Welcome Warren Worthington/Angel/Archangel fans! There seems to be too few of us out there, so we must stick together, right? For my fellow Warren fans, I offer up a retelling of an older story of mine – a new and improved version. Please, read on to learn more…

SACRIFICE: Revisited

First Book in Series of Four (thus far) Novels: "Sacrifice," "Esserru," "Circle Complete," and "Soulbound"

Author: Echo Dancer

Marvel Universe: Mainstream Continuity, Uncanny X-men comics

Marvel Characters: Warren Worthington/Archangel, Professor Charles Xavier (minor role), Shi'ar Empress Lilandra (minor role)

Primary Original Characters: Emperor Ztar of the Turzent Empire, Sukja (Ztar's personal attendant)

Synopsis: At what price freedom? Warren faces a trial of spirit that shakes him to his very core when alien conquerors claim Earth. First book in novel series. Revamping of original 2009 "Sacrifice."

Warnings: Contains ADULT THEMES and situations. The story deals with male-on-male rape and those scenes are depicted (though not too graphically). If this will disturb you, do NOT read. Sacrifice is not an action story, but instead explores the emotional toll of a horrible situation and the survival / triumph of spirit.

Disclaimer: I own nothing that Marvel Comics does and will never make any money from the use of their characters – only borrowing their property for a while for my own amusement. However, I do own Ztar, Sukja, all other characters and settings. All rights reserved on my property.

Helpful Reading Notes:

1. Anything that appears thusly / italic text between slashes / is telepathic communication.

2. Almost always, text within 'single quotes' are character thoughts.

3. Canon timing: Sacrifice is set after Warren has reverted back to his natural form from the steel-winged metamorphosis Apocalypse put him through, but before his is able to switch back and forth between his steel-winged persona and feathered wing form.

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Preface and Acknowledgements

The more we perform a task, the better we do…as true in writing as in any other endeavor. Such is the case with my writing, or so I wish to believe. Four novels later, and I feel I've grown both as a storyteller and in technical skills.

When I reviewed my first posting of Sacrifice after completing the fourth book in the series, I literally cringed. Oh, the mistakes! And the sequences that needed something more, areas that simply needed a good editing, and the list went on. I couldn't bear to leave it as was. The characters deserved better.

So I decided to revamp Sacrifice. While I did not scrap the story and rewrite it, I have refined and enhanced Warren's tale. I won't promise there still isn't an occasional error or more that I could have improved, but it is a better telling than the old version. At least that is the hope.

I will not be taking down the original posted version and thus the modification of the title. The old story redirects new readers here. And all those kind people who have me on alert may find this rewrite a worthwhile reread.

Sacrifice: Revisited is dedicated to Louisestarfly and Mad Furry Cheshire Cat, both of whom I met through this website, share my fascination with a certain winged character, and I am blessed to call friends. They have given me constant encouragement to keep on writing and have inspired me with their own written works.

And remember, an author's greatest joy is reviews, so please share your thoughts.

Without further ado, I present my "new and improved" story of Warren's trial of spirit.

x x x x x

SACRIFICE: Revisited

Prologue

The Shi'ar Empress received a desperate call for help from Charles Xavier. Such a call meant the situation had to be dire. Charles and his X-men could handle just about anything, but apparently a full-scale invasion of the Earth System by an alien fleet was more than they could deal with on their own.

As the Shi'ar Empress gathered her resources and headed to Earth, Xavier carefully monitored the approaching alien vessels using Cerebro. More than generalities were lost to Xavier by the sheer distance between him and the aliens he was reading. One of the vessels proved impenetrable by his mind – likely psychic dampeners were employed. But what he continued to pick up from the aliens on the other vessels was that this was not a social visit. They fully intended to take the Earth System for their own, whether by choice or by force. The aliens appeared in no hurry, which would hopefully give Empress Lilandra time to use the wormhole and reach Earth with assistance before the invaders took aggressive action.

Over the next several days, events unfolded quickly. The Shi'ar arrived just as the aliens, known as the Turzents, had settled into orbit around Earth. Xavier was disappointed that Lilandra came with only her Imperial cruiser and two escort ships. Hardly the show of force he had imagined.

Opening communications with the Turzents, the Shi'ar explained Earth's request for assistance. Perhaps diplomatic channels could be established?

Xavier sensed only piqued interest from the Turzents at the Shi'ar interceding on Earth's behalf. They did not react with fear or trepidation as he had hoped. The Turzents seemed merely intrigued that the small, pre FTL world had allies such as the Shi'ar.

Through Lilandra and her negotiators, Xavier learned that the invaders had earlier laid claim to the sector of space containing Earth. The actual takeover was just the final step in fully integrating the Earth System into their empire. He was told that pre-FTL civilizations were sometimes aware of their assimilation into Turzent territory, and other times not. In Earth's case, the Turzent Emperor had decided the planet would be in the former group.

The Shi'ar negotiators determined that something specific about Earth had caught the attention of the Emperor himself. Just what that was, their diplomats weren't sharing. The Shi'ar also felt that the Turzents wanted an excuse to interact with the Shi'ar, to learn more about them. That was good – it provided a reason for the Turzents to sit at the negotiating table when otherwise they seemed to have little interest in doing so.

