Title: Miracle of love

Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)

Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/

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Miracle of love 2

By Morgana

 

Chapter Nine

Bobby used an ice slide to get to the boathouse. Magnus had sounded worried through the phone and he'd acted at once, leaving Michael behind in Warren's care. "What is it?" Bobby asked Magnus, as the man opened the door to let him in.
"Before we go inside I want a word with you," Magnus said resolved. "Remy's finally opening up, admitting the pain he's in. You need to help him move on. He's stuck in his past and can't seem to grasp the present." Magnus walked him to the living room. "I don't need to tell you that Remy's very vulnerable at the moment. You need to reassure him of your love."
"But Remy knows I love him!" Bobby objected, already sensing his lover's presence in the next room.
"Yes," Magnus replied and nodded his head. "But he doesn't understand WHY you love him, what's so special about him that you want to be with him."
Bobby moistened his lips. How many times had Remy and he already discussed this? "I'll try."
"Good," Magnus whispered and opened the door. Amused, he noticed that Remy was still sitting on the couch and hadn't moved an inch. Magnus realized how desperately Remy needed to be reassured. They couldn't give up now. If necessary they'd tell Remy over and over again how much and why they loved him.
Remy didn't want to meet his lover's eyes, but felt Bobby's resolve. In the end, he hesitantly peeked at Bobby's eyes.
"Why are y' doin' dis?" Remy asked Magnus. Merde! He'd come here because he didn't want to drag Bobby in to this and now?
"I want you to repeat your last admission," Magnus ordered, sitting down in a chair.
"Las' admission?" Remy repeated slightly confused.
Magnus sighed before giving in. "You told me that you know Bobby loves you?" and he looked encouragingly at his son to end his sentence.
Remy knew there was no escape and lowered his eyes. "But I still don' understand why, oui."
Bobby took a deep breath to steady himself. As he sat down next to his lover, he gently gathered Remy's hands in his. "Look at me?" Remy raised his eyes and Bobby immediately caught the apologetic expression in them. He concentrated, making sure that his words would also reach Remy's mind. If only he could take away the pain in those eyes!
Remy read that desire in his lover's mind and felt strangely shy. In a way, this felt even more intimate than making love.
//"Listen, love,"// Bobby started, sending Remy his thoughts, as well as speaking them aloud. Staring in to Remy's eyes he continued in a soft tone. //"I love you, Remy. I will always love you and you wanna know why?"//
Remy nodded his head. He felt embarrassed for showing his uncertainty, but Magnus would make him do this no matter what. //"Oui, cher, why do y' love me? What's dere t' love 'bout me?"//
Bobby smiled, raised Remy's hand to his lips and kissed the fingertips. //"I fell in love with you when I discovered you in the med lab after you'd returned from Antarctica. You were so vulnerable, but at the same time you possessed a strength, which I truly admire. You don't give up,"// he said, repeating the words he'd spoken to Jean-Luc LeBeau a few days ago.
Remy wanted to avert his eyes, but Bobby's gaze refused to let go. //"But I feel 'shamed for showin' dat vulnerability,"'// he whispered.
//"Don't. I love your ability to share your feelings with me."// Bobby pondered his next words, as he planned on getting through to Remy for once and for all.
//"Remember when Warren attacked you when he was Death? Someone else would have turned him away, even I didn't want him near you and what did you do? You told me not to shut him out. You're so damn compassionate, Remy. You CARE when no one else does! Do you know how special that makes you?"//
Remy actually started to blush. It had been a long time since someone had summed up his 'better' qualities. Only Jean-Luc and tante had ever taken the time to talk to him like this.
Bobby's eyes found Magnus' and the two men exchanged a smile.
//"I'm not through yet, Remy. Listen to me."// Once Bobby was certain that he'd recaptured his lover's attention he spoke in a firm tone. //"You GIVE and don't ask for anything in return. Sometimes, you tend to give too much. You need to accept things in return, love."//
Remy swallowed hard. "Cher, I?"
//"No, I'm talking now, just listen!"// Bobby chided his lover. //"The first time we made love I was taken aback by your trust in me. You've been hurt badly and yet you trusted me to treat you right."//
Magnus nodded his head in approval. Judging by the expression on Remy's face his son was finally beginning to understand.
//"I love everything about you, Remy. The way you smile at me, that accent of yours that makes my knees go weak?"// Bobby stopped briefly as Remy chuckled. //"I love those unique eyes. At first I had a hard time reading them, but now?"//
Remy's blush deepened, as he realized that Magnus was listening as well. After all, Bobby was baring his soul here and talking about their love life! But he started to understand what Magnus had been trying to tell him. Bobby loved him for who he was and his lover would gladly share any pain or shame he might feel for years spent on the streets. How could he have been that blind?
Bobby felt pleased that his lover didn't try to interrupt and said, //"The inscription in the ring says, forever my angel and I mean it. I want to be with you for the rest of my life."// Leaning in closer he brushed Remy's lips. //"I even love those freckles on your nose!"// Bobby chuckled, seeing his lover's surprised expression.
"Freckles?" Remy exclaimed. "I don' have any freckles!"
"Yes, you do!" Magnus cut him short, seizing this opportunity. He rose from the chair and smiled kindly at the two men. "Remy, come with me?"
Bobby allowed it, knowing Magnus had Remy's best interest in mind. The two men walked over to the mirror at the wall and puzzled, he observed closely.
"We've done this before, son." Magnus folded an arm around Remy's shoulders and noticed that the expression in his son's eyes had changed. "We're going to try this again. Tell me, what do you see?"
Remy composed himself. The intensity of Bobby's admission had left him shaken. For the first time ever, he realized WHY he was worthy of being loved. "I'm Remy LeBeau," he said steadfast. "It's de only name dat fits me. I can' imagine goin' by de name of?Remy Lensherr or Remy Summers? or Grey. Jean-Luc raised me."
Magnus growled approvingly. "Continue." He nodded towards Bobby who had joined them and who was now resting his chest against Remy's back.
"I don' know what else t' say," Remy admitted shyly. "But I want t' make dis work. I want Bobby? an' I want y' at my side?" Remy looked at Magnus. "I want an awful lot, non?"
"No, you don't and you're not finished yet, go on," Magnus said proudly. Remy's choice of words pleased him. I want? that was good.
"I'll try an' let y' in, cher," he said, addressing Bobby. "I know y' won' turn 'way. Y' never did," he suddenly realized. "An' I want t' be dere for Michael."
Magnus had heard about their guest and instinctively understood Remy's need to help the child. His son had come full circle. "Excellent," he complimented Remy as he squeezed his son's shoulder. "I'll leave the two of you alone now." It was obvious that Bobby and Remy needed some privacy at this point.
"Merci," Remy whispered tenderly as Magnus left the room. He'd been thanking people a lot lately, but they'd given him so much! And Bobby? Bobby had given him the greatest gift of all, unconditional love. "I finally understand, cher."
Bobby's smile changed in to a contented smirk and slowly, his tongue licked the back of his lover's neck. "I don't know why, but? I want to make love to you."
Remy turned around and now faced his lover. "Je sais," he admitted, feeling the same way, "but?" He pulled his lover towards the door and stepped outside. It was almost like he could taste spring in the air. "Hold on, cher."
Bobby read his lover's intentions in his mind. "You wanna do what?" Remy's body felt warm and suddenly he realized that his lover had created a sphere, locking out the cold of the evening sky.
"I want t' make love t' y' up dere," Remy announced mischievously and raised his eyes towards the stars and moon. Using that strange combination of telekinesis and magnetism that only he could control, he took them in to the sky, slowly gaining in altitude.
Bobby gasped, seeing the earth grow smaller beneath him. "Remy? Are you sure about this? I don't want you to lose control over your powers when you climax!"
Remy giggled.
"What?" Bobby whispered. "Are you giggling?" It was the most beautiful sound he'd ever heard, coming from his lover.
"I feel relieved, cher. Can' help it," Remy explained. //And who said dat =I= was goin' t' climax? I plan on makin' y' squirm an' beg, cher.//
Bobby moaned, hearing that promise. //Remy,// he sighed in to his lover's mind. //I love you?//
Remy smiled knowingly. //I promise, cher. Y' won' ever forget dis evenin'!//
Magnus walked up to Scott and Jean, who were sitting in the living room. Without speaking a single word he sat down as well, staring in to the fireplace. Sometimes, the red in Remy's eyes reminded him of flames. Jean handed him a cup of tea and he accepted.
"I? felt what you did for Remy," Jean started slowly. "You gave him a precious gift."
Magnus shrugged his shoulders. "I was only being sincere."
Scott shifted on the couch, clasping Jean's hands in his. "I hope you're going to stay. You've become very important to Remy." They'd had fought in the past, but maybe?
"I doubt it will work out," Magnus admitted. "Maybe we can get along for the time being, because of Remy?"
"I'm sure the professor and you could find a way to work together to realize your dream. Charles wants the same thing as you do, but," Jean paused, "your methods differ. What if you can meet each other half way?"
Magnus snorted. "Impossible."
"For Remy's sake please try," Scott said in a soft tone.
"Remy?" Bobby looked to his right and smiled as his lover lazily stretched his body. At times like these Remy definitely resembled a cat. They'd just touched down again and Bobby had to admit it had been the best evening of his entire life.
Being afloat had made it special, yes, but Remy hadn't held back this time. Had shared every emotion, every thought with him and finally, his lover had invited him in to his past. It had been an exhausting experience, reliving Remy's terror, but at last everything had fallen in to place. There were no more secrets between them and it felt good.
"Oui, cher?" Remy's eyes sparkled. Bobby's surrender to his ministrations had been complete and overwhelming, but what had happened later had changed his life forever. Bobby had seen the things he felt so terribly ashamed of and hadn't turned away. Total acceptance?
"That was? awesome," Bobby said eventually, lacking the right words to describe this mind shattering experience.
"Merci, cher," Remy quipped, "Y' made dis possible, y'r love did." Finally, he knew what he wanted engraved in Bobby's ring and slowly he slid it from his lover's finger. "Y'll get it back tomorrow."
Bobby didn't object, sensing his lover's intentions. "Nothing embarrassing I hope!"
"Non, jus' a testimony to de love I feel for y'." Remy slung an arm around his lover's shoulders. "After all dese years? I finally feel? free."
"Free of the ghosts," Bobby whispered, understanding his lover only too well. "And I'll make sure they'll never return."
"Do y' t'ink Magnus is goin' t' stay?" Remy suddenly asked, abruptly changing their topic. Now that all barriers were gone he wanted to share everything with his lover.
Bobby took a moment to consider the question. "Yes, I do."
Michael was running through the med lab. Hank had asked, no pleaded with the boy to remain seated on his chair, but the energy needed a way out. In the end, Hank had given up on admonishing Michael and studied the test results instead.
"I'm afraid there is little I can do?" he whispered. "The bone structure of your hands reveals that the claws will re-grow. Even if I used a laser to reduce them to one inch they would grow back within? a month, I guess."
"That's okay," Michael said and smiled. "I'll learn to live with them." He moved towards the desk and studied McCoy. "Can I? touch you?" Suddenly, he felt hesitant.
"Of course," Hank replied and watched amused as the boy explored his fur with the palm of his hand. Then, claws moved carefully over his skin.
"You feel soft," Michael concluded. "Have you always been like this?"
"No," Hank started to say, but grew quiet as the professor and Logan entered the med lab.
"I brought Chuck along." Logan studied the child. "Don't tickle Hank," he warned, with a hint of mischief in his own eyes.
"You're ticklish?" Michael quipped delighted, smiling at Hank. He ignored the man in the floating chair.
"Don't you dare find out, young man!" Hank warned him, but enjoyed the carefree banter. He liked the boy's company, although Michael had the tendency to drive him crazy. Looking at Xavier, Hank stepped back. The professor probably wanted to be alone with the boy. "Logan?" Hank gestured the other man to follow him out of the med lab.
Logan grunted, unwilling to leave the kid behind, but he also realized that Xavier needed some basic information on this young mutant. It would also take the professor time to gain Michael's trust. As he fell in to step beside McCoy, Logan asked, "Drivin' ya nuts already?"
"Yes, my dear friend," Hank admitted. "This one is even worse than our Cajun friend. Speaking of which, have you seen Remy and Bobby?"
"They're together all the time," Logan said, knowing that seeing one meant the other had to be close as well. "There are times I hardly recognize Gumbo."
Hank smiled affectionately. "I completely agree." Suddenly, he noticed Warren's absence and couldn't help making a remark. "And where is YOUR lover? I must admit defeat. I never expected?"
Logan shrugged his shoulders, but his eyes glowed. "Wings surprised me too." After sniffing the air he added, "Nope, don't know where Warren is?"
Hank caught the worried tone. "Maybe he went for a walk?"
"He'd tell me first," Logan replied thoughtfully, then shrugged it off. "I'm sure he'll turn up soon."
But his tone hadn't changed and Hank raised an eyebrow. Why was Logan concerned? Angel had only been gone for? two hours, he realized as he checked the time. "I'm certain he's fine," Hank whispered in an effort to comfort his friend.
"I'm a telepath," Charles started, "do you know what that means?"
Michael nodded his head enthusiastically. "You can read thoughts? I've seen movies about telepaths?"
Charles didn't repress his chuckle. "Will you allow me to read yours?" Michael's black eyes revealed nothing and had Charles guessing.
"Sure, why not?" Michael didn't see any danger in allowing it. "Will I feel you in my thoughts?" This would be a fun ride!
"Yes," Charles admitted, wondering about the trust the boy was showing him. "I'll start now," he announced and gently took hold of Michael's left hand to strengthen the contact. His other hand went to his brow.
The first thing he encountered was an image of Remy, levitating a teddy bear to gain the boy's attention. //You like Remy a lot, don't you?// he sent into Michael's mind, as tenderly as possible as he didn't want to scare the boy.
"It's his eyes? and something else? don't know," Michael whispered in awe as Charles' comment floated in to his mind. "Wow, this is? groovy!"
Charles' genuine smile brightened. //Would you like to stay here?// he asked as he manoeuvred through Michael's memories. Charles encountered several mental blocks, which locked away memories too painful for the boy to deal with. Like his parents' deaths, Charles suspected. Apart from that, the boy's mind was open and warm.
"Oh yes!" Michael exclaimed. "I like Remy and Bobby and? this blue teddy bear? what's his name? Hank?"
Charles shook his head. It would take time to get used to having someone this young in the mansion. But he was sure they'd manage. Suddenly a soft, pain filled moan left Michael's lips and alert, Charles studied his newest pupil.
"Must be the ice cream? Warren warned me, but I didn't listen?" Michael whispered. "I never had ice cream before and then there was this chocolate sauce? so sweet!" Michael grinned wickedly before clutching his stomach with his hands. "I promise to listen to Warren the next time."
Charles stroked the grey locks and smiled affectionately. "Welcome to the mansion, Michael. It will be your home from this moment on."

