Chapter Nine

"This is going to be cool, nothing but sun, sea and sand."

Taking a glance towards his friend Evan was relieved to see Kurt back in high spirits, obviously sharing the enjoyment everyone felt. Ensuring that everything was secured on his side Evan moved around to join Kurt on his side as they began the wait for the last members of their group. Talking amongst themselves about whatever came to mind both Evan and Kurt were stunned into silence as the blurred figure of Kitty went running past them.

"It's about time you got here you know, thought you weren't going to make it."

Following Kitty's running form Evan watched in amusement as the ponytailed girl practically enveloped the approaching Sasha in a hug, breaking apart moments later as they headed towards Kurt and himself. Laughing slightly at Kitty's warm welcome Evan couldn't hide his grin as he noticed Kurt's stunned expression upon laying eyes on the Russian.

Needing time to recover from his encounter with the Brotherhood Kurt had missed the last few days of school before the weekend. Coinciding with Kurt's own absence from school Sasha had been kept of school ill for the last few days of school, hence the only contact the two had had was over the phone.

Having been in a flutter since the others had told him they were inviting the object of his crush along on their outing Kurt's feelings now went into overdrive as he noticed the approaching Sasha. Wearing a one piece swim suit of silvery blue Sasha's modesty was still kept by the knee length sash of navy blue tied around her waist.

"So what's up with you and Sasha then? Are you two dating or what?"

Startled by Evan's question Kurt looked dumb founded towards his friend unsure of how to answer the question. Thinking things over Kurt wasn't sure how he stood with the one in question; the two had never really discussed their relationship. However, as luck would it in the time that Kurt was thinking both Kitty and Sasha, shortly followed by Rogue, had joined them.

"I couldn't find Jean so I felt her a note."

"Well now that we're all here what about getting this show on the road."

Not needing to repeat himself Kurt watched in amusement as the others scrambled into the jeep, the three girls managing to get into the back while Evan would be joining him in the front. Letting the others settles in Kurt grabbed the keys from his pocket before joining everyone.


Later that day

"Right on time, you know what we're got to do."

Brought back to reality from his silent reverie by the sound of Lance's voice Pietro decided to deal with the thoughts that were troubling him later. Pushing himself from the jeep he was leaning against Pietro spared Fred and Todd a look before moving to stand next to Lance. Looking in the same direction as their leader Pietro soon caught sight of the vehicle moving towards them, although he couldn't yet see the occupants Pietro already knew who they were facing; Daniels, Kitty, Rogue and Kurt.

Seeing Lance getting ready to start his little landslide as the jeep got closer Pietro was about to rejoin the others when a last glance towards the approaching vehicle stopped him. Only now able to see the occupants more clearly Pietro was shocked to see a familiar dark haired individual, one which Mystique had failed to mention when she contacted them. Not one to be greatly concerned about others Pietro's thoughts ran wild as he tried to accept what he was seeing. Even though he considered the X-Men his opponents he had no desire to see the one he considered a sister hurt. However, before he could say anything Pietro was forced to watch in horror as the vehicle and its occupants were capsized.


Elsewhere

Giving a small groan as he blinked open his eyes Kurt brushed aside his fringe of hair, allowing him a better view of the world around him. Seeing the others just as dazed as him Kurt couldn't shake the feeling that the landslide they had experienced was no accident. Pushing himself up Kurt was about to aid the raising Sasha to her feet when a sudden blue stopped him, wondering what was going on Kurt was stunned to see that the Russian had disappeared. However, his question regarding her whereabouts was soon answers by the voice he heard behind him.

Regaining her sense it took a moment for Sasha to realise that the one holding her none other Pietro and that those around her were none other than Lance, Fred and Todd. Hearing Lance finish the last of his speech Sasha looked in puzzlement at those around her wondering what was going on.

"Pietro what's going on?"

"Just sit back and relax Sasha ok. I promise nothing's going to happen to you."