Formal talks were scheduled aboard the Turzent Imperial cruiser. As a subjugated non-FTL world, the Turzents would not allow any Humans at the negotiating table, but they would allow the Shi'ar to represent Earth and Earth would be bound by whatever the Shi'ar agreed to on its behalf. The Emperor would permit a small contingent from Earth to accompany the Shi'ar diplomats, but the Humans would remain confined in a highly secure area anytime they were on board the imperial cruiser.

With the rules of the negotiations established, talks began. At first, the Turzents were unwilling to give on any front. Earth was simply already theirs. Humans did not possess the ability to wage a successful war for independence, so by default, the planet was part of their empire.

The Shi'ar implied military assistance to defend their protectorate, but the Turzents weren't buying. It baffled the Shi'ar diplomats that the Turzent negotiators appeared unfazed by the inference. Were they really so self-confident that a threat from the vast Shi'ar Empire had no affect?

At every turn, with every suggested compromise, the Turzents responded with indifference or polite refusal. After two full days of talks, Lilandra's negotiators could win no points and the talks were quickly becoming meaningless.

Something changed during the third day and the Turzents changed their stance. Suddenly, they were ready to discuss options. On demand of their diplomats, the negotiating team was sequestered on the Turzent ship with no outside communications allowed, not back to the Shi'ar ship, or to the waiting world leaders on Earth, nor with the Human contingent.

The basis for an agreement was hammered out quickly. By the morning of fifth day, the Turzents presented a written document ready to be signed. In the Turzent/Earth Accord, Earth would remain completely autonomous from the Empire. The Empire would not interfere with Earth internal affairs. There would be no Turzent presence on Earth. The star system would be a military restricted, non-interference zone.

And still no explanation for the change in position. Their negotiators had asked for very little, except one small demand – just one thing their emperor wanted in exchange for Earth's freedom, without which the system would be wholly and completely subjugated. Earth would lose all independence and suffer Turzent occupation unless that single term was met.

In the eyes of the Shi'ar negotiators, the price was incredibly small. It would be foolish to turn aside the Accord by refusing the one, simple concession.

###

Chapter 1

Xavier was stunned silent. His hands shook in anger as he held the computer pad in a tight grip. Carefully, he reread the shocking paragraphs in the translated document to make sure he hadn't misunderstood. Looking up at Lilandra who stood beside his chair, she responded to the question he hadn't yet asked.

Lilandra placed a hand gently on his shoulder. "I am uncertain as to why that specific demand, and the Turzent team is not elaborating, but this is their final offer. Even if Earth submits willingly to the Empire, the price remains the same for autonomy. They are unyielding on that."

"NO! I will not surrender an X-man to the Turzents! I will sacrifice no Human – not like this. Do you really expect me to simply hand them Warren?" Charles Xavier was angry beyond rage. "To what purpose? What are their intentions? This I cannot – will not agree to!" he yelled, throwing the handheld device to the table.

"The agreement ensures the autonomy of your planet, Charles. Though we could not negotiate keeping Earth outside of the Turzent Empire, we did secure its independence, its right to self-govern. That was no small feat! With this agreement, there will be no contact with the Turzent government, no interference." Lilandra pulled a chair from the table and seated herself in front of Xavier. She looked him in the eyes in an attempt to re establish a rapport.

"Your people never need to know how close they came to domination." She let that settle for a few moments. "Being within the Turzent Empire will have its advantages. Earth gains Turzent protection against any outside threats. Despite the personal price, the treaty is a good one, Charles."

"It's for that protection we have maintained diplomatic ties with you and your government, Lilandra," Charles retorted with acid.

"If only my government truly felt a desire to protect your world. Sadly, after my reign is over, I cannot guarantee that protection will continue. You see no military here to aid you now, Charles. No show of force. My people have little reason to expend resources this far from home. Only through my personal authority has that been the case in the past. But my time will pass and Earth will be without a guardian." Again, Lilandra allowed Charles time to absorb her words.

"If I step outside myself and look at the agreement with pure logic, I would agree with you. This is the best outcome one could negotiate – actually, better than one would have any reason to expect given the circumstances. But I cannot reconcile the morality."

"So you refuse the offer – at what price? I have already told you the Shi'ar will likely not intercede militarily on Earth's behalf. Earth does not have the technology or depth of resources to ward off the Turzents for more than a few days, even with the help of your mutant heroes. And if you chose to fight, what would the cost be in Human lives and suffering? In the end, your planet still falls to them, yet another conquest for their Emperor. Easy, little resources expended…an incident that barely registers in their historical records. Your race is subjugated with little hope for its future. Is that the outcome you desire?"

Charles shook his head, "Of course not. There must be another price the Turzents are willing to accept. Something else they desire…"

"We have explored those options. At this point, my advisors and I don't believe it's what the Turzent Empire wants; this is something Emperor Ztar himself wants. Otherwise, it makes no sense."

Xavier refused to believe there were no other options – there are always options, even if you have to create them yourself.

"What is Ztar gaining personally? I don't like the places that line of thinking takes me. We need to find out exactly what he gains and use it to our advantage."

"I'm sorry, Charles, but there is no time. The Turzents gave us a strict deadline to either accept or decline the offer. We believe they have discovered or surmised the lack of Shi'ar will to defend your world." Lilandra's voice soften once again and Charles stiffened. "As your representative, you entrusted Earth's future to me. The treaty has already been signed." Lilandra said, drawing a breath.

