Sabertooth (Victor Creed)'s Story

Mia

Mia unwrapped her arms from around Charles, giving his hand a squeeze before turning her attention to the battered group that stood before her. She didn't understand how someone could do this. No. That was a lie. She did understand why someone could do this. Being on the side the Anti-Mutants hate, she lost the love of her life, and her unborn child. There was many reasons, but Mia couldn't wrap her head around at how bad it looked.

Fuyumi was right. If anyone could find Vincent, it was Cerebro and Charles. Erik's speech did ring true. Fear does stem from misunderstanding and the unknown. Things people can't control they fear.

"Who did this?" She asked, to no one in particular. It was an open question, one that a blue haired girl answered. "I can't be certain, but there were a few mutants as well with the pack. Sabertooth was one of them."

"The Weapon X Program.. that's not good.." She mumbled under her breath. Mia heard of the Weapon X Program from the X-Men, and even had encounters with them when they attacked the mansion before. With not being very combative, and having only had a few classes on self defense and Sai work, she'd be lucky to keep her ground for a few seconds before running. She tried to avoid fighting whenever necessary, but knew there was times when you couldn't. With Weapon X involved, it only made matters worse.

“Everyone there is good news. I have located Vincent and he is alright it seems. I will have Scott and Logan fly to his location to pick him and his companions up. Rest easy and thank you all for your bravery and strength today. To all of our guests please make yourselves at home. I will have repairs initiated as soon as possible. I will aim to keep you all posted on the status of things.”

Taking a breath of relief at the message she, and the others received from Charles, knowing that things would be alright.
The next morning Mia had woken early. Well, she didn't sleep much, and was up relatively early from that fact. She had gone to her restaurant, in the middle of the night to sift through paperwork, and make sure the inventory was well stocked. There was a few things she had to order, but overall, her General Manager Daniel had kept it in good shape.

Being an owner had it's quirks. You could come in anytime you wanted, make your own hours, and leave everything in the hands of your General Manager and those below. One of the greatest downfalls of being the owner was you could get a call at four in the morning from alarms going off because someone shattered the window, or tried to break in. But Mia couldn't ask for anything more. She loved it, and would even help the kitchen on nights that were so busy, she knew no matter how good the staff was, that they would need help.

Stacking the papers neatly on the desk, she looked at her watch, the time reading 9am. She had been here for five hours already, and she ran her hands down her face, feeling the effects of not getting much sleep. Another hour then I will be done, and I'll head back to the mansion after.. I want to be there when he gets back..

Adria

She watched Mia approach, completely forgetting that a lone Human lived in the Mansion. She never gave it much thought since she left two weeks ago, but now she was back. It would have been better if she didn't come back, Adria thought. She would have to play nice, but the very thought of it made her want to vomit.

"Who did this?" Mia asked, to no one in particular. "I can't be certain, but there were a few mutants as well with the pack. Sabertooth was one of them."Adria answered. Just then she heard Charles's report.

“Everyone there is good news. I have located Vincent and he is alright it seems. I will have Scott and Logan fly to his location to pick him and his companions up. Rest easy and thank you all for your bravery and strength today. To all of our guests please make yourselves at home. I will have repairs initiated as soon as possible. I will aim to keep you all posted on the status of things.”

This will be interesting.. I wonder what happened to him at Trask's hands... she thought to herself.

Adria had taken herself back to the infirmary, where the nurse who was caring for her earlier gave her a nice long lecture of staying put when injured. Adria only half listened, being unusually tired. She was out like a light after the lecture, and had woken up feeling more tired than she was when she went to sleep. Bandages wrapped around her waist, and one on her upper left arm from the cuts. No stitches and no broken bones was always good. She was up and about now, with the permission from the nurse.

Adria had heard from the others that Ryan had brought her to the infirmary during the middle of the fight, after she had been sedated. She thought it would be proper to at least thank him the next time she saw him.

Sedated..what an embarrassment..She thought. She should have been prepared for that. Prepared for anything. But she was having too much fun getting rid of the soldiers. Permanently. It was a wonderful feeling to know you had power, and even more wonderful to know with that power, you can decide their fate.. the humans. Those who look down on others for being different..who take pleasure in other peoples pain.. who lie through their teeth..always out for personal gain.. They were all the same. They got what was coming to them.

Kyle and Hideki

Kyle happened to be looming about the mansion in a blah sort of mood. There were many people about the mansion pretending not to be bothered and others that didn’t even attempt to pretend. Kyle usually went about the mansion stalking the cute guys and laughing at how he made them feel uncomfortable when he flirted with them playfully. However today was much different. He was in a mood of solitude and desired to be mostly an observer of others. He walked past the Art room. There were a few people there including Jonathan, Ace and Ryan. Jonathan caught his eye. Kyle leaned against the door of the art room quietly so that no one would notice him. Ryan and Jonathan were talking a little.

Kyle whispered to himself, “I didn’t Know Jonathan and Ryan painted.” Kyle’s parents were painters and photographers back in France. They taught him to excel in their crafts as well. He always appreciated a good painting or interesting photo, but he chose to be the center piece of the art by becoming a model. Kyle wanted to say something to the boys but as they approached the door he ducked back against the wall and swiftly flew around the corner. “Where was Memory? She’s almost always with Jonathan. She was taking things rather difficultly yesterday.” Kyle said to himself.

Kyle thought back to earlier that morning. He had asked the Professor if he could be allowed to tag along with Logan, Scott and Philip when they went to rendezvous with Vincent. He had promised himself that he’d help find Vincent in any way that he could. However the professor wouldn’t allow it. “You must take it easy and rest Kyle. Scott, Logan, and Philip can handle this. Besides, there are others here at the mansion that need you more. Hideki could use a good distraction right now.” Kyle remembered the professor’s words and he smiled. He decided to visit Hideki.

Hideki sat in the library slightly depressed. He decided to create a sword of light. Magneto had been coaching him lately with the use of his power and creating light energy objects that were actually tangible. It took so much concentration to do so Hideki decided to stop and try something simpler. He placed his hands together and created a ball of light. That ball of multicolored light swirled and moved about serenely. From the ball flew a butterfly of light that fluttered around creating sparkles where it flew. Hideki felt much better when looking at the delicate creature of light. It was carefree and he felt carefree for a moment. He just wished that he’d feel better after the butterfly was no more too.

Kyle walked into the library, searching from aisle to aisle for Hideki. There he found him, seated at the back of the library at a small table near a window. The sunlight fell peacefully onto Hideki and the surrounding area. The butterfly Hideki created gracefully flittered over to Kyle, once Hideki realized that Kyle was watching him. The butterfly landed on the tip of Kyle’s nose and batted it’s wings a couple of times before flittering off toward the light from the window and fading away into the golden sunshine. “That was pretty nice I see you’ve found your distraction.” Kyle said with a smirk.

The two students stalked for a while and then decided to head downstairs to the common area and watch television. Once they reached the common area the say Stinger. She was seated on the couch, legs crossed, and flipping through channels. She was obviously very bored. Kyle was at first a bit hesitant to sit next to her. She was just yesterday their enemy. She seemed to know Cara, and Kyle thought perhaps if Cara knew about Stinger, she could have possibly known about the attack on the mansion. As Hideki sat down seemingly without a care Kyle stood deep in thought. “Kyle you alright?” Hideki asked.

“Oh, I’m fine. I must have been spacing out.” Kyle replied with a quick smile. Kyle sat down and Stinger began to talk. “So you boys know of any good malls around here? I’m dying to do some spending therapy. Cara’s off getting all medicated, I don’t do manual labor so helping to fix the joint is out of the question and TV has failed me miserably today.” Stinger spoke to the students like she was unaware of the previous day’s circumstances. They were shocked at her whimsical disposition.

Hideki brightened up when he heard the word mall. “Do I ever!” He replied. Kyle rolled his eyes as Stinger and Hideki chattered on about their future shopping expeditions.

Fuyumi Abe

Fuyumi had helped out with a few things around the mansion. There were several things that needed to be taken in and out of rooms that were too large to fit through doors, so Fuyumi phased them through the walls for the professor. She decided to take a break and sit outside for a while. The sky was pretty sunny and the breeze was pleasant and soft. She wondered if Vincent had suffered any while captured. She truly hoped that things would remain peaceful for a while. She then heard a familiar voice approach her, “Fuyumi! Is everyone ok?!”

The voice belonged to Mutt Ant the mutant enthusiast. Fuyumi smiled as the man approached her. “Mutt! It’s been a while! Yes everyone is fine for the most part. Nothing too major on the physical injury side of things but emotionally we’ve been hit pretty hard. Vincent, Professor Xavier and Magneto’s son, was kidnapped by Weapon-X yesterday. They are the ones who attacked the Mansion. The good news is that the professor was able to locate Vincent and he seems okay. Scott, Logan and Philip are headed to go pick him up. I hope you aren’t too bothered by the state the mansion’s in.” Fuyumi replied calmly. Mutt could be a little strange at times but his heart was always the one to speak volumes for his genuine spirit.

Vincent and Cain

Miles away from the destroyed Weapon-X facility, Vincent, Cain, Sabertooth, David, and Agent Six walked seemingly aimlessly along a hot sun. They were on a road that seemingly rarely had traffic. They had walked a long way. Vincent and Cain lead the group walking side by side. Agent Six trailed just a few paces behind them. David and Victor followed up the rear. Victor looked up at the sun and cringed, “You mind telling me why we were allowed to take one of the many vacant Weapon-X vehicles and just drive back to the mansion Hmm?” Victor’s voice clearly showcased his annoyance. He peered at the back of Cain’s head with one eye squinted.

Cain turned around and replied with a calm that only showcased a subliminal hint of his serious anger. “I refuse to use anything that was created to hunt, hurt and kill our kind. We’re better off without Weapon-X’s trinkets.” When they were still at the Weapon-X facility, Victor and David wanted to simply steal a Weapon-X car but Cain wouldn’t let them. Victor knew he couldn’t challenge Cain and decided to take down to the superior mutant.

Vincent added, “Well in Victor’s defense, it would be better for us to hitch a ride or something. It’s pretty hot out here an I’m not quite sure how close the nearest town is. Here’s my plan, I’ll scan the area for a motorist and when they drive by, you all ask for a ride I will get them to stop for us by using my empathic powers. Is that alright?”

David quickly agreed. “That’s a magnificent plan of action. Let’s get to it.”

About five minutes later they caught the attention of a family in a mobile home. They were to travel to upstate New York. Vincent using his empathic abilities had the family decide to help the group. The father of the three member family was a short and simple little Caucasian man with round glasses. His wife was also petit and blonde. She seemed pretty gentle and a Texan. Both parents looked to be in their 30’s. Their son was about six years old and had very light brown hair. He was excited about having the group on board. It gave him something more interesting to look at.

The mother spoke first once the group of mutants got settled in the tiny mobile home. “So where y’all comin’ from?” The woman smiled like a pageant queen, She was very pretty. “We’re traveling from Virginia to our new home in upstate New York. My Husband’s originally from Virginia and I’m from Texas. Y’all seem like a motley bunch!”

Cain replied first. “We actually just escaped a government facility that was created to, in genocidal manner, wipe out all mutants from existence. We are now trying to make it back to the only safe haven known to mutants the Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr School for Gifted Students.” There was a silence in the RV. Vincent put palm to face and sighed.

The father of the family slowed down the car slightly. He needed to process what he was hearing. “Y-you are mutants?” The man asked nervously.

The son jumped in joy at the thought of them being mutants who were like the comic book characters he was a fan of. “Wow you’re mutants!! That’s awesome!” He dashed from his mother’s lap and jumped toward David who was seated across from her. He hugged onto David and he realized that David had no discernible smell. Something like that didn’t always stick out until you were close to David, and you realized that you usually smell something on others whether good or bad but with David there was and absence of aroma. The boy looked up at David’s face and asked, “You don’t smell like anything Mr. usually somebody smells like something how come you don’t?” The boy asked innocently and curiously.

David smiled and returned the boy’s hug. “You are such a bright boy! That’s right I don’t have a discernible scent. Your parents must be smart too.” David said as he glanced up at the boy’s parents as if to say, ‘Pull something dumb and we will kill you.’

The father pulled over the RV and turned around pleading with the group. “Please don’t harm us. We don’t want trouble.”

Vincent quickly intervened, “Neither do we. We simply want to return home. Would you and your family help us? We’ve gone through a long and tough couple of days. We mean you no harm.” Vincent using him empathic ability calmed the family to a relaxed state. They weren’t nearly as agitated as before.

Cain added, “You assume we are dangerous and want to cause trouble because we have powers. But your fear is horribly misplaced. Humans wield a power far more deadly than any mutant power, prejudice and hatred. Those are weapons that continue to live and to destroy others throughout time, yet humans are so blind to it’s everyday use in persecuting mutant kind.” Cain was very serious and passionate. Vincent could feel his heart and his emotions, both men were one. Vincent understood Cain’s pain because it was his own, however the two chose to handle it differently.