 

Chapter Ten

"Hello there," Bobby quipped amused. Hank had told him about Michael's upset stomach. "Serves you right, young man! Eating all that ice cream and leaving none for me!"
Briefly, Michael wasn't sure whether Bobby was serious or not. He didn't know these people that well yet.
As Michael wanted to apologize for devouring the ice cream, Bobby smiled and stopped him. "I was only joking, Mickey."
"Mickey?" Michael's eyes grew big. No one had called him that before!
Bobby's grin remained. "Suits you a lot better!" Slowly, he curled his fingers around the boy's and led him up the staircase to his new room. "Too bad Jubilee and Storm aren't here right now." The two ladies had used this opportunity to do some shopping and wouldn't be back for days. "I hope you'll like the room."
"I'm sure I will!" Curiously, Michael peeked inside as Bobby opened the door. "I can't believe it. This is my room?" In disbelief, he stared at the bed, TV, computer, desk and dresser that made up his room. "I even have my own bathroom?"
Bobby nodded his head. "I don't want you running in on anyone naked? especially not on your blue fur ball."
Michael chuckled. He really liked Hank a lot. Well, actually he liked them all, even the bald man in the floating chair. As he walked in to the room, his eyes drifted off to the teddy bear sitting on his bed. "That's for me too?"
"Yes," Bobby confirmed as they sat down. He lifted the teddy bear from the bed and handed it to Michael. "My mother bought it for me when I was four. I think you'll like him. I called him Eddie."
"Eddie? That's no name for a bear!" Michael exclaimed as he pressed the bear to his chest. "But he must be special to you? I can't accept this."
But Bobby definitely noticed the pleading expression in Michael's black eyes. "Ed told me he wanted a new owner, someone young who will hug and take care of him."
Michael burst out laughing. "You talk like a kid, not like a grown up."
Bobby thought that one over. "Did you just insult me or not?" he quipped. Michael didn't reply, just continued to hug the bear.
"Where's Remy?" Michael asked concerned. "I want to talk to him."
"Taking a shower, changing his clothes and hopefully coming up here later with some hot chocolate," Bobby replied and noticed the sudden twitch near Michael's mouth.
"Don't say that word." He'd enough chocolate sauce for at least? one day, he thought and grinned. "I was wondering," he started hesitantly, uncertain if he was allowed to ask something that personal, but plunged ahead anyway. "Are you and Remy? close like my parents were?" He'd seen men kissing while he'd walked the streets. Life didn't have that many secrets from the young street kid.
Bobby raised an eyebrow. " That obvious?" He'd never considered that Michael would want to know about their relationship, thinking the boy much too young for this particular issue.
Michael flashed a stunning grin. "I think so. You're always touching him and Remy never moves far away from you?"
Bobby berated himself. He wasn't going to influence the boy. Michael had to form his own opinion about sexuality and the way he would handle it later. "I love Remy, yes," he said simply.
"You think you can love me too? Just a little?" Michael hunched on the bed, peeking at Bobby's eyes. It was wrong to get attached to them. These people would eventually throw him back out on the streets, but his heart urged him to remain hopeful.
"I already do," Bobby reassured him. "And so does Remy."
Michael crawled underneath the covers and turned on to his right side, still hugging the bear. "I'm really tired?" A big yawn emphasized his statement.
"Then get some sleep." Bobby got to his feet and tucked him in. "We'll check on you later." Michael had fallen asleep with a huge grin on his face and Bobby's smirk mirrored the expression. Somehow, the boy belonged here at the mansion.
After taking a quick shower, Remy walked in to the kitchen. Logan was sitting at the table, staring in to a mug of cold coffee. "How long have y' been sittin' here, Logan?" Remy asked with sudden concern. Something didn't feel right. His empathic powers kicked in, telling him Logan needed someone to talk to.
Remy poured two mugs of steaming coffee and straddled a chair next to Logan. "Y' drink dat," he announced and pushed a mug with hot coffee in front of his friend. "Y're broodin'. If I remember correctly, I'm de one who uses t' do dat, not y'."
Logan snorted. "I'm bad company at the moment, Gumbo."
"I don' mind." Remy cocked his head. He managed to stay away from Logan's thoughts, but couldn't shut out the concern and doubt washing through Logan. "Why are y' sittin' here?" he asked again.
"Can't find Wings." Logan clasped his fingers around the hot mug.
"Feelin' lonely wit'out him?" Remy ventured? he desperately wanted to help.
Logan finally raised his head and stared in to Remy's eyes. "It ain't like him to walk off like that. Usually, he leaves a note, somethin'!"
"Y're worried somet'in' bad happened?" Remy inquired concerned.
"I've got this feelin'," Logan growled. "And it feels like Wings is in trouble!"
"Why don' ya track him down?"
"His scent's gone?" Logan sipped from his coffee and hissed, as the steaming liquid descended down his throat. "Think he's fed up with me?"
"Non," Remy said in a firm tone. "I sensed?"
"What did ya sense?" Logan asked, interrupting his friend.
"Sincere love," Remy explained. "Want me t' try and find him?"
"Hell, if I can't find him, how are ya gonna do that?" Logan questioned. "No, he'll be back, when he wants to come back."
"Y're drawin' wrong conclusions," Remy warned him. "I used t' think like dat. Y' need t' have fait' in Ange." Remy slowly drowned his coffee and then got to his feet. "I'll find him for y'."
Logan sighed. "Ya can't force him to come back."
"I doubt I'll have t' force Ange?" Remy smiled. "Maybe he jus' lost track of time."
"Not Warren." Logan's eyes broke and briefly revealed his every doubt. "He changed his mind. I should have known that would happen."
Remy squeezed Logan's shoulder. "Y're not a quitter, mon ami. We'll find Ange."
Logan looked up, studying those alien eyes and realized that Remy was serious.
"Tell Bobby I'll be runnin' late?" Remy requested as he grabbed a parka. It was still cold outside, even though the snow had vanished. Quickly, he closed the door behind him and realized the sun was about to set. "Merde, Ange where are y'?"
"Running late?" Bobby asked, wondering what was so important that Remy had stepped outside at this hour. Usually Remy did his best to avoid being outside in the cold when it was about to grow dark.
"He's gone lookin' for Wings," Logan informed him, feeling uncomfortable. He'd found Bobby in the corridor. "How's Michael?"
"Just fine. I think he'll keep us busy and will drive Hank crazy." Bobby reached out to deepen the link between him and his lover. //Remy?//
//Oui, cher?//
//What's this about Warren?//
//Don' know yet,// Remy replied. //I'm goin' t' try an' scan de premises for his presence.//
//Well, I hope you'll find him!// Bobby thought determined, as Logan's eyes revealed worry.
//I will,// Remy promised solemnly. After all, they'd also taken the time to find him after Sinister had taken Jean. Looking out over his surroundings he concentrated on finding Warren's mind. Ever since discovering his new powers he'd realized that everyone's mind felt different, had something peculiar about it. And now he focused on Warren's, which always felt a little chaotic.
Being honest with himself, Remy had to admit that he hated Apocalypse for what he had done to Warren. The immortal mutant had taken advantage of the X-man when he'd been at his most vulnerable, when he'd lost his wings.
Turning around, Remy experienced a gentle pull, as he picked up a mental echo of Warren's thoughts. Ange had been here all right! Remy started down the path and quickly realized it led to the church Warren and he had once visited. //But Ange ain' dere,// he realized, as there was no substance behind these thoughts, which lured him closer. Warren had thought about visiting the angel statues hours ago.
"So where are y' now?" Remy whispered as cold wind tugged at his clothes. It wouldn't be long before snow would cover the earth once again and he planned on being back at the mansion when it started to snow.
"But I can' return wit'out Ange," he mumbled and took a deep breath. The sun had set and the moon was his only source of light. It wasn't enough though. Pulling a card from his pocket he charged it, using it as a torch.
The church was cold and deserted, yet he descended down the stairs to have a look at the statues in the cellar. Warren's thoughts were strongest here. "Y've been here," Remy whispered and nodded his head.
A sound, coming from behind him, caught his attention and he whirled around. "Merde!" he cursed. Part of the wall emanated a faint glow. He better contact Bobby before things turned worse.
//Cher?// he sent, as one finger tentatively touched the wall. The bricks didn't feel solid at all, more like? breathing, alive. "Should never have watched Hellraiser," he mumbled slightly disturbed.
As Bobby didn't answer him, Remy tried again. //Bobby? Can y' hear me?//
//Remy? something? is? wrong?// came the very faint answer.
Remy realized he had to get out of the church. He didn't know what he was dealing with and it was affecting his ability to broadcast his thoughts. //I'm comin' home,// he sent, hoping Bobby had heard him.
But his finger was glued to the wall and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't free himself. "Don' panic!" he admonished himself. The bricks turned to a silver like liquid, which curled itself around his finger, sliding down the palm of his hand, his arm and?
Remy did his best to pull free, even unleashed his powers on the substance, but that action backfired. The glow increased and now a tentacle of bright light snaked around his waist, pulling him closer, pulling him in to, no through the wall. A strangled scream left his lips as his body melted in to the wall.
A moment later Remy LeBeau was gone and the cellar empty. Only the statue of the black angel remained, staring at the wall with a blank expression in his red eyes.
"Bobby!" Hank exclaimed concerned as Logan carried his friend inside. "What happened?" Hank asked and pointed Logan to an exam table. He'd been studying Michael's genetic make up and never expected an emergency.
"Dunno know," Logan admitted. "I was talkin' to him and suddenly he went down. Last thin' he whispered was Gumbo's name."
Hank checked Bobby's vital signs and sighed relieved. "A bit slow, but nothing to worry about."
"Drake fainted," Logan said, sharing his conclusion with McCoy. "Question is, why."
"Where is Remy?" Hank attached several electrodes to Bobby's skin and ran a scan. Why had his friend lost consciousness? "Neural patters are irregular," Hank muttered worried. "I need you to find Remy for me. This might have something to do with Remy's telepathic powers."
Reluctantly, Logan stepped away from the exam table. "I just don't get it. First Wings disappears and then Drake collapses."
"Warren's still not back?" Hank inquired absentmindedly as he started an IV, feeding Bobby some meds to force him to wake up.
"Nope, and I can't track him down. Last time I talked to Remy, he was goin' to give it a try of his own."
"You've got to find Remy," Hank stated resolved. "Bobby is in good hands here. Now get going!"
Logan growled, suddenly understanding something was terribly wrong. "Cyke needs to know."
"I'll inform him and the professor," Hank assured him. "You just concentrate on finding Warren and Remy!"
Logan's claws suddenly appeared and they caught the reflection of the light, glistering dangerously. After nodding his head, Logan ran out of the med lab. This time he wouldn't give up and find them!
"This sounds bad," Scott commented after listening to Hank's rushed, but coherent explanation. "I wish you'd told Logan to wait for us though. Now we've got to find him first!"
The professor nodded his head and looked at Jean. "Can you pick up Logan's thoughts?"
"Yes, sir," she confirmed and tried to control her rising fear. She'd never forgive herself if something had happened to her son. Damn! She had promised herself to look out for him and now this happened! "Sir?" she started hesitantly, afraid to allow in this truth. "I no longer sense Remy's presence."
Charles shivered momentarily as Magnus entered his study. His old friend wouldn't take this news well. "It's true." Charles caught Magnus' eyes. "I can't feel Remy's presence either. He seems gone."
Magnus froze hearing that admission. "Can't be," he whispered and reached out himself, probing the wrinkles in the magnetic layer that would reveal his son's whereabouts. He failed. Stunned, he stared in to Charles' eyes. "Where's Remy?"
"I wish we knew," Scott muttered in a guilty tone. Remy and Warren should have been safe this close to the mansion! "I assume you want to accompany us?"
"Oh yes!" Magnus confirmed. "What are we waiting for?"
Jean shared his impatience. "Logan is at the church. He used Remy's scent to track him down, but? the church is empty. Remy's trail ends there."
"He can't vanish like that!" Scott commented as he moved towards the doorway. "We'll find him!"
Remy steadied his labored breathing. Phasing through the wall had been a suffocating experience. Quickly, he looked around, his thief's skills reminding him to be cautious. As he studied his new surroundings, he realized he'd never been here before.
Surprised, he noted the absence of fear in his mind. In an odd way he was even looking forward to unravelling this mystery. It had been a while since he'd acted on his own. He only wished the link had remained stable, as he missed Bobby's reassuring presence.
"Got m'self in t' trouble 'gain," he whispered, but couldn't deny the thrill he felt at discovering uncharted territory. Mais oui, dis t'ief accepts de challenge," he whispered and started walking.

 