Xavier looked with disbelief at the alien woman in whose hands they had placed Humankind's future. How could she have agreed without consulting him? How could she believe the Accord was acceptable? Her betrayal would not stand! His anger boiled over and his body shuddered. He would cut her down with one mental blow for the outrage! In that uncontrolled moment, Xavier might have acted on his impulse if not for the psychic dampeners on the Turzent cruiser.

Charles stared coldly at Lilandra with a rage she had not seen before. She pulled back from the intensity.

"How could you have made that decision without consulting me? This is Warren we're talking about – a Human being! Not some piece of- of property!"

Lilandra leaned closer despite Xavier's threatening demeanor. "Charles, I know what Warren means to you. He was one of your first chosen and he is like a son to you. You love him as a parent loves a child. You have been through much together. He is also your friend. Warren is, in a way, more special to you than most of the others…so strong in spirit, yet gentle in nature. One of your X-men with the least power, but with more strength and courage than most. All these things I know, Charles." As she spoke, she watched Xavier closely. She took Charles' hand into hers. He resisted at first, then let her hold it.

"That is why I could not burden you with choosing. The pain will be nearly unbearable as it is – it would have destroyed you if the choice had been yours. Because in the end, I know you would have chosen to save your world. And I believe Warren would do the same. One life in exchange for millions – Warren would choose this."

He closed his eyes to blot her out; to calm himself. Charles was far too experienced with seemingly hopeless, unjustifiable circumstances to continue to feed the anger – it served no purpose. 'Emotionally, you're out of control, Charles,' he told himself. 'Get a grip!'

The Empress in front of him had helped them numerous times. They shared a permanent psychic connection. He knew her – trusted her. Or at least had trusted her. He fought to reconcile what she had just done to all she had done before; all they had been through together. In his mind, he used the scales to weigh her previous actions and intentions against the Accord decision. Those scales still tipped in her favor.

He remained silent for a long while and Lilandra allowed him the time. She understood him well and knew that he was working to regain control and review the situation from a more detached perspective. Only when she saw his features soften and his shoulders sag, did she speak.

"Charles," her voice was gentle, caring. He opened his eyes and looked into hers. "This I would not have agreed to had there been any other option. You must know that. The Turzents pushed, we stepped back for the good of your people. You may never forgive me, but I hope in time you will come to understand that what we did was for the sake of your world and its future. This is the very best we could secure on your behalf."

"There were no alternatives?" His voice nearly a whisper.

"None, Charles."

"The deal is air-tight? The Earth is safe?"

"Yes. My negotiators are very skilled. The Accord has no vacuities the Turzents can exploit."

Charles was still for a moment, then slammed his fist against the table top so fiercely that Lilandra feared he may have broken bones. "Damn it, Lilandra. This isn't right! This is immoral!" She only nodded. She did not have to say that in war and conquest, there is very little morality – Charles Xavier knew that all too well.

He looked at her and a tear unashamedly ran down his face. She was right. In the end, Charles would have made the decision to save Earth even with a price so high. And likewise, given no option, he truly believed Warren would sacrifice himself as well.

"Warren has already been through too much. Why couldn't it have been someone else?" Xavier didn't expect an answer. Lilandra laid her hand over his fist still resting on the table. His voice was shaky when he asked, "How do I tell him? What can I say?"

The Shi'ar and Turzents understood the situation would be explosive if the X-men were still on board when they heard the news. Measures had already been taken to ensure that would not happen. Lilandra had asked that Charles remain behind so she could inform him personally. He would not hear the devastating news from anyone else – she owed him that.

"Your X-men are already on their way back to Earth, Charles. They were separated from Archangel under false pretenses to avoid any confrontations and do not yet know the treaty has been signed. The Turzents demanded you have no further contact with Warren. It is done." She said with finality. "I am deeply sorry for your loss. My heart bleeds for you and Warren today."

Their eyes met once again and he knew without a telepathic connection that she spoke truthfully. Then the powerful, reserved Charles Xavier cried in Empress's arms.

###

After waiting impatiently for some time in a small room with two Turzent escorts, word came that Xavier was available to meet. The trio traversed several corridors before stopping in front of an entrance flanked by guards. One sentry activated the door to what appeared to be a large conference room. Once inside, the door slid shut silently behind them. The room fell instantly silent, sending a flutter through Warren's gut. Several armed Shi'ar guards stood at the far end. Two more flanked either side of the door they just came through. He recognized the stun guns the Shi'ar guards carried – probably the only weapons the Turzent would allow them to carry on board. But then again, why guns and Shi'ar guards at all?

In the center of the space, two male Turzents and a female and male Shi'ar, all in formal attire gathered. 'Negotiators?' Warren wondered. However, the person he had expected to see was not there.

"Where's Xavier?"

His escorts remained silent, only indicating with a gesture that he should continue toward the foursome. Once near the Turzent and Shi'ar, the escorts addressed the Shi'ar pair. "As you requested," and they melted away behind Warren.

'This doesn't feel right,' Warren thought. A tiny, unconscious flick of wings was the only outward sign he sensed trouble. A sign his fellow X-men would have picked up on was lost on the aliens.

"Where is Charles Xavier? I was told he wanted to see me."

The poker face of the Shi'ar in front of him furthered Warren's unease.

"Actually, it was I that wanted to see you. I am Charize, Imperial Negotiator for Empress Lilandra." Looking toward his companion, Charize continued. "This is Arizai, my aide. I am to inform you that the treaty between the Earth System and the Turzent Empire has been signed."