The mother replied nervously, “Well… I never looked at it that way. I’m so sorry for making y’all feel uncomfortable in my mobile home. We learned us a valuable lesson today didn’t we honey! Mutants ain’t all bad like the news portrays them to be. We’ll take you where you wanna go no problem. And when we move into our nice big house upstate, y’all are more than welcome to home over for dinner!” The lady was simple but sweet. Her husband nodded in agreement. Vincent was very glad that the conflict was resolved.

A bit afterwards Vincent received a telepathic communication from Charles. “Vincent, Scott, Logan and Philip are in the BlackBird and nearing your location. They will pick you up.” Charles’ communication was filled with the sound of joy. He was very happy to communicate with his son.

Vincent replied telepathically, “Good to hear your voice dad. I have a view unlikely companions with me… we’ve hitched a ride in an RV. We’ll ask the family to drop us here then.”

Charles replied, “Alright son. I’ll communicate that with Scott. Everyone misses you more than you know.” With that the transmission ended.

The little boy asked, “Um mister, what are you up to?” He noticed Vincent holding his hand up to his head.

Vincent smiled gently, “I’m communicating with my Father telepathically. I’m a telepath, I can communicate with people in their minds as well as move thing with my mind.” Vincent turned to the father and notified him that they could be dropped off at their current location.

The little boy jumped up and down. “Wow sooo cool!!”

Vincent replied, “Yes, it can be but it takes a lot of studying and training to understand my gift. I have to study hard so that I can be wise about using my power. I should never be irresponsible or I could get into trouble. So remember you have to train your mind and study hard too. Promise?” Vincent smiled face to face with the boy.

“Promise!” The little boy replied with a wide smile.

Victor huffed, “Now I want a kid… It’s really time to go.” David chuckled upon hearing Victor’s complaining.

The family dropped the group off and Vincent was sure to get the family’s information so that once day they could meet again. The family drove off and the Blackbrid came into view overhead. The jet lowered down to the ground and opened its door. Philip ran outside of the Blackbird and jumped into Vincent’s arms. “Vincent I’m so sorry… I- I let you down. Are you alright?”

Vincent hugged Philip tightly and closed his eyes. He was so glad to be in the arms of the one he loved so dearly. Cain watched and immediately felt a pang in his heart. He felt an overwhelming love when Philip drew near. He was experiencing Vincent’s emotions. He knew who Vincent knew, he felt how Vincent felt about others. He loved Philip like Vincent loved Philip. It was truly and odd phenomenon. Cain tried to keep himself from blushing and to steady his breathing. Vincent replied, “It’s alright Philip… It’s alright… I find no fault with you or anyone else. It couldn’t have been helped. We must get back.” Vincent was calming.

Philip replied, “Alright love.” Philip looked up and noticed the others. He was shocked to see Sabertooth, David North, Vincent’s very captors. “Wha-what are they doing here?!” Philip shouted.

Just then Logan and Scott stepped out of the black bird to examine the situation. Logan immediately extended his claws. “GET HIM OUTTA HERE!!” He said in a rage and motioned toward Sabertooth.

Victor grinned. “Aww Logan… you’re not happy to see me? What a shame! I’ll be sticking around the X-men for a while. Who knows I might even pick up teaching like you did and turn all soft.” Victor taunted with a huge smile.

Logan replied angrily, “Shut-Up YOU EGG SUCKIN’ PIECE OF GUTTER TRASH!! As long as he’s here I’m gonna be somewhere else!!”

Vincent interjected, “Logan please…”

Cain jumped in before Vincent could add anymore. “Why must we fight our brothers? We should work together not be at each other’s throats.” Cain spoke calmly.

Logan shot Cain a quick angry look, “Who the HELL are you?!”

“My brother, or to put it more accurately, he’s another me.” Vincent replied.

Scott, having heard enough said, “Alright, does the professor know about you wanting to bring them back to the mansion? They are a danger to everyone. Did weapon-x screw with your head or something?”

Cain got in Scott’s face, “They sure tried to screw with his head and everything else but he fought back, together! That how it should be for all mutants fighting together not against one another in distrust. Charles knows about them. If they pull something, I will kill them on the spot.” Cain placed a hand on Agent Six’s shoulder indicating that she wasn’t included in those that he threatened.

Logan cringed, “Just great… another magneto…”

Charles Xavier

Charles returned to his office after leaving Cerebro. The was a knock on the door. Charles sensed the situation and smiled. A new student was here. He was overjoyed that although the mansion had been attacked and things were not their safest at the mansion, others weren’t afraid to come to seek safety at the X-men mansion. Charles was relieved, “Perhaps I haven’t failed after all.” He said to himself. Charles walked to the door and opened it.

“Hello Annabelle, I’m Charles Xavier. Welcome to the Xavier and Lehnsherr School for Gifted students.”

Charles ushered Annabelle into his office and offered her a seat. “I hope you’ll excuse the state of the mansion, we had an emergency situation yesterday and it took quite a toll on the place. So what brings you to our school?”

Agent Six

after her little shoot out they left the facility sometime ago and had been walking for sometime in the sun. she heard Sabertooth complain about not having a car but she wasnt bothered a bit by the sun since she had her parasol with her providing her with cool shade.twirling it she walked taking careful steps she didnt have much of a reflective surface other than a shard of glass she had picked up earlier.

despite the fact that she was well aware of their discomfort of walking in the hot sun she explored a little but found no towns or place of human dwellings anywhere near them. at least before they ran into a vehicle of 3 human people. the humans let them ride with the help of the Weapons power.

she gave no indication of ever actually interacting with others as they rode. upon hearing they were mutants the father she assumed slowed the vehicle down just the slightest. "please dont hurt us" she ignored the man and focused more on the child that seemed to have taken a likeing to them. Cain gave them a big lectrue about humans fearing mutants but she couldnt quite understand where he was going with it. she could hear the passion he had in his voice but she couldnt understand why he was so passonaite about it.so she stopped listening to him and focused more on the boy who noticed Agent Zero had no scent.

hearing him bounce about the vehicle with excitment she more or less stared at nothing. getting tired of the boy she decided to focus more on the plane that was headed their way that she had spotted earlier trying to place an observer spirit on the plane and she realized it was going to fast for her stay on properly. the vehicle stopped and she imeidetly got up and walked off taking the steps with ease. one would think she would have trouble with this as she was blind but with the help of her observer spirit she was fine.

the others followed suite and the plane she saw earlier landed before them. she didnt move fom where she stood despite the wind it caused. finally able to place an observer spirit on it she quickly dissolved the one on the vehicle and placed it on the plane giving it a quick look over. she recognized two people; Wolverine and Cyclops and a younger man. the younger man ran out and hugged the Weapon as if he hadnt seen him in a life time while apologizeing to him.

the young man philip as the Weapon called him realizing who accompanied him,shouted out in shock. Wolverine and Cyclops getting off the plane and also took notice of those who accompanied the Weapon. Wolverine drawing his claws aproaching Sabertooth who simply joked about the whole thing. the Weapon tried explaing but Cain stepped in giving another little speech of muntant unity and in return Wolverine lashed out at him not knowing who Cain was. which the Weapon explained was him in a way.

Wolverine still upset Cyclops asked if the Weapon told his 'father' about all this asking him if weaponX messed with his head. Cain intervened once more with mutant brotherhood promising the X-man that he would kill any of them on the spot but excluded her when he placed his hand on her shoulderwhich then seemed to stare at before returning her gaze back to nothing, not once did Agent Six's expression changed and simply stared at what was infront of her but if one looked close enough it would look almost like she was frowning.

Tired of just standing there listenjng as the others argued. shrugging off Cain she walked towards where she assumed was the entrance of the plane. her observer spirit had died out from exhaustion. so she was blind;not that it bothered her, it did bother Wolverine a bit as she was about to walk past him, he said something to her and she could feel something come her way. most people would have thought she triped and feel instead of dodgeing but she did;in her own strange way. before completly hitting the ground she moved her feet and used her momentum to stand back up. and continued walking towards the plane. suddenly she heard a high pitch sound in her ear.'not now of all times, my body must not healed all the way after useing that'and the small girl fell to her knees then her whole body with a small 'thwump' trying to get back up but failing,only manageing to sit up. Agent Six said one word, "Ow".

Professor X

Annabelle said "Thank you," as she smiled to Xavier as she took a seat, seating her bag down beside her.

Charles began, "I hope you’ll excuse the state of the mansion, we had an emergency situation yesterday and it took quite a toll on the place. So what brings you to our school?” He told her and she smiled at him.

"It's okay, I've seen much worse." Annabelle shrugged. “So yeah, I came her searching for some place safe, somewhere to actually call home." She said with a weak smile. She knew all about Xavier and his abilities, she knew he was someone trustworthy but somethings are better left alone and so she put up as best a telepathic block as she could, her lilac eyes starting to glow a bit as she did. "But I also need to be somewhere that would educate me, teach me the best ways to use my abilities and..." She hesitated. "Somewhere I can be myself and not be scared of others." She looked away from Xavier and lifted the sunglasses of her face, revealing her solid lilac eyes, she rubbed her eyelids.

Charles smiled and folded his hands together. “well Annabelle you’ve come to the right place. Here at the Xavier institute we specialize in helping mutants hone their abilities so that they may exercise control and discipline when using their powers. We’d like to make you feel at home here and you are most welcome to stay as long as you’d like. Both Mr. Lehnsherr and my goal is to teach society that mutant and mankind can indeed coexist and live together in peace. However in order to achieve that goal we as mutants must learn to control our abilities as best we can. When we showcase discipline others can easier follow our lead and improve their way of thought as well. May I ask what is the nature of your mutation?

Fuyumi Abe

Mutt responded to the news of the mansion attack and the kidnapping. “Damn those bastards!” Mutt interjected, holding his fist up as he did so. “I’ve been trying to have them shut down for years. Everyone laughs and says it’s a conspiracy like area fifty one or something. I’m glad that everyone is ok though, I’d hate for anything to have happened to anyone.” He smiled at the small Japanese woman. “Why’d they want their son, for ransom or something?” He asked intrigued. “Normally Weapon X just want to either eradicate mutants or turn the public against them.”

“I hope you aren’t too bothered by the state the mansion’s in.”

He shook his head. “Don’t worry; no amount of mess is going to scare me away. I’ve been living in a camper van for like thirty years now.” He looked up again at the gaping holes in the mansions walls. “Is there anything I can do to help? Like I can help you fix things up? Or even get some of the XFC and MAPT to come help?” He offered already taking out his phone.

Fuyumi bowed respectfully to Mutt. She couldn’t shake off the Japanese customs even in America. She was really appreciative of the help he offered. “Thank you so much Mutt! That would be great!” Fuyumi brushed a few strands of hair behind her ear and let out a sigh. “As for Weapon-X… It seems they wanted Vincent because of his skillset. He’s a strong mix of both Professor X’s and Mageto’s powers. His X-gene was apparently so powerful that the professor had to place restraints on Vincent’s powers. I believe Weapon- X planned to used Vincent’s power to their advantage somehow. The professor using Cerebro was thankfully able to locate Vincent and now he should be arriving home soon.” Fuyumi smiled brightly, “Hey Mutt, why don’t you stick around for a while? There are a lot of students that not long ago arrived to the mansion and I think you’d find their abilities interesting to study.”

Hideki, Kyle, Stinger and Frenzy

Frenzy/Joanna felt bad after having attacked the X-men. She had spent that first night settling in at the X-mansion and dodging the untrusting and evil stares directed at her from the mansion’s inhabitants. She knew when Xavier took her in that building trust amongst the people of the school would be a long and difficult task. However since she was sincere in her desire to join the X-men, she felt that the battle for trust was well worth it.

She decided the next day, to help out around the mansion. She was a big help by lifting things and she had some skill in handy work. The construction workers that were present at the mansion were impressed and nervous about how strong Joanna was. One of the construction workers, a real macho guy, decided to flirt with her. “Hey pretty lady. Keep it up and you’d be putting us boys out of a job. How am I supposed to buy you dinner when I’m penniless?” The man chuckled.

Joanna replied, “You’re not supposed to buy me dinner because I would refuse the offer. Also I like to help the boys out around the house so no pay is necessary for my services. But thanks for offering cutie pie.” Joanna gave the man a playful wink and continued to carry a large pile of lumber a few paces away.

Joanna decided it was time for a well-deserved break. She entered the lounge room and sat down next to Wendy/ Stinger who was chatting with Hideki and Kyle. “Hey all. You all could help out just a little bit you know. You do live here…” Joanna said as she looked at Hideki and Kyle. The two boys snickered sheepishly.

Hideki replied innocently, “We have no clue about that kind of stuff. It’s best we not meddle. Besides we’re going to show Wendy here the mall! I plan to have some major shopping therapy today!”

