Title: Return to Innocence
Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)
Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/
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Return to Innocence 3
By Morgana
True to his word, Apocalypse returned the next day. Remy was curled up on the exam bed, and only reluctantly raised his eyes when Apocalypse entered. In a weird way he felt thankful that Apocalypse had stopped the pain. Although Dark Beast still administered the concoction, he also gave him painkillers, which numbed his agony. The baby had grown since yesterday and it showed. His abdomen was no longer flat and the presence in his mind was still growing stronger. Thankfully, the child didn't seem to be in any pain. "Merci," he whispered eventually.
Apocalypse nodded his head once. "Is there anything you need... within limits of course."
"Pen and paper?" Remy wasn't sure Apocalypse would give him those things. The fact that he would never talk to Scott again made it necessary that he write everything down. Maybe Scott would find his letters and know he had never wanted to hurt his lover by doing this behind his back.
"Give him pen and paper," Apocalypse told Dark Beast, while advancing on his prisoner. "I can feel it. Your child is growing stronger. Do you have any idea how strong it will be? Stronger than Nate... Your DNA, combined with Scott Summers', will create one of the strongest mutants alive and your child will serve me."
"Non," Remy spat, defiantly. "Scott will make sure you never get your filt'y hands on our chile!"
Apocalypse smiled. "Gambit... I'll kill Summers after the baby has killed you. Don't you understand that this is one big trap? Scott and Essex will come for you and by destroying them I'll rid myself of their annoying presence. Your child will take its place as Death and lead my Horsemen to new victories."
Remy shivered violently. "I'd rat'er kill myself... and de chile..."
"Ah, but you can't. Dark Beast observes your every move and will prevent you from committing suicide. Don't be too eager to die. You'll be dead in six days anyway."
The presence in his mind stirred and Remy bit his lower lip. I'll find a way out, li'l one, trust me...
"Here, your pen and paper." Dark Beast dropped the items on the bed.
"Is the fetus developing according to plan?" Apocalypse's gaze shifted from Remy to Dark Beast. "The accelerated growth process won't harm it?"
Dark Beast shook his head. "No harm."
Pleased, Apocalypse turned away from Remy and left the exam room, gesturing Dark Beast to accompany him. Once he was sure that Remy couldn't hear him, he said, "Keep a close eye on him. He looks docile, but he's still willing to fight. If you have to kill him, make sure the child stays unharmed."
"I understand," Dark Beast mumbled, pleased.
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Scott, knowing I'll never see you again, makes this even harder. I'm writing this, uncertain if you'll ever read my words. Apocalypse granted me pen and paper and... and these will be my last words. Remy put down the pen, wondering how to start. Dark Beast had just given him another injection and even in spite of the painkillers, the backaches and headaches were killing him. His entire body hurt and his stomach convulsed frantically.
I regret being that secretively, but when you told me how much you wanted a family, I knew I had to act. What I said at the boathouse is true. I want you to be happy and... I was being selfish as well, but I didn't realize that at the time. Remy stared at the doorway, knowing Dark Beast was watching him closely.
You know what my childhood was like, cher. After fleeing the Antiquary I got a real home with Jean-Luc and being there taught me how important it is to have someone who loves you unconditionally. He never expected a personal revelation, but there it was. I wanted our child to have parents who loved unconditionally, who would be supportive and freely give the love my birth father never gave me. Essex told me he murdered by mother right after I was born and now history is going to repeat itself. Apocalypse will kill me to get to our child and... Mon Dieu, I don't want our child to suffer my fate.
But my hands are tied, cher. Our child is growing stronger every passing hour. I can feel it grow, feel the presence in my mind. How will the child react when I die? When the connection is torn apart? Cher, you have to save our child.
I don't know if and when you will ever read this letter. I just want you to know how much I love you. These last few weeks were the best of my life. You showed me the beauty of making love, of belonging. I'll try to write some more later, but right now I'm so tired. It's those drugs Dark Beast keeps feeding me. Please, cher, don't let Apocalypse ruin our child's life.
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Frustrated, Scott stared at the abandoned control center. "He's gone. Apocalypse is gone and we're too late! We're never going to find him!"
Warren was depressed as well. Essex had been so certain that they would find Apocalypse and Remy here. "What do we do now?"
"Search another one of his bases. We'll search them all until we find them!" Essex refused to give up, but they were running out of time. They only had five days left!
"Slim, maybe..."
"Just leave me alone, Warren!" Scott slammed the door behind him and retreated into the corridor to blow off some steam. Banging his fist into the wall, he cursed his own stupidity. "Why did I leave that day? Why couldn't I stay with you and be glad about the baby? Why did I run away? Why? Oh, Remy, I'm so sorry. This is all my fault. I should have trusted your judgment, but no, I thought I knew it all. Remy, I want you back..."
Warren exchanged a glance with Essex. They had heard Scott's words and felt equally depressed. "Do you think we'll find Remy in time?" Warren walked up to Essex, studying the older man. Essex's shoulders slumped forward and the eyes were dull and lifeless. "Don't tell me you've given up on Remy!"
"No, I haven't." Essex forced himself to keep up hope. "As I said earlier, we'll search his bases until we find the one where he's hiding Remy."
"Can we do that in five days? How many bases are there?" Scott had joined them again.
"A few..." Essex sighed. Suddenly, things looked hopeless.
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Four more days to go, cher. I wish you were here. Today, the child kicked me for the first time. I was waking up from a nap, -I nap all the time these days-, and the li'l one was kicking me. It felt... there are no words, cher. I wish you had felt it too.
I don't know if it's a boy or a girl. My telepathy tells me a lot, but the gender remains a secret. Does it matter to you if it's boy or a girl? I didn't even think about the names yet. I thought I had months before making a decision, but now those months have changed into days.
Apocalypse and Dark Beast are watching me. They're afraid I'm going to kill myself. I threatened to do that... but I can't do it. I can't kill our child. I still hope you'll find the li'l one in time. Please, cher, I'm afraid.
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Another day has passed. Three more until the birth of our child. Apocalypse keeps telling me that I won't survive the birth, that I'll never see our child and that hurts. Trying to distract myself, I've been thinking about names. If it's a girl, you could name her Jean. I think Jean would have liked that. And if it's a boy? Did I ever tell you about David and Benjamin? They were good friends, helped me through one of the roughest patches in life. I'd like Benny... if that's okay with you... not that I'll have a say in the matter.
Cher, maybe it's a good thing you can't see me now. You won't believe how much weight I've gained in just a few days. When I look down I can barely see my feet. It feels like the child is absorbing my energy and it probably is. Remy put down the pen and rubbed his abdomen beneath his shirt. At times, the child moved and he had never felt a closer connection to anyone before, even with Scott. I wanna see you grow up... wanna love you... wanna show you how bien life can be and instead I damned you to hell by lyin' to Scott.
Cher, I don't know how to say I'm sorry. I wanted to experience this with you. I wanted us to share the burden and pleasures of pregnancy. You could have given me back rubs... and I would love you to rub my feet right now, but it won't happen. Scott, I don't know where you are, but I know you're going insane by now... Please come after us and save the baby?
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Cher, what am I supposed to do? I've only got forty-eight hours left and...Ai, de baby kicked 'gain... Remy pushed a pillow behind his back and rode out the nagging pain. It won't be long and then Dark Beast will be back with another injection, the last one. They expect the child to be born in the next forty-eight hours. Unable to continue, Remy stared at the paper. Cher, I want you to be wit' me when it happens... not Dark Beast and Apocalypse. Dark Beast hinted he'd lemme bleed to deat'. But he couldn't tell Scott that. He had to be strong now.
Would you contact Jean-Luc and Mattie and tell them I died? Don't tell them how I died. Just say it was in battle and my body was vaporized, something like that. I don't want them to see my corpse and figure out the truth. Tell Bobby I like him a lot. And Warren... I would have liked to become friends; we were heading in that direction.
He released a strangled sigh as the baby shifted. The presence in his mind pushed deeper, nestling itself in his thoughts. Cher, I can feel our baby. The li'l one is making himself at home in my mind. I'm afraid you've got another telepath on your hands, don't know about the empathy. We're so deeply intertwined that it's hard to tell.