Warren was taken aback. "Already?"

He thought the negotiations would require much more time, maybe weeks. As head of a large corporation, he understood the minutia that goes into deal making. And why tell him away from the others? Or were they all being told separately because the news was not good. X-men can be 'difficult' when things don't go their way. Warren smiled inwardly at that thought. But separated, they could be better controlled, or at least more easily contained. Pity the poor group that got Wolverine!

"The initial negotiations were stalled, but we eventually brokered an agreement that was workable," Charize offered. "Earth remains independent. There will be no interference from the Turzent Empire in your internal affairs. Your star system continues to be within the boundaries of their empire, but your planet is free and self-governed."

Despite the stoic face, Charize seemed uneasy. Warren cocked his head, "This is good news, right?" But the nonverbal signals he was picking up indicated the other proverbial shoe was about to drop.

"Yes, it is very good news. A better outcome than we had expected. Your homeworld is safe, or as safe as any in an uncertain galaxy. Your people are free to continue as before with complete autonomy," the Shi'ar proclaimed with a hint of pride.

"So Earth merrily goes on its way, as if this whole thing never happened?" Warren wanted to be sure he got it right.

The negotiator affirmed, "That is a correct summation of the Accord."

A sinking feeling in the pit of Warren's stomach grew and he had to ask. "What was the price for this freedom?"

Warren studied the Shi'ars carefully as they seem to gather themselves. Their pause gave Warren a few seconds to recheck his surroundings. He steadied himself to not reveal that he knew the Shi'ar guards were no longer at the far end, but had drifted closer. Behind him, he also sensed that the exit door was blocked. The Turzents in formal dress had edged to the far end of the room.

Charize let out a Human-like sigh. "Sadly, in all negotiations concessions are made to ensure ultimate success. Our negotiations on behalf of your planet were no different. But in this case, there were only two concessions on our side: that Earth remains within Turzent Empire and…" Charize hesitated, taking in a breath, "and you." Then he and his aide took a slight step backward and watched the Human closely. The Shi'ar guards drew closer.

Warren wasn't sure he heard right. Two concessions – Earth still sits inside the Turzent Empire and him? 'Don't panic,' he reminded himself. Verify first. But his stomach was already lurching.

He looked Charize in the eyes. "Say that again."

"I deeply regret…there were no other viable options. The Turzent Emperor was firm – you are to go with them." The Shi'ar negotiator's expression showed visible distress. That the negotiator felt distress over their concession was of little comfort if Warren understood correctly.

"Are you telling me that the X-men are part of the bargain?"

Charize shook his head. "Not the X-men. You." Warren's world shifted so violently he thought he might lose balance. "Please understand, it was that or your planet would fall. You must go with their Emperor."

All of the heightened senses of Archangel, all the years of training as an X-man, mental and physical, all his survival instincts sprang up. The guards next to him could likely be taken out with a single wing swipe and a semi-aerial maneuver would bring down the guards behind him in front of the door, all before these aliens knew what hit them. He wouldn't waste precious moments grabbing a stun gun from the Shi'ar guards. The Turzents outside the meeting room had bigger, and Warren assumed, more powerful weapons. He'd disarm those guards and then take whatever obstacles came his way until he could locate an escape route – or the other X men. And if the door was locked…well, options came to mind under that scenario, too.

Charize guessed what was going through the Human's mind. "Archangel, you must not resist or the Earth goes to the Turzents. Be calm, I beg you!" he raised his voice to cut through the adrenaline Charize knew was coursing through the mutant's veins.

Archangel heard the words and knew he understood the situation all too clearly. He was being handed over to the Turzents. Flashes of Apocalypse raced through his mind. Remembered horrors of that lab drove near panic to his core. He would not let that happen again – he would die first!

He snapped open his powerful wings hard and fast hitting the guards on either side of him, the impact felling them in opposite directions. In the same motion, he sprang into the air and in a backward somersault maneuver and nailed the two guards by the exit door with his feet.

"Archangel – you jeopardize the treaty! Please, you must calm down!"

Archangel dimly heard Charize's pleas simultaneously with the soft click of weaponry from the remaining guards. Before his feet hit the floor, his hand was on the control panel for the door. But it didn't open. 'Locked!' his mind screamed.

Propelling himself into the air, he closed the distance between himself and Charize so fast none of the guards got off a shot. He had the negotiator of the concession by the throat in a blink of an eye. Positioning Charize between him and everyone else in the room, Archangel held tight to his hostage.

Turzent and Shi'ar alike stood motionless and silent.

"Open that fucking door now!" Archangel yelled at the guards.

They did not respond. A glance between Charize and his aide signaled a delegation of authority. Arizai knew that Charize was in no real danger. Shi'ar are several times stronger than Humans and he could wrest himself free from Archangel's chokehold at any time. But Arizai and Clarice had anticipated the possible sequence of events. Right then, Archangel needed to feel some sort of control over the situation before he would listen and comprehend. If he remained in fight or flight mentality, words would do no good and Archangel could be injured – something the Turzent Emperor strictly forbade.

"Mr. Worthington," Arizai started, hoping to begin shifting him out of Archangel mode. "You don't yet understand the consequences of your actions. You must listen to me. No one is going to hurt you or approach you. No one outside this room knows what is transpiring here. This is between us." She waited for him to process the information.