Chapter Eleven

"This is where Remy's scent dies." Turning around, Logan stared at the black angel statue and couldn't repress a grin. What had gone through Remy's mind seeing this angel, clad in battle armor? The red eyes had taken him aback and again he'd wondered why Warren and Remy had come here. An angel with red eyes?
A smart-ass comment almost left his lips, but he quickly realized that his teammates wouldn't like hearing it. Magneto had been pacing the cellar since they'd arrived and Scott stayed close to Jean to reassure her that everything would be fine eventually. Tears lurked in her eyes and Logan wished he could take away her pain. He understood her only too well. First, she'd discovered that Remy was her son and now it seemed like she had lost him again. Hell, they all cared about Remy!
And where was Warren? Until now, he'd managed not to think about his lover. Ashamed, he had to admit that deep down in his heart he'd really believed that Warren had left him. It had been Remy who had made him doubt and question his conclusion. Warren had sounded so damn sincere when the man had followed him to his room, proclaiming he'd fallen in love with him. Their nights had been filled with lust and passion and there had never been any sign that Warren had been lying about his attraction and dedication to their relationship. He would have smelled the lies.
Uncharacteristically, it was Scott who placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder and Logan almost instinctively pulled away. "What do ya want?"
"Nothing," Scott replied in a soft tone, "Except for finding Remy and Warren and taking them back with us."
Logan growled at hearing his lover's names. "Why do ya care 'bout Wings?" The moment the question left his lips, he realized how utterly stupid it sounded. It was his fear talking, fear of losing yet another lover.
Knowingly, Scott ignored the question. "Are you sure the scent ends here? They can't have vanished in to thin air!"
"Scott?" Jean walked up to him, concern evident on her face. "Hank just contacted me. It seems that Bobby is slipping in to a coma. The professor is trying to pinpoint Remy and Warren's location using Cerebro and Hank asked me to?"
"Go on. I'll find them," Scott promised. "You are needed at the mansion. Bobby needs you."
Jean's eyes pleaded with him, emotions more clear than when sent over the link. "I know, darling," Scott said reassuringly. "I'll find them both."
Jean nodded her head and reluctantly left the church. Scott was right. Yes, Bobby needed her. The link might have broken too suddenly, damaging Bobby's mind in the process. She had to repair the damage and bring him back to consciousness.
Back in the church Magnus' fingers moved exploratory over the wall that Logan had pointed out to them. It felt solid underneath his fingertips and there was nothing peculiar to it. "Where did they go?" he whispered privately.
"This is a dead end," Scott stated disappointed. "There has to be some clue to what happened here!" Turning to Logan he asked, "You picked up Remy's, as well as Warren's scent?"
"Remy's most recent. Warren's scent is older, a few hours I guess," Logan said impatiently. There weren't getting anywhere like this. "Suggest we tear it down to see what's behind it."
"Nothing but another empty room," Magnus explained. "I can't pick up on anything suspicious."
"Damn!" Logan's fist went flying in to that wall, knocking a few bricks down to the ground.
Magnus' smiled a melancholy laugh. "That won't get us anywhere," he berated the X-Men.
Logan was about to lash out at Magnus, but then recognized the sad expression in the man's eyes. "How can ya stand here an'?"
"We'll have to gather information first. Set up some equipment, run tests, but I suspect that this is some kind of portal," Magnus explained. "It may not react to us now, but given time?"
Scott nodded his head once. "I was thinking the same thing. But what activates it?"
"Maybe it was programmed to react only to Remy and Warren?" Magnus suggested. "That would make sense. After it swallowed them both, it closed down."
"Then we'll have to find a way to activate it again!" Scott concluded. "It may take us a while, but we'll find a way!" he promised both men. There was too much at stake here!
Jean sat down in a chair and clasped Bobby's hand in hers. "Bobby?" she said softly, as she was hesitant to reach out in to his mind. If he was suffering from telepathic trauma she had to stay clear of his thoughts for now.
"He won't respond," Hank said dismayed. "I was certain that the medication would work and force him to regain consciousness, but?"
"It probably was the link," Jean said and rubbed the knuckles of Bobby's right hand. "It must have broken unexpectedly, tearing his mind apart from Remy's. Experiencing something like that is horrific," she explained.
"What should I do next?" Hank inquired, as he covered Bobby's body with a warm blanket. He'd hooked his friend up to two IV's to feed him liquids and his medication. This far it hadn't paid off yet.
"You need to be patient," Jean advised. "His mind needs to recuperate, to heal. It has to adjust to this new situation."
Hank sat down at Bobby's other side. "I never expected this to happen."
"Neither did we," Jean admitted. "I don't understand. Where did Remy and Warren go?"
"You didn't find a lead?"
"No, Hank," Jean said saddened. "I can't help but think that I failed Remy."
"You didn't," Hank remarked warmly. "And I'm certain Scott will find your son."
Jean raised her head to smile thankfully at her friend when soft footfalls coming from the doorway made her redirect her gaze. It was the boy they had brought home from the shelters. "Your name is Michael, isn't it?"
"Yes, miss," Michael whispered shocked, his eyes drawn to Bobby. "What's wrong with him?" Michael cautiously approached the grown ups. "Is he still alive? Please, let him be alive," he whispered distressed.
Hank walked over to him and gathered the boy in his arms. As he carried Michael to the exam bed, he explained the situation to the young boy. "Bobby's asleep and will hopefully wake up soon." Sitting down, Hank pulled the boy on to his lap. "You can touch him," he reassured Michael.
"Can he hear us?" Michael asked and his glance shifted to the lovely lady. "You're beautiful," he whispered. It was a slip of the tongue, but her eyes were swimming and he wanted to make her smile. He succeeded brilliantly.
"My name is Jean," she said and shook his hand. "I heard a lot about you, young man." She remembered his question and replied, "I hope he can hear us."
"Do you think he might want his teddy bear to keep him company?" Michael asked hesitantly.
"Sure," Jean said and smiled. "Why don't you go and get it?" Michael jumped to his feet and ran out of the med lab. Jean's eyes followed him and then exchanged a look with Hank. "He's a good kid," she said approvingly.
"He tickled me," Hank commented amused
Jean nodded her head. "I think I'll like having him around."
A moment later Michael reappeared, hugging a worn down teddy bear. "Bobby called the bear Eddie," Michael explained and placed the bear on the bed. "I wanted to change the name, but now? " Cautiously, his clawed fingers lifted Bobby's right hand and pushed the teddy bear underneath its palm. "Can I stay a little longer?"
Jean smiled. "Of course you can," and gestured the boy to crawl on to her lap. After wrapping both arms tightly around his frame, she rested her head on his small shoulder. "You already feel at home here?"
"Yes, I do," Michael replied softly, unwilling to disturb Bobby's sleep. "Bobby called me Mickey, that's the first time ever someone did that."
"Do you like that name?" Hank inquired, even more concerned now that Jean was unable to touch Bobby's mind. They had to get Remy in here!
"Yes, I do," Michael whispered and patted Bobby's hand. "I just hope he'll quickly wake up."
"So do we," Jean assured the boy. "So do we."
Remy had walked for a few minutes when a surge of pain and despair suddenly hit him. Doubling over, he extended a hand and leaned heavily against the wall. The pain originated from outside his mind and tasted very familiar. His eyelids fluttered, as he tried to regain control over his senses, pushing back the pain so he could think straight. He needed his wits in here!
His gaze came to rest on the metallic walls. Why did he have to be surrounded by a display of alien technology? Lights flickered all around him and a soft hissing sound almost gave this place the illusion of being alive. This almost felt like being back in Sinister's lab, but Bobby had told him his nemesis no longer existed, so where the hell was he?
What if this was some perverted version of hell he had stumbled in to by falling through that wall? Non, he no longer believed in heaven and hell. This was a mutant's creation!
Urged on by the sensation of shattering pain, he continued to walk towards it. The corridors were empty and didn't give him any clues to his whereabouts. It looked like some sort of space ship as far as he could tell. But why was he here and more importantly, how did he get out again? But first he had to find the origin of this horrific pain and stop the hurt.
"Hold on," he whispered to the person in pain, scared to send out his thoughts. He had to lay low and check out this place first. As long as he remained unnoticed, undetected, he had the element of surprise, so valuable to a thief at times. It had saved his butt many times.
Studying the pain pattern he realized he was picking up a familiar theme. This person's thoughts circled around? Death. "Ange, is dat y?" The mumbled words died before they reached the wall. It had to be Warren! "Mais oui, Wolvie," he muttered privately, "told y' I would find him!"
Cautiously, he sent out a mental echo, trying to get a fix on Warren's position. "Y're close, mon ami," he realized and sneaked through the corridors. Everything Jean-Luc and the Guild had ever taught him returned quickly, once more becoming second nature to him. He'd always been a talented thief and he told himself that Warren was his target. After he'd found his friend, he'd get them out of here.
"Done dat 'fore," he whispered, but then trembled fiercely, as Warren's pain and terror grew worse. It was a mix of physical and emotional horror, tied in to his? wings? Remy cocked his head, trying to get a better hold on Warren's thoughts. The pain started in his wings and paralysed his mind and body.
Instinctively, Remy fully activated his powers. Instead of running through the corridors he was now floating towards his destination. Nausea hit him the moment he caught sight of Warren, his empathic powers drawing in all the pain and fear.
"Ange, mon Dieu!" he whimpered in received pain and his concentration broke. His feet suddenly hit the floor and he started running towards the opposite wall. "Non!" Remy exclaimed, infuriated at the sight. Warren's wings, spread wide, pinned Angel to the wall. Large, metal stakes had been driven in to the feathers and had shattered the bone, leaving him crucified.
Warren's face was covered in black and blue bruises. Angel had obviously fought his kidnapper. Small rivulets of blood dripped from his lips. Reaching out with his thoughts, his magnetic powers kicked in as well and the stakes flew through the air, releasing their prisoner unexpectedly.
"Ange!" Remy called out as the weakened form slid down the wall. Remy caught the tumbling body with his telekinetic powers. Slowly, Warren's battered body floated towards him and finally he was able to fold his arms around his friend.
"Mon Dieu," Remy whispered shocked and knelt on the floor. Cradling Warren's head in his hands he tried to establish telepathic contact. //"Ange, can y' hear me? Warren?"//
Warren shivered violently, but his eyes remained firmly closed. Remy's hands tenderly caressed the shattered feathers, scared to think of all possible consequences. What if those wings had to be amputated a second time? Warren couldn't possible deal with another traumatic amputation.
//Ange?// he sent, no longer caring if someone picked up on his presence. //Ange, please say somet'in'!// he pleaded.
Warren trashed in his arms and Remy pulled him in to his lap, creating a protective shield around them. He couldn't run the risk of being attacked right now, had to put up some defenses. Then, he projected all the reassurance he could muster and sent it in to Warren's mind. //Ange, it's Remy, please?//
Slowly, Warren's dazed eyes opened. He'd heard Remy's voice, but that was only another trick. Remy couldn't be here! Not in his own private hell!
"Ange, I'm here. I really am," Remy whispered after receiving Warren's messed up thoughts. Warren was terrified, but why?
"You? got? to? get ? out? of? here?" Warren whispered, using up his last strength. "He? will? kill? you!"
"Who will?" Remy asked concerned. Who had abducted Warren and why had this person tortured his friend? Pain sliced through him, as Warren realized what had happened to his wings.
"Kill? me?" Warren mumbled pleadingly. He couldn't go through the pain a second time. His wings had been shattered and would never heal again. "I? can't?. deal with? the pain," he explained and his head slid to own side. He lacked the strength to look at Remy.
"Non! Never!" Remy stated resolved. While rocking Warren gently, Remy realized what he had to do for Angel to survive this ordeal. "Y' trust me, don' y', Ange?"
The pleading tone got Warren's attention. "I do," he whispered in return. "But you've got? to run? he'll be? back."
"Hush now," Remy said in a soft tone and caressed Warren's face, wiping away the dried blood. "Everyt'in' else can wait. I need t' help y' first." Briefly, he trembled himself. Taking away Bobby's scar had only been a small manipulation of his lover's molecular structure and couldn't compare to what he planned on doing now. "Jus' try t' rest," he whispered tenderly and moved his hands over Warren's wings.
Pure energy flowed in to his fingertips, as he located the injuries. "Trust me, cher," he mumbled absentmindedly. He had to find a way to take away Angel's worst pain. In the back of his head he heard Magnus, softly encouraging him to do this.
Warren cried out as the alien energy found a way in to his body, his bones and feathers. "What are?you?" His voice trailed off, suddenly realizing that the nature of the pain was changing. Warmth, comforting and soothing, was now settling in to his cells and he stopped fighting.
"I'm tryin' t' heal y'r injuries, but?" Remy started, fully concentrating on this manipulation. "I ain' sure dat I can take 'way all de pain right now," Remy added, relieved that the holes in Warren's wings were closing. "Jus' a little longer," he prayed softly. He had to save those magnificent wings. Warren relaxed in his embrace and Remy felt honored by such trust. "I'll make sure y' won' lose dem a second time," he promised passionately.
Warren felt stronger now. The excruciating pain had lessened, making him wonder what Remy was doing to help him heal. As he finally opened his eyes, Warren immediately noticed Remy's sweat covered brow. Helping him had taken a large toll on the Cajun.
"I can move my wings?" Warren stuttered amazed. His wings still ached with shallow pain, but it was bearable. "Thank you, Remy," he whispered truly thankful. How could he ever have misjudged the Cajun so badly? Remy's mind consisted only of compassion and affection. "You saved my sanity? and gave me a reason to go on living."
"Dis is all I can do for now," Remy said in a soft tone. Exhausted, he stared in to Warren's eyes, which were clear again. The dazed insanity had left. Maybe, he'd finally made up for one of his too many mistakes in the past. "We've got t' get outa here."
Warren nodded his head and only now noticed the protective shield buzzing with energy. Maybe they had a chance after all? but they had to leave right now, couldn't waste a single moment.. "We've got to leave? before he comes back, yes." His tone broke and his eyes fluttered. He didn't want to remember those uncaring, cruel eyes, gazing down on him with disdain..
"Who did dis t' y'?" Remy asked in an angry tone. Warren had been hurt tremendously and his mind screamed for revenge? at the very least he planned on making sure that this never happened again! Warren had suffered too much during these last months!
Warren's mouth grew dry and nervously, he licked his lips before speaking. "Apocalypse."

 