Cher, I don't know if I can write again. Dark Beast is prepping the operating theatre and it won't be long before he moves me out there. I... I've got to stop writing now....
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Famous last words, cher? Sorry, but I think I'm slowly losing my mind. This is the last time I can write down my thoughts. My time's almost up. I only got four more hours to go. Cher? Je t'aime, don't ever forget that. I fought Apocalypse and Dark Beast, but I'm hardly a match for them in my condition. Je t'aime, cher. Try to save the li'l one and love our child? Cher... Dark Beast is entering my room and... Adieu, cher... je t'aime... Remy faced Dark Beast and tried to fight down his rising panic. This was it.
"Get to your feet, LeBeau."
"I ain' sure I can..." He struggled into a sitting position, but the weight pushed him back down. "Mon Dieu, I can' do dis." His belly was round and the child ready to be born, but he felt incredibly weak. The child had absorbed his energy, his strength, and he was wasting away. Dark Beast and Apocalypse won' have to kill me, givin' birt' will!
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"This is the last base! Remy and Apocalypse have to be here!" Essex was panicking, but he didn't want Scott and Warren to know that he was losing it. During the last week, they had spent every minute together, sharing hope and despair.
"You're an empath. Can you feel Remy?" Warren was nervous as well and he didn't dare look at Scott, who had tightly locked away his emotions and was now acting as his old self, the hard ass team leader who refused to show any feelings. It was Scott's way of dealing with the situation, but Scott was shutting them out while they needed each other!
Hearing Warren's words, Scott looked expectedly at Essex. "Is Remy here?" He and Essex had buried the hatchet, working closely together in order to find Remy. Essex had convinced him that he was sincere and Scott had let go of most of his suspicions.
Essex focused inwardly and reached out with his empathy. Using this power felt odd as he hadn't used it for decades. He was about to give up, when he picked up his son's weak mind signature. "Yes! He's here," he exclaimed triumphantly. "We found Remy and he's still alive!"
Scott licked his lips, unable to show his excitement at hearing the good news. He wanted Remy and their child in his arms first. "What are we waiting for?"
"Remember the plan!" Warren stopped Scott. "Essex and I will distract Apocalypse while you go after Remy."
"Use the link," Essex advised. "As you get closer to Remy you'll feel him in your mind." Essex pointed Scott in the correct direction. "He's close... He's in an operating theatre and... and the child is about to be born. You have to hurry!"
Scott didn't bother to answer and disappeared in the corridor, leaving Warren and Essex behind.
Warren met Essex's eyes. "Apocalypse ruined my life... I want a piece of him."
Essex raised his hand. "I know what he did to you, but we're in no way as powerful as he is. We need to provide a distraction, nothing more. We can't destroy him and we would be fools to try. Distract him and then retreat..." Warren growled something unintelligible. "Believe me," Essex started, "I want him dead as well, but Apocalypse is nearly indestructible. Scott and Remy are depending on us. We distract Apocalypse and then return to the Blackbird."
Warren was about to point out to Essex that he didn't have to take any orders from him, but... Essex is right. This isn't the time for revenge... Remy needs us.
That's the right spirit...
Warren took a step away from Essex. "Stay out of my mind."
"Communicating telepathically enhances our chances of a surprise attack." He started walking down the corridor that would lead them to Apocalypse. "But if you want to throw away that advantage, there's nothing I can do to stop you."
"I hate it when you're right." Were they bantering? Warren followed Essex and lowered his shields.
A wise decision, Essex complimented his companion, wondering how they were going to distract Apocalypse long enough without getting killed.
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Apocalypse watched their arrival closely. Summers was going after LeBeau and didn't require his immediate attention. Dark Beast could handle that situation. Remy LeBeau would be dead once Summers reached his lover and Dark Beast would bring him the baby. No, he needed to focus on the two traitors; Essex and Worthington. He had never thought it possible that Essex could escape his grasp. By taking his empathy away, the scientist had become emotionless, fed by his eagerness to continue his research, but now...? Essex had even taken on his old form, no longer wearing the armor he had given the scientist.
"My revenge will be sweet." He was looking forward to getting back at Essex. He wouldn't kill his former minion, no, he had something far worse in mind for Essex. And then there was Worthington. Transforming him into Death had been risky, but Worthington had lived up to his expectations. It was a damn pity that Rogue had managed to reclaim him for the X-Men. He wasn't sure yet what kind of punishment Worthington deserved... maybe he would rip the mutant's wings off? Yes, he liked that idea.
Moving soundlessly, he sneaked up on them. They don't even know I'm here... Worthless insects... Essex, you disappoint me.
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Essex grabbed Warren's shoulder and forced the X-Man to a halt. Frozen in his tracks, he reached out telepathically. We're not longer alone.
Warren hated seeing Essex morph into Sinister and involuntarily took a step back. His subconscious still felt Sinister was the enemy. Now what?
We need to distract him and to stay alive. Use your flight to your advantage. My armor will protect me, but you'll have to be quick to avoid getting hit. Warren spread his wings and Essex felt awed. Had he really had a hand in destroying those wings? Apocalypse, the price was too high. You took away my humanity... Now that I've got it back I won't let you take it away from me again.
Warren flew close to the ceiling, trying to get a good view of the room they were in. Suddenly, his sharp eyes picked up Apocalypse's form. Essex, look out! He's coming up from behind you!
Essex quickly turned around to face Apocalypse. Seeing the look on the other mutant's face, he realized that they had been lured into a trap. The pure evil that Apocalypse radiated almost made him nauseous. "I want my son back." Raising his arms, the palms of his hands began to twitch, powering up for an energy blast.
Apocalypse laughed loudly. "Your son's dying as we speak. You crossed me... You defied me. I have to punish you, Essex."
Essex prepared to release the energy blast. He called me Essex; he knows the transformation is complete. The empathy's back and I can't go back to being Sinister, he knows it! That means he's going to kill me... and Remy! He had forgotten about Warren and was startled when the X-Man launched an attack.
"Puny insect!" Apocalypse caught Warren in mid flight and flung him against the metal wall. "I gave you power! I gave you immortality and you threw it away!"
Warren moaned, sliding down the wall. He hit the floor hard, realizing he had suffered at least one bruised or even broken rib but he wasn't giving up yet. He managed to get back to his feet, staggered, and leaned against the wall to support himself. Maybe it's not only one bruised rib... Fuck, it hurts! "You changed me into Death against my will! I never wanted to be a Horseman. I was in so much pain... my wings..." His emotions had gotten the better of him and that made him careless. He never saw the blast coming that Apocalypse aimed at him. He went down again and curled up, wrapping his arms around his ribcage. His eyes widened, seeing Apocalypse stalk toward him. Fuck, I'm in no shape to fight him...
"Stay away from him," Essex whispered in a low tone. The warning, the threat, was clearly audible.
Amused, Apocalypse's gaze shifted from Warren to Essex. "I'm going to rip his wings off... and you're next."
The sudden terror that emanated from Warren made Essex flinch. Damn his empathy! Now he remembered why he had always locked it away. He strengthened his shields, but it was too late. Memories of losing his wings consumed Warren. I've got to stop this... "It ends here, Apocalypse."
Apocalypse grinned. "Yes, it ends here... for you!" He raised his hands and a blue cloud fled his fingertips, heading in Essex's direction. "I gave you these powers... and I can take them away!"
The blue cloud surrounded him and Essex screamed in pain. He collapsed onto his knees and clutched his head between his hands. His body convulsed in pain as the armor was ripped from his skin. His brow and his eyes burned and he collapsed into himself. Feeling weak, he fought for breath, wondering why his skin was still crawling. He opened his eyes and forced himself to look at his hands. My God... The armor's gone... The energy that fed my blasts... gone... My knowledge... I'm forgetting things! A tormented scream left his lips. "No!"
Warren gathered his courage and his strength and pushed himself to his feet again. His courage was born out of despair, but he didn't hesitate and flung himself at Apocalypse, knowing he was going to pay a high price for his interference.
Enraged, Apocalypse had to divide his powers. Essex was still on his knees, growing weaker and younger... and Warren... "Those wings are mine!"
Warren's instincts kicked in. They had to retreat before Apocalypse would kill them both! Ignoring the burning pain in his chest, he changed direction and grabbed Essex's shoulders, taking him into the air with him. "Argh...!" His eyes almost bulged from their sockets, trying to carry the extra weight. He couldn't abandon Essex now!