"I've just been bargained over to the enemy. What don't I understand? Open the goddamn door!"

"The treaty states that Earth's freedom is maintained only as long as you comply with the terms. If you do not, Earth becomes a Turzent-occupied world." She let that settle.

Her monotone voice riled him. It was his life they bargained away. His life was a fucking concession. She was acting…they were all acting… like they had been asked only to turn over chattel. A flood of emotions churned along side the physical reaction to danger. It nearly staggered him. He fought the adrenaline surge to stay focused, even as his heartbeat pounded in his ears.

"The price of Earth's freedom is you," she said gently, but clearly. "Submit to their Emperor's demands and the Earth remains autonomous. Any disobedience, escape, rescue, or suicide by you voids the agreement and Earth falls immediately under Turzent control." Arizai allowed several seconds to pass before continuing – Archangel needed the time to absorb her words. "Their Emperor will show Humans no mercy in his occupation of your planet if you do not comply. There is no recourse available to you. The Accord is signed and it is without flaw. The choice – your choice – is to comply or Earth is lost. The consequence of your actions is no less than the fate of your homeworld, Mr. Worthington. Do you understand?" Arizai delivered the words calmly, without emotion, hoping to bring the man to his senses quickly. They were to prepare the Human, but not keep Ztar waiting long.

Archangel sucked in air. The room was too small – he couldn't breathe. His mind spun out of control, but he managed to grab one coherent thought. "Where are the X-men and the Professor?"

"Mr. Worthington, your friends are safely on their way to Earth as we speak. Charles Xavier is on a shuttle to the Shi'ar cruiser. He, too, is safe. They are in no danger."

"They wouldn't leave me here – you're lying!" Archangel believed that with every fiber of his being. Nothing would stand in the way of his friends protecting him. No treaty. No Turzent Emperor. No Shi'ar traitors. He tightened his arm around Charize's neck for emphasis.

Arizai knew Emperor Ztar wanted the process to go quickly, yet if it was to happen without Archangel being stunned by the guards' weapons or worse, it may take a little extra time. They needed Archangel to fully understand and accept his situation before being turned over or all may be lost.

She exhaled, and then responded. "They would not leave you, that is true. That is why your friends do not know about you or that the treaty has been signed. Xavier is only being informed now."

"They're off-ship?" His heart nearly stopped.

"Yes. Safe, for now. As long as you do as we say, Mr. Worthington. If you do not, I cannot guarantee their safety…or your planet's…" she let her voice trail off.

Archangel refused to believe the aliens. The X-men would know something was up. Xavier, despite the Turzent ship's psychic dampeners, would sense something – wouldn't he?

"I want to talk with the Professor – now!"

Arizai almost said 'not possible,' but caught herself. If the Shi'ar Empress had done her job, Xavier was already fully briefed on the situation and persuaded that the exchange was the only option open to Earth. "Let me see what I can do, Mr. Worthington."

He watched as Arizai walked over to the two Turzents he assumed were negotiators or bureaucrats. It made sense that she would approach them as she would need their assistance to contact Xavier. He watched everyone in the room for any sudden movements or suspicious actions – he prided himself on reading body language. Nothing he saw suggested plotting to free Charize. That steadied him.

Arizai quietly conferred with the Turzents and all agreed the scenario had been anticipated, along with several other possibilities. A quick comm call to central communications linked the Turzent conference room to Empress Lilandra's shuttle. Central communications quickly confirmed with the Empress' aide that indeed Lilandra and Xavier had finished their meeting and Xavier understood the position his planet was in without the cooperation of Archangel. In less than three minutes, a comlink was in place.

Three minutes is an eternity when you've been given a death sentence, or at least that was how Archangel viewed it. What did the Turzents want with him? Genetic experiments? Slice and dice him to create their own superbeings? Why him? Other X men were far more powerful.

He didn't believe the others were safe or that they hadn't suspected something was up. In Wolverine's instincts alone he would plant that belief. It made more sense that they split up the X-men to have a better chance at containing them and they were all being turned over to the Turzents. A treaty to ensure the future of Earth that sacrificed a few mutants – what leaders on Earth would strongly object to that? A small price, they'd say.

Archangel checked in with himself physically. The longer he thought; the longer he waited on Arizai, the less his adrenaline pumped. Coming down from an intense adrenaline high can be debilitating. He had to remain at peak as long as possible to have any chance against his captors. Archangel needed to stay very angry.

He didn't fool himself about the odds of escape from the Turzent cruiser. According to intelligence reports the Shi'ar shared with the X-men, the Turzents were physically powerful, extremely intelligent, and cunning. Their technology rivaled the Shi'ar's. No, if Archangel was to regain his freedom, it would most likely come about only with help from others. He needed his friends!

'Damn, what is taking so long!' he yelled in his head. "I'm tired of waiting. This ends now." Archangel snarled at the Shi'ar and Turzent officials huddled around what was obviously a communication panel.

Arizai turned to face Archangel. "We have established a link with the Empress' shuttle. We are just waiting for Mr. Xavier to arrive at their conference room."

'Good,' Archangel said to himself. 'At if it's not really the Professor, I'm doing my best to break this bastard's neck regardless of the consequences.'

###

On the Shi'ar shuttle, Xavier was numb. "Lilandra, what you ask is more than I can do. I have already given up someone more dear to me than life itself. Now you ask that I command him to stand down and submit to his captors?"