Joanna shook her head and smiled. “I guess I might go with you. I need a normal activity to balance things out.” She said as she stretched some. The four set out for the mall downtown.

While Wendy and Hideki dragged Joanna and Kyle about Kyle couldn’t help but ponder the oddity of Hideki and him befriending two of the very people that attempted to harm the X-men a day before. It was unusual. Kyle was suspicious at first while the group was still at the mansion but once they began to talk to Joanna and Wendy he realized that they weren’t really all that invested in Weapon-X themselves. They were simply trying to find the best option and fit for them. Xavier’s mission is not one that is very easy to accept and take on. It requires the X-men to be fair to those that weren’t and aren’t fair to them. Kyle was learning this lesson today.

Joanna was very cool and level headed. Wendy was a chatty patty and fashionable. Kyle smiled to himself as he was glad to feel like he could put his weapons down now. Hideki didn’t seem to have a problem with Wendy and Joanna from the beginning. Perhaps it was Hideki’s generally accepting personality they allowed him to forgive so easily.

The group soon decided to take a stroll downtown. The sun was bright and things seemed pretty quiet. The peace was shattered when a large explosion and screams shot across the air space. People ran away in fear. Joanna dropped the shopping bags she carried and dashed in the opposite direction that the civilians ran. She stopped and wipped around to Hideki and Kyle, “You guys coming or not?!” She yelled and then dashed toward the ruckus. Kyle and Hideki looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders and followed after Joanna.

Wendy still stood there looking annoyed. “Really… I was having such a nice day too… FINE!! BUT WHOSE GONNA KEEP OUR BAGS FROM BEING STOLEN!?! Oh… whatever!” Wendy tried to hide the bags under a parked car and then hurried after the others.

The ground rumbled and people screamed, “IT’S A MUTANT!! R-RU-RUN HE’LL CRUSH US!!” a man yelled. Frenzy stood looking at a giant whole in the side of a building’s brick wall. “Well where is this guy?” Frenzy said as Hideki, Kyle, and Stinger caught up.

A husky and arrogant sounding masculine voice billowed out from the hole in the wall. “I’m no MUTANT!!!” the large man’s footsteps shook the earth it was the Juggernaut. He now stood in the sunlight looking down on Stinger, Frenzy, Kyle and Hideki. “WHAT ARE YOU KIDS LOOKING AT?! Wanna start somethin’ or WHAT?” Juggernaut taunted the group of mutants.

The four stared at the large muscular man in awe. He was truly a sight to behold. He wore a large metal helmet that was quite dome shaped. It looked very heavy. Kyle asked, “There’s no way that he’s NOT a mutant…” the others nodded in agreement while their eyes remained fixed on Juggernaut.

The large man replied, “Well, you kiddies gonna let me through to rape and pillage or are you going to try to stop me? I’m waiting…”

Hideki cringed, “I hate this guy’s attitude… he blasted Juggernaut with explosive plasmoid energy that exploded colorfully onto the man’s broad chest. The fireworks exloploded and crackled spectacularly each explosion enough to break through steel. However for some reason the man was seemingly not harmed he simply laughed as if he were being tickled.

“HAHAHAHAHAHEE HAAAAAHAAAAHAA…..!!!! OOOOOooooo Yeah!! That’s the spot boy!! That tickles like something I ain’t felt in a while!! HAHAHA…. What’s this the fourth of July?!” Juggernaut was unphased or rather pleasured by Hideki’s attack which seriously frustrated the young mutant.

“Are bloody serious!?” Hideki shouted. He then decided to take another shot, this time at full power. Instead of aiming for Juggernaut head on he blasted at the ground beneath the large mutant’s feet. The blast was far brighter than before and the concrete was destroyed around juggernaut he was a bit jarred and the ground collapsed in beneath the man. He fell down beneath the ground and shouted. “That ought to fix you Roid rage!” Hideki shouted.

Stinger placed her hands on her hips and smirked. “Nice…. Going there Hideki! You showed him whose the man!” Stinger giggled and turned around to head home however the ground in front of her and now behind the others was broken through and Juggernaut leaped through the opening.

He yelled. “How DARE YOU YOU LITTLE CHERRY BOMB INSECT!!?? Don’t you know who I am?!? I’M THE JUGGERNAUT BITCH!!” [OOC: as cheezy as it is I just had to do it… please forgive me! : D]

Joanna had enough of this guy. She rushed up to him and gave him a good solid gut shot. He fist remained lodged into the man’s extremely sculpted stomach. He stood slightly doubled over. “WHOOOAH!! Now YOU pack Quite and unexpected PUNCH THERE GIRLIE!! HAHA NOW THAT’S WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT!” Juggernaut laughed in excitement. The blow was able to hurt him a bit but not much. It would take a lot more blows like to topple the Juggernaut. He raised his large hand and backhanded her sending her flying into Hideki and the two went tumbling into a parked car.

“AH…. Bloody hell… That bloke is really mad!” Hideki groaned.

Frenzy began to stand up and help Hideki up slowly. “You were lucky that I was knocked into you over him actually hitting you. That backhand was like being hit by a bullet train…” Frenzy said trying to catch her breath and her eyes remain fixed on Juggernaut. “Let the games begin…” She said to herself.

Stinger electroshocked Juggernaut but it was no good he stood completely un-phased while staring at her with a mocking grin on his face. “How the HELL are we supposed to take this thug down!?” Stinger yelled.

Kyle winked at Stinger, “Like this my friend. Maybe I can steal some of this old boy’s thunder.” Kyle flew at Juggernaut dodging a few punched that juggernaut launched with his large hands. Kyle sucker punched Juggernaut across the helmet and kept hitting him. The man was surprised that the pretty boy was as strong as he was. Juggernaut landed a punch that sent Kyle flying through a brick wall. “I guess you just can’t get close to some men…” Kyle said as he stood up from the rubble.

Juggernaut enjoyed his short tussle with Kyle and wanted more. “Come on baby boy!!! Give me mooore!! HAHAHA…. You and brass knuckle babe over there have got some mean jabs!! HAHAHA” Juggernaut at this point wanted nothing more than to test his strength.

Kyle replied, “Careful what you wish for big boy. You might not be able to handle more from me.” Kyle gave Juggernaut a flirtatious wink. He was confused and realized the boy was flirting with him, something that had not happened to him in quite some time. Juggernaut was embarrassed and his cheeks turned red underneath his helmet. He wasn’t into me at all but psychological warfare was Juggernaut’s weakness.

Frenzy took the opportunity to dash up to Juggernaut an d launch a volley of steel hard punches. She gave one solid punch that knocked him down on his back. Kyle flew over to Juggernaut and sat on his chest. “See I knew I could get you on your back!” Kyle taunted.

Juggernaut shouted, “Hey fag! Just what do you think you’re doing!?!”

Kyle replied, “Now now, you be still hubby! This won’t hurt too much kay baby?” Before Juggernaut could stand, Kyle grabbed onto his arm where his skin was partially exposed. He was attempting to absorb the Juggernaut’s powers. The absorption process was in full effect but Juggernaut didn’t seemed to be phased at all. Kyle’s hand glowed with a white aura and so did Juggernaut.

“OH… I see… You wanna get a taste of daddy by trying to absorb my power?! HAHAHA… Well SWEETIE…. I’ll give you a taste of what it feels like to get a piece of me!!” The tremendous amount of raw and malicious power flooding into Hideki was incredible. He was being overtaken by Juggernaut’s rage filled mind. Kyle began to scream and yell as his muscle mass began to bulge slightly. He was covered with raw static energy that caused him to freak out.

Kyle shouted while still latched onto Juggernaut, “I’ll kill you Charles!!! YOU AND ALL YOUR PATHETIC LITTLE X-MEN!! I’LL MAKE YOU SUFFER JUST LIKE PAPA MADE ME SUFFER!!! THEY LOVED YOU MORE THAN meeee!! NOT ME !! I HAVE TO DESTROY YOU!! I MUST….. AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!” Kyle screamed as he was being possessed by the Juggernaut’s rage filled mind. However the absorption assault had finally taken its toll on the Juggernaut. He was becoming woozy.

Hideki knew that Kyle needed to stop or risk getting stuck with the Juggernaut’s conscience in his body for good. Hideki rarely tapped into his ability to fly as he hadn’t quite perfected it. But now was the time to get to Kyle fast. He converted his body mass to a semi-light form and hovered above the ground. Hideki zipped over to Kyle and grabbed him from behind. “Kyle you have to let him go!! Release it Kyle let it GO!!” Hideki pulled Kyle who was still screaming and thrashing about. Kyle them shoved Hideki and took to the sky expelling raw white energy into the atmosphere. Hideki flew after him calling to him, “Let It GO Kyle!! He’ll never escape your subconscious if you don’t!! Remember what Professor said!!” with that Kyle had expelled that last of the energy stolen from Cain Mark the Juggernaut and Kyle came plummeting down toward the ground. Hideki was afraid that he couldn’t convert Kyle’s body mass in time enough to fly with him in hand. However Stinger was able to catch Kyle before he hit the ground.

Marko staggered slightly. Trying to regain his strength. His mystically based energies were beginning to recharge him. “Hey lover boy… that really smarts! Whoah… I’ve got the spins… what were you trying to do to me Heidi Klum date rape me?! Uh..” Marko said sounding slightly woozy. The Juggernaut was wearing down but he wasn’t out just yet. He could still take them on.

Hideki called the professor on his phone. Charles who was in his meeting with Annabelle over heard. And alerted the X-men telepathically. “Students there is a disturbance downtown with a man known as the Juggernaut. He is not a mutant but he is highly dangerous! It will take a team effort to take him down. He is almost indestructible and feels little pain. I do not wish to place any of you in danger but I fear your assistance will be needed. I will be setting out to join Stinger, Frenzy, Kyle and Hideki now.” Charles then ended his transmission and turned his attention to Annabelle. “I am most sorry for this interruption! Please feel free to remain here and get settled in. In this envelope is your room assignment. You can come with me if you desire but I must ask that you try not to get too involved. I don’t want you hurt.”

Scott, Logan, Vincent, and Philip all heard the professor’s voice. Scott spoke, “You all got that?”

Logan replied, “Yep, let’s go!”

The Molocks having heard of the increase in anti-mutant sentiment on the surface decided to strike out. They sent a scout, the mutant known as leech, to venture up to the surface to look out for any opportunity they could jump in on. The Morlocks didn’t feel brave enough to launch an attack on the humans without the aid of another party. Juggernaut’s assault on the city was the perfect opportunity for them. As long as they stayed out of Juggernaut’s way, they would have a better shot at dealing a blow to the city since most forces would be crippled when trying to stop the unstoppable Juggernaut. With Leech’s return to the sewers and his report on the activity currently taking place, Callisto gave the okay to launch the attack.

On the surface Alliyah joined the group of X-men trying to subdue Juggernaut. “so who poked the bull with the hot poker” she asked.

Stinger replied, “Kyle here did. He did a little flirting with the big guy and let’s just say he got a bit too grabby and went haywire. The Juggernaut must have been affected cause he’s looking a bit groggy. Kyle is still trying to pull himself together. His absorption attack was about the only thing we could do that was effective against him. Mine and Hideki’s attacks only seemed to tickle the big lummox.”

Alliyah then said, “what’s the plan?”

Charles, Erik and Annabelle had arrived on the scene to help. Charles replied, “The plan is to distract him enough so that we can remove his helmet. Then I and perhaps our new student Annabelle can launch a Psychic assault on him. Telepathy and Mystical energy are about the only forces that affect him. Unless you are about as physically strong as him, which very few are.”

Frenzy added, “Yeah I was barely going toe to toe with him. He’s a bit much for me. And Kyle here is really strong as well and he seems to be just below the Juggernauts strength level. I don’t see how those who are here will be able to remove his helmet so easily.”

Magneto added, “Help is on the way.” After Magneto concentrated to see if Juggernaut had any metal possession on him it was only his helmet. The latches that attached the helmet were made from another alloy that was pretty tough. Magneto then said, “I fear this won’t be as easy for me as I had thought it would be…”

Just then the Morlocks flooded into the streets from the sewers. Many crude and odd looking mutants attacked the humans nearby on Callisto’s command. Storm was the technical leader of the Morlocks however in her absence she allowed Callisto to become acting leader of the group. Storm was indeed away not only from the Morlocks but from the X-men at the moment. Therefore Callisto could make negative decisions for the group without consequence from Storm.

Juggernaut looked around having caught a second wind, and saw the large group of Morlocks. “Well if it isn’t the local mutant sewer rats! What brings you vermin to the surface to be clobbered?” He asked the leader Callisto.

Callisto, who now stood on top of a nearby car, replied, “Oh… We Morlocks decided it was time to teach the surface dwellers to respect their mutant superiors. We’ll try not to get in your way Mr. Juggernaut. We couldn’t help but hear your magnificent work up here and we wanted to join in on the party. You don’t mind do you big boy?” Callisto smirked.