Chapter Twelth

Apocalypse absentmindedly nodded his head, extremely pleased with Gambit's behavior thus far. The young mutant had already displayed a talent for telekinesis, telepathy, magnetism and an ability to charge objects with kinetic energy.
However, what impressed him most was Gambit's ability to manipulate a complex molecular structure. Magneto also possessed that ability, but only to a certain degree. This young man was truly amazing!
Gambit and Angel slowly got to their feet and Apocalypse realized he'd found Remy LeBeau's weakness. The young mutant cared too much for his 'friend'. This particularly discovery delighted him, as he had hoped to see this reaction in Gambit. That hunch had been one of the many reasons why he'd chosen to use Warren as bait.
He'd abducted Warren for several reasons. One of them was that he wanted to punish the mutant for deserting him. Warren had been the best Death he'd created this far, but then Gambit had crossed his plans!
Yes, Apocalypse knew of Sinister's attempts to breed a mutant powerful enough to terminate his life. In an alternate dimension the scientist had almost succeeded in doing just that. Turning his head he studied Nate Grey, caught in a powerful whirlpool of energy, which kept him prisoner. Nate's eyes glared angrily at him. "Patience, my young friend. Soon, you will be free? briefly."
Nate didn't reply. Apocalypse had been taunting him for weeks and he cursed himself for letting his guard down. Apocalypse had moved in quickly and had succeeded in capturing him. He'd lost all track of time, locked up in this section of Apocalypse's domain.
Apocalypse lost interest in his prisoner and complimented himself on getting his hands on Warren first. He'd been the perfect bait, as Gambit would try and find his friend. Warren was useless to him now and the next Death would have the pleasure of killing his treacherous predecessor.
Apocalypse felt truly pleased about his trap. Gambit's powers had weakened after healing Angel's worst injuries and the young mutant was now an easy prey. He felt tempted to reveal the rest of his plans to Nate, just to relish the expression on his face. Thus far, Nate had no idea that Remy was his brother? or half-brother, Apocalypse mused. Magneto's genes made quite a difference, he noticed.
"Only the strong will survive," he muttered privately, "and will be rewarded? I need a new Death to lead my Horsemen!"
Remy tightened the hold he had on Warren. His friend was leaning on him heavily, as Warren was still in pain. "Want t' rest?" Remy offered.
"No, we need? to keep moving," Warren muttered exhausted and suddenly realized that his feet weren't touching the floor any longer. Remy was obviously using his powers to quicken their pace. "We don't even? know how to? get out," Warren whispered drained. His wings felt heavy and his jaw hurt. There had been such hate on Apocalypse's face when he'd taken revenge on his former Horsemen. Warren shivered violently at the remembered pain.
"Ange," Remy said softly as he halted in mid air. His instincts had kicked in, warning him that they weren't alone any longer. "We might have t' fight Apocalypse in order t' get outa here."
"I can't fight him! Look at me!" Warren exclaimed in fear. "Remy, he can easily destroy us!"
"I don' plan on givin' up wit'out a fight," Remy stated resolved. "Wolvie is waitin' for y' an' I want t' get back t' Bobby."
"Logan?" Warren asked surprised.
"Wolvie feared dat y' had dumped him, so I decided t' find y'," Remy explained and took a deep breath. Moments ago he'd found a way to tap in to the magnetic sphere that drifted through this space ship. It tasted different though and he hoped he wasn't doing anything wrong, feeding off it in this way. He tried to follow the instructions Magnus had given him in Xavier's study.
He might look exhausted, but in reality the ship itself was replenishing his powers. If necessary, he could put up a fight, but he liked the idea of Apocalypse underestimating him. No need in showing his trump yet!
"Logan is a mystery to me," Warren admitted softly. "I always thought? him to be the strong one? but?"
Remy smiled reassuringly. "We all wear different masks, Ange."
"You're right," Warren whispered. Remy's body tensed and he looked up questioningly. He didn't expect to suddenly hear Remy's voice in his mind.
//We're no longer 'lone, cher.//
Warren reacted instinctively, sending Remy his thoughts, instead of speaking the words. //Is it? him?//
//I'm 'fraid so, cher.//
Warren grinned briefly in spite of their hopeless situation. //I thought you only called Bobby 'cher'?//
Remy's eyes sparkled with mischief, but he refrained from sending his friend an answer. His brain was trying hard to find a solution to their problems. Could they leave this place without fighting Apocalypse? How? Apocalypse was so much stronger. They didn't stand a chance. And then there was Warren, who needed his protection. Their roles were reversed now and this time he had to be the strong one and take care of Warren. //Merde!//
Warren shot him a confused glance. //I can't believe this! You're considering fighting him, aren't you?//
//Need t' get y' outa here, cher. Once y're back at de mansion y' can lead de oders here.//
"But!" Warren exclaimed loudly.
//Don' speak 'loud!// Remy admonished him. //De presence is closin' in on us.//
//I can't face him,// Warren whimpered, //Remy, this is hopeless!//
//We'll survive.// Remy smiled warmly. //Y' trust me, don' y'?//
Warren shivered. //You don't know Apocalypse like I do, Remy,// he sent and tried desperately to suppress the shivers running down his spine. //He's relentless, Remy.//
//I ain' scared,// Remy objected. //I've been scared for too long! Dis time we'll fight back an' win!//
Warren remained silent, wondering why Remy was so damned determined to fight. //You'll only end up hurt,// he warned.
Remy was about to deny that statement, but then the presence grew even stronger. It felt vile and merciless. //Apocalypse is here, cher? let me handle dis.//
In spite of the danger they were about to face, Warren smiled warmly. //For what it's worth, Remy, I feel honored that you came after me.//
Remy heard the admission, but ignored it. They were about to turn around the corner and?
Apocalypse clasped his hands behind his back as they finally came in to sight. Gambit's eyes revealed determination. He barely noticed Warren, who only remained on his feet thanks to Remy's support. How long had he waited for this? Too long!
Casting a look at Nate he noticed the man's distressed expression. The young mutant had proven quite resistant to his manipulations, ignoring him constantly. "The time has almost come," he whispered and earned a scorned look. Laughing, he concentrated on Gambit again. "Welcome," he said in a formal tone. "I've been expecting you."
//Remy, please!// Warren pleaded. The mere sight of Apocalypse made him nauseous and his body convulsed violently.
Remy however, didn't let go and pulled his friend even closer. 'Always study y'r surroundings,' his Guild teachers had taught him. 'An' use dem t' y'r advantage!' Remy planned on doing just that, as he was through with people hurting his loved ones. It ended here. "What do y' want?" Remy asked Apocalypse in a calm tone.
"What? You don't know?" Apocalypse pretended ignorance, while keeping one eye on Nate. "You. I want you, Gambit."
Remy wasn't really surprised to hear it. "Mais oui, y' used Ange t' get t' me," he concluded with obvious disgust in his voice. "Y' hurt him t' draw me close!"
Warren trembled, hearing Remy's tone. His friend had never sounded so? fed up. Almost pissed off, using Logan's terms. This was Remy's fight, he realized. In Apocalypse's eyes he was only a pawn, which had lost its importance now that he had brought Remy here.
"I did," Apocalypse admitted in an almost proud tone. "And it worked!"
"What kinda monster are y'?" Remy muttered infuriated.
"Monster? Hardly," Apocalypse countered. "My only goal is to find the strongest mutants and to show them a way to gain an even greater power. Take you and? Warren for example," Apocalypse continued.
//He's tryin' t' manipulate us,// Remy pointed out to his friend. //Don' listen t' him!//
But Warren couldn't close his mind for Apocalypse's words. The monster had hurt him too badly, had gotten underneath his skin and in to his very soul.
"You're strong, Gambit. One of the strongest mutants I've ever encountered and I offer you a place at my side!"
"Non, never," Remy stated determined.
"Still worried about your so called friend?" Apocalypse said, taking in Warren's shattered form. "I offered him omnipotence. Even gave him wings and he threw it all away!"
Warren flinched and clung even tighter to Remy. "Make it stop," he begged his friend.
"I will," Remy promised. "Let us go, Apocalypse. I ain' interested in y'r proposal."
"Such a pity," Apocalypse sighed and switched to his alternative plan. "In that case I'll have to force you to cooperate, Gambit."
"Force me?" Remy chuckled. "An' how are y' goin' to' do dat?"
"I'll kill Warren if you refuse to serve me," Apocalypse said, stalling time to get closer to Nate.
"Try it," Remy challenged him and empowered the protective shield. He was bluffing, uncertain if his powers matched Apocalypse. "We'll go down fightin'!"
Apocalypse smiled, slightly impressed. "On second thought, the idea of Warren having to live with his guilt is more appealing."
Remy grew suspicious. Apocalypse had something up his sleeve, what? //Hold on, Ange,// he encouraged the trembling man at his side. Warren, he noticed, wasn't reacting at all, just staring at Apocalypse with terror in his eyes.
"Maybe I will kill Nate Grey in Warren's place," Apocalypse announced and increased the power restraining his enemy.
Remy's eyes immediately shifted to the chamber, which contained Nate Grey. The energy turned transparent, no longer hiding its prisoner from view. "Nate Grey?" he whispered taken aback. Studying the man he recognized the anger in those eyes, anger aimed at Apocalypse. He never expected to find his brother here? "If y've hurt him," Remy threatened.
"Surrender to me and Nate will live." Apocalypse raised his eyes and stared in to Nate's burning orbs.
Thus far he'd remained silent, but this development demanded he spoke up. Nate strained to escape Apocalypse's power, but failed. "Don't give in," he told Gambit. "You can't let him win!"
Remy took a deep breath. The choice was his. Apocalypse wanted him to comply and he had to use this advantage. Question was, how? He dismissed the fact that Nate knew who he truly was. There was no way Nate could know that they were related.
//Attente! If we're related, does dat mean dat our powers are compatible?// He needed more time to think this one over. "What do y' want from me?" he asked Apocalypse, storing away all this new information.
"I want you as my Horseman, Gambit. You'll be Death!" Apocalypse revealed.
Angel, who had been hanging on to Remy, released a strangled sob. "Remy, don't do it." Mentally and emotionally exhausted, he let go of his friend and dropped to his knees. Remy's force field however, caught him and prevented him from hitting the floor.
Remy now sat on his heels and he tenderly wrapped an arm around Warren's shaking frame. He also continued to observe Apocalypse. Everybody possessed a weakness. He just had to find it. "Tell me more," he demanded.
"Of course," Apocalypse said approvingly. He'd never taken the man for a fool. "You'll fight Nate. The winner will serve me as Death. He will also have the honor of ending this coward's life," and he pointed at Warren.
//Trust me!// Remy told Warren, who was clinging to him for bare life. //I won' betray y'.// Warren's dazed eyes actually frightened him. The man was bordering on madness. //Ange, listen t' me. I promise t' take y' back home, but y've got t' play 'long!//
Finally, Warren nodded his head. Yes, he trusted Remy, entrusted him with his very life, unconditionally.
"An' what 'bout de loser?" Remy inquired, as he rose to his feet, facing Apocalypse once again.
"As you will understand I can't set the loser free," Apocalypse looked over at Nate. "I developed a techno-organic virus, which ensures that the loser will never bother me again."
Remy shivered. He couldn't allow this to happen and made his decision. //Trust me, no matter what I'm goin' t' do,// he told Warren, who sat hunched at his feet.
Nate studied Gambit, recognizing the X-Man, but still he wondered why Apocalypse was this interested in him. The last time he'd talked to his father, Cyclops hadn't mentioned Gambit's extra ordinary powers. Was this a recent development then? And Angel?
Apocalypse was busy destroying Warren's soul and angry, Nate eyed Apocalypse. If only he knew a way to defeat Apocalypse for once and for all!
"I accept," Remy whispered eventually in a steady tone. "I'll fight Nate and win."
Warren's eyes fluttered. "What?" he whispered worried. "You can't! He's playing you!" Then he remembered Remy's whispered words, which still echoed in his mind. Was it possible that the Cajun was trying to manipulate Apocalypse?
Nate's hands turned in to fists. "I won't fight you!" They couldn't give Apocalypse what he wanted! He was furious! Suddenly, a soft voice echoed through his mind, taken him completely by surprise. Instinctively, he raised his defenses, but then realized that it was Gambit, who was trying to reach him.
//Listen t' me, Nate Grey,// Remy sent cautiously, hoping Apocalypse couldn't overhear their telepathic conversation. //Play 'long, once y're outa dat chamber we can unite forces an' take him out. We've got t' work toget'er on dis!//
Nate's eyes widened. //I never knew you were a telepath,// he muttered surprised.
//Dere's a lot y' don' know 'bout me,// Remy pointed out. He wasn't going to confide in Nate right now. He wasn't sure how Nate would react to the fact that they were related. Better to keep it a secret a little longer. //Warren can' take much more. We've got t' play 'long for now,// he repeated.
Nate however, was brooding. Gambit had reached in to his mind effortlessly. Even with only his most elemental defenses up, it should have been impossible for the Cajun to establish contact this easily. What the hell was going on here? //You're right,// Nate had to admit, //we've got to do this together.// His eyes sought out Remy's red and black ones. "We'll fight, Apocalypse."

 

Chapter Thirteen

"It's reacting to Bobby all right," Scott remarked curiously. The wall seemed to melt as Bobby took another step closer to it, literally drawing him in.
"What do I do now?" Bobby asked, hesitant to be swallowed by the alien substance. But on the other hand, it might be their only way to find out where Remy and Bobby had vanished.
"Are you willing to take the risk?" Magnus inquired and fought hard to keep his voice neutral and calm. "I'll go with you," he offered in a stern tone.
"Count me in too," Logan growled and walked up to Bobby. "I ain't leavin' Wings in there, wherever that is!"
Scott sighed. This was such a mess! They couldn't all go, some had to stay behind in case something unexpected happened. And the worst part was that Magnus wasn't going to accept any orders coming from him! This was the first time that he'd lost control and he hated the feeling.
"Then we're leaving," Magnus decided and placed a hand on Bobby's shoulder. He hoped that by establishing physical contact, the portal would also accept him in. Challenging Logan, he offered the Canadian his hand. "Or did you change your mind?"
Logan shook his head. "I'm comin'," he confirmed and forced himself to take the offered hand.
"Before you go?" Scott tried to reason with them, but?
//Their minds are set, darling. This is their fight. We fought Sinister? now it's their turn.//
Jean's thoughts drifted in to his mind and although she was right, he didn't have to like the turn the events had taken. //Hopefully the portal will remain open,// he replied and Xavier's nod told him that the professor had also heard his comment.
//We need to be here in case something tries to enter our? dimension,// Charles clarified. //We might need your optic blast.//
//But I still don't like it,// Scott whispered in to their minds and then focused on the three men, which were mentally preparing themselves to enter the portal and fight whatever creature that had taken down two of their own. "Be careful!" Scott warned passionately. "Don't want to lose any of you!"
Magnus shot him an amused glance. "Does that include me?" he quipped and wanted to hear Scott's reply, but exactly at that moment the portal flashed alive and sucked them in to the other dimension.
Jean stared at the now solid wall. //Please find Remy and give me back my son,// she prayed silently.
"NO!" Nate screamed in pain, as he dropped to his knees, succumbing to Apocalypse's blasts. The mutant had used his ability to teleport and had caught him by surprise, hitting him in the back. Nate had been unable to deflect the attack and empty eyed, he stared hard at his nemesis. He hated Apocalypse, but even more Nate hated himself and that hate fought itself a way to the surface. Apocalypse couldn't win! He would never forgive himself if he lost this duel!
Remy managed to open his eyes and raised his head, as Nate's despair crashed in over him. Of all his abilities empathy was the strongest one, actually transforming feelings in to energy.
But at times like these, he went through the same pain the other person did and Nate was in a terrible emotional pain. The possibility of failure was strangling him and would eventually cause him to fail. It was a vicious circle. Remy looked up at Warren, who had become his anchor in these tangled emotions. //Help me t' my feet,// he sent gently.
Warren wrapped an arm around Remy's waist and pulled him upright. //You need to rest,// he pointed out, his mind calm and steady.
//No time t' rest, cher. Nate needs our help.// Pleased, Remy smiled. Warren had undergone quite a transformation since he'd pushed Angel in to the role of protector. But as he looked at Nate, he realized he had to cancel his plans. There was no way in hell that Warren could take on Apocalypse alone. //Warren, I need y' t' take Nate 'way from here, 'way from Apocalypse. Can y' do dat, cher?//
Confused, Warren returned the glance. Yes, Nate was down and in obvious pain, but Warren refused to believe that this powerful mutant could be defeated that easily! Nate was the strongest mutant alive? or wasn't he? "Only if you tell me what you're up to," Warren stated, wondering about Remy's abilities.
Confused but pleased, Warren realized that with every passing moment he felt stronger, as if something inside him had snapped now that he was preparing to face Apocalypse. He was ready to fight. The other two men had to get out of here alive!
"I'm goin' t' take on Apocalypse an' y're goin' t' watch my back," Remy replied, switching to speech automatically. "Please do dis for me, cher."
"This is madness, Remy," Warren warned him.
"Dere's no oder way," Remy admonished Warren and pushed Angel away from him. "Get Nate outa here!"
"But how?" Warren whispered privately. Apocalypse's blasts would take him down before he'd reached Nate. Unexpectedly, an odd sensation sneaked in to his mind and suddenly he felt invincible. Was Remy doing this? But no, the Cajun looked equally puzzled.
Although Remy was seriously tempted to find out why Warren's skin was starting to glow, he forced himself to focus on Nate. Immense pain contorted the young man's face and his empathy told him that Nate couldn't take any more. Apocalypse however, continued to fire his blasts and they now easily penetrated Nate's protective shields, leaving him defenseless.
A serene tranquillity overwhelmed Warren, as Remy stared in to his eyes one last time.
"I believe in y ', Ange. Y' can do dis."
The words spun in his mind and finally everything fell in to place. The golden glow consumed his thoughts and filled his body with alien energy.
Remy had to shield his eyes, as the glow intensified. Warren's wings now consisted of pure energy and the feathers had disappeared. "Go an' get Nate," he instructed and fed off Warren's energy, which was breathtakingly pure. He blinked his eyes and then ran over to Apocalypse to draw the mutant's attention. The diversion would give Warren the time he needed to get Nate in to safety.
Nate had registered these new developments from the corner of his eye. Apocalypse's blasts had weakened him and the mutant was now trying to force him back in to the chamber that had once kept him prisoner. All this power and he still couldn't defeat Apocalypse! //I failed!//
"Non, y' didn'," Remy countered aloud. Pleased, he noticed that Apocalypse turned around to face him, momentarily losing interest in Nate. "Why don' y' pick on someone y'r own size?" he sneered, trying to anger Apocalypse.
Warren had flown over to Nate and now kneeled beside the barely conscious young man. "Come with me, Nate. You've got to get out of here!" The energy fed every cell in his body and Warren had never felt this powerful before, not even when Apocalypse had transformed him in to Death. For the first time in his life he felt like an avenging angel.
Raising his head weakly, Nate wanted to refuse. But then he realized that Warren wouldn't accept no for an answer. His answer wouldn't matter, as he lacked the strength to enforce his will.
"He'll kill Gambit," Nate whispered exhausted. He'd used Gambit's energy to deflect Apocalypse's attacks and now he felt absolutely drained. He lacked energy to continue to fight Apocalypse.
Warren decided not to verbally fight with Nate and simply slipped an arm underneath the man's knees. "Hold on," he instructed, as he lifted Nate in his arms. A soft pull had appeared and was now guiding him towards the portal. "We're going home."
"I've got no home," Nate snarled viciously. Why did he feel this emotional? This wasn't like him.
Warren ignored the remark, but thought, //Once Remy gets to impose his will, I doubt that you'll be leaving shortly. My guess is that he wants his family complete.//
Remy grinned, catching Warren's remark. //Ouiai, y're right, cher,// he thought, but refrained from casting it in to Warren's mind, unwilling to distract Angel. Warren was now one big form of translucent light and the wings sparkled with gold. //Wonder what caused dis change?//
Apocalypse had also been watching Warren, but now concentrated on his new opponent. Making an educated guess at Gambit's thoughts he whispered, "It's residue energy from the time when I transformed him in to Death. It won't last long." An evil grin disfigured his face.
Remy ignored the remark. Apocalypse wasn't attacking him yet and he wanted to save his energy. "He's un grand ange."
Condescending laughter floated through the room. "I underestimated you, Gambit. Trust me, I won't make that mistake a second time. If you're not with me, then you're against me. I need to terminate your existence." Apocalypse eyed his opponent carefully, as he couldn't afford making another mistake.
Remy began to draw energy from the magnetic sphere inside Apocalypse's ship, recharging his energy. "Y' hurt my friends, my family!"
"You can hardly consider yourself related to Nate Grey," Apocalypse countered cruelly. "After all, the two of you are nothing but Sinister's experiments. He created you in his quest to breed a mutant strong enough to destroy me."
"Never call me or Nate an experiment 'gain!" Remy hissed. His anger was building up to a dangerous level. He actually wanted to hurt Apocalypse for what he had done to Warren and Nate.
Amused, Apocalypse laughed. "What do you want me to call you? Remy Lensherr? Remy Summers?"
"=Remy= will do," he snarled in obvious disgust. Talking wouldn't get him anywhere and if Apocalypse refused to initiate the fight, he would! After bundling his strength, he used his anger to guide his attack. Stunned, he realized that the anger amplified his powers. Remy desperately hoped he could stall enough time for Warren and Nate to find the way out!
Bobby changed in to ice form as they entered the alien environment. "Logan, are you picking something up? Anything?"
"Not sure?" Logan whispered, something was messing with his senses. "Yeah, Gumbo and Wings are here? and alive."
Magnus couldn't repress a relieved sigh. "We need to find them!"
"This is the first time ever that we're agreein' on somethin'," Logan chuckled, equally relieved to find the two men alive. "But? I'm pickin' up other scents as well?" Straining his memory, he tried hard to label that one particular scent that was growing stronger all the time. "Wings is movin' towards us, but he ain't alone," Logan warned them and unsheathed his claws.
"Who is it? Who's with Warren?" Bobby asked, pushing Logan to make a positive identification. "Is it Remy?"
"Nope, but I do know this damn scent!" And suddenly he remembered. "It's Nate's."
"Nate Grey?" Bobby asked hesitantly. "Isn't he supposed to be in another dimension?"
Logan shrugged his shoulders. "Dunno know, Drake."
"We can discuss this later," Magnus decided and took charge. "It might be best if he saw the two of you first. I don't know how Nate Grey will react to seeing me."
"He's actually got a valid point," Logan quipped in mock amusement. "I'll scout ahead. Ya stay here, both of ya!" Logan didn't stay to listen to their protest and hurried around the corner, eager to be reunited with his lover. Warren's scent smelled slightly different though and that worried him.
"Let me go!" Nate exclaimed, as he realized that Warren was taking him away from the battle. "Gambit can't do this on his own!'
"That's where you're wrong," Warren said passionately. "There's a lot you don't know about Remy and I seriously think that he has the potential to take Apocalypse down, but not if he has to worry about you!"
Exhausted, Nate's eyes slid shut. "Why would he be worried about me?"
"I'm sure Remy will tell you," Warren chuckled. It was amazing. His fear of Apocalypse was gone and his body vibrated with power. Once he'd dropped off Nate he was going back and assist Remy, provided the Cajun needed help in taking out Apocalypse.
As he looked at Nate, Warren realized Remy had made the right decision. Nate was barely conscious and in pain and would have ended up seriously hurt if he had stayed. It did surprise him though that Nate hadn't figured out the truth yet. Hadn't Remy's energy felt familiar to his own? Was Nate that blind or was the man ignoring the truth?
Suddenly, he caught the sound of heavy footfalls. Someone was running towards them. Warren briefly considered putting Nate down on to the floor and check out the corridors, but Nate had turned unconscious and couldn't be left alone. No matter how strong Nate was, he still remained human and? vulnerable. //We tend to forget that.// Warren realized with newfound clarity.
Turning around the corner, he prepped himself for a fight with whoever was coming at him. His eyes widened, as he caught sight of Logan. "What are you doing here?" he demanded to know and landed near his lover.
Logan swallowed hard. "Warren?" Golden energy engulfed Warren and the beatific sight almost made him believe in a God again.
"Yes, it's me." Warren smiled, although he doubted the change in his facial expression was visible through the golden glow. "Remy is fighting Apocalypse. He told me to take Nate in to safety. Are you alone? Remy might need help."
"It's safe," Logan called out. "Ya can come out now."
A moment later, Magnus and Bobby stepped in to the corner. "Warren?" Bobby whispered perplexed. "What happened to you?"
"I don't know," Warren admitted. "But someone needs to take Nate to the church. I want to go back and help Remy."
The four men looked at each other and Bobby imagined hearing their thoughts. He didn't need to be a telepath to figure out that none of them was willing to return without Remy. "What happened to Nate?" Bobby asked and stole a glance at the mutant. //Remy's half brother,// he realized.
"Long story," Warren chided him. "We need to get moving." But no one volunteered to take care of Nate.
"'Kay," Logan decided in the end. "I'll stay with the kid. The three of you get Gumbo!" He'd long realized that Warren needed to face his past. "Kick his butt!"
"I will," Warren muttered as he handed his precious load to his lover. "I doubt he'll wake up soon and he needs medical attention."
"In that case I'll have to take him to the mansion so Hank can have a look at him." Logan was reluctant to leave his lover, but?
Warren leaned in closer and brushed Logan's lips. Both men moaned at the contact, as the energy intensified the feel of flesh against flesh. "You better go now?"
"We wasted enough time," Magneto announced. "I'm going to get my son? now!"