Even with Pietro's words Sasha's confusion only grew as she tore her gaze away from those near her to the standing figures of her friends, only to be stunned by the looks they were directing towards Pietro and the others. However, it was the look of vivid anger that burned within Kurt's gaze that caught her attention, never in all the time that she had known him had she seen him so angry.

"Let her go now!"

"Don't worry you walking fur ball once we've dealt with you we'll let Sasha over here go."

As realisation dawned on her Sasha knew without a doubt that a fight was about to start, unwilling to see either her friends or Pietro come to blows Sasha struggled in the grip Pietro held her in. However, her relief as he released her was short lived as a much stronger hold caught her, with both arms pinned to her side Her vain struggles became useless.

Managing to avoid a tangle from the leaping Todd Kurt turned his sights upon the held Sasha, fury like he'd never known before coursing through his veins. Even though anger filled him at the idea of the Brotherhood holding Sasha against her will Kurt still couldn't rid himself of the one question which was bugging him. With sights set on the captive girl Kurt was puzzled by the amount of calm she possessed, were as many would have been scared at the show of powers which the others were showing Sasha showed no fear.

Caught up in his wondering Kurt heeded Evan's warning to late as he was send crashing to the sand below by the rushing Todd. Quickly regaining his senses Kurt soon found himself struggling with his foe. Issuing a cry as he felt his wrist being slammed forcefully into the ground Kurt somehow managed to throw Todd of himself, only to watch in horror as his holowatch gave a burst of sparks before going dead. Unable to see what Sasha's reaction was regarding his appearance Kurt quickly found himself trying to keep a steady footing as the earth began to shake.

Valiantly trying to maintain some sense of composure Sasha could already feel the stirrings of her mutation pushing for dominance as she looked upon the scene before her. Turning her attention towards Kurt Sasha showed the brief look of surprise as the true blue form of Kurt flickered into existence. However, before she could dwell on this development Sasha watched in horror as the ground below the others parted and the figures of Kurt, Kitty, Evan and Rogue disappeared under the sands.

Looking in disbelieve towards the settling sands Sasha turned her gaze from the sight, eyelids squeezed shut as she fought back the tears, not want to believe what had just happened. Hearing the snickers of those remaining aqua eyes snapped open as Sasha looked with venom towards the Brotherhood, only showing an onze of sadness for a brief moment as she caught Pietro's eye before he turned away in guilt. Feeling her anger reaching its breaking point Sasha for the first time in the life welcome that part of her which she fought so hard to deny, actually putting as much of herself into using her powers to awaken them.

While most of the Brotherhood celebrated, minus one white haired member, at their victory none of them were aware of the happens taking place right underneath their noses. If any had taken the time to notice they would have seen aqua eyes slowly bleeding away into burning silver, which were narrowed dangerously towards them.

However, the sudden reappearance of the X-Men prevented the discovery of this development as everyone's attention was on the standing X-Men. Sparing only a moment to glance towards her friends Sasha quickly took note of Fred's arms loosing slightly as the shock of the X-Men's reappearance hit him. Wasting no time in gaining her freedom Sasha quickly concentrated on where she wanted to be, a brief smile appearing as she reappeared a few feet behind Fred. Quickly forming the familiar dark blades Sasha send them flying towards Fred's form.

Hearing Fred's pain filled cry Pietro managed to turn his attention from the fight he was engaged in to look towards his comrade, settling his gaze on the one in question Pietro was startled at the sight which met him. Standing behind Fred's kneeling form with wisps of black mist twirling around her hands was Sasha, her eyes blazing pools of silver. Putting two and two together Pietro was shocked to realise that Sasha had been the mutant the Brotherhood had faced a few days ago. Shocked by this new development Pietro barely had time to avoid the spike Evan threw at him. Confused by the developing events Pietro could see he wasn't the only one startled by Sasha's revealed mutant status, deciding to deal with one thing at a time Pietro returned his sights towards Evan unwilling to lose this fight.

Quickly dispatching with Evan Pietro looked around in relief as the battle began to draw to an end, not bothering to take note of the fights around him Pietro's gaze immediately settled on the forms of Fred and Sasha. Silently looking on with baited breath as he awaited the outcome, although he was worried about both members he felt his concern leaning towards Sasha. In what seemed like an age, yet in reality were mere minutes the battle came to its final conclusion as the final strike was delivered.