Charles interjected, “Brother stop this immediately! Why must you hurt innocent people?!”

Juggernaut saw Charles and became enraged. “You RELLY shouldn’t have to think that hard egg head! Now that you’re here… I really think the Morlock intrusion is welcome!” Juggernaut then turned to Callisto and replied, “Sure scareface! Keep Xavier busy and I’ll even let you carry my boots!!”

The morlocks began to go to town on the surrounding area and the X-men were getting prepared to engage. Just then the Blackbird flew overhead. The hatch opened and out jumped Wolverine claws extended. He landed on Juggernaut taking him down. He stood on top of the man ready to strike. Scott, Vincent, Cain, Philip, Agent Six, Sabertooth, and David jumped from the jet as well Vincent lowered the group down using his telekinesis.

Fuyumi and Mutt also joined to group, Mutt drove his vehicle. Charles then Telepathically communicated with Ace, Max and Mia. “If I could ask of you all to handle the Morlocks that would be a great help. There are many of them and they are seeking to capitalize on this opportunity to settle a long standing vendetta against humans. Juggernaut is also a force to be reckoned with and will require everyone’s assistance to handle as well. I will also contact an associate of mine for his assistance as well. We will definitely need all the help we can get.”

Juggernaut smacked Logan off of his chest sending him flying into a building. The juggernaut stood to his feet ready for the challenge. “Oooo yes!! Now this is what I’ve been dying for!! A chnce to ruin the X-men!! Come on kiddies!! Papa Juggernaut is ready to RUMBLE!!”

Annabelle asked Charles, "What's so special about the helmet?"

Charles replied, “The helmet protects his mind from mental probing and psionic assaults. Similar to Magneto’s helmet., which he rarely wears now.”

Erik chimed in, “It’s because I trust Charles, that I don’t wear the helmet anymore. Actually I’m not afraid for him to scan through my mind anymore.” Erik gave Charles a glance and grin.

Sabertooth cut in, “Why don’t you two just fucking get married already?” He couldn’t pass up the opportunity to poke fun at Professor X.

Vincent ran over to Xavier and gave him a hug. He then hugged Erik. They were very glad to see him and have their son back. Cain stood and watched with a smile. He longed to give the two a hug as well but he felt that he should formally introduce himself to his parents before trying to embrace them. Cain felt the emotions Vincent did for his parent’s, his lover Philip, Vincent’s friends and family at the X-mansion like Vila. He longed to relate to them all in the same manner that his brother and other-self did. However he knew that they didn’t know who he was like he knew all of them. It would be odd for him to act so close to them when they didn’t realize that he indeed did know them.

Just then a tall and very muscular man approached the group. Logan got up from the rubble he’d been knocked into and looked and the costumed man. “Well I must be seeing things… Colossus?” Logan said to himself. He hadn’t seen Colossus in a few years since he’d last left the X-men to spend time at home in Russia. His little sister had wanted to see Colossus and he could never resist her call. Logan shouted, “Peter, just in time tin man!!”

Peter smiled and replied, “Logan!! I was in the city and planning on visiting when Xavier called me. I see our big buddy Juggernaut wants to play some more. Colossus here to help.” Peter noticed Stinger holding Kyle, whom he had never met before, and was concerned. “Is the little one alright?” He asked.

Kyle had begun to wake up and saw the new face staring caringly at him. ‘God he’s handsome…’ Kyle thought. Kyle, always ready with a cool come back, replied with a wink, “I’ll be even better if you helped me up Mr. wonderful.” Colossus blushed and gave Kyle a hand.

Aidan O’doherty had arrived at Charles’ request. Erik didn’t approve of Aidan and was slightly cross with Charles for calling him. However he didn’t make a fuss due to the fact that they indeed needed his help. Aidan was a very strong mutant and he could help them get the upper hand over the Juggernaut. “Charles why can’t you control your brother…?” Aidan said as he drove up to the group and got out of his car.
Scott decided to interrupt Aidan before too much time passed so that they could begin to take action. “Sorry to cut off the reunion Professor but Juggernaut isn’t going to wait and we need to take him down. Shall I take command?”

“Yes please.” Xavier replied.

Scott spoke loud enough for the others to hear, “Alright everyone, Juggernaut is invulnerable and highly dangerous. Psionic attacks are his weakness but they won’t work unless we remove his helmet. He’s not a mutant and his power is mystical in nature so that gives him an advantage over us because he won’t tire out as fast or for as long as we will. We need to work as a team, those with superior physical strength should try to work together to keep him occupied. Those whose powers don’t affect him should focus on subduing the Morlocks. I need not have to tell you that you are to try to harm them as minimally as possible. Once juggernaut’s helmet is removed we can launch a psionic assault on him and subdue him so telepath’s be on standby. Be careful and stick together. X-men, let’s move!”

Terra

They had traveling with the Morlocks for some time now, as much as Terra appreciated all the help Callisto had given them he couldn’t help but find the whole thing strange; especially due to the fact that one of the mutants tried to hit on his adopted sister Canann. ‘Wait now that I think about it where is she’ and Terra’s look of calm flickered into a more worried look but it quickly passed. Getting up he looked around hoping to find her; but alas he did not and began to ask around as to her whereabouts ‘Aye dios mios! She has firkin white hair how can they have nor noticed her, is it because they have already seen stranger things than a 6’2 girl with white hair And a God damn tail!’ coming back to his sense he heard some people yelp.
Without realizing it Terra had made the earth tremble a bit and some rocks jutted out of the ground causing some people to trip and panic a little. 'Oh crap' and with a well-defined blush of embarrassment Terra walked away fast hoping no one knew it was him, pulling up the hood of his jacket for good measure.

Walking around a bit cleared his head some and he heard a couple kids screaming. It was the kind a child would make when they had fun. It brought a small smile to his lips and he headed towards the direction of the screaming to see what it was they were having so much fun about.

Turning a corner he found Canann crouched down on the ground looking at something on the ground; noticing that there were no lids and assumed she must have scared them off. He gave a light chuckle and leaned against a small structure his hands in his pockets and watched her. After a while a walked over to her and touched her on the shoulder "hey you alright" his voice soft and full of worry.

Canann

having been bored for an incredibly long time she decide to explore what little space she could of the Morlocks sewer home. She thought the people here were nice enough but her adopted older brother Terra didn’t think so. 'Ugh why does he have to be so protective of me' completely unaware of the real reason Terra got mad. "If the situation had turned to That i would a have killed the ugly bastard myself or at least hurt his manhood" and she giggled to herself imagining the Morlocs face if she did so.

Cananna’s mood lightened a bit but was still irritated by what happened the other day. She then came upon a group of kids each one with distinct markings somewhere on the persons that clearly said they were mutants.

Watching them play Canann became jealous of how happy they were 'they have such a nice childhood while mine was-' she shook her head to keep thinking of her past; whispering harshly to herself. "No, no, no i will not think of that i will think happy thoughts and that’s it" repeatedly hitting her head as if by doing so it would stay.

Upon doing so the kids noticed her and ran away scared of her little tantrum leaving behind the pieces of the game on the dirty floor. "Hey wait-"reaching out to them she took a step forward stepping on a plastic jack. Her face instantly light up with joy as she remembered this game as the one Terra taught her when they first met.

Smiling softly Canann thought about Terra and all the things he did for her and she was glad she met him. When a hand touched her shoulder for a moment she thought it was someone she didn’t know until she noticed the scent. 'Ahh Terra' turning to face him she suddenly stood up giving him a giant hug." Terra I’m so glad we met did you know that and don’t worry i forgive you about yesterday okay i still think you’re awesome!” she said smiling into his face.

Terra&Canann

Surprised by the sudden hug Terra fell backwards on his butt and blushed as Canann said he was awesome rubbing the back of his head in the process. "Yeah i guess i am, well um any way could you maybe get off me please" he asked and Canann complied and sat back on her heels looking at him with a mischievous smile. "hehe don’t be so mean Terra so what are we gonna do today?" her curiosity in full.

"umm i don’t know really want to train for a bit or something?" he replied. Standing back up, brushing off the dirt that was on him. Not that it would ever go away fully as he was always dirty no matter how hard he tried.

"Oh i know lets go see what Callisto has for us today" and grabbed Terra’s arm pulling him towards where she assumed the leader of the Morlocks was.

"Canann I’m sure Callisto is busy right now" but Canann simply looked back at and shrugged "i don’t care i wanna see how their doing" and with that she continued to pull Terra behind her despite his outcry of letting him go.

Finally reaching the Morlocks main base they saw Leech one of the scouts go inside informing Callisto of something. After that Callisto had all the able bodied Morlocks to go to the surface and wreak havoc above.

Canann curious as to what was going down followed them up to the surface Terra close behind. The two covered their eyes as they adjusted to the light after being underground for so long. What lay before them was a fight between an incredibly large man vs. mutants (he guessed) some in uniforms; who were trying to hold the big guy back. The opposing mutants then began to attack the group of Morlocks that had swarmed to the surface.

“Hey why are they attacking us for?” Canann looked towards Terra awaiting an answer. And as a reply Terra slammed the palm of his hands into the ground, sinking into the pavement. With a load groan terra then began to pull his hands out of the ground, which resulted in the pavement to follow. The pavement rumbled a multiple mounds appearing the size of large bears. For a moment nothing happened then with a loud rumbling the mounds cracked and shook and uncurled to reveal large Golems. Their eyes glowed and each had a kind of stone in their chest that seemed to glow.

“Alright time to fight boys!” Canann smiled excitedly and ran off to confront the mutants in uniforms going straight towards a man his hair almost in the shape of ears .(OOC: Wolverine) The Golems followed after her lead some of the Morlocks were afraid at first then some jumped on top of the Golems riding them. The Morlocks lead Golems towards the opposing mutants while others ran off and began to trash the place. Terra watched everything from where he stood not really wanting to go head to head, besides he had to concentrate on keeping the Golems from falling apart.

Ace

She attacked the first Morlocks that she could reach taking them down easily as they fought with very little style or for they were like animals in her opinion. Reaching into her shadow she drew out a small knife to cut down one of the street signs making sure to take off the sign itself; twirling it around a bit to get a feel for it twirling it backwards with a thrust knocking out the morlock that had tried to ambush her “idiota” mumbling under her breath. She ran towards the nearest one and seemed to dance as she took out the morlcoks but more just kept on coming. “Damn there’s more than I thought”. She rushed to the Prof. “Oi Prof. would you like me to constrict Juggernaut so you guys can take his helmet off, it’ll be difficult so you guys will have to move fast.

Agent Six

Landing lightly on her feet she left the group of X-Men, walking away from the battlefield. Tracing her hand on whatever reflective surfaces she could reach and noticed the oncoming news reporters as they tried to get close to the battle and filming it for the whole world to hear and criticize her people. Stopping short she got to a flipped over car placing her small pale hand on its window and closed her eyes. Suddenly she heard the yelps and whines of the news reporters as their cameras stopped working as the lens went out. ‘humans are such fools no matter how many times you try to fix it as long as I can get to it I can do whatever I wish’ for almost every camera in the vicinity had an observer spirit on the lenses and other reflective surfaces.

Terra

Terra observed the battle before him with calculating eyes and noted the black figure that had destroyed one of his Golems. Then another was destroyed and he could feel a deep aching in his chest as he felt their pain as they became lifeless piles of rubble. “Damn I didn’t think they would find their weakness so soon”. With a heavy sigh Terra slowly got on his feet and headed towards the black figure that let out a terrifying roar. (OOC: Ryan) he weaved around the fighters and caught sight of Canann fighting a burly guy with metal claw-like things coming out of his knuckles. ‘You better be careful Canann you’re not invincible’. Looking away from the two he continued on his way to meet the strange creature that managed to destroy one of his precious Golems, his anger building up inside of him and sent it to all the awakened Golems; who in return let out terrifying roars that shook the ground, their roars sounded like stones grinding against each other letting out a reverberating echo.

The stone golems attacked Logan. He was taken by surprise to see the stone beings charging at him. Logan was rushed by the giant stone figure. Wolverine leaped on the Golem’s head and slashed away. “This thing ain’t alive… Something or somebody’s controlling them.” Wolverine said under his breath. He struggled with the stone figure that began to thrash about in an attempt to dismount Wolverine from its head. Wolverine was finally knocked from the golem’s head and he tumbled away on the ground with a broken nose. “Son of a… AH!” Wolverine griped as his body began to recover the injury.

Aidan had decided that he would do little in effort to stop the juggernaut he felt it would simply be too easy for him to speak immobility or something similar over Juggernaut and stop him. Aidan was a serious narcissist and he would only subdue the Juggernaut if Charles or Magneto literally begged him to lend that sort of help. He simply stood watching the happening and decided to aid in the subduing of the Morlocks. One of the Morlock men charged at Aidan wildly, the man spewed acid from his mouth. Aidan dodged and when the man came close enough, Aidan sidestepped kneeing him in the stomach. The Morlock man doubled over. Aidan then began to activate his power and spoke, “You are struggling to breathe.” The man started gasping for air that refused to fill his lungs and immediately fell over. Aidan waited just before the man would completely suffocate before saying, “You’re lungs have all the oxygen they need.” The man narrowly escaped death but he had now passed out.