 

Chapter Fourteen

Warren was the first to reach the inner chamber. His eyes were immediately drawn towards Remy, who had dropped to his knees. The red on black eyes were on fire and unyielding. As Warren looked over his shoulder, he noticed Magnus' stunned expression. Had Magnus expected to find Remy weak and helpless? Warren chuckled amused. In that case Magnus was in for a major surprise.
Bobby followed after Magnus, still in ice form and ready to defend his lover if necessary. The last thing he expected however, was to see Apocalypse's face contorted with panic. "Remy is kicking Pookie's butt!" he muttered flabbergasted.
Magnus heard that remark and felt relieved. All this time he'd been deadly worried that his son would be unable to defend himself and now it appeared that Remy was actually winning this duel! "Hold out, son!" Magnus yelled and moved closer.
Warren had chosen to remain air borne and was now flying towards Apocalypse. His fear was gone thanks to Remy and he felt ready to join in the attack. The golden glow was weakening, but that didn't bother him. If necessary he would take Apocalypse down bare handed.
Remy's vision was distorted, but his senses couldn't be deceived. Clearly, he registered Bobby's presence and the link flashed back to life as if it had never been gone. Bobby's thoughts flowed in to his mind and he had to do his best to keep in control of his emotions. Bobby's pride was overwhelming. The fact that he was standing up to Apocalypse surprised them all. //Bobby, cher? I could use some help.//
"You've got it!" Bobby muttered and joined Magnus, who was focusing his powers on Apocalypse. "This might be our chance to get rid of Apocalypse!"
Magnus nodded his head. "We'll try," he said approvingly. His son's body consisted of pure energy and attracted all magnetically charged molecules in their surroundings. The best thing to do was to redirect his power and support Remy in that way.
Apocalypse's grin faded as he noticed the arrival of the others. This wasn't going according to plan! He was losing this fight and had to retreat. His armor protected him, but he was clearly outnumbered and would face defeat in the end. Using his ability to teleport he vanished from the battle.
"NON!" Remy exclaimed. "Y' can' leave like dat!"
Bobby hurried over to his lover's side and was just in time to catch Remy's crumbling body. "It's over, love," Bobby said soothingly, taken aback by the intense fury Remy's thoughts emanated. "Calm down, Remy, please love!" He pulled Remy to his feet, as he wanted to get out of this place as quickly as possible. Hopefully, Logan had reached the mansion by now? or the church at least.
"Bobby, cher," Remy whispered and a hesitant hand cupped his lover's chin in its palm. "I missed y'," he confessed and rested his head against Bobby's shoulder. Although his body sizzled with energy his mind felt drained. So much had happened during these last hours!
Remy's next glance went to Warren to make sure that Angel was fine. The glow was dying, slowly revealing familiar features, but the expression in those blue eyes had changed dramatically. Determination and strength stared right back at them. Yes, Warren had faced his demons and had emerged stronger than before? //Bien.//
Another strong arm folded itself around his waist and curiously, he looked up. Magnus hadn't wasted any time to get to him. The pride and relief in Magnus' mind acted as a soothing balm to his scarred soul and gingerly, he smiled. He had something special to say and he wanted to see Magnus' eyes the moment he spoke those words. "I missed y' too, fat'er."
Magnus shivered, hearing that word. Remy had called him father. He'd always craved hearing that word? he knew that Jean-Luc would always be Remy's père, but this was the next best thing and he relished hearing that word flowing from Remy's lips. "Let's get you home, son."
Bobby and Magnus supported Remy as they started their way back to the portal. Warren decided to take the lead, to ensure that they wouldn't run in to any attackers left behind by Apocalypse. As he looked at Remy, Bobby and Magnus, he realized how far they had come since Remy had returned from Antarctica. He'd made so many mistakes in the past! Remy had given him a second chance and that mere fact had definitely turned his life upside down!
Remy smiled privately, as Warren's thoughts floated in to his mind. It hadn't been his intention to eavesdrop, but the thoughts were aimed at him, addressing their growing friendship and he felt pleased that Warren accepted him as his friend. This was one of the happiest moments in his life!
"Scott? Something has entered the portal!" Jean exclaimed nervously. Always expect the unexpected, yes, but? she wished she knew what they were about to face. What if Apocalypse himself had decided to use this portal to enter their world? Why would he? There had to be easier ways to travel through dimensions!
"I've got it," Scott reassured her. His optic blast would stop any attacker, or at least stun him until they had formed a plan.
Logan stared at the portal. It looked damned solid, but his senses told him that it was already reacting to Nate's presence. It yielded and he used the opportunity to jump through the portal, tightly clutching Nate's unconscious body to his chest. Right now Nate was his responsibility and he was going to protect the boy.
The dead weight slowed him down, but he paid it no attention and as they phased through the wall, he caught the scent of the others who had stayed behind. Better warn them, before they'd start blasting away at him! They didn't possess his sharp reflexes. "Cyke, it's me!"
Scott held his breath, hearing that voice. "It's Logan!" he told Jean and the professor. Scott noticed their relief. Quickly, Scott walked up to Logan and tried to get a look at the man he was carrying. "What happened and who's that?"
//Oh my God!//Jean whispered in to their minds, recognizing her son. "It's Nate!"
"Nate? But??" Stunned, Scott looked at his son. "Let me," he said pleadingly and Logan slid Nate's body in to his arms. "Where's Remy?" Scott asked worried.
"Mags, Drake and Wings are coverin' his back?" Logan stated and looked at the portal, which had turned solid again. His way back was gone and he was stuck here. //I need to have faith in Warren,// Logan reminded himself, remembering Remy's words.
"But?" Scott stuttered, as he placed Nate on a bench, carefully checking for injuries. Jean appeared at his side and stroked Nate's hair.
//We should take him to the med lab,// she sent, but was reluctant to leave the church. First, she needed to know that Remy and the others were fine.
"His vital signs are okay," Scott said relieved and released a deep sigh. "It's probably just exhaustion, but yes, Hank needs to examine him!"
"I never thought I'd see Nate ever again," Jean whispered tenderly. "Isn't it amazing, Scott?" She looked in to his eyes and smiled. "Now we've got both our sons back."
"Not yet," Scott warned her. "I won't rest before Remy, Warren and yes, even Magnus are back at the mansion!"
Charles succeeded in hiding his satisfaction at hearing that statement. Obviously, Scott considered Magnus part of the team, part of the X-Men? that was a great development! //Though we might see a power struggle? I doubt Magnus will accept Scott's leadership!// But that was something they could deal with later!
"The portal!" Jean's voice alerted Scott and she protectively tightened her grip on Nate's hand.
"We're leaving," Magnus announced and stole a quick glance at his son's face. Remy was tired and needed rest. Part of his brain still couldn't believe that Remy had really called him father. It was the best reward imaginable for the effort he had put in to rebuilding his son's self-confidence. Maybe the next time that Remy looked in to a mirror, he would see his true self and no longer demon eyes. "I'm proud of you," he whispered.
Too tired to answer, Remy simply sent his father understanding and thankfulness. Using his empathy caused little discomfort and he refrained from speaking aloud.
Magnus received those feelings and felt grateful in return. "Once this is over, we're going to have a long talk, son!"
A smile lingered on his face as Remy's head dropped to his chest. He'd used up his last energy and had finally fainted.
Magnus and Bobby exchanged a glance. Then, Magnus stepped back and allowed Bobby, who had changed back in to human form, to scoop his lover up in his arms.
"I still can't believe he fought Apocalypse!" Bobby muttered. Remy's weight felt familiar and he decided no one else was going to carry his lover. Remy belonged in his arms!
His eyes were drawn to the ring around Remy's finger and the rightness of this hit him. //I love you,// he told his unconscious lover. Even in his current state Remy seemed to pick up on that thought, as his smile brightened.
Warren reached the portal first and shivered at the sight. It looked like a regular wall, but he vividly remembered his panic as the bricks had turned in to a liquid, which had pulled him in to this dimension. "This is our way out!" Hopefully, Logan was waiting for him on the other side? or had he left the church to take Nate to the med lab? He would find out in a sec.
"Lead on," Bobby urged him on and watched in fascination as Warren phased through the wall. He briefly wondered if Kitty had felt like this the first time she had walked through a wall!
Magnus stayed one step behind Bobby, watching their back. One couldn't be too cautious when dealing with Apocalypse. But Magnus felt confident that Apocalypse wouldn't try to abduct his son a second time, not after his impressing display of power! Maybe Remy had become the strongest mutant on the world alive today!
As Bobby phased through the wall, he distinctly noticed the relieved sigh flowing through the cellar of the church. The first thing he noticed was Jean sitting next to Nate, cradling his hand in hers. "We made it!" Bobby exclaimed and smiled brightly. "Now we're going to take them both to the med lab."
"You're right!" Scott picked up Nate and nodded his head. "Let's move!"
The others didn't need any encouragement. Magnus, Jean, Bobby and the professor followed closely. Only two men stayed behind because they needed to talk.
"Logan?" Warren started and stared at Wolverine's eyes, which were impossible to read. "Thanks for taking care of Nate. I doubt the others would have?"
"Ya faced him," Logan said approvingly and moved closer. The glow had disappeared and Warren had returned to his 'normal' state. "Feelin' any better?"
"Yes," Warren confirmed, "I do." They were close enough to touch, but no contact was initiated yet. "I couldn't have done it without you and Remy though," Warren admitted in a choked tone. "You were there for me in my darkest hour and Remy? made me face my personal demon."
Logan simply listened and didn't try to interrupt Warren, as this was very important to his lover.
"Apocalypse almost managed to destroy me a second time," Warren explained in an emotional tone and his eyes started to water. "It if hadn't been for Remy I would have lost my wings and my sanity. He healed me?"
"Healed ya?" Logan asked confused.
"Yes, he somehow channelled his energy in to my wings and they healed. I'm so angry with myself for misjudging him in the past? and for misjudging you."
"No reason to beat yarself up for that," Logan pointed out to him. "Took me a lot longer to read people? I didn't trust the X-Men when I joined the club, but? slowly I started to understand what they're about."
"I want this relationship to work," Warren proclaimed in a firm tone. "I want you at my side? we discussed this before, but we never really addressed the future." Warren caught the expression in Logan's eyes and chuckled, "Don't worry, I'm not going to buy us a set of rings!"
Logan grinned. "I guess that means we'll have to figure out who gets to be on top the next time when we?"
Warren interrupted him. "I'm willing to find out right now. What do you say, Wolvie?"
"Don't call me that!" Logan chided him. "But yeah, why not? Let's find out?" Leaning in closer, he possessively claimed Warren's lips, crushing the young man to his chest.
Warren moaned, as he realized that Logan was serious about this. Logan was hard and the look in those eyes promised hours of ecstasy.
"What?" Hank muttered, as Scott and Bobby entered the med lab. It had been quiet in here for a change after he'd shoed Michael back to his room. The boy took his assignment, guarding the teddy bear, very seriously and had insisted that Hank checked his room before he was willing to enter it.
The silence had lasted for exactly one hour.
"Apocalypse got their dirty hands on them," Magnus explained, as he walked up to Bobby to make sure Remy hadn't gotten worse.
"Apocalypse?" Hank looked up at Jean and Scott. "These boys are trouble." Immediately, he started to hook them up to monitors and scanners.
Bobby and Scott stepped away to give Hank the space he needed to do his job. It was hard for Bobby to let go of his lover. Remy looked vulnerable and in the end, he reached out and claimed Remy's hand.
"I want everyone out," Hank stated. Personally, he chased them in to the corridor, ignoring Bobby's pleading, no begging to let him stay. "Listen, Robert. You're going to wait here, along with the others. Is that understood, young man?"
Bobby whispered yes, but his eyes were defiant. "How bad is he?" Bobby called after Hank as McCoy was about to return to the med lab.
"Give me some time to find out, Robert!" Hank admonished him softly, knowing the young man was only acting out of concern for his lover.
Jean joined him and folded an arm around his shoulders. "I'm worried too, Bobby. Why don't you keep me company?"
"What about Scott?" Bobby asked, unwilling to intrude.
"Loot at him," Jean replied and cocked her head. "He's been pacing ever since Hank forced him to leave the med lab."
Bobby sighed and smiled back at her. "You're right." From the corner of his eye he noticed that Magnus was now joining Scott in the pacing. Both men reminded him of caged tigers who had denied the right to watch over their wounded young ones.
Bobby guided Jean to some chairs and sat down next to her. "How's Nate going to react to the news that Remy and he are related? Not to mention that Magnus?"
Jean silenced him by raising her nervous eyes to meet his. "I hope he'll remain calm and listen, but Nate?"
"Then maybe Remy should do the talking," Bobby quipped in an attempt to cheer her up. "He won't take no for an answer. From what Warren told me Remy protected Nate and?" Looking about he searched the room. "I thought that Warren and Logan?" Then he realized the truth. "They must have stayed behind to talk."
"And all we can do now is wait," Jean said discouraged. "Bobby?" Hesitantly she took his hand in hers. "Tell me that they are going to be just fine."
Bobby smiled reassuringly. "Jean, I KNOW that they're going to be fine!"

