Title: Insanity
Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)
Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/
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Insanity 3 - Creed
By Morgana
Hum... this feels nice... A warm body rested in front of him and had molded itself to his body. Scott smiled, as he began to wake up. Yeah, definitely nice... Still half asleep, the warm body in his arms aroused him. Growing hard, he shifted in the bed, moving even closer to his bed partner. Holding Jean never felt better.
Suddenly, he jerked awake. Hold that thought! Jean died months ago and she isn't the one in bed with me, so who is? Staying motionless, he merely opened his eyes. Auburn hair? Remy, fuck, it's Remy! Yeah, I remember now... he faced Hugo in the Danger Room and then I dragged him up here so he could rest. He wouldn't let go and pulled me into bed with him. We fell asleep, but... damn it, I'm hard! This can't be happening! He's giving me a hard-on! I don't like men! Never have... He chuckled softly. Jean would have loved this one! What do I do now? If I move I'll wake up him up, and if I don't he might wake up anyway and how do I explain my hard-on? I don't understand it myself. Maybe it's just because I haven't had any sex these last few months... maybe it's meaningless.
Scott continued to debate the matter privately, but failed to reach a decision. In the end, he judged it wise to get out of bed now, accepting the risk of waking Remy in the process, but at least that way the other man wouldn't wake with an erection poking his ass! Letting go of Remy, he pulled back and was about to roll onto his back, when Remy stirred. Fuck, he's a light sleeper...
"What's goin' on?" Remy's eyes flashed open, and he froze, feeling the warm body spooned behind... a very much aroused body...
"Shit, Remy... I can explain this. We fell asleep and..." Scott suddenly was at a loss for words. Lying to Remy didn't feel right either.
Remy took pity on him. "We're only human, even you Scott. Your body reacted to de warmt'... it's been a while..."
Scott swallowed hard. "I don't want you to feel threatened..." They had just exorcised Remy's personal demon and he hoped the Cajun trusted him enough to know that this was different. "Yeah, I'm hard, but it doesn't mean..."
Remy bit his bottom lip, thankful that Scott couldn't see him. He was hard as well and although it should have surprised him, it didn't. He had been in love with Scott for years now and although he still didn't feel completely comfortable with a man, he did trust Scott. The whole situation reminded him of being with Mike, that one time.
But this time he wouldn't settle for a one-night-stand. He wanted to be in a long-term relationship, in which they were committed to each other and he doubted that Scott was ready to take that step yet, even if the other man was in love with him. It was best to let Scott off the hook gently. "What's de time?" He changed their topic on purpose, giving Scott a way out.
Scott took it. "Almost nine." He decided on a course of action. "We should take a shower, change our clothes and grab a bite to eat."
Remy's expression grew sad. "Oui, sounds like a plan. I'm goin' back to de boathouse and you can go back to your own rooms." This was good-bye, but not before he had a chance to thank Scott for hanging in there with him. "Merci, Scott. I could never have faced Hugo 'lone. Means a lot to me dat you helped, dat you stayed." He started to sit upright, but hissed, surprised, as Scott refused to let him go. The other man's arms remained locked around him. "Cyke?"
Scott drew in a deep breath. "How are you doing, Remy? Last night was hard on you and I don't want you to stay at the boathouse on your own. Why don't you stay here? It's time to come home."
Home... de mansion ain' my home, Scott. Buildings mean rien to me! It's de people dat count. And oui, I'm tempted to stay 'cause I'd be close to you, mais wakin' up like dis has shown me dat I need to put some distance between us. Dis is what I want. I want to wake up like dis for de rest of my life, mais I can' have it... and I'm puttin' you in a difficult position by not distancin' myself. I can' allow you to find out 'bout my feelings. Bein' dis close to you will make me give 'way my secret and I can' take dat risk.
"Remy?" Worried, Scott rubbed the Cajun's arms. "Hey, are you listening?"
Remy shivered, as Scott's fingers caressed his skin through the fabric of his shirt. Stop it! It ain' a caress! He's jus' makin' sure you ain' freakin' out!
"Hey, Remy, turn around?" Scott pulled the Cajun onto his back and continued to manhandle the other man until Remy was facing him. Remy's eyes were draped with some unknown emotion. "Did I freak you out just now? I know you're probably still trying to deal with Hugo and then I... I shouldn't have spooned up behind you..."
"Stop babblin', homme..." Remy managed a reassuring smile. "You didn' freak me out and oui, I'm still dealin' wit' Hugo's sudden appearance, mais I can handle it now. I feel betta, stronger since last night and I have you to t'ank for it. How did you know what to do?"
Scott shrugged his shoulders once. "I'd be pissed off if someone had done that to me... I just tried to release your anger."
"It worked." Remy wiggled away from Scott and this time the other man allowed it, releasing him from the embrace.
"I really want you to stay at the mansion, Remy."
"I ain' sure 'bout dat," Remy said, thoughtfully. "De ladies don' want me 'round."
"But the guys do. Come on, Remy, stay." Scott propped himself up on his elbow and watched Remy get to his feet and head for the bathroom. That went better than I hoped! I was so embarrassed, waking up like that! I can't believe I grew hard because I was holding him. That didn't happen when we stayed at the boathouse that month... and even back then I sometimes woke up holding him in my arms... But he had felt mentally blocked seven months ago, emotionally drained and everything had seemed hopeless. Living without Jean had seemed impossible, but so many things had changed since then. And Remy's been at the heart of that change. I still miss Jean, but... Come on, Summers, admit you like spending time with Remy! You're as protective of him as you were of Jean and... No, I don't like men in that way!
"Scott? You sure you're bien?" Remy exited the bathroom again after brushing his teeth. He grabbed a few towels and tried to act casual. Waking up with Scott's hard-on pressed against his ass had been disconcerting. It had given him false hope and it was time to face reality. Scott hadn't been aroused because of him! It had been the warm body, which had made him believe that he was holding Jean. Dis ain' 'bout me!
"You never answered my question. Are you staying?"
Remy shook his head. "Non, still movin' back to de boathouse." Last night had felt like a rebirth and he needed time to figure out where he stood and what he wanted from life. "Mais you're welcome to stay dere wit' me." He made the offer without ever considering what he would do if Scott accepted it. He was so convinced Scott wouldn't accompany him back to the boathouse that the other man's words startled him.