Aidan had noticed Annabelle nearby. There was a trash bin that flew in her direction. She seemed to have glass stuck in her skin. Aidan couldn’t resist saving the damsel in distress, it usually yielded praise. Besides this thought, he was a doctor and naturally he couldn’t stand to look at a patient in distress without wanting to try to fix the problem. Aidan casually walked over to Annabelle who was on all fours and offered her his hand. He brought his power into activation and spoke, “The glass is painlessly removed and your wounds are healed.” The glass in Annabelle’s skin simply surfaced and fell out painlessly as Aidan had spoken. The wounds healed and Aidan smiled at Annabelle. He simply relished in his work.

The Xavier and Vincent noticed Ryan’s arrival and both smiled. They were however shocked by his sudden change in appearance. Charles thought to himself, ‘amazing… his body has undergone such a drastic transformation yet I believe it’s controllable. I believed Ryan’s transformation to be of a similar nature as Hank McCoy’s or Kurt Wagner’s but no… I do believe Ryan could possibly change the intensity of his physical mutation at will. I do believe Ryan has a chance at a more human appearance.’

"Professor, Vincent, it's me, Ryan." Ryan thought as hard as he could, directing his thoughts toward his teachers "I'm here to help. I realize you might not recognize me like this but... if this is what is needed, this is what I will be. I can be a monster for my family if a monster is what they need. You're all my family, so it's you I must protect. I will not let what happened to Vincent ever happen to anyone again!"

Vincent communicated telepathically with Ryan, “Ryan! You don’t know how glad I am to see you. Gosh friend you’ll have to tell me how this new look came about! Ryan I know there is little time, but do know that one’s appearance is not what makes them a monster, it’s their heart and their actions. You my brother, are no monster. You have the heart of an angel. Never forget that, your heart is your strength and that is what we’re all depending on Ryan.”

Aaliyah and Vila then sent their thoughts toward the Professor, “PC think you can do a force filed or something around the area this lands it will and to it and give it more umph. It won’t hurt anyone but it will put someone off balance or nock them.” Aaliyah said.

Charles replied telepathically, “Unfortunately Aaliyah I don’t have the ability to project a shield to suite that need. However there is a mutant present who can. I will get in contact with him and in a few moments you shall have the shielding you require.” One of the news reporters nearby was in fact a mutant and a former private student of Xavier’s named Clark Van Pelt. Xavier contacted him telekinetically and Clark was able to help them out.

Clearing her mind Vila called out to the Xavier “I…I have an idea that might be able to stun the Juggernaut giving us the time we need to get to that helmet but it is rather risky…..If was can take the hydrates getting him wet I can zap him with some lighting from above. I just would need to know if everyone is in the clear so no one gets hurt. Once zapped we might be able to go in for the helmet….I, I don’t know if it will work or not is thing but it might be worth a try.”

Charles replied, “That sounds like a good plan. However it will take a lot of coordination to pull off. I’ll have Cyclops and the others try to get Juggernaut into position. I’ll tell you when you are clear to attack.” Charles relayed Vila’s plan to the others.

Ace rushed to the Prof. “Oi Prof. would you like me to constrict Juggernaut so you guys can take his helmet off, it’ll be difficult so you guys will have to move fast.

The professor replied, “I think that would be a good idea in an effort to help out. But please be careful, Juggernaut is too dangerous to get close to, so you would should coordinate your attack with Colossus, Frenzy and or Kyle. They are close to his physical match. Also be warned that Vila intends to wet Juggernaut with water and electrocute him. Be sure not to get doused as well.” Charles didn’t want anyone other than juggernaut getting electrocuted.

Stinger then warned, “I wouldn’t waste your time trying to electrocute the guy. My electric attacks didn’t even phase the guy one bit! And they are just as bad as being struck with thunder. I say we try something else.”

Cyclops stepped in and said, “Let’s try this then.” He then proceeded to blast Juggernaut in the chest with a powerful optic blast. Juggernaut fell backwards abut he wasn’t phased badly at all.

“Oooo one eye you gotta do better than that!” Juggernaut taunted as he stood to his feet. Scott intensified his blast but Juggernaut blocked it with his hand and began to charge forward toward Cyclops. Juggernaut reached Cyclops and grabbed his head in his large hand halting Cyclops’ optic assault. He then hurled Cyclops at a parked car. Scott was now temporarily out of commission.

Frenzy moved in on Juggernaut and jump kicked him sending him backward destroying the concrete he was scrapped through. Cain then took action. He lifted several nearby vehicles with his magnetic powers and hurled them at the Juggernaut. He then told Agent Zero (David) to fire on the gas tanks of the vehicles that were about to hit Juggernaut. David followed suite and there was a volley of explosive vehicles hurled at Juggernaut. Juggernaut was getting annoyed. Cain was also growing annoyed.

Flare (Hideki) went after some of the Morlocks. A few of them charged Hideki. Hideki smirked, “Finally, enemies I can blast away.” Hideki hurled a grenade of light at the group and it exploded into a hot dome of multicolored light. The Morlock attackers fainted under the intense heat their bodies sizzling. Philip launched a volley of Time Bombs at a Golem causing some of the rock men to crumble.

As the battle continued to rage around him, Ryan heard Vincent's voice in his head. "Ryan! You don’t know how glad I am to see you. Gosh friend you’ll have to tell me how this new look came about! Ryan I know there is little time, but do know that one’s appearance is not what makes them a monster, it’s their heart and their actions. You my brother, are no monster. You have the heart of an angel. Never forget that, your heart is your strength and that is what we’re all depending on Ryan."

Ryan thought quietly to himself, "Thank you Vincent. Maybe being who I am, being like this... Maybe it's not so bad." Just then, Ryan whipped his head around. He smelled that metallic tang in the air, and smiled. It could only be... it had to be... "Thantos!" Ryan called out, as he whipped his head around to see Thantos dive out of the air and smack a golem in the face. Ryan liked fighting with Thantos. The two were good friends and even better partners. Thantos appeared to be having some issues. He wasn't as effective as he usually was. However, he was doing ok, he managed to bring one down.

Just as Ryan was in the process of disassembling another golem, they all backed away from him and grouped up. He'd found destroying them was more difficult that he'd previously anticipated, they started to reassemble unless you smashed the gem in the center. Ryan disengaged from the fight and adopted a defensive posture, he was down on all fours, his tail lashing wildly. The golems were all grouped around a single boy with black hair (OOC: Terra). Should he fight with this boy? It seemed ok to destroy the golems, they were just made out of stone. However, in this new form, could he hold himself back against something made of flesh? "I don't want to fight with you!" Ryan called out to the boy, "If you're controlling these golems tell them to stand down. The X-Men here, under the direction of Professor Charles Xavier, are simply here to detain that giant monster." Ryan said, pointing to the Juggernaut. "We have no reason to fight with you. Just turn around and we'll leave you alone. If you all retreat, you'll be allowed to leave peacefully. Our only concern here is that thing." Ryan said, once again referring to the Juggernaut.

However, it seemed the boy and the golems, who appeared to be under his control, had other plans for Ryan. Instead of talking, like Ryan would have preferred to do, they all shifted forward, challenging Ryan, who had struck first. Ryan slunk lower to the ground, a low growl rumbling forth from his throat. The golems answered back with a roar of their own. It was so loud, it shook the ground and grated against his ears like the sound of an earthquake. Ryan stepped back. They weren't backing down. Fine, Ryan would do what had to be done. "So be it!" Ryan roared and dove forward towards the golems, sprinting towards them on all fours. He leaped high into air, landing on top of one and smashing its gem.

Ryan jumped off as it crumbled to the ground. Roaring in defiance of the giant golems. Just as he was about to jump on top of another one, he felt a vice like grip attach itself to his tail and he was whipped into the air. The golem swung him around, smashing him into the ground. Ryan's body was being tossed around like a rag doll, however, something was different, strange even. The impacts didn't hurt that much. The bruises and scrapes weren't forming. Sure he was covered in scales, but they couldn't negate all the damage he had to be taking. Was he healing... faster? "No time to test this out," Ryan thought. "I gotta get out of here." Ryan whipped his legs around, stabilizing himself mid-air while the golem flailed him around. Ryan grabbed onto the golem's arm with his arms and legs and held on. When the golem finally stopped shaking him, Ryan planted his feet on the ground, dropped his hips as low as he could, and hip threw the giant golem, tossing it over his shoulder and smashing it onto the ground, roaring as loud as he could while he did it. It let go of his tail and he jumped on top it, and punched it directly on its gem and it smashed easily. Ryan jumped off as what was left of the golem shattered and returned to the ground.

"We can't keep this up." Ryan muttered to himself. Ryan looked over at the boy with the black hair, who seemed to be studying him, as if he were some foreign anomaly. He was the one who was controlling them. If Ryan took him down, the golems would stop. However, it wasn't as simple as he thought. The golems were regenerating slowly. Not wasting anymore time, Ryan charged at the boy with the black hair, intent on getting him to stop his geological assault.

Pietro sat in the War room of the Xavier institute watching the monitors. The battle with the Juggernaut was going strong and the X-men had not yet been able to subdue the powerful man. Pietro was decided to stay behind and look after those that remained at the mansion. He didn’t want anyone to jump on the opportunity of thrashing the mansion while most of the formal X-men team was away. Pietro sat reclined in one of the War Room chairs with his arms behind his head propping it up. “Hmm… it looks like they got rid of those nasty little Morlocks, finally! That Callisto woman freaks me out too bossy… hehehe…” He chuckled. “I’m glad the institute somehow managed to get a video transmission through all of that interference! Else I’d have to dig through poppa Magneto’s DVD’s for a movie… God only knows what horrors I’d find!” Pietro joked.

Pietro at one point couldn’t help but feel like he himself was being watched. There was a ghostly and chilling presence in the room. He was unaware that agent six was watching him. He embraced himself and rubbed his arms as if he were suddenly chilled due to the eerie vibe the room suddenly presented. But just as it arose, the feeling faded. Pietro decided that he’d better check on the rest of the mansion. He zoomed from room to room surveying the atmosphere. He finally stopped by the holding cells where X-23 was kept. She was staring at him like a caged tiger.

“I don’t know why I thought coming here would make me feel any less creepy. Gosh I’m losing it!” Pietro said as he backed away from the cell. He then quickly zipped out of the room and back into the war room where he could see on the monitors that the battle with Juggernaut had made a new development.

At the scene of the battle, the shadow Juggernaut and the real Juggernaut swapped blows back and forth. The Shadow Juggernaut created by Ace was indeed stronger than the original by having combined the shadows of the others with Juggernaut’s shadow to surpass juggernaut’s power. Charles stood nearby worried at the way in which things were unfolding. Juggernaut no matter what refused to tire out. The shadows power began to wane, and eventually it became vulnerable enough for Juggernaut to land a well placed punch through the shadow’s torso. It’s dark and sinister face seemed to now be in an excruciating expression before it faded away.

“PATHETIC!! CHARLES, are you FINALLY done hiding behind these weaklings or are you finally going to step up and take your beating and death like a real man? I’d hate to have to get serious and wreck all your precious little students and friends just to get to you.” The Juggernaut taunted.

Magneto and Cain had heard enough and both were ready to attack the Juggernaut with everything they had. They lifted anything heavy and metal to hurl at Juggernaut. Their assault was still not strong enough to put the juggernaut down for the count. He simply slowly continued to stomp toward Charles, who stood next to Vincent and Philip, while hurling the metal away from him. Aidan could have been of far more help but chose to wait it out and see if Charles would beg him to do more. So far he was disappointed. The juggernaut, in a rage, threw a large hunk of metal that was forcing him to slow his pace back at Magneto and Cain. Their magnetic assault ceased.

Wolverine and Sabertooth lunged at the titan slashing at him in vain but were quickly smacked backward into a light pole [Logan] and a building [Sabertooth]. The Juggernaut roared and began to charge toward Charles. Kent placed up a quick barrier but Juggernaut had smashed right through it as he had gained far too much momentum. David shot a rocket at the Juggernaut but he emerged from the blast still steamrolling toward Charles.

Aidan decided to finally help and used his power to place Charles and Vincent a few more feet away from the Juggernaut. At this point the juggernaut was almost unstoppable. Fuyumi ran toward him, placing herself into his trajectory. He was prepared to plow right through the thin and pale Japanese woman but he received a surprise. Fuyumi phased out and pulled him down under the ground. She rose up from the cement unharmed and stepped away.

“He’s still coming. That won’t stop him for long.” Fuyumi panted.