Maneuvering skillfully, he managed to stay out of Apocalypse's firing range. He flew into a corridor and held onto Essex, who had lost consciousness.
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Cher, I'm so sorry. I never wanted it to end like dis. Wanted you to be happy, wanted to spend de rest of my life wit' you! Remy kept his eyes tightly closed as Dark Beast hovered above him. Although he was in no shape to fight Dark Beast, the other mutant was strapping him to the exam table, leaving him vulnerable and helpless.
"You don't need this anymore." Dark Beast used a pair of scissors to cut Remy's shirt in two.
Remy's hands changed into fists, wanting to cover his abdomen with his hands, shielding his baby from Dark Beast's touch. The baby was now a constant presence in his mind, calling out for reassurance and he empathically caressed the frightened presence. Je t'aime, li'l one. Would have loved to find out if you're a boy or a girl, mais... Scott, where are you? We're runnin' out of time!
Peeking through his eyelids at his huge belly, he struggled against the bonds as Dark Beast injected a dark liquid into the IV port. I wanna live! I wanna see my chil', wanna hold my baby! Why? Why can' I hold my li'l one? The look Dark Beast cast at him, made him wary. Apparently, this was it.
Dark Beast shrugged his shoulders. "I don't care whether you're conscious or not, but Apocalypse wants you to fall asleep peacefully... You won't wake up again though."
Remy fought the tears that threatened to spill from his eyes. Non, I don' wanna die! I'll fight it... fight it.... fight... Suddenly, the exam room around him faded as his mind fell into a dark, bottom-less pit.
Pleased, Dark Beast took hold of the scalpel and pushed it into the soft flesh. Remy would bleed to death.
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Apocalypse strode into the operating theatre. Dark Beast was bowed over their prisoner and still warm blood dripped from the exam table. It was a pity that LeBeau had to die, but the Cajun would never willingly hand over his child. As he reached the exam table, he heard the cry of a newborn. A new, powerful mutant had been born and the child would serve him, only him!
Coldly, his eyes scanned LeBeau's abused form. Dark Beast had performed a caesarian section, without bothering to close the wound. LeBeau was bleeding profusely and his insides showed. He no longer paid the Cajun any attention. "Give me the baby."
Dark Beast had wrapped the baby in a towel and was about to hand the child to Apocalypse when an optic blast nearly took his head off. "Summers!"
Apocalypse quickly turned around and his eyes settled on the other mutant. "You're too late. Your lover is dead and Essex and Worthington are licking their wounds."
Scott could only stare at his lover's battered form. "No!" Remy couldn't die, couldn't leave him! He had to act quickly, or his lover would bleed to death! Acting on pure instinct, he blasted away at Apocalypse, who was forced to retreat momentarily. Running toward Dark Beast, he launched another attack and managed to knock the mutant over while quickly wrapping his arms around his child. My child, my baby... oh, Remy... A violent sob left his lips, realizing that Remy was no longer breathing. "No!"
Apocalypse signaled Dark Beast to move in on Summers, who was consumed by grief. Rage and sorrow made Summers extremely dangerous and he was going to leave it to Dark Beast to eliminate this threat.
"Oh no!" Essex stormed forward. Warren was behind him, and the winged mutant was still in a great deal of pain from the injuries he had suffered. Essex quickly analyzed the situation. Remy was clinically dead and if he wanted to bring his son back, they had to leave for his lab, now! "Scott, keep them at bay!"
Scott reacted at once and his optic blast tore the air apart. Essex grabbed Remy and lifted his son in his arms. Their only chance was to leave this place via a tesseract, but... Did he still possess the power to open one? Apocalypse had tried to rip his powers from him; had Apocalypse succeeded or had Warren interfered just in time? Please... my son's life depends on it!
Scott could hardly believed his eyes, seeing the tesseract take shape. Realizing Essex's game plan, he joined them. Essex entered the tesseract first, cradling Remy's body close his chest. "Warren, get moving!" Scott had seen Warren's slow responses and deduced correctly that his teammate was injured.
Warren knew he didn't have the time to argue and stumbled through the tesseract. Scott turned to face Apocalypse. "You killed Remy... And I'll find a way to kill you!" As he dived into the tesseract, he heard Apocalypse's malicious laughter. A moment later, he hit the floor hard, protecting the baby with his own body. Knowing that Essex was taking care of Remy, he looked at the baby in his arms. Entranced, he stared into the black on red eyes. A soft gurgle left the baby's lips and Scott smiled affectionately. "Oh my, you're a charmer..." The baby's eyes had completely captivated him and only now he heard Essex's voice, telling him to hurry up and help him.
After wrapping the thick towel closely around the baby, he walked toward Warren, who had collapsed on a chair. "Here, take good care of..." Him? Her? I don't even know if it's a boy or a girl...
"Summers, I need your help, now!" Essex had already hooked Remy up to life support and was now busy examining the extent of his son's injuries. "You need to assist me during surgery!"
Scott quickly joined Essex, leaving his child in Warren's care. Looking at Essex, he gasped. "What happened to you?" The moustache and beard were gone and Essex looked ten years younger.
"Apocalypse happened, but we don't have time for this. I want my son back." Preparing for surgery, he stared hard at Scott. "We're going to bring Remy back..."
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Despite the pain in his chest, Warren smiled at the baby. Getting used to the black on red eyes would take some time, but the baby was adorable. "Hey, we were really worried about you..." Realizing that Scott and Remy had never picked a name, he briefly lifted the towel. "Ah, a little boy...." The baby's big eyes locked with his and something tugged at his mind. After living with telepaths for years, he quickly identified the sensation. "And a telepath as well. Scott and Remy sure got their work cut out for them."
Ah, fuck, Remy... Ignoring his bruised ribs, he listened to Scott and Essex's concerned voices. Please, let Remy pull through.
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Essex had closed Remy's wound as quickly as possible and replaced the precious blood his son had lost. Remy was still on life support, still not breathing independently. Scott's trembling hands found Remy's, and almost got tangled up in the IV lines. "Careful," he said softly, lifting the IV line so Scott could hold Remy's hand tightly.
Scott moistened his lips. His mouth had gone dry and he was scared to ask Essex how Remy was doing. His lover wasn't even breathing on his own! Looking at Remy's naked chest, he cringed. Essex had put in a large number of stitches in order to give him a chance at life.
"He's strong. Remy's a fighter," Essex said, reassuringly. He covered Remy's body with a sheet and tucked it loosely around his son's form. While helping Remy to get more comfortable, his hands encountered several pieces of paper in his son's pocket. "What's this?" Scott wasn't paying him any attention; the other man was too focused on his lover. He unfolded the sheets of paper and quickly realized Scott was the one who was supposed to read them, but he couldn't stop himself and devoured every word.
Finally, after long minutes, Scott realized that Essex wasn't talking anymore. Essex looked at least ten years younger and the changed appearance still threw him off, but then he noticed the paper. "What's that?"
"You should read this." Essex handed Scott the letters and checked his son's readings one more time. If everything went according to plan Remy should be able to breathe on his own when he took him off the ventilator. There was definitely brain activity and that fact reassured him that Remy would find a way back to them. "I'll leave you alone now. I still need to check on Warren and the baby."
"Oh, my God," Scott stuttered. "The baby!" He'd completely forgotten about the baby! Feeling terribly guilty, he almost jumped to his feet, but Essex's hand settled onto his shoulder and kept him in place. "Stay with Remy. I'll bring the baby to you... Maybe having the child close will urge Remy to come back to us."
Scott nodded his head, but he didn't feel any less guilty. "Remy's going to be okay? Really?"
"Yes," Essex promised. "Read the letters..."
Still suffering from emotional shock, Scott started reading, while caressing his lover's fingers.
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Warren was on the brink of losing consciousness when Essex finally joined him. The winged X-Man was tightly holding the baby and the child had closed his eyes, dozing peacefully. Essex leaned in closer and tried to pry the baby from Warren's arms, but the younger man's eyes flashed open, ready to defend his helpless charge. "It's ok, I need to examine the baby."