"Then I'm coming with you." Puzzled, Scott noticed the sudden distress on Remy's face. "What? I thought you invited me to tag along!" What the hell are you doing, Summers? You can't do this! Remember, you love Jean. You can't possibly be interested in Remy... But I am... damn it, I felt like this when I realized I was in love with Jean... Ignoring the feelings and the attraction won't make them go away. I'm not ready yet to act on them and I have no idea how Remy feels about this... I want to strengthen our friendship first and then we'll see what happens. Maybe I'll watch Jean's recorded message again. She did tell me she was okay with me loving again... I have her blessing and she'd want me to be happy...
"Scott? You're spacin' out on me, homme." Remy didn't know what to make of Scott's facial expression. A smile appeared on Scott's face and his eyes narrowed. "Scott?"
Scott grinned. "Why don't you take that shower and we'll head back to the boathouse?" Scott rose to his feet, stretched and felt reborn now that he had made up his mind. He would court Remy and see what happened next. "I'll meet you at the boathouse in an hour. I'm going to take a shower myself." And check on the messages and talk to the professor. Hopefully there aren't any urgent matters to take care of. I want to spend some time with Remy. "I could be running late, considering the things I have to take care of, Remy, but I do plan on staying with you at the boathouse."
His eyes widened, suddenly realizing that Scott was serious. The other man really planned on staying with him at the boathouse! My big mout' got me into trouble 'again, merde!
He sighed, relieved as Scott left his room, needing some privacy to think about this unexpected development. After entering the bathroom, he quickly took off his clothes, stepped into the shower cabin and relaxed as the warm water cascaded down his tense muscles. He wasn't sure how he felt about Scott staying close. It had been his most secret desire that the other man would see through his pretence and keep him company, but now that Scott had taken that step, he felt insecure. Why was Scott sticking around? Oui, he could scan Scott and find out what was motivating the man, but that meant invading Scott's privacy and he refused to trespass like that. He had to find out the old-fashioned way... ask.
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"Are you sure about this, Scott?" Charles smiled gently. Scott had told him that he wanted to stay at the boathouse instead of the mansion. Scott was trying to make things up to Remy, but why?
"I'm sure, sir. Remy needs support and I don't want him to be alone. We almost lost him because we didn't see what was happening to him these last six months. I want to keep a close eye on him." Scott felt uncomfortable beneath Charles' stare.
"Is that the only reason why you want to stay at the boathouse? To keep an eye on him?" He hoped Scott would finally confide in him. You're broadcasting warmth and affection without even knowing it.
"No, it's not the only reason..." Scott drew in a deep breath. Did he want Charles to know the truth? He still felt ashamed for being attracted to Remy. Jean had only been dead for seven months! But she wants me to love again... to be happy...
"And what's the other reason?" Charles decided against telling Scott that he could easily pick up on the other man's affectionate thoughts for Remy. It would be best if Scott faced the facts and told him.
Scott looked away. Although the professor couldn't see his eyes, he still felt exposed, knowing damn well that Xavier could read his thoughts if the professor wanted to. "I never expected it to happen."
"What?"
"That I would develop certain feelings for Remy," Scott admitted in a raw tone.
"What kind of feelings?" Charles wanted to hear Scott say the words. He had to make sure that his protégé accepted the truth.
"I'm attracted to him." Scott cleared his throat and rested his head against the headrest of the chair. "It started out subtly, sir. I got worried when he absorbed my depression and later... during that month I spent at the boathouse I got to know him better and to care about him. This morning I woke up and... my body was telling me it liked having Remy close. I was scared I had spooked him..."
"Spooked Remy?" Charles grew alert. Why would Scott be worried that he had spooked Remy by feeling attracted to him?
"I can't tell you, sir. Remy doesn't want anyone to know what happened in his childhood, but it's bad."
"Remy told me."
"He what?" Scott almost leapt from his chair.
"While you were helping Lilandra, Remy and I talked. He told me about his time on the streets and what he had to do in order to survive."
"But he told me no one else knew!" Confused, Scott paced in front of Charles' desk.
"Maybe he was so upset that he forgot?" Charles steered his hoverchair toward Scott. "Scott, these feelings you mentioned... care to elaborate?"
Scott shrugged his shoulders. "I've never before been attracted to a man, that's why this is so damn confusing and then there's Jean... she's only been dead for seven months and dating again doesn't feel right. It's too soon, isn't it?"
Charles ignored Scott's last question and probed deeper. "Is it lust? A need to experiment or...?"
Scott firmly shook his head. "It's not lust... it never was about lust. I felt the same thing with Jean. It was about her personality, and now it's about Remy's. He really wants to help people, but no one ever sees that. He's alone, and yet he never gives up. His strength still surprises me. If it had been me on the streets instead of Remy, I wouldn't have turned out as well. At this point I'm not interested in pursuing the sexual side of my attraction. I want to get to know him better, build a solid relationship and then... I don't even know if Remy's interested in me. Considering his past I doubt it."
Charles licked his lips, realizing how delicate this matter was. "Do you love him?"
Scott's brow grew knitted. "I asked myself that question after leaving Remy's room. I don't know if I love him... I feel affection for him and that has to grow into love... at least that's how it happened with Jean. But I feel strongly about Remy."
"So this isn't a fling? A temporary infatuation? Is this going to be a long-term relationship? A committed one?" Charles chose his words carefully. "Remy has suffered greatly in the past and if this is just a fling you shouldn't pursue this, but if it's more..."
"Then what?" Scott turned around and stared at the professor. He knew the expression in Charles only too well. The older man was holding back.
"Then you should make this relationship work."
"Respectfully, sir, but I don't even know if Remy's interested."
Charles moved back to his desk and leaned back in his hoverchair. "Jean didn't leave you only one message, but two. She left explicit instructions for when you were allowed to watch the second recording."
Scott shook his head in disbelief. "Why didn't you tell me? She left me another message? I can't believe you hid this from me!"
"She only wanted you to watch it in the event you felt attracted to Remy." Charles didn't know exactly what the message was about, but he had a pretty good idea. Jean had probably known about the attraction between the two men. "Do you wish to view the recording now or...?
"I demand to see it now!" Scott felt betrayed. Charles had known about the second message and the professor had never told him! "I want to see it right now!"
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Scott felt nervous as he was waiting for Cerebro to start the program. He shivered at the thought of seeing Jean again, and not knowing what the message was about made him apprehensive. All he knew was that this was about Remy...