 

Chapter Fifteen

Hey hey I saved the world today
Everybody's happy now
The bad things gone away
And everybody's happy now
The good thing's here to stay
Please let it stay
Eurythmics

Hank sat down at Remy's side after running several tests on his patient. It was most probably that Remy would wake up first. His brain waves indicated growing neural activity, while Nate was still unconscious and severely exhausted. Relieved, Hank waited for Remy's eyelids to flutter.
Remy immediately sensed that someone was watching over him. He hoped it was Bobby, but quickly realized that he was in the med lab and that it was McCoy, who was keeping an eye on him. //I still hate de med lab,// he cast unwillingly.
"Good, you are awake again." Hank leaned back and waited for Remy's eyes to fully open. "How are you feeling?"
Remy's eyes opened and sought out Hank's. "I'll survive," he whispered fatigued. The energy that had kept him going was gone. "De oders?"
"Nate will be fine once he's rested," Hank assured his patient and pointed at the unconscious form at Remy's right. "You should fill me in on what happened, Gambit."
"Apocalypse wanted one of us as Deat'," Remy said reluctantly and tried to sit upright. Except for some dizziness he felt fine. "Can' I rest in my room?" He wanted out of the med lab ASAP.
"I'll get Robert to help you." Hank rose from the chair and called Bobby over the comm. system.
"I'm on my way!"
Bobby's exultant scream filled the med lab and Remy smiled. "How did y' manage t' get him t' leave de med lab?"
"Experience," Hank quipped. "Remy," he started and turned serious again, "you need rest. I want you to stay in bed today. I scheduled your appointment for 12.00 hours tomorrow so I can run a complete physical on you."
Remy's eyes revealed annoyance, but he was too glad to be getting out of the med lab to comment on it. His eyes came to rest on Nate's sleeping form. "Y' sure he's goin' t' be 'right?"
"Yes, Remy. The two of you are exhausted. Looks like you're recuperating faster than Nate is. He's in the best hands," Hank reassured his patient. "Jean will sit with him. She's already on her way over here."
"Bien," Remy whispered, "he needs t' see a kind face when he wakes up." Lost in thought, he stared in to Hank's eyes. "It's a strange t'ought? t' know dat he's my half brot'er."
Hank nodded his head in understanding. "Nate will have to get to terms with that as well."
"An' what 'bout Jean an' Scott?" Remy said with a note of mischief in his voice. "T'ink dey can handle two sons?"
"Oh yes, we can!" Jean quipped, as she and Bobby entered the med lab. Her eyes sparkled with relief. Warren had joined them one hour ago and informed them of what had happened inside Apocalypse's ship. She had never before felt this proud of Remy. He'd actually protected Nate!
Remy started to blush, picking up on her thoughts. "Dat wasn' anyt'ing special. Anyone would have done dat," he objected.
Bobby however, wasn't interested in the chatter and immediately headed over to his lover to pull him in to an embrace. He wanted, no needed, to feel Remy's skin underneath his fingertips. //I've got you back,// he told Remy and kissed his lips.
//Cher,// Remy whispered and felt overwhelmed by Bobby's presence. The love and passion Bobby sent him, became part of his own thoughts. //Can y' get me outa here?//
"Of course," Bobby stated and helped his lover to his feet. In spite of the rest, Remy was still swaying on his feet. Quickly, he peeked at Nate. Jean was once more holding his hand.
//Henri told me dat Nate will be jus' fine,// Remy cast in to Bobby and Jean's minds. //Jus' needs rest.//
"Thank you for helping him out," Jean said sincerely. "I'm certain Nate will want to talk to you once he knows who you really are."
"Do y' have t' tell him?" Remy asked in a tired tone.
"Yes," Jean replied steadfast. "I doubt Nate will know how to react to the news, but? maybe it will do him some good? knowing that the two of you have that much in common. You do know that Sinister created him to?"
"Ouiai, I do," Remy interrupted her. Right now, he didn't want to hear Sinister's name. That was in the past. "I want outa here? Cher? Take me t' our room?"
Bobby reacted by tightening the hold he had on Remy's waist.
Before leaving the med lab Remy sent a wave of love and affection towards Jean, whose smile brightened.
//I love you too, Remy,// Jean replied gently and then concentrated on Nate again.
//Merci,// Remy replied and allowed Bobby to close the door behind him. Now that he was out of the accursed med lab he drew in a deep breath. "Ange is 'kay too?"
"Yes. I actually think that confronting Apocalypse did him some good. He looks? stronger, more confident."
"He pulled t'rough," Remy muttered pleased. "Cher, I'm tired."
Bobby looked up hearing that honest admission. Normally he'd have to pry this kind of information from Remy's mind. "My room or yours?"
"Y'rs," Remy replied without giving it a second thought. "An' some hot chocolate?"
Bobby laughed warmly. Remy usually never asked for anything and he liked this new attitude. "Anything else?"
"Y', naked in bed wid me," Remy quipped and wiggled an eyebrow.
"Remy!" Bobby called out in mock surprise. "That can be arranged," he added quickly.
"Knew y' wouldn' mind!" Remy whispered and grinned. They had reached the corridor and he was looking forward to lying down, spooning his body against Bobby's. All he wanted to do was to sleep and recharge, but?
"You're back!"
Remy groaned telepathically hearing Michael's pleased voice. //He must have been waitin' for us t' show up,// he told Bobby.
"Well, actually?" Bobby started hesitantly, "I told him that I needed his help in getting you back." Then, he switched to using the link. Michael was running up to them and he didn't want the boy to hear this. //I told him he had to guard the teddy bear, because I needed it in one piece once you got back.//
//He was worried 'bout me?// Remy asked stunned. Michael had only been with them for a few days.
//Remy, this might come as a surprise to you,// Bobby sent and giggled softly in to his lover's mind, // but Michael wants you as his big brother, maybe even?// Bobby hesitated, //I suspect he would like you to adopt him.//
//Mon Dieu!// Remy exclaimed, as the boy slammed in to him, hugging the life out of him. //Y're right, cher.//
"Remy! Remy! Remy! Look! I kept an eye on Eddie for you," and Michael proudly presented the bear to him.
Amused, Bobby watched the little scene. "I'm going to get that hot chocolate," he announced and opened the door. //Why don't you get comfortable and talk to Michael? He needs to be reassured that you're fine.//
Bobby was right. Remy nodded his head and stroked the boy's hair. "Want t' talk?" he asked Michael, who eagerly nodded his head. Remy led the boy inside and watched Bobby leave the corridor. Hopefully, he would quickly return with that hot chocolate. "Sit down, petite."
Michael waited until Remy had gotten comfortable on the bed and then sat down as well. "You look tired," he commented honestly.
Remy rested his back against the pillows on the head end and smiled. Michael was once more offering him the teddy bear and this time he accepted. "Y' did a great job lookin' after him."
Michael's face beamed with pride. "Thanks! I did my best! Even had fur ball search my room to make sure everything was fine."
"Y' like Henri, don' y', petite?" Remy remarked pleased. It would be much better if the kid got attached to all of them, instead of just him. He'd be a lousy substitute for a dad.
"Yes, but I like you best!" Michael yawned. Strange? why was he suddenly feeling tired?
"Petite," Remy replied, touched by the emotions he was picking up coming from the boy. Truth was that he was lost for words.
Michael noticed the way Remy's eyes were slipping shut. He loved the red on black eyes, reminding him that he wasn't a freak or warlock as the other kids had called him. Giving in to instinct Michael curled up next to Remy and rested his head on the man's chest. "I think I'm going to fall asleep."
"Me too, petite," Remy replied sleepily. Only now he realized that his fatigue was affecting Michael, but he was too tired to tell the boy to leave. His eyes closed and one hand protectively curled around Michael's. Feeling the claws Remy absentmindedly stroked the bony structure. Eventually, both lost the struggle to stay awake.
"Bobby? Can we have a word with you?" Magnus and Scott stepped in to the kitchen. Relief marked their faces, but? They had to be sure that Remy was doing fine. "Remy, is he??"
"Resting," Bobby replied reassuringly. "Just making some hot chocolate. He really loves it."
Magnus nodded his head. "Would you give me a call once he wakes up? I want to talk to him."
"I will," Bobby confirmed and then he looked at Scott. "Is Nate awake yet?" Scott looked troubled and tired and Bobby couldn't blame the man. "You've got two adult sons now to take care of!"
"Yes, I know?" Scott groaned. "And no, Nate isn't awake yet. Hank estimates that he'll be asleep for a few more hours."
Bobby filled three mugs with hot chocolate and placed them on a tray. Seeing their expression he explained, "Michael ran up to Remy and was really glad to see him."
"The boy really likes Remy," Scott said questioningly. "Do you think history will repeat itself?"
Bobby knew exactly what Scott was hinting at. "I wouldn't be surprised if Remy ended up adopting Michael. He really likes the boy."
"And so do I," Warren commented as Logan and he entered the kitchen.
Bobby chuckled, seeing Warren's tangled hair and something about those clothes told him what the two men had been up to. "Well, maybe you can have Michael over at the weekends!" he quipped teasingly.
Logan growled something incoherently and then headed over to the fridge to make some sandwiches.
Bobby took that as a hint to leave, but first he addressed Scott, "Let us know when Nate wakes up? I got this feeling that Remy and Nate might wanna talk. Don't worry, I'll keep a close eye on Remy," he added, seeing the worried expression on the men's faces.
Softly, he kicked the door open, which had been ajar. Bobby grinned seeing Remy holding on to Michael's hand and the teddy bear in his sleep. Yes, maybe adopting Michael wasn't a bad idea after all. The X-Men could teach him how to handle his abilities and the boy needed some kind of father figure. //And love, he needs a lot of love and affection.//
Soundlessly, he placed the tray on a chair. Should he wake them or not? Remy looked drained and had doubtlessly affected Michael who had fallen asleep as well. He didn't want to disturb their sleep, but?
"Michael?" Bobby whispered. The boy didn't react and Bobby slowly lifted him in his arms. "You'll be much more comfortable in your own bed." His motives for carrying the boy back to his room were also a little selfish, as he wanted to cuddle up to his lover and maybe? Shaking his head he berated himself. Remy was too tired to make love to him. They could do that later, once he was rested.
Bobby placed Michael on his bed and covered him with the comforter. "I owe you one hot chocolate," he muttered and affectionately looked at the boy, who was clutching the teddy bear.
As he closed the door behind him, Bobby hoped the boy would stay asleep and not run in to their room a few moments later. Maybe they should lock their door from now on. Couldn't run the risk of Michael walking in on them during more? intimate moments.
Remy had turned on to his left side during his sleep and was now tightly hugging the pillow. Bobby moved over to the bed and sat down, just watching his lover's face. Remy had become part of his soul and he shivered. What if Apocalypse had killed Remy? What if he had lost his lover? Could he live without Remy? //It never happened! Remy's here and alive!//
Bobby lay down next to his lover and pried the pillow away from Remy's fingers. Then, he moved in to his lover's arms. "Remy?" he whispered softly, as his fingers traced the outline of his lover's lips.
//Did y' brin' de hot chocolate?//
"You're awake!" Bobby said in a berating tone.
//Only woke a moment 'go? now, did y' bring de chocolate?// Remy opened one eye and winked at him. He felt terribly relaxed.
"Yes, I did," Bobby replied, giving in. He was about to get out of bed to get the hot chocolate, as he realized that two mugs were floating through the air towards him. "Now that's handy!"
Remy giggled and wrapped his fingers around both mugs, loving the warmth the emanated. "Dis one is for y' cher," he said and handed his lover one mug. Sitting upright, he sipped from the delicious hot liquid. "Y' didn' have t' take Michael back t' his room."
"I know that," Bobby replied. "But I wanted to be alone with you."
Remy swallowed another sip of chocolate and waited for his lover to continue.
"I was thinking," Bobby said hesitantly. "Perhaps we can adopt Michael? Make it official?"
A single tear appeared in Remy's eyes. "I would like dat, cher. But can we give him what he needs?" Self-doubt echoed in his tone. "I don' know how t' be a père."
Bobby smiled reassuringly. "You'll make a great father, Remy. You only want the best for Michael and it's not like you have to do this on your own. Jean will mother him and the boy already has two grand fathers as well. Hank can play uncle and baby sit? Oops, I already promised Warren that he?"
Remy raised an eyebrow. "Cher? I haven' made a decision yet!"
"Oh yes, you have!" Bobby chided him. "And we both know that you wanna adopt Michael." Bobby leaned in closer and brushed Remy's lips. "I might need to talk this over with Renard though? let's see if he's up for a conversation!"
Speechless, Remy looked in to Bobby's mischievous eyes. "I should never have told y' 'bout Renard," he muttered amused, but didn't decline the invitation. Making love to Bobby was just what he needed.