Standing her ground as she watched the one before her Sasha waited patiently for Fred to make his move, the slight flecking of her hands the only sigh of movement. Even as he began his charge Sasha waited till the last possible moment before vanishing from her position. Reappearing in the air behind Fred's confused form Sasha put all she had into her next attack as she sent a barrage of blades flying outwards.

Even before Fred had even hit the ground Sasha had landed in the dirt beside him, quickly casting her gaze on the area before her. Taking note of Kurt, Kitty and Evan lying defeated in the sands below Sasha felt her anger towards the Brotherhood grow. Yet, even with anger filling her Sasha couldn't rid herself of the protective instincts she felt towards Pietro as she moved before him halting Rogue's progress towards him. However, before either Rogue or Sasha could question the two remaining Brotherhood members about the recent confrontation Lance's voice halted them.

"Easy Rogue, Sasha, the battles over, you've pashed Rogue and even though you weren't originally counted for so have you Sasha."

"What are you going on about? What so you mean we've passed? Passed for what?"

"For a place in the haven."

Looking in confusion towards Lance both girls had mere moments to ponder Lance's words before they noticed the passing shadows over them. Looking upwards both girls looked in wonder at the silver orbs flying towards them; neither knowing what was in store for them.


Later that day

Remaining as calm as possible given the situation Charles Xavier waited patiently for the one before him to continue explaining the reason behind his being here. Watching the cloaked figure before him Charles could hardly believe that this was the man he once regarded as his closest friend.

"The gathering is almost complete. Just Wolverine and Sabertooth to go. A storm is coming for mutant kind Charles, and our resolves must be iron clad. Side with me Charles, not against me, be one of those who accept salvation."

As if seeing the questioning thoughts tumbling through Charles' head Magneto gave a satisfied glance towards his old friend as he gracefully stepped aside to allow Charles to see who he spoke of. Waiting a few moments for his guest to appear Magneto watched in disapproval as Quicksilver remained close to his newest finds side.

Hearing Magneto's words Charles remained silent as he waited for those Magneto referred to too appear. Not surprised by the figures of Pietro and Lance Charles managed to hide his surprise as he laid eyes upon the X-Men's newest friend, hence explaining the mutant signature he'd recently picked up on in Bayville.

Taking in Sasha's appearance at she approached him and Magneto Charles was puzzled by the faint greyish tinge appearing on her arms and around her eyes, not only that but various shades of greys and whites could be seen at the roots of her hair. If Charles didn't know any better he would had said that Sasha's mutation affected her physically however, he couldn't explain how it hadn't displayed its self before now.

From her body language it was apparent that Sasha was wary about what was happening, her fear and uncertainty easily detectable. However, what Charles was surprised to sense was that the presence of Pietro being near at hand provided some calm. Even more surprised was the high sense of protective feelings Pietro was harbouring towards Sasha, giving Charles some hope that the boy could still be reachable.

"Let me introduce our newest recruit, I'm surprised you've not already recruited her before now Charles."

Coming to a halt a few paces behind Magneto Charles caught the silvery gaze of the girl before him, although her outward appearance showed a seemingly calm picture her mind was a jumble of mixed emotions. Giving a reassuring smile to the one before him Charles returned his attention to the man before him.

"Your invitation begs the question, what happens to those who won't come willing?"

"If necessary, sometimes salvation must be force fed."

With a wave of his hand Magneto allowed all those present to understand the meaning behind his words as three glass tubes appeared from the ground. Encased in the glass cylinders stood the slumbering figures of Rogue, Jean and Storm.

"Magus, you haven't saved them. You've abducted them."

"A certain amount of persuasion may still be needed. I'll admit. But for every unbeliever...there is a new convert."

Looking questioningly towards his old friend Charles could only stare in shock at what Magneto meant by his statement. Trying to process what he was seeing it took Charles a few moments to recover from his shock before he could voice his thoughts.