Lilandra held Charles' shaking hand. Seeing and sensing his pain was almost more than she could bear. "My dear Charles. This is cruel beyond imaging, but Warren needs to go quietly with the Turzents. He must understand what is at stake. Right now, he will listen only to you – believe only you. He will do as you command…what must be done." Her voice was barely above a whisper at the end. She was quiet for several moments while Charles gathered himself. "I'll be here, at your side. Let me lend you my strength," she offered, squeezing his hand tightly.

Charles mentally attempted to separate emotionally from the situation, to somehow detach. The next minutes would be one of, if not the most difficult point in his life. But Charles fully understood the price of failure was the home of 6.5 billion Humans. You do not give in to unchecked emotions or focus on the personal cost at such defining moments. You do what must be done. He straightened himself in his chair.

Lilandra watched her one-time royal consort prepare and she was more proud of him that day than ever before. And more heart sick and ashamed than she had been in a very long time.

"I am ready," he said without emotion.

###

The view panel in the Turzent meeting room came to life. Xavier's face filled the screen. "Warren?"

"Professor, what the hell is going on? Where are you? Where are the X-men? You won't believe the bull they're feeding me about the treaty and…and about me!" Archangel's anger resurged as he demanded answers.

"W-warren…" Charles' voice faltered.

Archangel picked up on it immediately. He had known the elder man since he was a teenager. Something was desperately wrong. "Professor, what's going on?"

"Warren, please let Charize go. You'll gain nothing by holding him hostage." Charles knew Warren likely couldn't seriously hurt the Shi'ar negotiator without a weapon. He also surmised that Warren knew he could do no serious harm to a being several times stronger and tougher than himself. It was an act of desperation that the Shi'ar were obviously willing to tolerate.

"Not until I have some answers!" he continued to watch the image closely, to determine if it was Xavier or trickery.

"Very well."

Lilandra watched Xavier's hands hold the chair arms in a death grip, but his face was soft without a hint of the anguish she knew he was enduring.

Xavier continued. "I am in a shuttle getting ready to dock with the Shi'ar Imperial cruiser. I am free and unharmed. The rest of the X-men are already at the mansion, also free and unharmed. They have been told that I will be joining them soon as the negotiations have stalled and everyone is taking a break before trying again."

"They wouldn't leave without me," he challenged.

"They believe you to be with me, Warren. They are uncertain as to why I requested your presence, but they trust the Shi'ar because I do and that's what the Shi'ar told them. Once we-"

"You wouldn't leave me!" Archangel was realizing the image truly was Xavier – everything about him read right. That realization drove horror deeper.

Xavier nearly crumbled under the words. For a moment, he almost surrendered a world to save one man. But in true Xavier form, he pushed aside emotions to do what he must.

"I would not willing leave you, Warren. You are like a s-son to me. I would give my own life…"

Lilandra saw Charles' tight control loosen. The conversation must end quickly for everyone's sake. "Charles," she whispered, "the treaty." She watched as Xavier fought for self-control.

"Warren, there is no other way to say this that will make it easier. The situation is as the Shi'ar have told you."

"You don't know what they've told me – you're not here!" Archangel cried. His world had begun to crumble; shattering in slow motion.

Xavier braced himself to speak the most agonizing words he would ever utter. "Warren, you must go with the Turzents. If you do not, the Earth loses its freedom and the Turzents will rule."

"No!" Archangel shoved Charize aside and took several steps toward the viewscreen on the wall. The others in the room melted to the sides. "It's not true! It c-can't b-be!" He voice cracked as he shouted in numbing disbelief. The room fell away and the world became only Xavier's image and voice.

"I'm so sorry – it's out of our hands. There's nothing we can do to help you. If we try-" Charles voice broke, he choked and swallowed, a tear running down his cheek.

Archangel had watched Xavier with intense desperation, looking for any sign, any hope that it was not the man who was a second father, but when Xavier started to break down, he knew it was truly Xavier. His last hope evaporated. Legs giving out, he sank to the floor, looking up at the screen. "Professor…" he pleaded.

Lilandra wasn't sure if Charles would be able to continue. His strength once again amazed her as he gathered himself for the sake of a planet.

"Archangel!" Charles said sternly. Lilandra knew by the change in how he addressed Warren what was coming next – and it would be a blade through the heart of the X-man.

Xavier's voice was like steel as he continued. "Archangel, you will go quietly with the Turzents. You will not attempt to escape, nor will there be any attempt by the X-men to rescue you. You will do as you are ordered by their Emperor." Each command Xavier uttered brought more horror to Archangel's face. "You will not attempt to harm any Turzent. You will not bring harm to yourself. You will do this for the sake of mankind."

Reality shattered around him and the Archangel persona melted away – only Warren remained. The man on the screen had practically raised him from a teenager, trained him to be an X-man, and fought at his side. They'd been to hell and back together more times than Warren could count. Yet the man he considered a mentor, a friend, and confidante, just told him to go quietly with the enemy.

He searched Xavier's image for any hidden messages or any hint he was trying to convey, but found none. All the signs said the usually impassive man was on the verge of completely breaking down. It took an enormous blow to bring Xavier to that point. It meant one thing…the X-men were truly abandoning him to the aliens.

"No-o, Professor! I can-n't…I…this doesn't make sense…this-. There must be something else…Please!" Warren begged, his body quaking under a cascade of emotions.