Warren almost protested, but his lungs contracted and refused to draw in any oxygen. Essex quickly realized what was going on and took charge. After lifting the baby and putting him in his arms, he steered a stumbling Warren to another exam room in his lab. "Don't lie down. That will make breathing even harder on your lungs." He had placed the baby, who was soundly asleep, in a large chair and made sure it was cradled by soft sheets. As he concentrated on Warren, he realized that he first had to establish the extent of the damage, which Apocalypse had done, but first... "Can you hold on a little longer? I want to take the baby to Scott."
"Sure, I understand that Scott wants to see his son." Warren's eyes closed again; the pain was excruciating.
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Essex cradled the baby boy against his chest and remained standing in the doorway, looking at Scott and Remy. Scott had a tight hold on Remy's right hand. He had brought Remy's hand to his chest and was now kissing the knuckles. I never believed Summers could love anyone except Jean Grey. Maybe I was wrong... I can feel his love for my son... Damn empathy.
Scott didn't seem to notice his arrival so he cleared his throat, trying to draw the other man's attention. Finally, Scott looked up. "This is your son." Gently, he placed the baby in Scott's arms.
"My son? I've got a son?" Scott stared at the baby, recalling the black on red eyes. "Oh, Remy... I don't want to lose you. Our son needs you... We'll call him Benjamin, Benny, just as you wanted. He needs you, Remy." Tears flowed from beneath the visor and he left his chair, stretching out next to Remy, carefully staying clear of his lover's injuries. "Remy, Benny needs you... I need you, please... Don't let Apocalypse win." He placed the baby in Remy's arms, hoping their son's presence would help Remy to find the way back to them. "Remy, you have no idea how much I love you... Please..."
Essex lifted his right hand and was stunned to discover the wetness on his face. I can't be crying... I haven't cried in decades... Then, suddenly, Warren's agony brushed the edges of his mind and he wiped away his tears. He had done all he could for his son. Now Scott's love had to pull Remy back. Turning around, he headed for Warren.
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Warren had wrapped his arms around his waist, trying to alleviate some of the pressure on his ribs. Although his injuries weren't that severe, it was the emotional pain that consumed him. Apocalypse had transformed him into Death against his will, had given him metal wings and blue skin, things which he had never wanted. Now his feathers were back, but the blue skin was a constant reminder of his past. Facing Apocalypse had brought back a lot of suppressed memories, which had refused to surface before. He vividly recalled the pain, which he had suffered when the metal wings had sprung from his shoulder blades.
"First, we'll establish whether your ribs are broken or only bruised." Essex continued to talk while scanning his new patient. "I'll need to bandage them and you might want to stay off your feet for a few days. I can also give you something against the pain." A lifetime ago he had been a physician, whose goal in life had been easing his patients' agony... but then Adam had died and Apocalypse had appeared. A part of him, the empathic part, still remembered how to reassure his patient. "You saved my life."
Warren wanted to shrug it off, but didn't move, knowing the pain would increase if he did. "I couldn't let Apocalypse have you." I know what the bastard's capable of...
Essex studied an x-ray of Warren's chest. "No broken ribs," he said, pleased. "But your bruised ribs require support nonetheless. I'll bandage them."
Warren's eyes followed Essex as the other man gathered some bandages. "I don't understand you."
"I'd be surprised if you did," Essex admitted, while helping Warren into a sitting position. "Sit still." Skillfully, he bandaged the bruised ribs. "You're lucky he didn't do more damage."
"He was with playing us," Warren whispered. He bit his bottom lip to prevent a pain filled moan from leaving his lips. This is Sinister. No matter what he looks like you can't trust him! He used Remy to gather the Marauders, who... who injured my wings...
Essex picked up on the sudden shift in Warren's feelings. The other man suddenly radiated unease. "You don't trust me... I don't blame you. I wouldn't trust me if I were you either." He had finished applying the bandages and lowered Warren back into the pillows that supported him.
Tired, Warren answered Essex's gaze. "It's... hard to explain. I know you’ve changed, otherwise you wouldn't have helped Remy, but... you're still Sinister."
No, Sinister is gone. But he realized that Warren didn't see it that way. But he could try to make the other man understand. He pulled up a chair toward the exam bed and sat down, calmly returning Warren's glance. "Mister Sinister was Apocalypse's... creation. Yes, I know I'm to blame for his creation, but... Pain and guilt consumed me. I had just lost by firstborn and Adam... I loved him. I lost my mind and agreed to the pact... My wife tried to stop me, but I never listened to Rebecca. Now, I wish I had listened to her..."
Curiously, Warren listened. He had never known the person behind Sinister. Essex had feelings, had loved his son, and regretted making those horrible mistakes. "You loved your son."
Saddened, Essex nodded his head. "After losing Adam, nothing mattered, but then something unexpected happened... Remy brought back my feelings. And now my empathy's back..."
"Empathy?" Warren blinked. Of course, that's why he was able to connect to Remy when he was suffering from Scott's depression and later when Creed's instincts controlled him... "Are you also a telepath?"
Essex shook his head. "I used to be one... Mister Sinister was. I don't know what powers Apocalypse took back. My armor is gone... and so is my ability to launch blasts. But the one thing I can't understand is why he changed my age..."
Warren considered the question. "Magneto was once reduced to a child. Maybe that was Apocalypse's game plan as well, but I stopped him before he could carry out his plan. Me flying you out of there wasn't something Apocalypse expected."
"That's possible... But I'm not going back to find out. I'll just have to adapt to these new conditions..." He smiled. He felt strong, young and energetic. Maybe it was time to make a new start? To try again? Hesitantly, he raised his eyes and smiled. "I don't think I ever properly introduced myself. I'm Nathaniel...No, Nathan." That name suited him best. He didn't feel like Nathaniel anymore. That man had died when Adam had stopped breathing.
Warren searched the other man's eyes. I don't know what to make of you. Only a few months ago you were our enemy and now you're trying to be a friend. I don't know Nathaniel Essex... I only knew Mister Sinister... and I have no idea who you are now... Nathan... The X-Men had taken him in after Rogue had helped him regain his memories. They had never judged him for this dark period in his life. I don't have the right to judge you either... The X-Men gave me another chance... I guess you deserve one as well.
Nathan sensed the acceptance in Warren's mind and watched the other man's eyes close. The bruised ribs were causing Warren pain and he got to his feet and retrieved a painkiller. "This will help you deal with the pain."
Warren started to shake his head, but then stopped. "Okay." Making the decision to trust Nathan, he closed his eyes and felt the needle slip beneath his skin. Had he made a mistake in trusting the other man? He hoped not. A few seconds later, a warm sensation rushed through his veins, taking away most of the pain. "I'm tired."
"That's normal. The painkiller is also a mild sedative. You should give in to sleep."
Keep an eye on Remy? And the baby?
Picking up on Warren's thoughts, he flinched. It looked like he still had some telepathic qualities. "Don't worry. I'll look after them."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Emotionally wrung out, Scott caressed Remy's face. The baby was situated between them and his big eyes were focused on Remy. "Come on, Remy, he needs you."
"He'll come back when he's ready," Nathan said, entering the room. "Have faith in him. Right now Remy's still too weak; he's gathering his strength."
"Can't we take him off the ventilator, or do you think he can't breathe on his own yet?" Scott cradled Benny against his chest. "I can't imagine raising Benny without Remy. Just look at his eyes!"
Nathan glanced at the baby and understood. "Like father like son." He proceeded to free Remy from the ventilator and both men endured a few tense moments when Remy had to breathe on his own.
"Breathe damn it!" Scott wanted to shake Remy back to consciousness, but controlled his fears. Remy's chest moved, his lips quavered and he drew in a shaky breath. "Yes!" Scott watched his lover closely and after a few minutes was reassured that Remy was going to be all right. "Now what?" Questioningly, he looked at Essex. "Shouldn't we take him back to Westchester? Hank can monitor him closely."
"He's not fit for transport yet. He's not stable yet. Maybe in a few days." He walked over to the doorway, realizing Scott needed some privacy. "I'll know if he grows worse... I'll stay close." The link was still there, connecting him to his son. He left the room, hoping Remy would wake up shortly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He drifted in darkness. Every now and then a memory surprised him and he found himself staring in to the Antiquary's eyes... Then the old man's face changed into Sinister's, became Apocalypse and even Rogue floated in the dark mud of memories. Desperately, he tried to find something to hold on to. He couldn't find the way out of this labyrinth; he needed guidance! Unexpectedly, a soft voice called out to him.