The hologram suddenly flashed alive and it took him by surprise. Instinctively, he backed away from it. "Oh, Jean..." She was beautiful and her gentle smile made her even more attractive.
"Scott..."
Hearing her voice made his eyes water and he blinked away the unshed tears. They would sting beneath the visor and it made him uncomfortable, especially when Logan was around. The Canadian could probably smell the saline in the air. "Jean..."
"Scott, I'm glad you decided to try again." Jean's smile brightened. "You made an excellent choice. Remy's so right for you."
"Huh?" Stunned, Scott stared at the hologram. "How could you possibly know...?" But the hologram continued the recorded message and he listened closely.
"I talked to Remy after he returned to the mansion from Antarctica. It was then that I found out he was an empath as well as a telepath. And yes, his shields were strong, but not that strong and I easily read his secret desires in his mind. Did you know that Remy has been in love with you for years? He's had a crush on you since joining the team."
"No..." That was impossible! He would have noticed! "He dated Rogue!" But then he realized the truth. "He dated Rogue to mislead us. He didn't want us to know the truth."
The program continued and Jean's smile grew sad. "He never wanted to come between us, honey. He told me that he respected our love and he never made a move on you because he didn't want to hurt me. He suffered in silence all these years and that's why I'm thrilled that you have developed feelings for him."
Scott was speechless. Staring at the hologram, he continued to shake his head. I can't believe she knew!
"Actually, I gave Remy my blessing to act on his feelings if something happened to me." Jean's eyes were swimming with tears. "You're watching this recording, which means I'm dead... Scott, I want you to be happy, but you’ve probably figured that one out by now. But guilt and misplaced loyalty is keeping you from acting on your feelings for Remy. I know you, Scott!"
Scott managed his first smile. "Yeah, you do."
"I'm dead, honey. There's no reason why you have to remain faithful to my memory. Choose the living! Remy loves you and you have feelings for him. It's okay to act on those feelings. Honey, I want you to act on them!"
A lump had formed in his throat and Scott fought back his tears. "Jean, I love you so much..."
Jean's expression grew distant. "Make him happy, Scott, and in return Remy will make you happy as well. Don't let him slip away." The hologram faded and Jean was gone.
Scott rubbed his brow, massaged his temples and tried to truly accept what Jean had told him. "She wants me to love Remy... she wants me to make this work." A goofy grin surfaced on his face. "Jean, you're the best thing that ever happened to me. Thank you for recording these messages. I would never have admitted to liking Remy in that way if you hadn't given me permission to love again. I won't disappoint you, I promise." Turning around, he headed for the exit. "Remy's, it's about time we talked."
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Remy raced toward Burger King, loving the way the wind moved through his hair. It had been ages since he had ridden his bike and he had missed the sensation of freedom that usually overwhelmed him. Mattie would chide him for not wearing a helmet, but he didn't care. Last night he had finally done away with a fear that had been his constant companion for so many years and riding his bike at this reckless speed made him feel alive.
He was on his way to Burger King to prove to himself that he wasn't afraid any longer. Hugo wasn't chasing him away again. He was done with being scared and intimidated. This time he would defend himself and tell Hugo off. No one was messing with him ever again!
Feeling victorious and high on adrenaline, he pulled up to the Burger King and shut down the engine. He strutted into the Burger King and scanned his surroundings; Hugo was nowhere in sight. Does dat disappoint me or am I relieved... secretly? I faced his hologram, mais I never faced him in person. Doesn' really matter. I'm t'rough wit' bein' scared!
Only facing Hugo for real would show him if he had truly dealt with his fears, but he settled for feeling euphoric. After ordering a shake, he left and headed for his bike.
And what 'bout facin' Scott? Remy straddled his bike, but didn't kick start it yet. While sipping his milkshake, he recalled waking up in Scott's arms. Feeling the other man's erection against his ass had surprised him. Even confused him a little, but he was relieved that he hadn't been scared.
Can' be dat lucky... I've had dis crush on him for years and rien happened. He never indicated he was interested in men... in me. He hasn’ change orientation 'cause Jean's dead. De poor guy probably hasn’ had sex dese last seven mont's and his body reacted instinctively. I was close and warm... and Scott grew aroused. Mais I would sell my soul for his love... I 'ways t'ought I knew what Scott was 'bout, mais t'ings ain' de way dey seemed. He cares 'bout me and de ot'ers on de team... he ain' cold or arrogant at all.
Remy started his bike and headed for the mansion. Was he serious when he said he was stayin' at de boathouse? He probably only said it to make me feel bien. No way Scott's stayin' at de boathouse... mais what if he is? What if he's serious? Mon Dieu, don' do dis to me! I'm in love wit' de man!
"Gotcha!"
The victorious howl froze the blood in his veins. A second later, Creed slammed into him and knocked him off his bike, sending him onto the hard concrete. His head connected with the road and he almost lost consciousness. Blood dripped from his nose and into his mouth and the metallic tang of blood made him nauseous. His vision became blurry and red spots danced in front of his eyes.
"Told ya I'd be back, Cajun." Creed stood over him, sniffing his prey. LeBeau was bleeding and he was tempted to taste the thief. "Later," he growled impatiently.
Realizing the danger he was in, Remy tried to struggle to his feet, but a strong hand kept him down and vertigo hit hard, causing him to empty his stomach on the concrete. Something cold snapped into place around his throat and his eyes almost bulged from their sockets. Creed had collared him, again! "No!" He struggled harder, but lost his balance and collapsed on the concrete. He couldn't focus his eyes, couldn't think clearly and a sudden bout of dry heaves rendered him helpless.
His left hand remained locked around the Cajun's neck and he watched, amused, as his prey struggled against the hold. He cursed as LeBeau began to throw up. The acid smell offended his nose, but he waited for the Cajun to finish before hauling him to his feet. Lifting LeBeau until the Cajun's feet no longer touched the concrete, he grinned. "Yer mine, LeBeau... Ya'll do as I tell you to... Play yer cards right, Cajun and maybe ya'll live."
Remy lacked the strength to keep his eyes open. He hung helpless in Creed's hold and tried to free himself one last time, finding he couldn't move at all. Panicking, he tried to kick at Creed, but nothing happened. His head throbbed and another bout of dry heaves made his eyes water.