"You have your orders." It was Xavier's last strength. He could say no more.

Charles could only watch in anguish as the younger mutant struggled to digest the situation. He longed to grab Warren, hold him tight, to protect and comfort him; to tell him with those words, Charles Xavier, one of the most powerful mutants on Earth, just died inside.

But not before he fatally mindblasted every Turzent on the ship! Rage and horror resurged to the surface as he watched Warren's head bow to the floor and the wings fold tightly around him protectively. Shame for the betrayal followed instantly on fury's heels to nearly crush him.

Lilandra knew Xavier could endure or do no more – further contact would simply prolong the agony. She pressed the control on the viewer console to end the link and then drew Charles into her arms.

At first, Charles fought Lilandra's embrace – her people bartered the atrocity. But then, he reminded himself, they also had saved his planet from hostile occupation. He allowed the Empress to hold him.

###

There comes a point when too much is too much. Combined memories of the atrocities he endured at the hands of Apocalypse, an inability to find a reason for his sudden subjugation, Xavier's betrayal, and the future of Earth resting on cooperation with his captors…he was overwhelmed. With neither fight nor flight available, Warren was trapped within a growing nightmare. The mind deals with the unimaginable as best it can…it detaches, giving the individual the ability to cope. As detachment took hold, everything became surreal, as if it was happening to someone else and Warren was watching from the outside.

The aliens had remained still during the exchange with Xavier. Charize and Arizai watched as Archangel remained quietly on the floor, his head down. While he was visibly trembling, he did seem to be calming – hopefully, for the right reasons. No one dared yet move. The Human needed to time collect himself, time the skilled negotiators were willing to give if it would help make the next step easier. Finally, Archangel righted himself, still holding the wings tight to his body.

'Another few seconds…' Arizai told herself. She was rewarded for her patience.

'Do what they want…for now,' Warren told himself with eerie calmness. On unsteady legs, he got to his feet, sought out Arizai's face, and locked eyes. "Now what?' Warren asked dully.

"Now we go see the Emperor," she answered flatly.

###

Ztar was nearly out of patience. It was taking too long. He wanted to get out of the backwater star system, away from the prying eyes of the Shi'ar, and be done with it. He had learned much about the Shi'ar and was finished. Give him his prize and move on!

The Earth business had started months ago when Ztar read a scout report about an insignificant star system outside of Turzent space with a single populated planet. What piqued Ztar's interest, though, was the report of super-powered beings – genetic mutations – that apparently occurred naturally; not created through scientific manipulation. Now that was interesting!

In the weeks that followed, Ztar ordered further stealth investigations of the planet. Everything he learned intrigued him. The world would be worth adding to his Empire.

In the last few days, Ztar was even more impressed with the less advanced planet when they summoned the intergalactic Shi'ar to their side. The insignificant world grew more intriguing with every passing day, strengthening Ztar's resolve to not abnegate Earth.

Because his ship's psychic dampeners worked on everyone but him, Ztar was free to read the minds of the Shi'ar negotiators and their Empress. He learned the Shi'ar had little desire to come to Earth's aid militarily. The Empress would fight for her Earth friends, but her government likely would not. Two days of talks and Ztar grew weary of the meaningless negotiations. He had learned what he wanted and was ready to end the discussions and take control of the planet that was already his. Let the Shi'ar decide whether or not they had the stomach to stop him.

On a whim, he decided to take a look at the Humans who accompanied the Shi'ar on the third day. A slightly different group had come over from the Shi'ar cruiser. What Ztar saw on the viewscreen changed everything. A creature so magnificent, it took his breath away.

Stealth telepathy was Ztar's specialty. He did it better than anyone – nearly undetectable, especially when the victim's mind was distracted. A single mental probe of the Human revealed a great deal. Ztar must have Archangel! He would give away the whole Earth System for that one.

And so his negotiators were instructed to obtain the Human in a manner that guaranteed his complete submission. Earth itself, he told them, was the bargaining chip. Now after waiting three long days, Ztar was about to receive his indentured Human. Time moved slowly as anticipation grew. He was tired of waiting.

Staff kept him fully apprised as events unfolded to augment Ztar's telepathic monitoring. He preferred dual monitoring in most situations – his senses and information his crew provided. It gave him two perspectives on events.

The departure of the rest of the mutants called the X men had been accomplished without incident. Their leader also departed according to plan. The winged man had put up a bit of resistance. That was expected – Ztar would have been disappointed if he had not. The unanticipated conversation between the one called Xavier and Archangel resulted in a delay. However, it had the right effect, so was worthwhile.

All perfectly reasonable steps; it was just that Ztar was not a patient man. He paced the length of the ship's throne room. Finally, he sensed the Shi'ar and the Human approach the antechamber. An aide confirmed they were just outside.

###

Arizai led the way, followed by Warren, Charize, and four Turzent guards. She informed Warren of the protocols to be followed in the Emperor's presence. He replayed those words to keep his mind focused on something relatively benign instead of racing with thoughts of the unimaginable.

"Do not speak until directly addressed by Emperor Ztar," she had explained. "Do not stare into his eyes and keep your head slightly bowed. Do not move unless told or otherwise directed to do so. No threatening or sudden gestures. Answer questions, but ask none unless permission is requested and granted by the Emperor. Remain calm and submissive."

Warren's stomach churned at 'submissive.' It foreshadowed things he did not want to contemplate.