The group heard a rumbling of the earth beneath them. The juggernaut was punching his way out of the ground and toward the surface. The concrete near Charles exploded and rose up the Juggernaut in an outrage. Hideki quickly tapped into the light energy stored into his body and achieved a feat he rarely before could utilize. He converted his body mass to light and at light speed appeared in front of Charles placing himself between the Juggernaut and the professor. His hands illuminated with light energy and he clapped them together in front of him to create a blindingly bright white flash. The Juggernaut couldn’t see a thing.

“AAAAAHHH!!! You little…. YOU Freakin’ BLINDED ME!!! OOO WHEN I FIND YOU I’M GONNA TEAR THAT PRETTY LITTLE HEAD OF YOURS OFF!!” Juggernaut exclaimed as he grabbed around.

The Juggernaut almost caught hold of Hideki but Aidan ran up a pulled the young man back toward himself. “That was a cute move lad, but cute could have gotten you killed. I’d hate to see such a bright student go to waste.” Aidan said Hideki with a flirtatious snicker.

Kyle flew swiftly and grabbed juggernaut. He used all of his might to pick the heavy man up and toss him toward Colossus and Frenzy who stood waiting to deliver Juggernaut a blow to the stomach making him double over. Colossus Grabbed Juggernaut’s arms and restrained him He was about the only one strong enough to do so. Frenzy leaped up onto Juggernaut’s shoulders and began to yank off the Juggernaut’s helmet. It was finally off. She hurled it into the distance far from the battle so he couldn’t quickly reclaim it. Frenzy then leaped off of Juggernaut.

The Juggernaut began to regain his vision and broke free of Colossus’ grasp. He grabbed Colossus’ head and slammed him down into the pavement in front of him. With his helmet off Charles and Vincent began to unleash a psychic maelstrom on Juggernaut’s mind. He screamed and yelled in anguish before he eventually collapsed. Charles and Vincent together managed to extinguish Juggernaut’s mental rages and brought him in to a normal state of mind and calmed him down.

The Juggernaut got up from the ground after about 5 minutes. “Oooo… my head splits. Brother… what the hell happened?” the Juggernaut held his head in confusion. He now felt bad for what he had done. The professor explained the situation and the Juggernaut agreed to temporarily take him into the mansion.

Annabelle watched as the fight continued, she kept covering her face from debris and a few sparks of bright light. She heard someone smack into the building behind her. She turned around to see a larger, hairer man knocked against the wall. Annabelle ran over to him and knelt beside him. 'Hello?' She projected into his mind. 'Are you okay?' She placed her hands on his cheeks and lifted his face up, trying to look into his eyes. She looked back at the others, they were still fighting the Juggernaut.
She looked back at the man and he was fine. Annabelle blushed and forgot her hands were still on his face, it was only when he put his hands on her wrists and removed them himself did she move away from him. Annabelle watched as Xavier explained to the Juggernaut what has happened and then agree to temperarily let him stay at the mansion. 'What?' Annabelle thought to herself. 'He can't be serious? Letting him into the mansion, a place for safety and yet he brings him into it?' She put a mental block to make sure the professor or any other psychic wouldn't hear her concerns, but who knows if it was strong enough.

Alice

She had not been expecting The Juggernaut to punch straight through the shadow, despite the fact that she had fused everyone’s shadow with hers and the Juggernauts own. Alice doubled over, holding her stomach as she felt the pain that her shadow felt. She coughed up a little blood and fell to her knees, shaking her head Alice eye was no longer all black as the color began to recede, returning to its original color.
Ace
Ace was back but she let out a string of curses that would have made any sailor jealous. “You ugly damned Bastard the firkin Hurt! DAMMIT!” she snarled but her body hurt too much for her to move very well.

“Damn if she hadn’t intervened this wouldn’t have happened” she growled. Standing back up Ace suddenly went rigid when shadows began to return back to their original masters, but Ace’s now had a strange hole exactly where the Juggernaut punched her, including the Juggernauts own shadow. “Shit” as she lost conscious and fell forwards, right into her own shadow, and disappeared; only to appear besides where Logan was.

The others didn’t seem too pleased with the invitation of Juggernaut to the mansion. Xavier understood their feelings but Juggernaut was his brother and he much needed to make peace with him if at all possible. Things were, for a moment, slightly calm. The fighting had ceased yet agitation lingered in the air. The police and armed forces were headed toward the scene of the incident. Most of the morlocks had fled or were incapacitated. Calypso ordered those who could to retreat and carry anyone who wasn’t able to flee on their own strength away to the safety of the sewers.

Logan noticed Ace appear near him. He knelt down to make sure she was alright. She seemed to be in a good deal of pain. He could hear the sirens nearing them. The police would be there in a matter of moments. “We’d better get the hell outta dodge Professor!” Logan called to Charles.

Vincent touched his head to perform a mental probe of the minds in the nearby area. “The military is coming… A special force assigned as a countermeasure to mutants. They believe that we were in on the Juggernaut’s attack, that we intended to harm the city. Logan is right we must leave now.” Vincent said to the group, his tone seemingly calm.

Aidan, with a flirtatious grin on his face, softly and quickly stroked Hideki’s cheek with his finger and said, “Well Love, it looks like I should be taking my leave now. Tell Charles to take care of you well until I come to whisk you away for myself.” Aidan had seriously taken up a fascination and liking to Hideki, one to which confused and flustered Hideki. Aidan then turned to Charles and spoke, “Well Charles it’s been great fun but at last I bid you goodbye. Try not to get caught lad.” With that Aidan spoke a few words and utterly vanished into thin air using his power.

The armed forces came and began to attempt to set a perimeter up around the area. Cain was very upset with the situation. He began to use his telepathic abilities to communicate with the countermeasures group. “We were trying to stop this aggressive non-mutant’s attack on the city. We’ve done no one harm. Call your forces off now.” Cain was very serious in tone. Charles and Vincent knew that if the armed forces didn’t allow them passage Cain would indeed strike them down.

The armed forced replied, “You are to stand down mutant hostiles. Surrender yourselves to the house of mutant registration immediately! I repeat, surrender yourselves to the house of mutant registration immediately!”

A moment passed and no action was taken. Charles had begun to use his powers to telepathically cloak the entire team of mutants from the vision of the armed forces. “Let’s retreat now. Those of you that can make it to the blackbird head there for transport. Mutt Ant should be nearby and possibly able to drive a few back to the mansion. I will contact him telepathically and ask him for this favor. Kent also has a Vehicle and can take some to safety. We shall meet back at the mansion. We leave no one behind understood?” Charles communicated with the group telepathically.

Victor was curious about the young woman that had her hand on his cheeks as he woke up from previously being knocked into a nearby building. He hadn’t spoken a word to her yet. He was simply observing her. She was definitely a mutant but she didn’t seem like the physically advanced type like him. He began to smirk a little. “She’s pretty cute.” He thought to himself. He decided to make his way back to the Blackbird to head to the X-mansion. He turned to Annabelle and finally spoke, “Hey you coming on the jet or not?” He asked with a tilted head and a raised eyebrow.

One by one everyone made their way back to the X-mansion. No one seemed to have been caught by the armed forces. Vincent was able to persuade Cain to stand down and not attack the threatening humans. Cain hated the fact that they had to run away like they were the guilty ones. They were being pegged like villains, mutants who were pure evil, but they were in actuality good and trying to stop a magically enhanced human that was running amok. He didn’t like the world as it was, a world that Vincent, his counterpart had grown to accept.

When things settled down, Cain spoke to Charles, Vincent, Magneto, and Pietro. They all came to grips with who and what Cain was. Charles and Magneto accepted Cain immediately with joy and gladness as their new son just as they had with Vincent. Afterward Cain was approached by Philip. Philip had heard in detail about Cain from Vincent but was curious about a few things. Philip knocked on Cain’s room door.

Cain answered by opening the door with his matter manipulation abilities. He sat on his bed relaxing and motioned for Philip to enter. After the two greeted one another, Cain asked, “So what bring you here Philip.” He looked up at Philip with a genuinely bright smile. He was happy to see Philip the feeling was different than that he felt for others.

“I was curious about what was said in the talk with Vincent and the others. You said that you feel what Vincent feels as if they were your own feelings, like how he feels about the people Vincent cares about.” Philip asked hesitantly.

“Yes. That’s right.” Cain replied calmly. After a brief moment of silence Cain continued. “I suppose you’re wondering where you and I stand with each other huh? That’s a wise thing for you to want to straighten out Philip. I shouldn’t have expected anything less from my brother’s lover.” Cain chuckled a little.

Philip was still nervous. “Well?” Philip asked nervously. Speaking to Cain was like speaking to a new side of Vincent’s personality that had a different face and body. It made Philip slightly uneasy yet slightly flustered. He felt close with him yet very distant at the same time. It was indeed a strange phenomenon.

Cain replied, “I share most of the same feelings that Vincent feels emotionally and I understand him as if we were still the same being. In the case of you… like Vincent, I love you, romantically. When you’re in Vincent’s presence his heart flutters. My heart flutters just like his when you’re around me. He wants to do things to you, so do I. In fact, I’m telepathically calming myself as we speak so that my emotions don’t get the better of me a do something to you that you and I will regret. So yes, we are very strongly linked, Vincent and I. However, I will never act on my emotions for you. You’re dating my other half after all, not me. You needn’t worry, I won’t ever act on these feelings and eventually I’ll perfect controlling them, I hope.” Cain began to blush a little. He felt bad that he had to have this conversation with Philip and for making Philip worried.

Philip finally smiled as he began to feel relief from worry. “I see. I’m sorry Cain, it must be difficult for you to deal with.” Philip replied.

“For now, it’s a little challenging but it also feels nice. I like being in love, It’s like receiving all the pleasurable highlights of love without actually having to do anything. I feel like I’m cheating a little. Hahaha…” Cain chuckled.

Cain reassured Philip once more and he gave Philip a hug. The two parted ways and Cain decided to take a much needed nap. The events of the day played back through his mind. He remembered his frustrations, and joys. He was glad that Philip came. It put him at ease where he before felt a bit on edge.

Annabelle looked up when the man she just held asked her, she nodded and looked back to the ground befpre following him onto the blackbird. "What an exciting first day." She whispered to herself. She watched the others around her, they all seemed to be so comfortable around each other and they looked to get on with each other. Annabelle wanted to be able to talk to other people, not through her telepathy, but actually talk to them.
She sat and put her earphones in, trying to ignore everything around her, putting her mental blocks up so as she couldn't hear any thoughts.

Logan

Logan sat bewildered by all that was said to him. He simply couldn’t fathom that not only was he cloned but the clone was being passed off as his child. He hated the Weapon-X program and their beyond horrible treatment of mutants. Logan did feel sorry for X-23 for having to endure the horrors of the Weapon-X program and being robbed of a normal existence but he wasn’t ready to accept just being told that she was his daughter. Logan after a long moment of silence spoke. “She’s not my daughter. I don’t have a daughter, especially one created by Weapon-X. I guess you were concerned but listen good bub, I don’t like people snooping around in my past and business. Especially when it concerns my genetics. I’ve had enough people meddling around in my business as it is. So I suggest that you not do that again.” With that, Logan stood up and left the room.

The professor didn’t expect Logan to don anything different than he did. “I am sorry Aaliyah. Logan means no harm I assure you.” Charles apologized. He knew that Logan would need time to deal with all that was revealed to him. Charles continued, “This news, to Logan, means that it is one more way in which the weapon-x program has meddled with and changed his life. I do hope you understand Aaliyah. Logan will perhaps come around someday. We need to focus on X-23’s treatment. It is inhumane to keep her locked up forever. He must try to salvage whatever humanity she has left.” The meeting came to an end soon after.

Vincent Xavier and Philip Klein

Vincent was very glad to be home and to have gotten settled. He decided to take some leisure time. He and Philip went out for a date. It included going to lunch and some window shopping. It wasn’t so much that they wanted to buy things, but to spend time outside of the realm of the war between Mutants and their oppressors. They wanted to just spend time as a carefree couple, goofing around and joking about people, simply enjoying the day.

Vincent and Philip got home laughing and stumbling about one another in whimsical bliss. Victor walked past the door to the mansion and spotted the happy couple. He cringed upon spotting the happy couple. “Get a room pretty boys… ugh…” He muttered. They simply watched him as he went on his way with silly grins. They snickered as he got out of earshot. The couple decided to head to the kitchen for a glass of wine or some other form of alcohol. There they continued their conversation. Ryan seemed to be headed in. Vincent looked up slightly startled by his new appearance. He was not yet used to seeing Ryan in this more beastly manner. It wasn’t that Ryan looked bad or anything like that, but it was that Vincent was used to Ryan looking a tad gentler than he did presently.

Philip was in the middle of kissing Vincent when Ryan walked in. Vincent tapped Philip on the shoulder to get his attention. “Philip love, we’re not alone anymore…” He informed Philip in a silly giggly manner and peeked around Philip to greet Ryan. “Hi there Ryan! Care for some wine? And I shan’t be hearing any nonsense about you being underage either.” Vincent said with big smile. He was glad to see Ryan was alright after the mansion attack and the Juggernaut incident.