"Not again," Creed growled and swung a right at the Cajun, which rendered him unconscious. "Ya can throw up when I ain't around, Cajun..." Creed stalked back to his hiding place. LeBeau was a telepath and an empath. Birdie had only been a telepath and he wondered what would happen once Remy took her place. Grinning, he flung LeBeau over his shoulder, ignoring the Cajun's injuries. "Yer gonna help me get back in control... you're mine..."
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"Remy, where the hell are you?" Scott was growing worried. Three hours ago, he had returned to the boathouse, expecting to find Remy preparing breakfast, but the Cajun hadn't been there. He had started pacing and over the next two hours he had fixed lunch and hauled his personal things upstairs, expecting Remy to show up any moment, but the Cajun hadn't. Remy had left.
Scott came to a standstill in front of the kitchen table. He had hoped to talk things over with Remy and to get everything in the open, but the Cajun was missing.
Worried, Scott picked up his coat and left the house. He walked over to his car, opened the door and slipped behind the steering wheel. "Where are you? Where did you go?"
Whenever he had lost sight of Jean their telepathic link had informed him of her whereabouts and her condition. But he wasn't linked to Remy and had no idea where to start searching. Assuming he wants to be found!
Where do I start? Where would he go? Damn, he's a skilled thief. He knows where to hide if he doesn't want to be found. He's not on the premises, so I can rule that one out... where did you go, Remy? He didn't know why he was this worried, but he was. It was urgent that he find Remy and make sure the Cajun was unharmed.
A sudden rush of panic swept through him and feeling paranoid, he looked about, scanning his surroundings for intruders. "Remy, what's going on?" His hands, which rested on the steering wheel, shook violently. Something was wrong, terribly wrong and he didn't know where Remy was! "Damn you, LeBeau!"
He keyed the ignition and quickly left the mansion grounds. Once he passed the gate, he stopped, wondering which way to go. "Burger King... you went back there, didn't you? After last night you had to confront your fears alone." Quickly, he turned left and headed for Burger King. In the meantime, the sense of dread continued to build. His stomach was contracting and a headache building. A sharp pain swept through his head and he had to pull over and stop the car. His vision was blurry and he couldn't tell where he was driving. "Remy, what’s happened?"
He waited for the pain to pass and then continued his drive. "Fuck...no..." Remy's bike blocked the road and he pulled over. After leaving the car, he quickly examined the scene. Someone had thrown up and he also found blood and a handful of Remy's hair. "An accident? Why doesn't that feel right?" Remy was an excellent driver and had never had an accident before. "And there's no other car or bike. You didn't have an accident."
Suddenly suspicious, he looked about again and found a tiny piece of Remy's shirt stuck to a branch. "Why would you go into the forest? Why not call for help?" His heart missed a beat, finding more blood. Should he go back and get the others to help him search for Remy? No, I can't waste any time. What if he's in a bad way and he needs help? Medical attention? I need to find him first!
Scott moved deeper into the forest and continued to find shreds of Remy's clothing. Sitting on his heels, he examined the tracks. He wasn't a skilled tracker, but by watching Logan he had picked up a few things. These tracks are deeper than they're supposed to be... one person only... but... what if Remy isn't alone? What if he was attacked and this attacker is carrying him? But who... Fuck, Creed! The bastard gave up way too easy the last time we fought! He kidnapped Remy once before... It must be Creed.
Aware of the danger he was in, Scott proceeded, following the tracks.
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Feeling nauseous and miserable, Remy clawed his way back to the surface and regained consciousness only to stare into Creed's ugly visage. His hands and feet were tied again, leaving him no room to maneuver. The collar hung heavily around his neck and he barely suppressed the urge to throw up again. "Whad-d-da you w-want?" His speech was slightly slurred and he was having trouble phrasing his questions. Had he suffered a concussion as well?
Creed grinned. He was sitting opposite the Cajun and stretched his long legs. "Yer gonna help me, LeBeau... I've been searchin' for a suitable telepath for a long time... Ya'll do."
"Telepath?" Why did Creed need a telepath? Something the mad man had said the last time he had kidnapped him, returned to him. Creed had said he was going to train him. Shivering, he tried to compose himself, but the pounding headache made it impossible. Suddenly, Creed lunged forward and grabbed his throat. Unable to draw in his next breath, he stared at Creed, reading the bloodlust in the other man's mind.
"I love it when they struggle..." Creed said, amused. "Don't make it easy on me... fight me, Cajun..."
His head jerked back and he screamed as Creed's out of control emotions slammed into his mind. The bloodlust, the rage, the animalistic urges invaded his being. Acting instinctively, he fought Creed, tried to throw him out of his mind, but failed. Creed was gaining momentum. A terrified wail left his lips as he finally lost consciousness.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scott froze in his tracks. A sharp scream, followed by a keening wail echoed through the forest. "Damn it!" He immediately recognized Remy's voice, even felt the Cajun in his mind, but the younger man felt incredibly weak.
He sped up and started to run. He barely avoided the branches and at times, they slapped into his face, breaking the skin. Although he was bleeding, he didn't pay it any attention and continued to run. He was getting closer... and closer...
Creed suddenly stumbled from a cave and fell to his knees, staring blankly at the sun. Scott charged him, knocked Creed off of his knees and used his optic blast to take out his opponent. Creed collapsed and no longer presented any danger. Satisfied that he had dealt with Remy's nemesis, he proceeded into the cave, fairly sure he would find the Cajun there.
"Remy? Remy, where are you?" It was dark inside the cave and his eyes needed time to adapt to the darkness. A moan, coming from his right, showed him which direction to move in. "Remy? It's me, Scott..."
He suddenly came to a halt. His eyes made out Remy's form in the dark and Scott sucked in his breath. A Genoshan collar hung around Remy's neck, but it was open and not active. Why had Creed bothered to put it around Remy's neck? He could worry about that later. First, he had to find out if Remy needed medical attention. He went down on his heels and gently cupped Remy's chin in the palm of his hand. Pushing back some blood-covered locks, he finally got a good view of Remy's face. His brow was covered in blood and a nasty gash was situated behind his right ear.
"Remy, can you hear me? Remy?" Scott almost pulled back when the stench of vomit assaulted him. "Looks like you got a concussion, Remy. Let's hope you didn't break anything."