When the doors to the throne room opened, it revealed a powerful-looking man seated in a large, ornate chair positioned on a riser. 'Can only be his royal highness,' Warren concluded sarcastically. Standing at the foot of the riser were two male Turzents in formal attire. Warren recognized one as a Turzent official from the room where he had talked with Xavier, but not the other.

Arizai led them to within a few feet of the throne and stopped, Warren and Charize positioned behind. She waited for the Emperor to address her. And he did make her wait, for many long seconds. Warren sensed the alien monarch liked to make people uncomfortable. He doubted it had that affect on the Shi'ar – they were used to Imperial rulers. Arizai waited without appearing affronted.

Ztar rose, standing erect as if to emphasize his stature. Warren studied him. The alien had to top out at seven feet – taller by a head than any other Turzent he had seen during his brief time on their ship. Ztar was as powerful in appearance as any major mutant Warren had encountered. Toned and muscular, he looked like he could single-handedly fight off a small army. His skin was olive brown and his hair, which could only be described as black crimson, covered his head and trailed to his shoulders. The eyes were large and of a deep brown with flecks of gold. From Warren's brief exposure to others of Ztar's kind, Turzent eyes had no whites and Ztar's were no different. Other than the obvious cosmetic differences, the Turzents and Ztar were remarkably Humanoid.

Ztar finally addressed the female Shi'ar. "All is as agreed?" the Emperor's voice was deep and even those few words were filled with the air of an imperial dictator.

"Yes, Emperor. Our presentation of the Human named Archangel represents fulfillment of the last term to fully enact the Turzent/Earth Accord."

The Emperor descended the single step to the floor and approached Arizai. A glance from Ztar and she politely stood aside. Charize sidled away, as well. Ztar took another step that closed the gap.

'Don't let this guy get to you,' Warren told himself. He held his ground and did not step back even as Ztar moved to within inches. Then circling to Warren's side, the alien looked him up and down as one would examine animal on the auction block. Detachment was crumbling as anger rose. Suddenly, the Emperor reached out and touched the edge of one wing.

Reflexes took over and Warren jumped, and the Emperor's hand was knocked hard aside as wings snapped open. Warren whirled half around. "Hands off, bastard!" he shouted into the face of the ruler, all remnants of detachment having instantly vaporized.

Guards brought their weapons up in a microsecond and had them trained on him and the Shi'ar. The Emperor raised his hand in a halt gesture and everyone froze. Warren caught himself with a jerk and froze. 'Earth's on the line – remember that, Worthington!' He stood stock still, despite every fiber of his body being primed to attack. For several seconds, the room was silent and motionless.

"Hold your position. Lower your weapons," Ztar commanded as he eyed the insolent Human with curiosity. Gazing down at his newest possession, he narrowed his eyes for affect. "Archangel needs to learn how to properly conduct himself and we will allow him a short while to do so." Human eyes locked to Turzent in a glare…blue sparked with anger and the brown remained cold and unaffected. "Turn forward as before. You will control yourself or Earth pays for your disobedience."

'Goddamn bastard!' Warren swore to himself, but did as commanded, fists and jaw clenched. Again, Ztar touched the top edge of Warren's right wing, running his hand down the full length of the wing's reach. Warren fought to suppress a shiver as the hand slid over feathers, but could not.

A nearly invisible smile crossed Ztar's mouth as he completed the circular perusal until back where he started, facing the mutant. "Much better, Archangel."

'Much better my ass, you fucking bastard!' Indignation burned through Warren, but he remained silent for the sake of the planet he called home.

Ztar turned to address Arizai. "I am satisfied. The Accord is in effect as of this moment. It will remain in effect…" Ztar looked back into Archangel's blue eyes, "as long as my new subject fulfills his obligations under its terms."

It was all Warren could do not to strike out, but Ztar's words rooted him in place. 'You'll pay for this. You'll see. The X-men will make you pay!' Warren vowed silently. Then Xavier's words came back to him. There'd be no rescue. 'Not true – don't believe it. A lie for alien ears.'

"Thank you, Emperor Ztar." Arizai and Charize exited the room, their job done.

The guards would have the arrogant Shi'ar delegation off his cruiser within minutes. Ztar immediately started toward a door to one the side of the throne room. "Take Archangel to his chambers. Sukja will attend to him," he commanded as he strode toward the exit.

'Chambers? Not cell – or lab? What the fuck?' Warren was confused.

"Yes, Emperor."

As guards and the Turzent at the foot of the throne started moving toward him, Warren took a risk. 'To hell with protocol' he decided. "Ztar! At least tell me why I'm here – what you want with me? You owe me that much!" he demanded loudly to man's back.

The room drew its breath and held it. Ztar stopped as the door slid open before him, but did not turn around as he considered the options in dealing with the second breach of conduct. He would allow the Human his outburst. Archangel had a strong spirit that he did not want to completely tame. Given his plans, that spirit could be enriching. As he turned slowly to face the winged man, Ztar smiled, though not a friendly one.

"What I demand from you, Archangel, is your body…in my bed." Then he swiftly left the room and the door slid shut.

###

A/N: Okay, my readers. Here is where I ask for feedback and you kindly indulge me. Remember, that's what this site is all about – authors post stories and others read and review. Oh, the joy of hearing from a reader!

So, please, share the joy and post a review – needn't be detailed or involved, just a quick note to let me know you like the chapter (or not).