"Come on, Remy, he needs you."
That voice was awfully familiar; if only he could identify it! The voice continued to pull him closer, further away from the darkness. Scott! It's Scott! How could I forget 'bout Scott? Mon Dieu... he's here, he came for me! Ai, what 'bout de baby? Li'l one, are you bien? The presence was still close, but felt incredibly weak. Li'l one, don' give up...
"Remy, I love you. Please open your eyes and look at me?" Scott had been talking nonstop for the last hour and he had the impression that Remy's breathing had quickened. His lover's mind felt like a whirlwind, but was slowing down. Was he finally getting through to Remy? "Come on, open your eyes for me."
Unable to deny his lover, Remy's eyes slowly opened. Unfocused, he stared at the blurry form in front of him. His vocal chords refused to work and he used telepathy instead. Scott? Cher? Is dat really you? Are you really here?
Scott released a trembling sigh. "Fuck, Remy, you scared the hell out of me!" In disbelief, he stared at the weak smile on his lover's face.
Sorry, cher... Didn' do it on purpose... What happened? His eyes finally focused and his breath caught, realizing Scott was this close.
"We got you back..." He moistened his lips and lifted Benny, making sure Remy saw their son. "Remy, this is Benny... Our son."
Benny? Enthralled, Remy stared at the baby, who was making pleased noises. Tiny hands reached for him and involuntarily he counted the little fingers. Dere are ten of dem.
"Yeah, all ten of them." Scott carefully placed Benny in Remy's arms, staying clear of his lover's injuries. "I love his eyes..."
Remy swallowed hard. Black on red... Didn' know dat would happen. Benny's tiny fingers had wrapped themselves around his ring finger and the baby made a giggling sound, obviously pleased with all the attention he was getting. Remy suddenly averted his eyes. Sorry, cher... Didn' wanna go behind your back. You okay wit' dis, or...? Dark Beast had kidnapped him before Scott had been able to give him an answer.
"I love Benny, Remy. And I love you. You gave me the greatest gift you could ever give me." Leaning in closer, he placed a chaste kiss on his lover's brow. "I'm sorry we couldn't enjoy your pregnancy... Dark Beast took that away from us, but we've got a wonderful son now..."
Tiredly, Remy smiled, finally attempting speech. "How did you get me 'way from dem?"
"Your father helped."
"Jean-Luc's here?" Remy looked about, searching for the Cajun.
"No, Essex helped."
"Essex?" Confused, Remy locked eyes with Scott. "Essex helped?"
"And so did Warren. They distracted Apocalypse while I got you out."
"And Warren?" Maybe he should deal with this later. He was too tired to wonder why Warren would help. "Stay close, cher?"
"For the rest of my life," Scott vowed.
Benny cooed, smiled, and grabbed Remy's finger tighter. "Mon Dieu, petit..." Remy kissed his son's soft hands, and suddenly realized how lucky he was to have his son in his arms. Scott's lips brushed his forehead and he smiled contently. He had finally found his family...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Twenty-four hours later both patients were feeling better. Nathan was checking on Warren and nodded his head approvingly. "Rest for another few days and your ribs should heal quickly."
Warren caught Nathan's glance. "What are you going to do once Remy's fit to return to the mansion? Stay here on your own, or...?"
"Or what?" Nathan leaned back against the wall. "I don't have much of a choice. Where else could I go?"
"You could come to the mansion with us. I'm sure Remy would be thrilled to spend more time with you... now that you're no longer Sinister."
"I don't know about that." Nathan shrugged his shoulders. "I doubt I'd feel welcome there."
"You could always give it a shot. You won't know until you’ve tried."
Nathan still wasn't sure. He would love to be close to Remy and Benny, but... "It's a bad idea." Considering this topic closed, he asked, "How's the pain?"
"I can deal with it. I felt worse when I realized what Apocalypse had done to me; turning me into Death."
Yes, we both have a reason to hate Apocalypse, but I made the pact willingly... "I need to check on Remy," Nathan announced, uncertain why he felt connected to Warren.
"Sure." Puzzled, Warren watched the other man leave. Something had happened just now, something that completely eluded him... What?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Merde, cher..." His abdomen hurt. He had winced seeing the stitches, figuring they would leave a ugly scar behind. Mais I gladly pay de price for havin' Benny. He still couldn't believe that Scott, Warren and Essex had defied Apocalypse in order to get him back. He still had to thank Warren for coming after him, but he was confined to bed and Scott made sure he stayed off his feet. Benny was amazing. The baby's black on red eyes could captivate him for hours and he caught himself counting his toes and fingers repeatedly. Had he ever been happier in his life? Scott never left his side. At first, he had been worried that Scott was still mad at him for going behind his back, but his lover absolutely adored Benny and he couldn't find a single trace of anger in Scott's mind. Everything was working out!
"Hey, Remy, wouldn't you prefer staying at Hank's lab instead of here?" Scott caught the tremors that suddenly shook Remy's hand. "What is it?"
No, don' wanna be at his lab. Dark Beast...
Suddenly, Scott understood. Seeing Hank would constantly remind Remy of being at Dark Beast's mercy. Maybe they should stay here a little longer, at least until Remy felt stronger. "Sure, Remy, we'll stay." Remy's relieved sigh only confirmed his suspicions. "Benny's cute..." He hoped Remy would forget his fears and concentrate on their child instead.
"I do wonder 'bout de eyes, cher." Remy cocked his head and looked at Benny, who was resting beside him. He longed to hold him, but his injuries didn't allow that yet. His fingers caressed the baby's soft skin. "Can' believe he's our son, cher. I expected to be pregnant wit' him for several mont's... I can' believe he's here already."
"He's healthy," Scott said reassuringly. "Nathan examined him."
"Nat'an..." Remy grew quiet. It was amazing how easily Scott and Warren had accepted his father's presence. He had gulped himself, finding Apocalypse had made his father younger. And now he didn't have to worry anymore about Essex morphing into Sinister. His father no longer possessed Sinister's powers. He should definitely discuss all recent events in depth with his father, but Scott never left his side. "Cher?"
"What?" Scott had been lost in thought, staring into his son's eyes.
"I was t'inkin', and it's okay for you to say non... What if we asked Nat'an to come to de mansion wit' us?" He held his breath, uncertain how Scott would react.
Scott locked eyes with his lover. "Even Warren suggested that."
Remy raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?"
"Yeah... I'm not sure how I think about this, but it's worth a shot... and he is your father."
"What 'bout de ot'ers? Would de professor be okay wit' dis?"
"I think so, Remy. Charles believes in second chances. He wouldn't turn anyone away."
"Cher..." Remy suddenly remembered something. "Creed's in one of de tanks... Mebbe Charles will give him anot'er chance as well?"
"What? Creed's here?"
"Don' worry, cher. He's confined to his tank... Please, cher? I can feel him, feel his solitude... Mebbe Charles finds a way to help him?"
"I can't believe you're pleading on his behalf after what that bastard did to you." But Remy wouldn't be Remy if he didn't consider other people's needs as well as his own. "I'll talk to Nathan about it."
"About what?" Nathan entered the room and his eyes immediately traveled to the baby's. Briefly, he recalled holding Adam in his arms after his son had been born. He had never felt so much love for another being, not even Rebecca.
Remy shifted in the bed and repressed a moan. "You comin' to de mansion wit' us. What’s keepin’ you here?"
Nathan allowed a grin to break through. "I just had this conversation with Warren."
"You're my fat'er, de baby's grandfat'er... You're supposed to be close," Remy reasoned.
"What about the other X-Men?" Nathan walked toward the bed and offered Benny a finger. The baby grabbed it and pulled at it.
Remy smiled. "Benny likes you... And I don' care 'bout de ot'ers... We could stay at de boathouse... We would have some privacy dere."
Scott nodded his head. He didn't intend on sharing his happiness with the others twenty-four seven. He wanted some privacy. "The boathouse sounds great."
Enthusiastically, Remy tried to sit upright, but he had to abandon the effort. The pain was too much. He had refused painkillers, not wanting the meds to cloud his thoughts. "Even Scott agrees!"