The low, guttural growl took him aback and Scott started to turn around to face Creed. But wait... the growl isn't coming from behind me... it's... Remy! He never fully realized what happened when Remy launched himself at him. The Cajun's fingernails dug into his skin, causing more blood to run down his face. Staring into the wide, feral eyes, Scott acted too late. Remy was already lunging for his throat. Ducking, he tried to get away from him, but failed completely. He banged the back of his head against the rocky wall and went down. The last thing he heard was Remy's victorious howl.
Chapter Four - Realizing the trouth
Scott's eyes opened slowly. His head was pounding, and he cringed when the pain sliced through his skull. Instinctively, he doubled over and emptied his stomach. Shaking like a leaf, he looked up, startled to realize he was no longer in the cave. How much time had passed? The sun had still been shining when he had gone looking for Remy and now it was dark.
Remy! What the hell happened? He attacked me... But the Cajun hadn't hurt him. The headache was a result of his collision with the cave wall. Fighting his panic, he searched his surroundings. "Remy? Where are you?"
"Gumbo's unconscious, Cyke."
Bright eyes flashed from the darkness. "Logan?" Scott managed to push himself to his feet by using the trunk of a tree to support himself. "What happened? And why are you here?"
"Good thing I followed ya," Logan said, emerging from the darkness. "About time ya woke up. We got work to do. Couldn't haul both yer sorry asses back to the mansion."
Scott cocked his head, hoping the headache would fade in time. He quickly checked himself for additional injuries, but he was all right except for the headache. "Where's Remy? I can't believe he attacked me!"
"Went for yer throat, huh?" Logan took hold of Scott's arm and pulled the other man along. "I had to take him out. I got here just in time. Gumbo was ready to rip yer throat out."
"But why?" He recognized the auburn hair as moonbeams gently traveled over the ground. Remy, clearly unconscious, was lying on the damp, cold earth
"He lost control," Logan mused. "I didn't wanna knock him out, but didn't have a choice. He tried to take me out too."
"Where's Creed?" Scott sat on his heels beside the unconscious Cajun.
"Creed?" His claws emerged from his knuckles and Logan sniffed the air. "I knew he was close, but... ya saw him?"
"He stumbled out of the cave just as I arrived. I went inside to check on Remy, afraid that Creed had hurt him. That's when Remy attacked me." Scott turned Remy over until he could see the younger man's face. Animal rage contorted the usually calm features. "I don't get it. Why attack me?"
Logan joined them, took hold of Remy's arm and hauled the Cajun over his shoulder. "Hopefully Charlie can figure it out." He didn't want to tell Scott just how well he knew that possessed look in Remy's eyes. The same demonic expression filled Creed's eyes when bloodlust controlled that maniac. The hair at the back of his neck stood rigid, realizing the danger Remy presented in his current state.
As they headed for the mansion, Logan continued to sniff the air. He didn't want Creed sneaking up on him, not while they were weakened. Scott was trying hard to pretend that he was okay, but he smelled the acid bubbling in the other man's stomach and hoped Scott wasn't going to throw up again. "How's the head?"
"I'll survive," Scott said, calmly. "I'm more worried about Remy."
"I'll take ya back to the mansion and then I'll track down Creed. I got some questions..."
///
Disorientated, he stumbled through the forest. Branches and fallen trees blocked his path, but he continued running. He didn't know where he was, what had happened or who he was. His memory was blank, and feeling frightened, he was putting distance between himself and the cave where he had woken up minutes ago. The howl, which had come from inside the cave, had alarmed him and he had started to run blindly.
"This ain't right... somethin's wrong..." He didn't question how he knew things had gone wrong... A vague memory surfaced; he had trusted his instincts before and, encouraged, he picked up speed, trying to find his way out of the forest.
///
"My stars and garters! What happened! Put Remy on the exam table, and Scott, sit down!" Hank rushed into action, suddenly faced with two patients. He had been working on his research when Logan's roar had echoed through the lab.
Hank immediately checked Remy's vital signs. The Cajun's heart was racing and his hands were contracted into fists, even in his unconscious state. "Logan, I need information!"
"I knocked Gumbo out. He attacked Cyke. Had his hands around his neck when I found them." Logan left Remy to Hank's care and checked on Scott, who sat slumped in the chair. "Head still hurtin'?"
"Yeah..." He didn't want to speak, didn't want to listen to the noise all around him. Why couldn't the throbbing in his head stop? "How's Remy?"
"Why is our Acadian friend collared?" Hank quickly removed the already open collar and placed it next to Remy on the exam table.
"Must be Creed's doin'. Bastard tried collarin' Gumbo before." Now that they no longer needed him, he headed for the doorway again. Creed was still out there and it was up to him to find his nemesis.
"Logan, I need some help in dealing with these two. Ask the professor and Warren to join me before you leave?" Hank hooked Remy up to a monitor to register his heartbeat.
"Sure." Logan nodded once and then left the lab.
Hank noticed the blood and dirt beneath Remy's fingertips. Scott's face and throat showed marks, which could stem from Remy's fingernails... Scott had mentioned that Remy had attacked him. "Scott, what happened exactly?"
Scott closed his eyes, trying to lock out the lights. "I think that Creed knocked Remy off his bike and then dragged him off to a cave. When I arrived, Creed stumbled outside and Remy attacked me... he growled..."
"Who, Creed did?"
"No, Remy..." Alarmed, Scott fought down his discomfort and struggled to his feet. "He growled and then went for my throat... the last thing I heard was a victorious howl. At first, I thought it was Creed, but when I realized that it was Remy, it was already too late."
Hank raised a puzzled eyebrow. "Hopefully we'll get our answers when Gambit wakes up."
"Henry?" Charles steered his hoverchair toward the exam table, already trying to get a reading from Remy's mind, but the Cajun's barriers were impossible to breach. Caught off-guard, Charles' eyes widened, feeling how tight Remy's defenses were.
Warren entered next, and headed toward them as well. Logan hadn't given him any details. The Canadian had merely told him that Hank needed him in the medlab. Hank had taught him some basic medical skills so he could help tend patients. His eyes first sought out Scott and he frowned, seeing how tight the other man's jaw was set. Something real bad had happened. "What's wrong with Remy?"
"We don't know yet," Hank whispered, puzzled. "Professor? What do you sense?"
"Not much," Charles replied, disappointed. "His defenses are too tight. Scott?"
