. Some are from the Free Cities, yes, but there are some from the other factions too. ]

I think most of us are sensitive to being manipulated into siding with any one faction against the others. I think we're tied close together because all of us were brought here without even being asked for permission. [ His tone tightens at that, because even all this time later, it's still a sore spot.

Then he heaves out a sigh, his expression shifting to something more tired. ] And, well, some of us went through a pretty harrowing situation together, and that affected Summoned in every faction. I don't know if you were told about the abductions.