"I'll think it over," Nathan promised. "But I came here to check on you. How are you doing today, Remy?"
"Except for de pain?" Remy smiled. "Jus' bien..." Benny cooed, trying to pull Nathan's finger closer. "I always t'ought babies cried nonstop, mais Benny..."
Scott agreed. Benny hadn't cried at all. "Maybe it's because he knows we love him, being a telepath... Do you think he's also an empath?"
"Don' know, cher... mais anyt'ing's possible." Remy let Nathan conduct his tests. His father even took a blood sample. "So, will I live?"
"Yes." Nathan returned the smile. "But you should rest now."
"One more thing..." Scott got to his feet and approached Nathan. "Can we talk in private?"
Surprised, Nathan nodded his head.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"It would mean a lot to Remy to have you close and you're welcome to stay at the boathouse," Scott assured the other man.
"I understand that. I even sense his desire to make me stay, but... there's so much going on in my life right now. I'm feeling things I didn't feel for ages..."
"Let Remy help." Scott searched for the right words. "He helped me see the truth. I denied I loved him because I felt dating Remy was wrong, that I should remain faithful to Jean."
"This is different. I haven't been human for so long..." Nathan looked around. The lab didn't hold his interest anymore.
"You can always leave Westchester..." Scott wondered how to bring up Creed. Remy's request to help the bastard had surprised even him. "And maybe Charles will find a way to help Creed as well."
Nathan chuckled. "Remy told you..."
"You have changed... Maybe Creed can change as well."
Nathan sighed. "We'll see what happens when Remy's strong enough to return to Westchester. I need that time to think about this."
"Sure," Scott said, eager to return to his lover's side. "I'll be with Remy in case you need to talk to me."
Nathan watched him leave, wondering what to do next.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Remy quavered as Scott finally placed Benny in his arms. During these last three days his injuries had begun to heal and the pain had grown slightly less. "Salut, petit..." Benny cooed, raised his arms and tried to reach for his face. Remy smiled and cradled his son against his chest. A wave of intense emotions suddenly swept through him; joy, contentment and curiosity. "Cher? Benny might be an empath too."
"That's just great," Scott said, jokingly. "Now I have two empaths on my hands." Sitting on the side of Remy's bed, he watched them closely. He didn't know if it was the eyes, or the way Remy and Benny interacted, but they seemed whole, together like this. He knew with certainty that he had been granted something special, a very special love. He remained silent, giving Remy the time to enjoy holding their son for the very first time. Later today they would return to Westchester, using one of Nathan's tesseracts. He had already contacted Hank to update him. Hank also knew about Dark Beast and had promised to act cautiously around Remy. I wonder how I'm going to explain Benny to the others? Yeah, Hank knows about the pregnancy, but the others don't.
"Cher?"
"Just thinking..." Scott said, reassuringly. "Bobby's at the boathouse right now, stocking the shelves and making sure we'll be comfortable there."
"Do dey know 'bout... Benny?"
"Only Hank knows..." Scott shifted on the bed, leaned in closer and tugged a stray look behind Remy's ear. "Are you sure you're up to going home?"
Remy nodded his head. "Is Nat'an comin' wit' us?"
"I haven't brought it up yet. He said he needed to think everything over."
"Cher, what do you t'ink he'll do?" During these last few days Nathan had turned out to be a caring father and grandfather and he didn't want to give this up yet.
"I think he'll accept." At least, Scott hoped so.
Chapter Four
Bored, Warren decided to leave his room in search of Nathan. He had grown used to the nagging pain in his chest and the bandages supported the bruised ribs, allowing him to move about on his own. Most of the time he followed Nathan's advice though, staying off his feet and resting. But being alone was getting to him and he needed some company. He had spoken to Remy and Scott and they had assured him that they were fine. Benny had smiled at him, and he had realized he already had a soft spot for the little guy.
Walking the corridors, he wondered where he was headed. A light at the end of the corridor guided him. The door was open and he stepped inside. Apparently, these were Nathan's quarters and he found the other man asleep in a chair. "That can't be comfortable." Looking about, he found that the room lacked a bed. "Sinister probably didn't need any sleep." But Nathan did. "Hey, wake up. Your back and neck's gonna kill you if you keep this up."
Nathan's eyes flashed open as he startled awake. "What?" Confused, he looked about.
"You fell asleep." Warren felt nervous, standing there. What the hell was going on with him? "Don't you have a bed?"
Nathan blinked. "A bed? I fell asleep? I haven't slept for..."
"Ages..." Warren finished, amused. "You're human again, remember? A bed is a necessity."
Nathan stretched carefully. His neck protested painfully and his back felt stiff. "I forget about that..." Slowly, he got to his feet. "I'm still getting used to this. When I was Sinister I didn't need to sleep, or eat."
Warren slowly lowered himself into the chair Nathan had just vacated. He still felt wobbly on his feet. "Are you coming with us or are you gonna stay here?"
The question surprised him. "You seem eager for me to accept the invitation... why? I was Sinister once."
Warren flinched involuntarily. "I got a second chance... You deserve one as well. You told me you accepted Apocalypse's offer because you were hurting after Adam's death... He played you, you know that, don't you?"
"I appreciate what you're trying to do, but I knew what I was getting myself into." That was only half-true, but he refused to see himself as a victim. "But I'll stay with Remy for a few more days. Then I'll probably leave Westchester."
Warren nodded his head. "I'm glad you decided to stay with Remy a little longer." And why did he feel glad that Nathan had accepted the offer? Why do I want him to stay? Looking at Nathan, he saw a dark-haired man with intelligent eyes, who was about his own age. It was hard to keep in mind that this man had once been Sinister... Things had changed... He was changing...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Things had changed... He was changing... He had been Nathaniel Essex first, then Mister Sinister and now he didn't really know who he was. But Warren seemed supportive, and whenever the winged X-Man was close, his empathy registered something, some emotion he couldn't identify. Did Warren know he was broadcasting? Had he ever felt this particular emotion before? He had to be careful not to broadcast his own emotions in return. Yawning, he studied the other man. Warren's right arm was wrapped around his chest, supporting his bruised ribs. What was that emotion?
"Is something wrong?" Warren felt uneasy, being studied like that.
"I don't know... I'm still getting used to being an empath."
Warren swallowed hard, realizing he should shield his emotions as well as his thoughts, but it was a little late to remember that. His eyes were glued to Nathan's and suddenly he felt the urge to run away and never talk to Nathan again. The burning sensation in the pit of his stomach intensified and it traveled straight to his groin. His eyes almost popped out of their sockets, realizing he was growing hard. "I've got to go now!" He almost jumped to his feet, repressed the pain in his chest and headed for the doorway.
Nathan watched him flee the room. His brow grew knitted as Warren's feelings touched his mind. Outwardly, he didn't react to the sudden revelation, but inwardly, he felt confused. He's attracted to me? To me? How can that be? He had always been attracted to men and had only married Rebecca because he wanted children. Oh, he had loved Rebecca in his own way, but she couldn't give him the things he wanted in life. And now Warren felt attracted to him? I should reconsider my decision. Accompanying them to Westchester is a bad idea... But Warren... Did he return Warren's feelings? He always felt something when he was close to the other man, but what was that something?
I don't need this complicating my life right now... He returned to the chair, collapsed on it and massaged his temples. When had his life become a mess?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scott shifted in the chair, instinctively tightening his hold on the baby. Baby? What's Benny doing in my arms? His eyes flashed open. When he had settled down in the chair, Remy and Benny had been asleep in the bed. Looking about, he realized Remy had left the room. Damn it, Remy! You're still confined to bed! Where did you go this time?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
His hand was steady as he pushed the button that would reveal Creed to him. The metal doors slid aside and Creed immediately looked at him. Shivers ran down his spine, seeing the expression in the other man's eyes. He almost reconsidered, but he was determined to do the right thing. Opening his shields, he cautiously probed Creed's thoughts.
LeBeau, what are you doin' here?
Remy licked his lips. You called me here...
I didn't, Creed insisted. But now that you're here... Why did you help me? Why did you ask Sinister to stop the electric shocks?
Cause you were hurtin'...
Creed's eyes narrowed. I might have underestimated you... You ain't just a telepath... You're empath too?