Philip turned around and greeted Ryan as well. “Hi hi Ryan! Yes please have a drink with us! I was just telling Vincent that the last time we played a drinking game he got to drunk and pink faced, he looked like a barefooted pink crayon! HAHAHA…”

Vincent blushed in embarrassment. “Oh hush up! I’m sure Ryan isn’t here to listen to your obscene jokes.” Vincent fought hard to keep himself from laughing and admitting defeat.

“Well you were indeed my barefooted Pink Crayon so all was well I suppose. Teehee.” Philip added.

Vincent then asked Ryan, “So Ryan what’s up? I’m serious about that wine now, you want a drink? But don’t tell my father alright? Our little secret.”

Magneto and Cain

Magneto stood in the chamber that held cerebro waiting for the results of Cain’s search. He was surprised that Cain was a strong enough telepath to operate Cerebro. Then he somewhat kicked himself for underestimating Cain’s lineage. Cain spoke calmly. “Vincent can utilize Cerebro effectively so can I. However back to the matter at hand father Erick. The two mutants that were geo manipulators who fought along side the morlocks have been located.”

Erik replied, “Good. Let’s set out to have a little chat with them immediately.” He was just about to head out when Cain stopped him.

“Wait father. It would be best if another mutant or two came along with us. It wouldn’t be wise for us to simply go waltzing through the underground territories of the Morlocks alone. They could still overwhelm us and may not believe that we are simply there to talk to the two young mutants. We could level their little realm ourselves but discretion is the better part of valor no?” Cain warned Magneto. He was very smart and didn’t like to do anything without careful planning.

Erik smiled proudly. Cain was more than capable and he loved that. “You are indeed my blood Cain. Who do you suggest we bring along with us?”

“I suggest brother Pietro, Stinger, and perhaps Agent Zero and Sabertooth if they’ll agree to it. Stinger’s powers are amplified by water and metal which there is plenty of in the sewer. Sabertooth and Zero are both cunning, ruthless, and tactful enough to eliminate anything that threatens us without hesitation, and Pietro is an effective distraction and supporting force in a fight no morlock could keep up with him in his physical and thinking speed. Not to mention us. I think this team would be most effective on this mission of recruitment.” Cain explained rather plainly. He knew Magneto would agree with him 100%. And he did.

Vincent Xavier

Vincent listened carefully as Ryan explained what he knew of what was going on with his body and power. This would most definitely require Vincent to study Ryan’s X-gene and state of mind to see if there is a correlation between Ryan’s emotional state, appearance, and augmentation in power.

"Well," Ryan started. "It all began when I was here at the mansion, earlier today. I was walking around when I noticed that you all were battling the Juggernaut in the city and decided I needed to help. I ran outside and sat in the grass. I've known, for a while now, that the thicker my scales get, the stronger I become. I just don't like to leave them so thick because... well, look at me." Ryan said, gesturing to his horns. They were much larger than normal, sprouting from his temples, then curving down along his jaw line before jutting out sharply in front of his mouth. He hadn't had quite enough time to remove them, and to make matters worse, his hair was still shaggy. "It doesn't make the greatest first impression is all." Ryan said, growing a little self conscious as Vincent inspected him.

"Anyway, I sat down in the grass and concentrated really hard on my scales. They're a part of me, like my skin or my eyes. So, it stands to reason, that I can regenerate them, just like I could for anything else. So that's what I did. The scales grew really fast and soon I was covered in them and my horns were halfway formed. After that I got up and started running towards the city as fast as I could and made it much faster than if I had just left without changing myself. That was where the trouble began. I remember fighting those stone golems and the boy who was making them and all those other Morlocks. He hit me really hard, on the side of my head. After that... I... I don't remember much." Ryan placed his hands on the side of his head, underneath his horns. He was trying so hard to remember. "The thing is, that's what scares me. I remember fighting him, the boy. I remember... biting... something. It's all so blurry." Ryan Continued.

Ryan seemed to recall something as he paused. "I... I don't remember much of what happened after that. I woke up in a pile of rubble, covered in more scales than when I left to help. I met up with Thantos and Memory and then took her home. Finally, once we got back I... shaved... and decided I needed to meet up with Professor Xavier. He was in a meeting though, so I came to find you. That's the end of my story I guess." Ryan finished, placing his hands back in his lap. "Vincent..." Ryan said, genuine fear in his eyes. "What happened to me?"

Vincent gave Ryan an endearing look and placed a hand on Ryan’s shoulder. “You needn’t fear Ryan. I think what happened today was proof of a correlation between your powers and your state of mind. I believe you have the ability to alter your appearance and power to a certain degree based on strong emotions.” Vincent stood and paced back and forth while gripping his chin between his index finger and thumb. “You stated that as you concentrated on your scales they grew, but this was after hearing of the danger the others faced. Perhaps your body adapted to suite your current need, as if you had evolved on the spot.” Vincent began to smile. “Ryan, this is amazing! I think your body may hold the key to jump start a physical evolutionary reaction! However I do believe there is a large psychological component at work in that process and that isn’t to be ignored.” Vincent said in an excited tone.

Vincent Guided Ryan to sit on one of the kitchen stools. He looked Ryan in the eyes and spoke very carefully. “I would like to try something Ryan. I am interested in finding out if you can reverse transform as well accelerate transformation. Perhaps if I amplified your emotional focus while you concentrated the effects of your transformation could be controlled. For example, If you reached a calm state of mind, and concentrate on the reduction of your scales for example, I could strengthen that state telepathically. The change should occur and you might even regain a human appearance! Although I’m sure it wouldn’t be a permanent thing but it would be progress nonetheless. What do you think, are you willing to give it a try?”

David North, Victor Creed, Stinger, Magneto and Cain

David and Sabertooth sat in the living room watching the News. There was a report on the aftermath of the attack Juggernaut led in the downtown area. David smirked as he listened to the paranoid reporter spin his conspiracy theories over the broadcast. According to the reporter mutant were urged to register with the House of Mutant Registration as petitioned by Senator Kelly. David knew that this was indeed a trap set for those gullible enough to waltz into it. “You know, it’s actually hilarious to hear the HMR being spoken of as a goodwill group after hearing its developers talk about it’s true purpose back in Weapon X.” David said to Sabertooth as he cleaned his guns, taking them apart piece by piece. He always took pristine care of his weaponry.

Sabertooth huffed as he took a bite of a piece of beef jerky. “What’s laughable is the fact that we’re still playing nice with these X-twits. We aren’t allowed in the war room, or the holding cell bay where little miss wolverine clone is stashed. I mean damn, they could at least let us use the danger room! At least we’d be able to get some action around here.” Sabertooth replied to David.

David shrugged. “Well honestly, I don’t mind sticking around for a while. Hell, I might even join if I find nothing better to do. However, I would need to resume my work as a mercenary, the pay for teaching kinda blows no joke.” David said while grinning. David was all about money. He lived lavishly when in his private time. Living in the mansion was very interesting and made him remember college dorm life. That time seemed so far from him now.

Sabertooth cringed at the thought of permanently joining the X-men. He then chuckled, “And David that would be the day I kill you myself.”

Magneto and Cain approached the two. “Hello Agent Zero, Sabertooth. Would you be interested in lending my father and I a hand on a small recruitment mission?” Cain addressed the two with a cheery disposition.

Sabertooth replied sarcastically, “How the hell are we going to recruit anyone for the X-men and we ain’t on the team ourselves. Forget it Jr. I decline.”

David was curious and responded. “Who do you intend to recruit, where are they and why are you recruiting them? I mean this is a rather curious request and timing in my opinion.”

Cain replied, “Indeed Agent Zero. You have a very good point. I intend to recruit two mutants known by the names of Canaan Reyes and Terra Reyes. Canaan is a Geo manipulator and Terra can become a human tiger hybrid, the ultimate hunter. They are currently in the care of the Morlocks. I believe mutants of that caliber do not belong under the tutelage of the Morlocks. We need you to help watch our backs.”

David gave a slight smile. “I see. And why now are you recruiting people?”

“Good question. You are keenly perceptive Agent Zero.” Cain began.

“Please, Call me David.” David interrupted.

“Indeed. Well David the government, through the House of Mutant Registration, is attempting to conduct a witch hunt against mutants by forcing them to register their names. This is deplorable and a countermeasure must be taken. I would like to safeguard as many capable mutants as possible. I think they would be useful and safer with the X-men.” Cain replied. Magneto nodded in agreement.

David replied, “Alright I’m in. It’ll give me something constructive to do.” David stood up after having reassembled his gun and grabbed Victor by the hand, pulling him to his feet. He decided to tease Victor by wrapping his arms around Victors waist from behind and spooning him. “Victor here, my other half, will go as well. Right honey?” David smirked devilishly and he pecked Victor on his cheek.

Victor’s eyes widened in surprise. David was often poking fun at Victor, and was by far the only person able to get away with doing so. David was probably Victors only true friend. “Get off of me North or I’ll rip you a vagina!” Victor hissed while trying to keep himself from smiling at David’s prank. “Alright I’ll go. Who else is coming?”

“Stinger and Pietro have also agree to accompany us. We will head out immediately.” Magneto replied.

The group finished preparations and headed of to the Sewers, home of the Morlocks. It was quiet in the many maze like tunnels of the underground. The Morlocks were well hidden away in the sewers. Victor tracked the scent of people through the tunnels and they eventually found the entrance to the Morlock dwelling place. “Finally. I’m sick of these ratty sewers!” Stinger complained. She honestly didn’t want to go but Cain found a way to week talk her.

Cain also considered bringing Cara along on this mission however she was not seen around the mansion after everyone returned. Cain was becoming concerned. However, he couldn’t interrupt what he was doing now. He promised himself he would find out what happened to Cara the moment he got back to the mansion. He cared for everyone included in the X-men family just like Vincent did. There was a place in Vincent’s heart that considered Cara a friend and Cain shared those emotions as well.

Agent Six

she continued to look straight forwards her eyes unmoving. Agent Six slipped the glass shard into her dress pocket and let Jonathan wrap up her hands. Though she didn’t understand why he even bothered but it was somewhat logical to stop the bleeding. Agent Six didn’t bother to use her observer spirit as Jonathan lead her to the medical wing which she assumed was in the lower levels based on their decent. Agent Six let Jonathan lead her to the medics; suddenly she felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise.
Agent Six looked over her shoulder if that’s how you would describe it considering she was blind. She didn’t know why she bothered if all there was darkness, but Agent Six was right to look over her shoulder for in the shadows was something that watched them with hungry eyes. The first shadow creature; the strongest gate keeper stood in the shadows watching them. It calculated the possibility of the girl being a threat to its master, then it did the same for the boy, and both were highly dangerous. It would have crept out of its shadow but it decided now wasn’t the time, it was about to go back home when it realized where the two were heading. Its glowing red eyes narrowed, it let out a low animal like snarl and slowly stepped out of its shadow.

Agent Six couldn’t see it but she knew something was there and tugged Jonathans sleeve “not alone” and she pointed down the hall and right at the shadow creature the first one as it made its way to them. It was a huge thing with glowing red eyes its body was made entirely out of shadows and it was almost like it was dripping into the ground. If Jonathan looked close enough he would have noticed that with each step it took towards them the darker everything became.

And then it spoke “all threats must be annihilated” its voice strange as if many people with different tones and pitches were talking at the same time. It got closer and closer before standing on two long legs it opened its gaping mouth that showed an endless darkness not even Ace would have been able to see in. “all threats are to be annihilated” it repeated sending chills through the air, the hallway got even darker everything behind it was laced in shadow.

Ace
In her room another shadow separated itself from its source, this one looked different more animalistic than the one from before. This one was incapable of speech, it was nothing more than fodder for its brethren to eat and play with. Nor was it smart like the gatekeepers, but it did know one thing it had to destroy what did this to its master. And with that the second shadow creature left the room in search of Juggernaut.

Canaan
She had left Terra alone just for a little while to look for some food. That’s when she smelled it that same scent as from before standing at the entrance of the Morlocks home where the men in those weird uniforms and two other people who she vaguely remember had been fighting the morlocks and destroying Terra’s golems. A growl escaped Canaans throat and she walked over to them with a glare that could kill. Her eyes flashed becoming nothing more than slits as the animal tried to take over, Canaan pushed aside a morlock who kept them from entering and stood face to face with one of them (Cain) “what the hell do you want. You already defeated us once why can’t you just leave us alone” she snarled baring her teeth at him.