Scott told them what had happened and noticed the deep frown that appeared on Charles' brow. "Sir?"
Charles hoped he was wrong. "Scott, when you saw Creed exit the cave... was he as aggressive as usual?"
"No," Scott said, thoughtfully. "He seemed weak, maybe a little confused. Creed was acting oddly."
"And Remy was violent, and attacked you without reason?" Charles hoped his theory was wrong, but it looked like he had drawn the right conclusion after all.
"Yeah, I didn't provoke him, and yet he lashed out. If it hadn't been for Logan..." Scott grew quiet. "How serious is it?"
"Very serious." Charles rubbed the bridge of his nose. "This is only a theory, mind you, but it looks like Remy absorbed Creed's animalistic urges, like he absorbed your depression a few months ago."
"Sir?" Confused, Warren looked from Remy to Charles. "What are you saying?"
Charles suddenly jerked upright in the hoverchair and his face contorted. "My God, Remy's waking up and... his mind is like quicksand... Henry, quickly, collar him!"
Hank wondered if he had misunderstood, but Charles' expression told him that the professor was serious. Moving quickly, he grabbed the collar and moved toward the exam table. Suddenly, a sharp, slicing pain moved through his mind and he dropped the collar, clutching his head instead.
"He's awake... Warren, Scott, the collar!" Charles focused on the Cajun, trying to dam the raging emotions that were leaking from Remy's mind. The pain grew worse, and he doubled his efforts to manipulate Remy's feelings and thoughts.
Warren screamed, as an icy pain slashed through his skull. He collapsed against the wall, panting hard. Gathering his strength, he managed to raise his head. He found Remy's eyes open, and an insane expression flashed from the demonic orbs. The Cajun bared his teeth, growled and tried to sit upright. "Scott! What do we do?" He faltered after taking a step closer to the exam table. Remy moved too quickly and the Cajun's sharp fingernails broke his skin. "Fuck!"
Scott was leaning against the exam table. Being the closest to Remy, he tried to move toward the Cajun, but the pain was too bad. "Sir, what...?"
Charles gritted his teeth, finally able to withstand Remy's attack. "He's using his empathy against us, Scott... rendering us almost helpless... Talk to him, maybe he'll recognize you." But he doubted Remy would recognize anyone in the frenzied state the Cajun was in right now.
The pain caused him to fight for breath, but Scott continued to advance on Remy. He cringed, realizing Remy was clawing Warren's face and the Cajun's fingers were moving toward Warren's throat. Remy's insane grin and diabolical expression took him aback. "Remy? What's going on? Talk to me."
Remy spun around, growled and bared his teeth. Cocking his head, he sniffed the air and pounced forward.
Scott almost froze in his tracks, seeing Remy fling himself forward. He acted quickly and grabbed Remy's wrists, making sure the Cajun couldn't scratch his face open like he had done to Warren. "Remy, calm down! Everything's fine!" The mental pain was bearable now and he gritted his teeth, trying to control the pain and rage that battered against his mind.
Charles moved behind Remy's back and grabbed the collar. Signaling Scott to maneuver Remy toward him, he kept a close eye on the Cajun. He didn't understand how it was possible that Creed had transferred his animalistic urges to Remy, but he vowed to find out. What if it was an accident? What if Creed never expected this to happen? We need to find Creed! He's the only one who can answer those questions.
Hank, recovering from the empathic attack, shook his head, trying to clear it of all alien emotions. Charles threw him the collar, which he caught. Remy was getting closer to him and the Cajun had no idea that they were setting him up.
"Remy, listen to me. Come on, you know me! It's me, Scott." He held his breath, hearing Remy's enraged growl. The Cajun's contorted features actually scared him. "Remy, please, listen to me! Let me help you! I don't know what's going on, but we're here to help!"
Remy cocked his head, stopped growling and actually seemed to listen to his words. "Yeah, that's it, Remy. You know me. It's me, Scott." The red glow in Remy's alien eyes weakened briefly, but then flared again. Just at the Cajun wanted to lunge for him, he signaled Hank to slap on the collar.
Infuriated, Remy growled and tried to spin around, but Hank had a tight hold on him. Long arms kept him in place and he flinched violently when the collar closed around his neck. He collapsed as he passed out and hung limply in Hank's arms.
The three men stared at each other, shock evident in their eyes. It had taken all three of them to take out Remy!
"What a formidable weapon," Hank whispered in an awed tone. "I never realized how powerful he is."
"I think no one did," Warren remarked, sarcastically. Grabbing some tissues, he dabbed at the scratches, which Remy's fingernails had left behind on his chin and cheek. "He scratched me open!"
Hank eased Remy back down on the exam table and restrained his patient to prevent a repeat performance. "Sir, do you know what happened? Didn't he recognize us?"
Charles, composed again, took a deep breath. "We've got a major problem on our hands. To solve it, we need Creed. It won't be easy. Creed might not want this feral side of his character back and Remy will need to lower his shields in order to complete the transfer."
Warren's eyes widened. "Are you saying that..."
"That Remy isn't himself. Creed's personality is in there as well. We need to transfer it back to the rightful owner." Charles considered his next move. "Hank, check on Scott. Make sure he doesn't have a concussion. And Scott, when you feel up to it, I want you to stay here and to talk to Remy. Maybe hearing your voice will trigger something. He seemed to listen earlier. Warren, disinfect those scratches and assist Hank in whatever way you can."
"And what are you going to do, sir?" Scott sat down and let Hank hook him up to a monitor so McCoy could run his tests.
"Hopefully Cerebro will help me locate Creed. Logan will have to bring him in and in the meantime, we need to keep a close eye on Remy. He doesn't know what he's doing." Charles steered his hoverchair toward the doorway, realizing he needed help to undo the transfer. And the only one who possesses the knowledge I need is... Sinister.
///
After what seemed hours, he finally reached a road. A damaged bike lay on its side and he walked toward it. Did he know how to ride a bike? There was only one way to find out. The keys were still in place and it started with a reluctant roar.
Looking about, he hesitantly climbed on. Shouldn't he find the owner instead of taking off like this? But he felt like someone was following him and he was very eager to leave this place. But where to go?
He took off, heading north, uncertain what fate held in store for him.
///
Logan had closed his eyes when he had felt Charles reach for him. After absorbing the new information, he realized just how it important it was that he located Creed. "Professor... did I understand correctly? Do ya really think that Creed's 'normal' now? That the bloodlust, his urge to kill and maim is gone?