Remy nodded his head. As long as the tank kept Creed at bay, he felt safe talking to the other mutant.
So why are you back now? Floating in the cold water, his eyes remained locked with his visitor's.
To let you know dat I wanna honor your agreement wit' de professor. He promised to work wit' you on controllin' your instincts. De X-Men keep deir promises. We'll try to help you. Remy wanted to return to his room to take his son in his arms again, but he had to do this first. What did you hope to archive by kidnappin' me? I don' know how to work my telepat'y... Why not take de professor or Betsy? Why me?
We got a history together, Creed explained. He had never thought of kidnapping someone else. Why are you doin' this for me?
I believe in second chances...
"Remy, you shouldn't be here." Nathan had felt Remy's emotional turmoil and followed their link, which had brought him here. "You should be resting." He pushed the button again and the metal doors slipped in place, burying Creed in darkness again.
"You'll let us try to help him, won' you? I'm sure de professor can help him."
"Your professor can try," Nathan promised. "But I'm taking you back to your room now. Scott will be worried when he finds you gone."
Remy allowed his father to support him as they made their way back to his room. "I feel like I'm livin' in a dream," he admitted. "You always were my nemesis and now... now you're my fat'er..."
Nathan nodded his head. "I know the feeling."
"Remy! Where the hell did you go?" Relieved at having found his lover, Scott hurried toward Remy. Benny was crying softly, but the sobbing stopped once Remy was close again.
Remy smiled affectionately and allowed Benny to grab his fingers. "Sorry, petit." Looking up at Scott he felt his lover's concern. "I had to talk to Creed."
"Creed?" Scott sighed, exasperated. "Why didn't you tell me? I don't want you to be alone with that maniac."
"I was there with him," Nathan said, telling a little white lie. Remy had been alone with Creed for some minutes before he had joined them. "Remy's fine."
Scott decided to let it go, for now. "Come on, lie down." He guided Remy back to his bed and watched Nathan help his lover lie down. "When are we leaving?"
"You'll leave within the hour," Nathan replied, checking his son's wound. He hoped that Remy hadn't pulled any stitches. Fortunately, everything was fine.
"Nat'an...?" Remy sensed his father's discomfort. "Don' tell me you changed your mind!" He calmed down when Scott placed Benny in his arms.
"I can't come with you, Remy. My place is here, not with the X-Men. I wouldn't fit in." He shouldn't be close to Warren right now. He hadn't felt any lust or arousal for decades and being close to Warren was dangerous. Warren was a handsome man and the type he would have fallen for a lifetime ago. Remy's disappointment seeped through his shields. "I'll accompany you to Westchester, but after I made sure that you're well cared for I'll leave."
"Can' I change your mind?" Remy felt depressed. He had been sure Nathan would stay with them!
"No, Remy. I'd love to stay with you and Benny, but... this isn't the right time." Nathan gently squeezed his son's shoulder. "I've to prepare for your departure. I'll be back in fifty minutes... Try to rest until then."
Remy watched his father leave and then turned to Scott. "I really believed he'd stay wit' me..." His old fear was coming back. At some point everyone left him...
"I won't leave you, ever," Scott vowed passionately, realizing he would need a lifetime to prove his words to Remy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Why don't I go first?" Scott hated leaving Remy and their baby alone, even for a few minutes, but he wanted to reassure Hank and anyone else present in the lab that nothing was wrong.
"Sure, great leader," Warren teased. His ribs still troubled him, but he already felt a lot better. He stayed close to Remy and away from Nathan, who every now and then seemed to study him. The baby was sound asleep, nestled in Remy's arms. But the Cajun still needed some sort of support and Nathan had folded an arm around his son's waist. "Let them know we're coming."
Scott nodded his head and disappeared into the tesseract. After taking two steps, he found himself in Hank's lab. Bobby, Logan and Hank were already waiting for him.
"Slim! It's good to see you! What the hell happened?" Bobby hurried toward his friend and gave him a quick hug. "Where's Remy?"
"He'll arrive shortly," Scott whispered, realizing he had to prepare them. "But he won't be alone."
"Yeah, I know. Warren will be with him."
"No, Bobby... Well, actually yes, but..." Scott felt at a loss. "Warren's got bruised ribs, so you've got another patient on your hands, Hank."
"I can deal with it." Hank nodded his head.
"And... we're bringing a friend. His name's Nathan. He helped us fight Apocalypse." Scott looked at Hank, who knew Nathan's real identity and he decided not to enlighten Logan and Bobby just yet. "And then there's Benny."
"Benny?" Bobby wondered about the brilliant smile on Scott's face. "Benny?"
"Benny is... our son. Remy and I... We have a son."
"A son?" Logan cocked his head. "What ain't you tellin' us?"
"Dark Beast conducted some experiments on Remy and the baby... Benny was born a few days ago. Remy was only pregnant for a short time." Scott cringed. They had agreed to this version of his pregnancy, not yet bringing up Essex's role in this.
Bobby's eyes sparkled. "Benny? Your son? That's... cool!" Excited, he shuffled his feet. "So where are they?"
The tesseract spit out Warren, who quickly walked toward them. "My, this is a weird form of traveling." His ribs hurt and he sunk down on a chair. "Hi, Hank... Bobby, Logan..."
"Did you see Benny?" Bobby was bouncing with curiosity.
"Yeah, he's cute... for a baby." Warren briefly closed his eyes, trying to deal with the pain. Hank's hand descended on his shoulder and McCoy began to examine his teammate.
Remy and Nathan exited the tesseract, which closed and disappeared behind them. Both men were nervous, but for different reasons. Benny felt their nervousness, opened his eyes and grabbed hold of Remy's shirt.
"Oh..." Bobby slowly approached them, and locked eyes with the baby. "Look at those eyes!" Bobby was smitten, goo-gooing, and gaa-gaaing to attract Benny's attention.
Exhausted, Remy's grip on the baby almost slipped. Nathan moved quickly and supported Remy's hold with his hand. "Scott?" Within seconds, Benny was safely in Scott's arms and Nathan led Remy to one of the exam tables. "Why don't you lie down before we head for the boathouse?"
Remy nodded weakly, closed his eyes and gave into exhaustion. He never noticed Hank checking him over.
Logan had watched everything closely, silently. Something about Nathan's smell was familiar and set off his alarms. "You're staying at the boathouse then?"
"Yes," Scott confirmed. "Remy needs rest and he won't get it here." Bobby was still making faces and producing funny noises to entertain the baby. "We already know who gets to baby sit."
Bobby grinned. "I'd love to baby sit. My dates always tell me I'm a big kid anyway."
Knowing Remy in safe hands, Nathan was tempted to leave, but as he looked up he caught Warren's gaze. The winged X-Man looked drained. Just one hour and then I'm gone...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Warren refused to acknowledge the nature of the feelings rushing through him. He couldn't be falling for Essex! It was impossible! Was the other man, the empath, manipulating his feelings? But no, Xavier had taught him how to detect an alien presence in his mind and Essex wasn't touching his! Confused, he struggled to his feet. "I'm heading for my room."
Hank objected. "I advice against that, my friend. I need to examine you thoroughly and then we will set up a treatment plan."
"Forget about it, Hank. I've got some bruised ribs that's it. Don't make a big deal out of this." He swayed as he made his way to the doorway. Bobby moved forward to help him, but suddenly Nathan was already at his side, one hand resting at the small of his back.
"I'll walk you to your room," Nathan offered. You're insane! You can't do this! But his feet carried him into the corridor, escorting Warren. They were already on their way to Warren's room.
Warren's confusion only increased. "Why are you doing this?" He preferred the direct approach. He was too tired to play games. They had reached his room and he pushed down the door handle. Slowly, he made his way to the bed and collapsed on it.
Nathan carefully considered his next move. After closing the door behind him, he remained near the doorway. "You're attracted to me." He liked Warren's directness and preferred being honest in return. "It's the curse of being an empath..."
"Curse, huh? It worked out pretty well for Remy and Scott." Warren pushed some pillows behind his back and leaned into the support. "I can't figure you out... and I have no idea why I'm attracted to you."
Nathan shrugged his shoulders. "When I was still Nathaniel Essex I had male lovers. Society didn't approve of gay relationships, so I kept that aspect of my personality hidden."