Vincent Xavier

As Ryan focused, Vincent telepathically amplified the control Ryan was taking over his X-gene. Vincent could see Ryan’s dark skin turn pale once more. His scales seemed to fall off and wither away. Vincent was almost so shocked that for a brief moment he had almost stopped concentrating and began to stare at the transformation Ryan was beginning to take. Vincent resumed his focus and Ryan’s transformation continued. His hair was a rich black color and his yellow eyes became green Ryan wasn’t just normal looking, he was a vibrant and fair. Vincent was so in awe yet not surprised, for Ryan was beginning to look as angelic, and timid as his personality was. After Ryan had lost all physical signs of a beastial form, Vincent stopped and looked into Ryan’s face with a bright and excited smile. “This is the Ryan whose been hidden under the cloak of his X-gene! You’re simply brilliant Ryan! Absolutely magnificent!” Vincent said as he hugged Ryan tightly.

Vincent telepathically contacted Fuyumi and asked her to quickly bring a mirror into the kitchen. Fuyumi phased through the kitchen wall carrying a large full bodied mirror. She almost dropped it when she saw Ryan’s drastic change. She quickly grabbed hold of the falling mirror with the telekinetic help of Vincent. “Rya-Ryan…? Nandaiyou! [what the…!]” Fuyumi said as she approached Ryan. Her face was in total shock.

Vincent’s already beaming smile only got wider. He turned to Ryan and chuckled, “Well now, do you remember him or have we turned you into the wrong guy?” Vincent said jokingly. He was so excited for Ryan, maybe this meant that Ryan could have a chance at normalcy. It was moments like this that made Vincent aware that the X-men’s work with training the gifts of mutants was happening for a great reason, that people were indeed being helped.

David North, Victor Creed, Stinger, Magneto and Cain

Cain had begun to sense a familiar presence nearby. It was definitely a student from the X-mansion. He closed his eyes for a moment to visualize who he felt. It was Memory Ashcroft the student proficient in memory manipulation. She crept quietly a distance behind the group. She was trying not to be discovered. Cain smiled, “I see she wanted to help out. But why?” He thought to himself. He scanned a bit more. He picked up on a strong emotional signaling from Memory toward David North. Cain now understood. He turned to look behind himself slightly to look at David who stood nearby. Cain chuckled and David was puzzled as to why Cain was chuckling. “I see now. If she wanted to tag along she could have just asked. I would have said yes. But it good that I don’t blow her cover. She’s been handling stealth pretty well so far. I’ll consider this a training exercise for her.” Cain thought to himself quietly. He wasn’t her teacher in the official capacity but he felt like a teacher at the mansion. It was his bond with Vincent that imparted with Cain the teacher-student relationship that Vincent carried for all of the mansion’s students. Cain refocused his attention as this was not the time to be distracted.

A Morlock citizen stood just behind the door and opened up a slot in the large barricade doorway to see who stood at the Morlock gates. His gaze narrowed in on Cain who stood in front of the group next to magneto. He unlatched the locks on the door and it swung open. He looked muddy and grimy yet confident that he could take anyone threatening on. Without paying much attention to who stood before him he proceeded to speak. “Who the hell are you?” the Morlock snipped in a nasty gargle of a voice. He then gave a good look at Cain and Magneto. He was now scared out of his wits at the sight of the master of magnetism. “MA-MA-MUH-MAGNETO!!! It’s the X-men!!” He shrieked. Sabertooth smirked at the sight of the Morlock man cowering before them.

As the group stood at the entrance to the Morlock domain, a growl escaped Canaans throat and she walked over to them with a glare that could kill. Her eyes flashed becoming nothing more than slits as the animal tried to take over, Canaan pushed aside a Morlock who kept them from entering and stood face to face with Cain. “what the hell do you want. You already defeated us once why can’t you just leave us alone” she snarled baring her teeth at him.

Cain remained calm and pleasant in his disposition. He smiled then spoke. “Please be at peace. We’re not here for a fight. We are here to talk. I am actually here to see you Canaan, you and Terra.” Cain said as he extended his hand for a hand shake.

Magneto added, “Young mutant, we are here to offer you and Terra a place with the X-men as students. You wield a very special gift and that gift must be cultivated under the right conditions.” He looked welcoming.

Cain then spoke, “The Morlocks provide you with a good safe haven however, the Morlocks lack the expertise needed in training young developing mutants to utilize their abilities to their full potential. I saw you siblings during the incident downtown fighting courageously and displaying impressive skill. You can become much more and I would like to help you. It’s up to you.”

(OOC: Sorry, I ran out of time! I will post for the shadow scenario the next time I post. I promise!!)

Jonathan' eyes widened as the shadow creature raised its arm to strike. Reacting instinctively, Jonathan pushed Six back hard and braced for the impact that would surely come. Despite the shadowy figure of the striking creature, the force behind the attack was strong enough to lift Jonathan off his feet and then some, his body crashing into the metal walls of the lower levels with a sickening smack. His body rapidly became unresponsive, first his limbs, then his hearing, before finally his world faded to black.

Jonathan's eyes opened slowly, a ringing in his ears, to see the same creature, the exact same one with its snarling sneer and hollow, hell-fire eyes, but from a perspective he was not expecting. He scanned the metal ground quickly, his hazel eyes moving erratically in search of what he sought. And what he currently wished to find was in fact himself. The still form on the floor, twisted into what must have been an uncomfortable shape if he were awake to feel it, brought a sick feeling to his stomach. Upon staring down at his arms he discovered that they had taken on a somewhat transparent look. And his brain felt strange, as if he were floating. It was not something he wanted to get used to, but at the same time this brought such peace to his heart, made the stress of being a mutant and brother and friend and protector crumble away. In another time he probably would have stayed there, content to live out his life like this, worry-free and at peace. That felt too much like running away form his problems however, and that was one thing he wouldn't allow, not now. Now was the time for answers.

"Am I dead...?" Jonathan asked himself as he looked down at his body once more, but he was reassured the opposite. The rhythmic rising of his chest told him that he was in fact still alive. It must have been the knock to the head from his unpleasant collision with the wall. So he was... what? Unconscious? Asleep? Regardless, it seemed his powers had kicked in. Being the master of dreams has its perks.

Ignoring this projection, his dream form, Jonathan stared straight at the creature. Something was wrong. It wasn't moving as it should. In fact, nothing was. Not the shadow being, not Six, not even the slow breathing of himself - which Jonathan really should have noticed. Although, this form was new to him, this power not used very often. Every other time he had manipulated his dreams in the past during the night it had always been a strange dream world, not the real world. As interesting as it was that his final and strongest ability could manipulate his consciousness into a transparent projection of himself, like an astral projection through dreams, he really couldn't think on it now. As in a dream, the time flow was considerably slower, much different to how it should be. Again, however, this was not something to think of now, however fascinating it may be. This situation needed action.

Thinking quickly about the best course of action based on the apparent strengths and weaknesses of his opponent, Jonathan smiled and closed his hand concentrating, a burning sensation that left no pain beginning to pulsate on his skin - if you could really call it skin while like this. For a moment, as Jonathan looked up into the face of the creature, he faltered, the heat dissipating quicker than it had formed. Despite the fact that it was moving slower than it should while Jonathan was like this, and that his body was apparently invisible to everyone else, the creature was staring straight at him. Not Six, not his body, but his projection. It was... unnerving, but not enough to stop him. Concentrating once more, he brought back the burning to his hand, and steadily increased it. With more effort his time and the real world's time to synch up. He obviously didn't know it but the dream and reality manipulation power that he had tried to hide away for so long was a lot stronger than he thought.

"I may not be able to see into your mind," Jonathan began, a faint light beginning to glow between his fingers which only grew in size and intensity. "but I know what the shadows run from." In this form, Six (if she were using her powers) wouldn't be able to see him as he was only a projection of Jonathan's consciousness, unless he allowed her to of course, but she would most definitely see the light growing as it existed in the real world. He was affecting reality out of his dream from within his dream. It was bound to be noticeable.

"I know what you are weak to," he snarled at the coal black, shadowy behemoth, the light in his palm now a blinding white light, the sheer force of the energy already to cut through some of the shadows advancing on him.
"I know what you fear..."Every time he spoke the shadow seemed to respond in some way, as if he could really hear and see him.

'Let's see if you hear this...' He though opening his hand. While his hand was closed, the light had been covered slightly and wasn't as bad on the eyes, the energy wasn't as bad on the entire body, but now the light and heat in his palm was released with no restraints bar the protection of his palm for Six, limiting it somewhat.

"You fear the light." Jonathan threw his hand out palm first and closed his eyes, concentrating on casting the energy from his hand out and focussing it on the shadow. The added help of the reflective metal amplified his ability to a degree. When the full force of the light hit the shadow's body, it flinched and drew back, the shadows retreating with it, but it soon learned to adapt. The heat and light were visibly stinging and burning the shadowy figure but it fought against the current and began a slow walk towards Jonathan using turning its head so as to not see the light directly. At this rate, his power that had taken so long to charge and so much energy to use wouldn't last long than a minute at best. He had to do something...

Then an idea came to him. He would need to buy some more time, and get Six to safety as this could probably hurt her too, before he could use it but it might just dispel the creature long enough for them to escape safely to the upper levels where it wasn't as cramped and claustrophobic. Allowing himself to become visible slightly [similar to this but with more light and looking like Jonathan] without affecting the strength of his light, that was doing very little against the shadow.

"Six, run! Just go! Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Just get out of here! Please! Pleas-" His focus on the conversation and maintaining his visible form faded mid-sentence, once again returning to his transparent projection as a torrent of pain crashed through his head bringing a blur to his vision. pushing away the pain he lifted his other hand and the light ignited on Jonathan's second palm growing as bright and hot as the first, the force of it making his hair and clothes whip about in the air even more than before. Jonathan drew his arms back and focussed the energy on one area before him while still hitting the creature, however, it was with far less. The shadow was advancing even quicker than before. He would need to be fast. When the shadow reached just two or three meters away from his projection, Jonathan stepped back and threw out his arms again sending a wave of light and power even stronger than before, ripping the shadow apart before him.

Slowly, the lights flickered back and the corridor returned to its original brightness. He knew he hadn't beaten it, not by a long shot, but at least it wasn't right beside them. They had at least a minute to get moving up the elevator. Jonathan's body, or at least his projection, had other ideas. The form slowly faded, along with his consciousness, back to the body on the floor where he would soon awake from.

Meanwhile, in the sewers of New York at the Morlock headquarters, Memory lurked in the shadows herself, but for a considerably different reason. She had no intention of fighting them. Currently, the shadows were her greatest ally. She had been able to stay within them and keep hidden with her power but she didn't know if this could last much longer. One of the greatest weaknesses to her "invisibility" power was that if someone knew they were looking for her, or looked hard enough for something specific about her presence, then her power would become next to useless. At this stage, while someone knows she is there, it is far harder to stay out of their memory than it is to without them ever seeing her there.

Taking a peek out of the shadow that was surrounding her and around the wall she had hidden behind, Memory gasped and pulled back. The new guy with Magneto, Cain, had turned in her direction. Whether he had seen, heard or sensed her, she didn't know. For all she knew he could very well be looking at someone else. David had been in the middle of herself and Cain. Taking a silent breath to calm herself, and grimacing as her foot got drenched once again in a puddle thanks to her converse, she peeked around the edge again. Cain was thankfully looking away now and talking to the Morlocks, and apprantly who he had come for. She returned to behind the wall and pressed her to the slimy surface.

'Recruitment? That's it? Recruitment for the X-men?'

While Memory wanted to believe this, as it was a seemingly perfect explanation, there was just something off about it. Something that was right. It was true, from what she had overheard at the mansion, that these two were fairly powerful and would make great additions to the X-men team. It also seemed fair to send a large group into dangerous territory (even though Memory herself had managed particularly well). but something was still wrong. Memory slid around the edge again and her eyebrows pulled together tight. It's true that they would need to send someone to recruit them.

'But why send them?'

Oh all the people to send on this mission, they send the one's who are and have been criminals or, in Cain's case, just arrived. A number of them weren't even on the X-men team. Why not send Scott or Logan? Why send the ones who no one trusts and aren't fully on the team?

Before she could continue on this train of thought, a rough hand gripped her shoulder and swung her body around, the light weight Memory loved so much before now a burden more than a benefit. Moving quickly, before he signal the others, she swung her arm around his, twisting it to get it out of the way, and slammed her palm into his face. She brought her hand down on him again and watched as he dropped to the ground with a thud and a splash. Memory hoped they were far enough away that the others would not have heard the scuffles, his grunts of pain and the sound of him falling. However, she wasn't prepared to bet her life on it.

Concentrating on her power to stay hidden, which she had let drop before, Memory moved quickly out of the way and hid behind yet another wall, crouching in the corner as small as she could manage. So long as she kept quiet and didn't draw any unneeded attention to herself, then she would get out of here safely. Although, if Cain and the others had heard, one quick mental sweep would reveal her location. Would he do that though? Would he put her in danger? Memory couldn't tell. In fairness, she was spying on them. But it was a for reason. There was something wrong about them. there was something they weren't telling everyone else and she had to get to the bottom of it.

She just had to get out of this sticky situation first...