"Scott, no!"


Elsewhere

From where she stood beside Pietro Sasha valiantly maintained her composure as she watched Professor Xavier join the slumbering figures of her friends, silently watching as the Professor passed into the realm of sleep. Watching Magneto turn away from her Sasha felt the first real signs of fear begin to grip her. Trying to make some sense of the happenings around Sasha cast a look of gratitude towards the one beside her as she felt Pietro discreetly take her hand in his.

Although anger still dwelled inside her regarding how she had come to be here Sasha knew that she could not remain angry with the one she considered a brother as she saw remorse burning deep within Pietro's eyes. Despite the opinions people may have formed about the white haired individual Sasha knew that the arrogant, selfish image Pietro portrayed wasn't all there was to him; underneath the cocky attitude lay a caring if wary persona. Giving the hand which held hers a reassuring squeeze Sasha was relieved to see a small smile appear on Pietro's face before it disappeared under a blank front.

Thankful for Sasha's silent support Pietro was grateful to see that her initial anger towards him had died down. With an intellect far beyond others of his age, yet one he'd never been given credit for Pietro was beginning to question Magneto's ideals as he processed all that had happened, salvation was something but that didn't mean it justified kidnapping. Before now he'd taken everything Magneto had taught him to be true, doing whatever he was asked, but now all the doubts he'd been having were catching up with him. Perhaps it was time to rethink the position he was in, maybe it was time he formed his own truth.


Elsewhere

Awaking from his forced slumber Charles Xavier could only sit back and watch as the warming he gave was delivered to late, watching both Scott and his brother disappear behind the enhancer's metal door. Waiting for what seemed an age Charles, along with the newly awoken X-Men, could only look in horror as both Scott and Alex emerged from the enhancer, no longer the people they were upon entering. No longer able to recognise the mind of his student Charles paid little attention to Magneto's words as he tried to find some spark of the Scott he knew.

Feeling a number of familiar presences nearing their location Charles realized that it would not be long before Magneto's defences picked up on them, but hopefully by then he and the others would have obtained their freedom. Taking note of Magneto's diverted attention Charles quickly took in all that was around him, obtaining a brief sense of everyone around him, Charles found his attention settle on two mutants in particular. Knowing that one of the mutants he was focusing on was dealing with an internal conflict Charles knew he had to wait for them to decide on the path they took. However, he was hopefully that the other would overcome their fears and provide them with their help.

"Sasha, Sasha, please do not be afraid I know you're scared and confused, but I need your help."

"Professor Xavier...But how?"

"We're speaking telepathically Sasha, try to remain calm it is important that you do not draw attention to yourself."

Taking a step back Charles allowed the Russian teenager time to process what had just happened, hoping that she would answer with the response he needed as he felt the others nearing. Sparing a glance towards the girl in question Charles was relieved to see she showed no change in outer appearance, the only attention she was receiving was the brief look of concern from Pietro.

"I don't understand, I don't get any of this...I, I just want to go home."

"Sasha I understand your fear, but you do not need to fear what you are. I promise I will do all that I can to return you home, but I will need your help."

"...What can I do?"

Hearing Sasha's reply Charles released the tension he felt before thanking her for her courage and help; realising time was of the essence Charles quickly told her what he need her to do.


Elsewhere

Casting her gaze around Sasha knew that Magneto and the others were to bust with the newly evolved Scott and Alex to pay her any attention however, even with that knowledge it did not make her task any easier. The knowledge of what she had to do still terrified her, but she knew this was something she had to do, the Professor and the others were counting on her. Taking a deep breath Sasha gathered herself together giving Pietro's hand one last squeeze as she took note of the concerned look he had.

Even as she felt his icy blue gaze following her silent trail Sasha kept on course as she neared the cylinders control panel, only faltering as she neared her destination. Holding her hand mere inches away from the panel before her Sasha felt her nerves waver as she hovered over the desired switch.