"If you like men, then why did you marry Rebecca?" And why am I having this absurd conversation?
"I wanted children and I did love Rebecca, in my own way. But there wasn't any real passion, no lust, no craving. She was a very special lady, but my heart never belonged to her."
Warren suddenly felt uneasy in Nathan's presence. "Why am I attracted to you? It never happened before." He had only loved women in the past, but... something Nathan had said reminded him of his own relationships. Yes, he had loved Candy, Betsy, every woman he had ever courted he'd had feelings for them... but there had never been any wild passion or consuming lust.
"I don't know why," Nathan said, and placed his hand on the door handle, ready to leave. "That's something you have to figure out yourself."
"One more question before you leave!" Warren almost got to his feet, but his protesting ribs stopped him. "Where do you stand in this? You're here, so... Are you interested?" God help him, but he didn't know how to phrase it!
"Interested in you?" Nathan gave him a thoughtful look. "Maybe... I used to be a passionate lover... But... I don't know if this is the right time to consider these things. You haven't made up your mind yet, which is understandable. I didn't see this coming either."
"And you did make up your mind?" Why was he pressuring Nathan like this?
Nathan nodded his head. "As I said earlier, yes, I'm interested. But you need to reach a decision first. Let me know once you've made up your mind." Nathan closed the door behind him and headed back to the lab to help Scott move Remy and Benny to the boathouse.
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"It's bien bein' back at de boathouse, cher. I didn' mind livin' wit' you at de mansion, mais dis feels way betta." Remy shifted in the bed to gain a more comfortable position. Benny lay contently beside him. Scott had just experienced the first joys of parenthood when he had changed the baby's diaper. Remy had just smiled, enjoying watched his lover pinch his nose shut against the bad smell. "You'd betta get used to it!"
Scott had smiled in return. "You'll be pulling your own weight once you're feeling better!"
Scott now moved over to the bed, watching his lover and child. "I love you, Remy." Remy blushed. Even after all this time, Scott found it adorable. "What?"
Remy's hand moved over his abdomen. "De scar's gonna be ugly, cher."
Scott's heart contracted painfully and he leaned in closer to press a kiss on Remy's lips. "Maybe Hank can fix that once the wound is fully healed? And it doesn't matter how many scars you have, Remy. I'll always love you." Remy's watering eyes caused a lump to form in his throat. "Oh, Remy, you're handsome, but I didn't fall in love with your looks. I fell in love with you."
Remy managed a weak smile. "Cher, hold me?"
Scott moved Benny closer to Remy and then took his lover in his arms. Benny rested safely between them. "What's troubling you?"
Remy briefly closed his eyes. He had a promise to keep. "Creed?"
"I sent Logan, Bobby and Hank to take him to the lab."
"You ain' takin' any chances, sendin' de t'ree of dem."
"I don't want Creed to escape and then come after you again." Scott fingered a lock of Remy's hair.
"Where's Nat'an?"
"He's staying in the guestroom on the second floor."
"I'm glad he stayed, cher."
"I wonder though..."
"What, cher?"
"He seems pre-occupied since we came here."
"Mebbe he needs to adjust to dis new situation?"
"That's probably it," Scott said, reassuringly. "It's time for a nap," he decided. "We didn't get that much sleep these last few days."
Remy sighed blissfully. A nap sounded perfect. Benny moved in his arms, and he reached out empathically, reassuring his son. Benny settled down and Remy surrendered to sleep.
Scott stayed awake a little longer. "Oh, you have no idea how much I love you, Remy..." A scar didn't make any difference. "I'll always love you."
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Nathan sneaked out of the boathouse at midnight. Neither Remy, nor Scott noticed him leave.
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Apocalypse hovered above him, mocking him, laughing at his pleas and pain. "Don't... Please don't!"
"You wanted your wings back... Does it matter if they are made of feathers or metal?" Apocalypse laughed triumphantly and dragged his victim over to a metal wall, which reflected their forms. "Look! Look at yourself. You're my Horseman, you're Death! There's only one thing left to do. I need to make sure you won't turn on me... I'll rip your soul apart..."
"No!" Warren thrashed on the bed. Although his chest hurt like crazy, he didn't pay it any attention. He had to get away from Apocalypse. "No, I don't want this! I don't want to be Death! I'm Warren Worthington, Angel... not Death!"
Wake up, Warren. You're having a nightmare. Apocalypse isn't here. Your dreams are keeping him alive. Wake up.
I can't! I can't! This is real, this is no dream! The pain is real! My back... My shoulder blades... The metal wings, my blue skin... They're real.
Listen to me, Warren. You're having a bad dream. You're giving Apocalypse power over you, but you can also take it away from him. Listen to my voice. Concentrate on it. You were dreaming, but now you're waking up. Just trust me. I'm telling you the truth. I know nightmares can be horrific, especially when Apocalypse is in them, but you can beat him...
Warren slowly woke up, letting the soothing voice guide him. Opening his eyes, he wondered who had guided him back. "Nathan?" Confused, he stared at the other man, seated on the side of the bed. "How?"
Nathan shrugged his shoulders. "I had just gone to bed, which is still an awkward experience after not having to sleep for decades, and I sensed your fears. I didn't know my powers were that strong, but I clearly sensed your panic so I came here. No one else seems to have noticed."
"You and Remy are the only empaths or telepaths around," Warren explained. "But that doesn't explain why you're here. You could have called Hank or... turned over and gone back to sleep."
Nathan shook his head. "No, I couldn't. Do you remember finding me asleep on that chair?" Warren nodded his head and he continued. "Before you woke me up I had a nightmare... Apocalypse was slicing Remy in to tiny pieces right in front of me. It's been so long since I had a nightmare that I had forgotten how real they can be. If I had still had my powers I might have blown something up in an effort to defend Remy."
"Why are you here?" Warren pushed on. He pulled the comforter up to his chin and only then realized Nathan was shivering. "Want a morning robe?"
"Why I'm here?" He raised a puzzled eyebrow, ignoring Warren's offer. "Why do you think I'm here?"
"My nightmares kept you from sleeping peacefully?" Warren wasn't sure what was going on, but his body was definitely reacting to Nathan's presence; he was growing aroused. "I just can't figure it out..."
Nathan understood. "I don't know either why I'm attracted to you..."
"I think, I..." Warren's voice trailed off. He couldn't say the words just yet. "You'd be warmer beneath the comforter."
"Are you sure?" Nathan knew what that invitation was really about. "Do you know what you're getting yourself into?"
"No, do you?"
Nathan laughed softly. "You're right... I don't know it either... but I'll be damned if I won't accept that invitation." Quickly, he slipped beneath the comforter. Finding Warren moving away from him, he stopped the other man. "Say the words and I'll leave."
"No, this is okay... It's just..."
"You're hard."
Shyly, Warren nodded his head.
"So am I." Nathan decided to take control before things got uncomfortable. "Move over a little."
Warren allowed Nathan to manhandle him into the desired position and suddenly found himself in the other man's arms.
"And now you're going back to sleep."
Now that was unexpected. "Sleep?"
"Yes, you're still healing. We're not taking this any further until you have made a complete recovery."
Warren smiled contently. Maybe he had made the right decision after all. Feeling safe and warm, he dozed off again.
Nathan breathed in Warren's scent and his hands caressed the soft, white feathers. I'd better come up with a way to explain this to Remy... But he wasn't really worried about Remy's reaction. Remy's empathy would tell him he was serious about this relationship with Warren. So many things have happened these last few months... and I'm grateful they happened... really grateful. Lured closer by Warren's peaceful sleep, he fell asleep as well.
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Remy smiled, staring at Benny, who had grabbed his thumb and was now sucking it softly. Petit, je t'aime... Can' believe I can be dis lucky. I got you and Scott. I didn' do dat bad for a t'ief...
Remy, stop thinking and go to sleep...
Cher, I t'ought you were 'sleep!
I was... Until you woke me up... And you've got it all wrong. I'm the happiest man alive for having you and Benny... Scott tightened his hold on his lover. You're my soul mate, Remy... My world. Don't ever forget that.
I won', Remy promised, contently. Snuggling up to Scott, he curled his fingers around Benny's tiny hand and felt perfectly happy. His family was complete.
Go on to the alternate ending Nine months...