Yes. Creed is no longer the insane maniac we know. He may even be suffering from amnesia. If only I knew how this happened! As far as I can tell Creed isn't a telepath, or an empath. He must have taken Remy by surprise and for some reason Remy's shields were down, allowing Creed in. When he absorbed Scott's depression, he had trouble letting go as well and now he's no longer thinking logically at all.
Then ya betta work on findin' a solution. I'll find Creed and haul his sorry ass back to the mansion. Ya can count on me. Just keep Gumbo safe until I'm back. Logan stretched his neck, terminating the telepathic contact. He sure had his work cut out for him.
Upon returning to the road, he found that Remy's bike was gone. His sense of smell quickly confirmed that Creed had been close and had probably taken the bike to increase the distance between them.
Amnesia, my ass. Creed has as many false memories as I have. He can't tell reality from induced memory. He's out there somewhere, 'ready slaughtering his next victim. If I'm Gumbo's only chance, he's doomed. Come on, Chuck, I know ya can figure this on out!
Approaching Scott's abandoned car, he grinned. For once, he was lucky. Although the key was gone, (trust Cyke to remember to take the key) he hot-wired the car. Once the car was running smoothly, he decided to head north... Creed's scent pulled him in that direction.
///
Hank acknowledged Charles' arrival with a polite nod. They had agreed to meet in the lab, instead of the professor's study so he could keep an eye on his patient.
Charles felt drained. Upholding the connection with Logan had sapped a lot of his energy and later, he had tried to contact Sinister, using Cerebro to strengthen his mental powers. Unfortunately, the scientist hadn't responded yet, but he remained hopeful that Sinister had received his message. When they had pulled Remy back from his depression Sinister had just suddenly appeared, without ever bothering to answer his call. "What's our situation?"
Hank placed the latest report concerning Remy's condition on the desk in front of him. "Let's start with Scott. He has a light concussion and as long as he doesn't fall asleep, he'll be fine. The cuts on Scott and Warren's faces will heal quickly."
"But what about Remy?" Charles moved closer until he sat opposite Hank. "Bad news?"
"Physically... he's high on adrenaline right now. His body's tense and even in unconsciousness he seems ready for battle. I've given him a mild sedative and I want to keep him restrained. I suspect you can tell me more concerning his mental health?"
"Not much," Charles admitted. "A part of Creed's personality, the primal side, is now controlling Remy's actions. We need to find Creed and reverse the transfer."
"But what if Logan can't find Creed? Will Remy stay in this condition?" Hank wrote everything down in Remy's file. He was greatly worried about the Cajun. Remy had been through a lot lately and now his empathy was causing problems again! Last time they had barely managed to pull Remy back from the brink. He still didn't know how Charles had convinced Remy to lower his shields, but the Cajun had listened to the professor's advice and the depression had found a way out. "There must be something we can do!"
Charles nodded his head. "Perhaps. Although Creed was never completely sane, he did show signs of control and intelligence. Maybe Remy can learn to control his urges to some extent. But before we can even try to teach him control we'll have to gain his trust first. He's not thinking rationally and sees us as his enemies. That's why he attacked Scott in the first place."
Hank gave Charles a thoughtful look. "What do you suggest?"
"I asked Scott to stay for a reason. Remy and he have spent a lot of time together these last few months. Remy even helped him deal with losing Jean. Maybe Remy will remember helping Scott, even while Creed's instincts are trying to control his actions." Charles paused. "Henry, could you ask Scott to step in here for a moment? I need to talk to him... in private."
"Of course." Hank finished updating the report and filed it. He rose from his chair and left to fetch Scott.
///
Scott sat quietly beside Remy, every so often stroking back a lock of hair when the Cajun shifted in his sleep. He had watched as Hank administered the sedative, realizing its necessity. Warren was moving about behind him, keeping an eye on them. "Remy, what's going on with you? What did Creed do to you? I promise we'll find a solution, Remy..."
"Scott? You've been sitting here for two hours now... you need to drink something." Warren handed Scott some herbal tea Bobby had made. Bobby had taken it upon himself to prepare some sandwiches and to supply them with hot drinks. Warren smiled; Bobby had been rather upset when Hank had forbidden him from entering the medlab, telling the younger man that his patient needed rest. "It's one of Bobby's concoctions. It might smell gross, but it tastes okay.
"Thanks, Warren." Although he wasn't thirsty, he accepted the drink and sipped his tea.
"You're really worried, aren't you?" He had studied Scott for the last half-hour and had reached the conclusion that something was eluding him.
"Yeah, I'm worried." Scott looked at Warren and shook his head, noticing the scratch marks on the other man's face as well. "He's got sharp fingernails."
"Good thing he doesn't have claws..." Warren shrugged his shoulders. "Sorry."
"No, you're right." Scott pushed back another stray lock. "The sedative is keeping him under and Hank wants him restrained..." Scott frowned, staring at the restraints.
"I hope the professor finds a solution," Warren offered, sincerely. "Creed's a bastard for doing this to Remy. I wonder if this was his intention all along. Why did he kidnap Remy that first time?"
"He didn't tell me..." Scott sighed and leaned back in his chair. What's happening to me? The mere thought of losing him, hurts. I don't want to lose him to Creed or to insanity. I want him back, whole. Guess this means I can’t run from my feelings any longer. I'm in love with him... maybe it's more already. When I realized something was wrong, my heart ached so badly that I wanted to rip Creed's out. Why did he do this to Remy? Oh, I'm so sorry... Remy, I do love you. I'm so sorry I chickened out and didn't tell you what was going on!
"Scott? The professor wants to talk to you... in private." Hank rested his right hand on Scott's shoulder and squeezed gently. "I'll stay with Remy while you're gone. He's in the best hands."
"I know that," Scott whispered, gratefully. He slowly rose from his chair, stretching tense and tired muscles, and headed for Hank's office in the back of the medlab.
"Sir, you wanted to talk to me?" Scott remained standing in the doorway, trying to read Charles' expression.
"Yes. Close the door and take a seat. We need to discuss something very important."
Scott did as he was told and sat down opposite Charles. "What do you want to discuss?"
"Remy... and your feelings for him." Charles clasped his hands. "We need to reach Remy and being honest with yourself and with him may be the only way to do it."