From where he stood Pietro's eyes widened in understanding as he realised Sasha's intentions, yet even as he understood what was happening he did nothing to prevent it. Looking between Magneto and Sasha Pietro looked quickly between the two feeling his cool reserve begin to shatter as his loyalties were torn between the two. However, before he could decide on what to do the whole area was turned into chaos as alarms rang trough out the complex.

Regaining his bearings from the alarms sudden interruption Pietro was in time to witness not only Scott and Alex fire on the approaching jet, but also to see Magneto turn his sights upon Sasha.

"You would dare betray me."

"I can't betray you...because I never joined you."

Shocked by the idea that Sasha was defining Magneto Pietro could only look in amazement as his friend pressed the switch on the panel. Shutting down the power Sasha barely had time to see if the cylinders which confined the X-Men had disappeared before turning a terrified gaze towards Magneto.


Elsewhere

Watching as Rogue, Storm and Jean escaped their prisons Charles was thankful to see the figures of the other X-Men quickly appear beside them as they went into battle. Knowing that his students could easily deal with the situation before them Charles turned to where a terrified Sasha stood before Magneto. Knowing his old friend would not forgive the Russian for freeing them Charles hoped to prevent Magneto from doing anything rash. However, before he could do or say anything Magneto had already sent rods of fallen iron towards Sasha.

Hearing the clang of metal against stone Charles opened his eyes in surprise only to see an empty space now occupying the space where Sasha once stood. Wondering what was happening Charles found the answer to his question a few feet before him, standing before Sasha with a determination like never before was none other than Pietro.

"Stand aside Quicksilver, the girl is a weak link and weak links must be dealt with."

"You know what, not this time. You can say whatever you want but I wouldn't let you hurt her."

"You forget your place Quicksilver or must I remind you of it."

"You seem to forget that you're the one who taught me never to back down. Well guess what I'm doing what you've taught me to do, I'm sick of doing what you want, when you want it simply because of who are you!"

Even though the very person struck fear into his heart Pietro was unwilling to back down as she stared Magneto straight in the eye, determine not to show fear to the one before him. Knowing the odds were against him in a one on one confrontation Pietro was amazed beyond belief as Mystique diverted Magneto's attention. Rooted to the spot as he processed what had happened Pietro soon spurred into action as he heeded the warning Xavier gave himself and Sasha to get out of the line of fire, only to find themselves dragged into another.


Elsewhere

Quickly regaining her footing upon the mount of rumble she stood upon Sasha was for once thankful for her agility. Resting near the mounts top Sasha's managed to hear Jean's words as she tried to talk some sense to Scott. Feeling the sadness Jean must have been feeling as she turned to follow Professor Xavier's retreating figure Sasha remained still for a minute before quickly descending to the ground.

"How lucky you are, to have those who would believe in you even when you do wrong. I wish I had people like that."

"Sasha come on!"

Looking upwards Sasha was greeted with the sight of both Pietro and Jean waiting for her to join them as they stood to the entrance of their escape. Taking one last look towards Scott and Alex Sasha knew they had to decide on their own what to do, doing a quick turn Sasha began her journey to her friend's sides.


Later that day

Safely aboard the Blackbird all those present were sat in an uneasy silence, although everyone was relieved to be on their way home he two groups were unsure of where they stood with each other. From where he sat beside Kitty Kurt was troubled greatly by recent events, although relieved that the whole ordeal with Magneto was over with Kurt couldn't shake off the worry which ate at his heart. Looking upwards Kurt could see that he wasn't the only one looking towards the back of the jet where two of their occupants sat.

Unwilling to mingle with everyone else Sasha had chosen to stay at the back of the jet, although she'd initially started off alone Pietro had shortly joined her side. Unable to deal with the questioning she was sure she'd receive Sasha's hidden face against her upraised knees showed everyone she wasn't ready to talk. Though she had no doubts that the silver haired individual beside her also had something to do with keeping everyone else away from her. Although Pietro hadn't said anything to her Sasha was grateful for his silent presence beside her, glad for the comforting arm around her shoulders.