 

Chapter Sixteen

Hey hey I saved the world today
Everybody's happy now
The bad things gone away
And everybody's happy now
The good thing's here to stay
Please let it stay

Eurythmics

A groan, coming from Nate's lips, attracted their attention. Hank and Jean immediately turned away from the screen and focused on the young man instead. //Scott, Nate just woke up,// Jean informed her husband.
//I'm on my way,// Scott confirmed calmly.
"What? Where am I?" Nate moaned fatigued. What was the last thing he remembered? Apocalypse? With a start he sat up, searching the room for his enemy. Instead he looked in to Jean Grey's eyes.
//Calm down, Nate. You're safe,// she cast in to his mind. //Apocalypse had to retreat and you're now at the mansion.//
"I don't understand," Nate muttered and watched McCoy suspiciously. "How did I end up here?"
"After Apocalypse left we brought you here. You needed medical attention," Scott explained as he rushed in to the med lab. "No way we were going to leave you behind in that space ship." A grin appeared on Scott's face. "Actually, it was Wolverine who carried you back."
"Wolverine?" Nate shook his head. "Last thing I remember is Angel carrying me away from the battle and Gambit?"
"Oh, Remy," Jean said and smiled. "We need to tell you about him as well, but later. First, you need to rest."
"Does this mean I'm? stuck here?" Nate asked stunned. He was having a hard time dealing with this particular development. "I need to get back to my own people and?"
"Yes, I'm afraid it means you're stuck here, son," Scott said compassionately.
Nate stared in to his eyes. He'd once run from his parents and had never expected to meet them again. "Can I stay here?"
"Of course," Jean said in a pleased tone. "I would love to have you close."
"I'm not so sure about this," Nate objected. He was so used to fighting. Fighting Sinister or Apocalypse and now?what was he going to do now? Suddenly he realized the situation he was in. His father and mother were standing next to him and he was lying on an exam bed. //My parents,// he thought confused. He'd never had the chance to get to know them. Maybe this was his one chance, but did he want to grow attached to them? One day he would have to return to his own dimension and?
He was still discussing this privately, when Scott pulled him in to sitting position. His first reaction was to tell him off, but then he calmed down. Scott had called him son, so his father might feel protective of him. The idea alone was enough to make him chuckle. They had to learn that he could take care of himself!
"Okay, now listen to me, Nate," Scott started in a lecturing tone. Dealing with Remy had taught him one or two things when it came down to talking to stubborn youngsters. "One, you're going to stay in the med lab as long as Hank deems that necessary, and no, you're not allowed to protest."
Nate's eyes grew big. Somehow, this Scott Summers seemed different from the one he had met before.
"Secondly, Magneto is staying at the mansion and you're not going to pick a fight, understood?"
Puzzled, Nate nodded his head. He'd saved Magneto once, but he wondered how it was possible that the man was now living under the same roof as the X-Men. Had he entered a dimension he had never visited before?
"Furthermore, you're going to behave yourself, young man. There are a lot of things we need to tell you and?" Scott looked up, hearing Jean giggle in to his mind. Nate must have registered it too, judging from the changed facial expression.
"Scott, let's take this slowly," Hank said amused. "Your son is still fighting exhaustion and he'll have to stay here a little longer."
Nate wanted to protest. Yes, he was tired, but perfectly capable of getting to his feet. To prove his point he swung his feet on to the floor and pushed himself up from the exam table. He never expected that his knees would give out on him. If it hadn't been for Scott he would have hit the floor.
"You're stubborn!" Scott chided his son and helped him to lie down again. "Just accept that you're going nowhere at the moment. Might as well make the best of it and give us a chance to get to know you!"
Nate sighed, realizing he was in no condition to leave. Then he remembered something Jean had said and asked, "What's this about Gambit?" Now that he was thinking about it, how come LeBeau had been able to channel that energy in to his mind? It should have hurt. Instead it had felt? familiar, like his own powers had been boosted.
Jean took hold of her son's hand and rubbed the knuckles. She loved spending time with him and had never felt this close to Nate. She desperately craved a relationship with her son. "Sinister created you to fight Apocalypse for him?"
"Yes?" Nate shrugged his shoulders and waited for her to continue.
"In our dimension Sinister also experimented with Scott's DNA and mine," Jean said in a tender tone. "But this Sinister added Magneto's DNA to ours."
"Are you telling me??" Nate couldn't help reaching in to Jean's mind and caught a flash of Gambit, strapped to Sinister's exam table.
Scott took over, seeing Jean's watering eyes. "Remy is? your half brother, I guess. Except for Magneto's DNA?" Scott choked on the words, seeing Nate's infuriated expression. "Nate?"
"It was bad enough that Sinister did this to me! Now I've got to find out that Gambit is also one of his?" Swallowing hard, Nate stared at his parents. "It explains the way he empowered my abilities when I was fighting Apocalypse."
Hank cut in, realizing there was something else Nate needed to know. "Remy's an empath as well, so please control your rage when talking to him."
"Talk to him?" Nate said thoughtfully. "Yes, maybe I should talk to Gambit? Remy," he corrected himself. "Do you think he will come down here to talk to me?"
Scott looked doubtfully. "Remy really hates the med lab, reminds him of?"
"Sinister's lab," Nate finished for him. "I can understand that." Closing his eyes he wondered about this new development. //A half brother?// "When I can I leave the med lab?" he asked McCoy.
"If you're concerned about speaking to Remy as quickly as possible I will carry you to the living room to meet him. But I will keep a close eye on you!" Hank said in a firm tone.
Nate sought out Jean's eyes. //My mother,// he reminded himself. It was the strangest thing to be able to look in to her eyes. //Will you ask? Remy to talk to me?//
//I will,// Jean confirmed and got to her feet. //Scott will keep you company in the meantime.//
Nate looked annoyed at that. // I can take care of myself,// he told her.
//I know, Nate, but let us parents do our thing too?// Scott interrupted, as he had listened to their telepathic conversation.
Nate's gaze darkened at hearing that remark, but he stopped protesting their decisions.
Remy climbed out of bed after covering Bobby's naked body with the comforter. He had a lot of thinking to do and he wasn't sure where to start.
The thing that upset him most was that he had almost succeeded in destroying Apocalypse. If the mutant hadn't retreated, Apocalypse would have lost. Possessing such power frightened him, but at the same time he realized that it had been his rage that had whipped his energy to such heights.
And then there was Michael. Bobby had doubtlessly read his thoughts, as he had suggested adopting the boy. No one else would take the child in and he knew best how it felt to be shunned for having alien eyes. But was he ready for the responsibility that came with adopting Michael? He was still sorting out his own life!
But what would be the alternative? Sooner or later some official would show up and demand that the child was handed back to child protection services. They would put Michael in another home where he would be shunned for his eyes and claws.
Bobby didn't seem hesitant when it came down to adopting Michael. But then again, Bobby's strength stunned him time and time again. Carefully, he pulled Bobby's ring from his pocket and looked at it. He was going to have it engraved, but Apocalypse had messed up his plans.
Concentrating hard, he focused his thoughts and began changing the metal. A moment later the words he had envisioned in his mind, had taken shape in the metal. Contented, he slipped it back in to his pocket.
//An' what 'bout Nate?// he wondered privately. Would Nate Grey accept him as his half brother? Things could get pretty awkward if Nate refused to accept the truth.
//Too many questions an' no answers.//
Sighing, he walked in to the bathroom to take a quick shower. As he disposed of the black shirt, he caught the reflection of his face in the mirror. His eyes stared back at him, but he no longer thought of them as Devil's eyes. Magnus' kick in the butt had worked.
It was true that he was used to doing things on his own. For a long time he'd been afraid to let others in. Things had changed when Magnus had found him in Antarctica. Magneto had been the first to penetrate and shatter his defenses.
His return to the mansion hadn't been completely voluntary, but the fact that Jean had pulled him inside had warmed his heart. His breaking point had been hearing Bobby's admission that he had fallen in love with him. Bobby?
Affectionately, he looked at his lover asleep in the bed. Bobby was the best thing that had ever happened to him. A deep sigh fled his lips as he remembered Rogue's brief return to the mansion. He'd been convinced that Warren would turn on him, when Rogue had reminded him of the Massacre in the Morlock tunnels, but no, Warren had made the decision to back him up.
In spite of everything bad that happened lately, like Sinister's manipulations and Apocalypse kidnapping Nate and Warren, these had been the happiest weeks of his life. He'd learned his parents' true identity and Magnus had even moved in to the mansion to get to know him.
Suddenly, everything crashed in on him and emotionally shaken up, he dropped to his knees. He started to cry, not even trying to keep the emotions back.
"Remy? What's wrong?" His lover's emotions had woken him and Bobby had hurried in to the bathroom. He knelt next to Remy, trying to make sense of his lover's confused feelings. "Did something upset you?"
Remy raised his eyes and smiled. "Cher, I've never been dis happy."
Relieved, Bobby shook his head. "So these are tears of joy?" and tried hard to sort out Remy's emotions.
Remy nodded his head. "Je t'aime, cher?"
Bobby chuckled. "You startled me! I'm so used to you being depressed?"
"Dat's in de past," Remy quipped. "But I must admit t'? bein' a li'l confused."
"That's perfectly understandable," Bobby said soothingly and wiped away Remy's tears. "So I guess this means that you're happy here?"
"Ouiai?" Remy whispered and brushed Bobby's lips. "Are y' sure, cher? 'Bout adoptin' Michael?"
"Yes, I'm sure," Bobby replied softly and buried his hands in Remy's locks. "Ever made love in the bathroom?"
Remy grinned. "Not yet, cher?"
Bobby smiled seductively. "Wanna make love?"
Remy felt severely tempted, but? "Jean's on her way t' our room, maybe later?"
Disappointed, Bobby placed a passionate kiss on his lover's throat and then licked the sensitive spot underneath Remy's left ear. "Can't you tell her to come back later?" he asked pleadingly.
"Don' t'ink so, cher? she wants t' talk 'bout Nate." Sensing his lover's disappointment Remy wrapped warm sparkles of love around Bobby's thoughts.
Bobby moaned, as Remy's affection touched something deep inside his mind. "You know, I don't deserve you," he whimpered, remembering their first argument.
"Non, cher, I don' deserve y'," Remy said, playing along. This time however, his tone differed greatly from the one he had used during that evening in December.
"I better put some clothes on before Jean bursts in to the room?" Bobby got to his feet, pulling his lover along. "Or, I might get a shower first."
"Go 'head. Doubt I'll get de time t' shower. Jean's 'bout t' knock." The moment Remy finished his sentence someone knocked on the door.
"Lemme know should you need me?" Bobby asked tenderly. Talking to Nate wouldn't be easy and knowing Remy it would turn rather emotionally.
"I will," Remy promised and kissed his lover one more time before stepping in to the bedroom.
"Remy?" Jean knew her son was in there, but she didn't want to intrude.
"Un moment," Remy called out as he quickly changed in to a clean pair of jeans and one of Bobby's sweaters. "Y' can come 'side," he told her and slipped in to the bathroom to fetch a brush and comb. His hair was mess, as Bobby loved to tangle his fingers in his locks.
Bobby yelped as the door opened, expecting Jean to peek inside. He sighed relieved, as he recognized Remy's eyes through the steam. //Close the door!//
Remy chuckled and obeyed. Jean had already stepped in to the bedroom and with a few brushes he untangled his hair.
Jean smiled. //You look rested.//
//Merci,// Remy replied. "Y' here t' talk 'bout Nate?"
//Yes, we told him who you are and he wants to see you. We know you hate the med lab so Hank moved him to the living room. Feeling this weak is hard on Nate. He's used to being in control and to take care of himself.//
"Know how dat feels," Remy commented and put on his boots. "I'm ready t' go."
Jean nodded her head. "Give him some time to get used to this. He feels stranded and? I even picked up on some fear."
//I understand,// Remy reassured her. //I'll do my best t' make him feel at home.//
Jean raised an eyebrow. "Scott told Nate to behave. Do I have to remind you of that as well?" The hint of mischief in his eyes surprised her.
"Mère, y' do trust y'r fils, don' you?" he quipped. His nerves were acting up and he was trying hard not to show it.
"I trust you, Remy," Jean whispered. He had called her mother again and this time she hadn't had to push him. "But I'm not so sure I can trust you with Nate."
"I'll behave," Remy said, as he calmed down. Facing Apocalypse hadn't scared him, but the prospect of talking to his half brother did.

 