"Sir?" Scott straightened his back, listening intently.
"I want to try something," Charles explained. "Once the sedative wears off, you're going to reach out to Remy. Yes, that's a frightening concept, knowing how crushing his empathy is and yet I want you to focus on your feelings for him. We need to establish some sort of contact."
"Do you really think that will work? He's tried killing me twice so far."
"Because he felt threatened. Scott, he doesn't understand these urges. Remy can't control them. You have to help him control them. Once he realizes you don't mean him any harm, he might turn to you for help. Remy isn't Creed. Their personalities differ greatly."
Scott was still unconvinced, but he had already made the decision to try. "I’ll do anything to help him. The way he is now... it's wrong."
Contently, Charles nodded his head. "The sedative will wear off in about two hours. Why don't you use that time to rest? Reaching Remy will be a draining experience. I'm sure Henry has an empty bed for you."
Realizing their conversation had ended, Scott rose from his chair. "This had better work, sir."
Charles' eyes filled with understanding and compassion. I want him back as much as you do, Scott, but only you can bring him back. It's time for you to face your feelings and to admit them to Remy as well. Are you afraid of what the others will think?
Yes, I am, Scott admitted. Jean's only been gone for a few months and although I have her permission to date again I still feel like I'm cheating on her. I never imagined that I would fall in love so quickly...
"Follow your heart," Charles said, as Scott headed for the doorway. "Always listen to your heart."
///
"Nothin'!" Logan growled softly, displeased that Creed still eluded him. He had tracked Creed down to this city and he had even located Remy's bike, which Creed had abandoned after he had run out of gas. "He's close... I can smell him..." But the smell was different. Although the essence remained the same, something had changed. The man was sweating less, probably because he wasn't experiencing any adrenaline rushes.
"Poor kid..." Logan mused, wondering how Remy was doing. "Don't wanna be in yer shoes." He knew what it was like to go primal, when bloodlust and his ancient instincts controlled him. Remy had never experienced anything like it and wouldn't know how to deal with it.
"Creed, it doesn't matter where yer hidin'. I'm gonna find ya and haul ya back to the mansion." But he was running out of time...
///
"He'll wake up in the next few minutes," Hank announced. He had taken off the collar, as Scott needed to reach out to the empath. "But the sedative is still in his bloodstream; he should be relaxed and immobile." The restraints stayed on. He wasn't going to take any chances.
"Give us some privacy?" Scott looked at the three men. Warren, Hank and the professor were concerned about his well-being, having experienced Remy's crushing empathic powers personally.
"Be careful, Scott," Warren whispered. "And let us know if you need our help."
They backed away from the exam table until they were out of Remy's line of sight.
Scott pulled his chair closer to the exam table and placed his right hand over Remy's, gently rubbing the Cajun's knuckles. "Hey, Remy, it's me, Scott. Open your eyes for me?" Remy stirred and Scott held his breath as a low growl escaped the Cajun's throat. "No, you don't need to feel threatened, Remy. You're among friends. You're safe. It's okay to open your eyes and wake up."
Remy's eyes flashed open and showed panic and rage. Scott acted at once, moving closer to the Cajun so that Remy could see him. "I'm here, Remy. Remember me? I'm Scott."
Large eyes studied him and Scott swallowed hard. Remy's emotions surrounded him and he shared everything; the pain, fear, anger and hope. "Yeah, that's it. Just listen to me. You remember me, don't you? Hey, say something. Talk to me."
Remy's eyes narrowed. I'm losing him! What did I do wrong? Damn, he's... Remy, stop struggling! Remy fought against the restraints and the rage in the alien eyes simmered. "Remy, we had to restrain you for your own safety. Once you're feeling better, we'll release you."
But Remy retaliated ruthlessly. These people had tied him down and he couldn't deal with being restrained. Lashing out, he howled loudly, pulled at the restraints and charged them.
"Scott, get out of the way!" Warren realized the danger. Remy was charging the restraints and the exam table. The explosion would probably knock out the Cajun and Scott as well, if the other man didn't get away in time.
Scott moved quickly and flung himself onto the floor. A violent explosion rocked the exam table. Remy's scream no longer resembled the scream of a human, but that of a trapped animal in pain.
Remy lashed out at everyone present, catapulting his pain and rage into their minds. At the same time, he managed to undo the shredded restraints. He struggled to his feet, frantically searching for a way out. Feeling claustrophobic, all he could think about was getting into the open and he would kill anyone who got in his way. Suddenly, a man blocked his path. An angry hiss left his lips and he lunged for his enemy, but the other man was faster.
Scott quickly grabbed Remy's wrists and used his body weight to throw the other man onto the floor. Straddling the Cajun's hips, he stared into dilated pupils. He had deluded himself. Remy didn't know who he was. "Remy, please..."
Remy tried to drown his enemy in his emotions, sending him pain and fear, but the other man merely flinched and shook it off.
"Remy, don't. Look at me, listen to me," Scott was begging by now. He still had a firm hold on Remy's wrists and although the Cajun tried to get away, he managed to keep him in place. "Remy, I... Maybe this will do the trick." He blatantly ignored Warren's surprised gasps as he bent down and kissed Remy. Brushing the Cajun's lips, he forced them apart. Remy froze beneath him, never expecting this move. Scott deepened the kiss, entered Remy's mouth and challenged the other man's tongue to a duel.
Come on, Remy. You know me. It's Scott! I helped you face Hugo. You helped me deal with Jean's death. You're stronger than Creed. You'll find a way to beat him. Please, Remy, acknowledge me... say my name. Scott looked into Remy's eyes, hoping to see recognition in the burning orbs. "Please Remy."
As Remy finally spoke, his voice sounded raw and unused. "S-scot-t?" he stuttered.
"Yeah, it's me, Scott..." Smiling brightly, he loosened his hold on Remy. "I knew you could to it, Re..." He never got the chance to finish his sentence as Remy viciously kicked him in the gut. The Cajun immediately followed up by reaching for his throat, but luckily Hank and Warren intervened, pulling Remy away from him. "Shit, I really thought..."
Charles joined Scott and consoled him. "You did manage to get through to him. Next time we have to work on something more... permanent."
Disillusioned, Scott watched Hank and Warren strap Remy back to the exam table. "This isn't going to work, sir..."
Charles moistened his lips. Yes, you're right, Scott, he thought privately. We need help... We need Sinister.