Almost as if she could feel the eyes upon her Sasha slowly raised her eyes to find herself meeting an amber gaze; seeing the confusion and worry in his eyes Sasha felt her heart ache as she saw how much she was hurting the one she cared for. Never forgetting the look of surprise she'd seen in him as she realised she was a mutant Sasha knew it would be facing him that would be the hardest task. Even though she had known for some time that Kurt and the others were mutants she'd always feared accepting the truth about herself, giving up everything to make a fresh start, wondering if she'd ever be able to forget.

Feeling the Blackbird descend all those present prepared for landing, everyone giving a sigh of relief as the mansion appeared before them. Grateful to be home the X-Men were glad to see the Institute once again as they exited the Blackbird. Joining the others on the lawn Kurt's attention was on the female mutant who stood a few feet away, hoping that Sasha would stay Kurt was saddened to see her spare him a glance before vanishing in a dark cloud. Before he could react to what had happened the Professor's voice caught his and everyone's attention.

"Let her go Kurt."

"But Professor why? You could help her couldn't you, she's a mutant just like us."

"Yes Sasha is a mutant and one I would be happy to help however, at the moment there is nothing I can do."

"I don't understand Professor."

"I know you care deeply for her Kurt, but at the moment Sasha isn't willing to accept what she is, whatever her reasons Sasha is afraid. I hope that in time she will learn there is nothing to fear and when she does she is more that welcome here."

Seeing Kurt accept his answer Charles felt his heart go out towards the German mutant, it didn't a physic to see how bad Kurt fallen for the girl and because of that Charles knew Kurt would take the news hard. Watching Rogue offering a comforting hand Charles knew he would be in good hands, the others were more than willing to offer their support to their friend. Knowing Kurt was in good hands Charles turned his attention towards the other teenager he wished to speak to, glad to see Pietro had yet to join the retreating figures of the Brotherhood.

Remaining silent as he watched Sasha disappear Pietro's only sound was a sigh as he realised she wasn't coming back, gathering himself together Pietro was ready to join the retreating Brotherhood when a voice halted him.

"Pietro."

Looking around to see who had called him Pietro was surprised to see none other than Xavier before him, wondering what Xavier could want with him Pietro was even more surprised by what he heard.

"Thank you, not only on my behalf, but for the others as well."

"Thank me, for what exactly?"

"For allowing Sasha to free us and for protecting Sasha herself, I know it was a difficult decision for you to make."

Not use to praise Pietro was surprised by what Xavier had said, for once struck for words Pietro could only look in surprise towards the man who was thanking him. Unsure of what to do Pietro was getting a little edge as he noticed the remaining X-Men were now listening to their conversion.

"If you wish to accept it the offer to stay here is open."

"Join up with you yeah right, I'm sure your previous X-Men would just love that."

"I wouldn't mind."

Not expecting a reply Pietro couldn't believe none other than Jean had just voted for him to stay at the Institute. Seeing his shock Jean couldn't prevent her smile, even though Pietro had been a pain in the ass before Jean's opinion about him was changing. After seeing what he had done on the asteroid and then on the Blackbird Jean had begun to realize that despite everything there was a side to Pietro she'd never seen before. Knowing she wasn't the only one coming to realise this Jean was glad to see she wasn't the only one voicing their acceptation of Pietro staying as she heard Rogue and Storm agree with her. After all everyone deserved a second chance.

"What's the matter? Afraid you might actually come to like us if you actually give us a chance?"

Looking to Rogue Pietro was having trouble accepting the idea before him, that someone would actually give him a chance was a difficult concept for him to accept. However, despites the offer and how grateful he was for it Pietro knew he had to sort himself out before he decide on anything.

"I appreciate the offer, but I have to decline, right now I'm to confused to make any decision about where I stand."

"I respect your decision Pietro, but if you change your mind."

Seeing Pietro acknowledge his reply Charles barely had time to blink before Pietro had disappeared, a slight wind the only sign of his presence. Feeling the sun begin to rise Charles looked over to where the X-Men stood, proud of the team that they had become Charles knew that as long as they remained together they could overcome anything.