Chapter Seventeen

//Merde, I'm nervous!// Remy thought uneasy. Until now he hadn't truly realized that he was going to talk to his half brother. He didn't know a thing about Nate, except that the young man hated Apocalypse with a vengeance.
"Want me to stay?" Jean asked, sensing his disturbed thoughts. She wondered about Remy. He had faced Apocalypse without any fear at all, but was now trembling at the prospect of a simple conversation.
Remy forced himself to smile. "Merci, but I can manage." Having her present might make things even more awkward and he wanted to find out what kind of man Nate was on his own.
Jean nodded her head in understanding. //I'm sure the two of you will get along.//
//I ain't dat sure,// Remy replied and drew a deep breath, as they reached the living room. Alien thoughts probed his defenses. Nate was awake, but weak and couldn't get passed his barriers.
As he stepped into the living room, Nate's eyes found his at once. Nate had succeeded in pushing himself up from the couch and was now leaning heavily against the wall. Cold sweat had appeared on his brow, a sure sign that he needed rest and sleep. With a courteous nod, Remy acknowledged his half brother's presence.
Nate felt more nervous than he wanted to admit. Hell, this entire situation was unsettling! He'd never imagined that he would be one day living with his parents! And then there was Gambit, a man he hardly knew and who'd saved his life? his half brother. "Remy?" he started hesitantly.
"Ouiai." Remy walked over to the couch and sat down, hoping that Nate would take the hint and join him. Nate's apparent weakness worried him. After what seemed hours, Nate started to move and took a seat opposite him. Pleased, Remy smiled. "Must admit t' bein' surprised dat I found y' dere. Apocalypse an' y' go way back?"
"Yes, we do," Nate confirmed. "But? the two of us have a lot more in common." Leaning back, he studied Gambit. Something about the man had changed. "Sinister."
Thoughtfully, Remy nodded his head. "Ouiai, but de bastard's gone, toget'er wid his clones." A probing glance told him that Nate had wanted to add something to that name.
"Jean told me that 'your' Sinister is dead?" Somehow, it felt? odd to discuss their nemesis like this.
"Magnus an' Scott took him out, ouiai. Sinister?" Remy grew quiet, as memories of his last imprisonment floated through his mind.
Nate couldn't help but pick up on those thoughts and he suspected that Remy had lowered his defenses. "I'm glad that he's no longer able to? //hurt you.// The switch from verbal to telepathic conversation simply happened. //I'm sorry, didn't want to trespass in to your mind.//
/Don' worry 'bout it, mon ami,// Remy replied reassuringly and suddenly realized what had happened. //A link?//
//I'm afraid you're right,// Nate confirmed. //Must be the familiar texture of our minds. It draws us together. Do you mind? I can put up some barriers.//
//Non, ain't necessary,// Remy whispered in to Nate's mind. //If y're comfortable wid it.//
//Gambit,// Nate started, but then corrected himself. //Remy? I never had a chance to get to know my parents? my family.//
//Know how dat feels,// Remy replied. //Y' want t' stay here, don' y'? Dat would make Jean very happy.//
//But do I fit in?// Nate suddenly realized that he was revealing his darkest secrets and doubts to Remy. Why was he so willing to confide in Gambit? Just because they shared some genes?
Remy whispered apologetically, "My mistake, mon ami? Must be de empat'y kickin' in an' grabbin' y'. Still need t' work on controlin' it. Sometimes it slips 'way an'?"
Feeling sympathetic, Nate said reassuringly, "Jean also told me that you only recently discovered these talents." Yes, maybe it was Remy's empathy subconsciously influencing him, but he didn't mind. "So, this means we're brothers?"
"Half brot'ers," Remy corrected him gingerly.
"I'm not that picky," Nate reassured him in a confident tone. Leaning back in to the comfort of the sofa he fought hard to keep his eyes open. //I never had a brother? I think I'll like having a family.// Fatigue caused him to switch back to telepathy. //You don't mind me staying here? After all you lived here first and I don't want to?//
Vehemently, Remy shook his head. //Would love havin' y' here, Nate.//
Nate tasted the truth in that statement and sleepily, closed his eyes. //Life has taken a strange turn indeed,// he mused. //I never had a home, a REAL home. This feels nice.//
Remy smiled affectionately. //Know how y' feel, mon frère.//
Nate's eyes opened one last time to look at Remy's face. //In a strange way I'm glad that Apocalypse kidnapped me. If he hadn't, I wouldn't have been here. Wouldn't have met you or?//
//Why don' y' get some sleep?// Remy asked and got to his feet. //We can talk later.// Strange, his nervousness had completely vanished and he liked Nate better than he'd expected. //It feels nice, havin' a petit frère.//
//Did I hear something condescending in that remark?// Nate sent in a joking tone. //I'm older than you are!//
Remy raised an eyebrow. //We'll find out later, cher. I better call Henri now t' have a look at y'.//
Nate growled disdainfully. //Don't need a doctor?//
Chuckling, Remy threw back his head. Nate had fallen asleep, but there was still a defiant expression on his face. //An' dey t'ink I'm trouble!//
"Your talk went well?" Scott inquired, as Remy entered the kitchen to grab a quick snack.
A smile still lingered on his face, as he answered the question. "Mais ouiai. Actually," and he threw Scott a meaningful look, "Nate reminds me of someone I know."
Scott faked surprise. "Yes, he's definitely trouble, reminds me of one Remy LeBeau."
"Y' don' play fair," Remy said chidingly and dug in to his sandwich. "Nate will like it here," he added a moment later.
"I hope so," Scott confirmed. "Will take me some time, getting used to having two adult sons!"
Remy smiled. "It's hard t' believe dat we're fat'er an' son, non?"
"Sometimes," Scott admitted, "But I'm glad that we discovered the truth." Scott looked up from his coffee mug and in to his son's eyes. "If we hadn't found out about Sinister, I would never have known that you're my son. I would never have forgiven myself for that. I can't believe that we didn't look in to your past earlier! A simple DNA test was all it took!"
"Means a lot t' me t' hear y' say dat," Remy whispered. "At first I wasn' sure how y' would react? I t'ought y'd hate me."
"Never," Scott declared passionately and squeezed his son's hand in an attempt to reassure the younger man. It was time to change the subject and he said, "Did you already make up your mind about Michael? Bobby hinted that you'd like to adopt the boy? I haven't talked to him yet, but I plan on correcting that ASAP."
"Dat eager t' become a grand-père?" Remy quipped.
"Remy!" Scott admonished him. "From what Jean told me he's a good kid and I wouldn't be surprised to learn that you've already found a way in to his heart?" Scott registered Remy's puzzled look. "The eyes," he explained.
"Mais dat?" Remy muttered. "Never expected t' find him at de shelter. Non, haven' decided yet."
"Why?" Scott cocked his head. Although Remy's self-confidence had grown, there was still a hint of insecurity in the red on black eyes.
"I don' know how t' raise a petite!" Remy exclaimed. "What if I do everyt'ing wrong?" Self-doubt echoed in his voice. "I want what's best for de petite."
"Remy," Scott whispered compassionately and his smile sparkled as he addressed his son. "Adopt Michael or you'll never forgive yourself. You don't get a manual on how to be the perfect father. Give Michael the love he deserves."
Remy stared in to Scott's eyes, realizing the man had made a valid point. "Mais, what if I screw up?"
Scott grinned. "You won't," he stated "But if you're that worried, why not let the boy decide? He can tell you whether he wants you to adopt him or not." Scott placed an arm around Remy's shoulder and pushed him in to the corridor. "Now go and ask him!" he ordered.
Remy grinned. "Mais ouiai, daddy," he whispered teasingly and dashed out of the kitchen.
Pleased, Scott sipped from his coffee. Yes, Remy would make a great dad?
Michael was staring at Eddie, trying to think up a new name for the bear, as someone knocked on the door. Good, maybe now he'd get some answer to why he'd woken up in his bed, //my own bed!// He distinctly remembered falling asleep in Remy's room. Someone had carried him back here. "Yes?"
"Can I talk t' y', petite?" Remy asked, as he pushed the door ajar.
Michael's smile brightened. "Remy!" he exclaimed and ran over to his new friend. "Do you know a good name for my bear?"
Smiling, Remy took hold of the teddy bear and sat down on the bed. Michael climbed in to position next to him and waited expectedly. Why had Remy come to his room?
"I want t' ask y' somet'ing, petite," he started hesitantly. Was he doing the right thing or not?
"Yes?" Michael hugged the bear, as Remy returned it to him. These last few days, which he had spent at the mansion, had been the best of his life. Even his parents had never fussed over him like this. The alcohol and drugs? No, he wasn't going to remember the bad times! Quickly, he pushed back the memories and focused on Remy, who was eying him critically.
//Alcohol an' drugs?// Remy thought worried. Michael had kept that hidden from him until now. But he knew best what living on the streets could do to a person, what changes it caused. Although he had always stayed away from drugs, he had used his imagination to escape his misery, envisioning having a family that cared about him. Reality had always shattered his fragile illusion in the end.
"Petite," he whispered and stroked back a silvery lock of hair. "I made some phone calls."
Puzzled, Michael's eyes grew big. "Why? Whom did you call?"
"A lawyer, child protection services?" Remy froze, sensing the sudden fear and disappointment in Michael's mind. "Non, petite! I ain' sendin' y' back!"
Michael released a strangled sigh. "Why did you call those people?"
"'Cause?" Suddenly, Remy felt lost for words. He should have brought Bobby along! His lover would have known how to tell the boy about their plans! "I want t' make sure dat y' never end up on dem streets 'gain, petite."
Frustrated, Michael flung the teddy bear on to the floor. "I don't understand!"
"I? non, Bobby an' I want t'?" Merde, why was this so difficult? //Because I'm 'fraid dat Michael will say non//.
"Are you telling me that I can stay here? Live here at the mansion?" Michael offered, desperately trying to make sense of Remy's stuttered words.
Remy licked his lips and gathered his courage. "Bobby an' I want t' adopt y'," he whispered. Michael's black eyes were impossible to read, but the boy's emotions were as clear as crystal. No matter what the boy would say, he was going to listen to Michael's emotions and base his decision on whatever he picked up. Michael might say yes because the boy didn't want to hurt his feelings, but emotions couldn't lie. //De curse of bein' an empat'!// he realized slightly embittered.
"You want to be my new daddy?" Michael whispered in disbelief. "Are you sure?" This couldn't be happening! He couldn't be this lucky! It had been his dream to find someone who wanted to take care of him, who wanted to love him and now Remy was offering that to him and even more? Making it official and adopt him? Acting on impulse Michael flung his arms around Remy's neck and hugged him.
Michael's intense happiness took him by surprise, as he never expected such an overwhelming reaction. No way Michael was faking this! The prospect of being adopted thrilled the boy.
"Does that mean I get two daddies? You and Bobby?" Michael questioned mischievously. "And does that make Logan and Warren uncles? Uncle Fur Ball sounds nice too!" His eyes were watering with tears of happiness. "I don't ever have to go back to the streets or the shelters?"
"Never, petite," Remy promised passionately and hugged Michael back. He still couldn't believe that Michael had said yes. "You also have grand pères, petite."
Michael shot him a confused glance. "I have what?" he asked, unfamiliar with the word.
"Grand daddies," Remy said, explaining the term to him. "An' a grand mot'er, Jean. I t'ink y' already met her."
"I did. I like her. She's a nice lady." Michael beamed with pride and happiness. "But about those grand daddies?"
"I will introduce y' t' dem, petite," Remy whispered and sighed relieved. "Y're sure 'bout dis?"
"You want me as your son?" Michael answered Remy with a question of his own.
"I do," Remy admitted. "I want t' take care of y', be dere for y'. I want t' see y' grow up an' be happy. Y' need t' learn how t' handle dose claws an' Logan?"
Michael leaned in closer and whispered, "Is it true that you call him Wolvie?"
Remy grinned. "Dat's true. Must be 'cause I talk so funny," he replied, remembering Michael's remarks as they had left the shelter. "Y' okay wid a père who talks funny?"
"Oh yes!" Michael exclaimed and was about to continue as someone knocked on the door.
"Y' can come 'side, cher," Remy whispered. He'd sensed Bobby's arrival and watched closely as the door opened. Doubtlessly, his lover had listened to his conversation with Michael via the link.
Bobby smiled, as he closed the door behind him. //You finally made up your mind?// he asked his lover.
//I did,// Remy sent passionately. //An' he likes de idea of livin' here, wid us.//
Bobby sat on his heels in front of Michael and studied the boy's face. "I know this must be weird," he said reassuringly. "We're mutants, like you are, but? you're going to have two daddies. That doesn't bother you?"
Michael shook his head. "No, it doesn't. I like both of you!" His voice carried great enthusiasm and conviction. "I am going to have one big family!" he suddenly realized.
Bobby and Remy exchanged a glance. //You made the right decision, Remy,// Bobby told his lover.
//I hope so, cher,// Remy cast and wrapped his fingers around Bobby's. //I couldn' have done it wit'out y'.//
Bobby kissed the back of Remy's hand and tangled his fingers affectionately in Michael's hair. "C'mon, let's tell the others!"
The three of them walked in to the corridor and Remy suddenly realized that his wish had come true. He'd found his family, a lover and a son. Having a family, which cared for him no longer was an illusion. His fragile illusion had become reality.
The end for now? :p
Epilogue
"Cher?" Quietly, Remy sat down on their bed. Bobby was still asleep. Watching over him during these last days had drained his love. So much had happened and his head still reeled. He'd almost destroyed Apocalypse, had found his brother Nate and finally, they had decided to adopt Michael. He still remembered Michael's joy when he had told the boy the news. Michael had unconditionally accepted them as his parents, had never seemed uncomfortable at having two daddies instead of a mum and a dad.
//Was I like dat, back den when Jean-Luc took me in?// he wondered silently. It had taken Jean-Luc and tante months to gain his trust and Michael already trusted him. Maybe it was the eyes, maybe something else. //Mebbe I should ask Henri to test Michael's DNA. What if he's related to a mutant we know?// Michael had told him that his parents had died during their time on the streets, but what if there was an uncle or an aunt who wanted custody of the boy? Remy wasn't sure he could ever give up on Michael if someone claimed him in the near future.
//Love?// Bobby opened his eyes. Remy's musings had disturbed his sleep. "Did you talk to Nate?" he pushed himself into a sitting position and curled his fingers around Remy's. The remarkable change, which had taken place in his lover, still baffled him. Only months ago the Cajun had been an emotional wreck. But the fact that Jean, Magnus and Scott had accepted him as their son had changed his love forever.
"Oui, I did," Remy said aloud and tangled his fingers in Bobby's soft hair. "We'll try and work t'ings out."
Bobby pushed back the comforter and stretched his body. "What about Michael?"
"I sent de request to adopt him one hour ago. De professor promised to help me wrestle t'rough all necessary aut'orities and paperwork."
"Remy?" Bobby leaned in closer, shot his lover a radiant smile and dove for his lips. The moment their lips touched a sparkle of electricity sizzled in the air.
Remy smiled apologetically. "Must be de magnetic field. Kinda low on energy right now," he explained.
"Magnetic love, huh?" Bobby quipped mischievously and traced the insides of Remy's luscious lips with his fingertips.
//Still got your ring, cher,// Remy cast into his lover's mind.
//You didn't have the time to have it engraved,// Bobby realized and smiled lazily. //Last time you had no idea what the inscription should read.//
//I know now,// Remy corrected his lover and fumbled in his pockets. Presenting the ring to his lover, he pressed a kiss on Bobby's fingertips. //Merci, cher.//
Bobby shook his head. //No, I should thank you. Do you have any idea how much your love means to me?//
Remy stared at Bobby's fingers. His lover took hold of the ring and tried to read the inscription.
"It's kinda hard to read in the half dark," Bobby said jokingly.
Remy's lips quavered. "Know it sounds corny, cher, mais? it comes from de heart." The words formed in his mind like they had in the ring. //Je t'aime pour toute éternité.//
Bobby's eyes suddenly swam with tears.
"Cher?" Remy whispered and pulled his love close. //What did I do wrong?//
"Does that mean what I think it means?" Bobby quickly wiped away the tears that had escaped his eyes.
"I will love you? for all eternity? always, cher. I'm yours? My soul belongs to you? you ARE my soul?" Remy said awkwardly, wondering why this had taken his lover aback. //You must know how much I love you, cher!//
"Slide it onto my finger," Bobby said softly. This vow of eternal love was so like Remy!
"Almost feel like marryin' you!" Remy said a little saddened. "Wish we could make dis? legal? aussi for Michael's sake."
"Maybe we can?" Bobby leapt up from the bed, abandoning his lover who looked perplexed. "Last night, I surfed the net," he started and there are ways to make this legal."
"Cher," Remy whispered puzzled. "Knowin' you want to be wid me is 'enough for me,"
"But you've got a point! Once we adopt Michael we're responsible for him!" Bobby returned to the bed. "Let me talk to a friend of mine. He's a lawyer."
Shyly, Remy locked eyes with his love. //You want to marry dis t'ief?//
"Heck! I will even propose to you!" Bobby slid down onto his knees, grabbed Remy's hand and smiled brilliantly. "Do you want to marry me, Remy LeBeau?"
"You know dat means Magnus and Scott will be your faders in law?" Remy pointed out to him. The sight of Bobby kneeling at his feet, looking at him like that, made his heart thump louder.
Bobby pretended to shudder. "I'm okay with Magnus, but Slim?" A grin crossed his face and he raised Remy's right hand to meet his lips. Slowly, one by own, he suckled his lover's fingertips. "Oui or non?" he said wickedly.
"Cher!" Remy exclaimed. "Of course it's oui! I want to spend de rest of my life wid you!"
Bobby pulled his love onto the floor. "Wanna make love?"
"You're méchant?" //Wicked!// Remy whispered breathlessly as Bobby's passion swept through him. "Oui, m'aimer. Make love to me, cher."
//Forever, my angel,// Bobby promised passionately.
//Je t'aime pour toute éternité.// Remy nodded his head, opened his mind and quavered. //Forever?//

 

END

 

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