Title: A Friend in Need 02/18
Author: Somogyi
Email: somogyi02@yahoo.com
Archive: Sure, just please ask first
Rating: PG-13 for language, violence, and disturbing imagery
Summary: Synch and Jubilee are captured by Tessa and Shaw. A thoughtful look at how
the resulting scars have lasting effects on the whole GenX team.
Disclaimer: The X-Men and Generation X are property of Marvel Entertainment.
Characters are used without permission, no profit is being made, and no infringement
on copyright is intended.
*****
A Friend In Need
by Somogyi
somogyi02@yahoo.com
Chapter 2
Jubilee and I left the movie theater and walked into the cool Boston night.
Smiling, she took my arm and walked closer to me for warmth. "So, what did you
think?" she asked as we slowly walked down the street toward the bus stop.
"It was pretty good," I replied. "The special effects were awesome. Especially
the space ship and the cloning tanks."
"Yeah, they were cool, but that's nothing compared to the UST! Or should I say
RST. That kiss was over six years in coming! I tell ya, Ev, by the next movie,
those two'll be doing the wild thing!"
I laughed. "Geez, who would've believed that Jubilation Lee was a romantic?"
"Hey, I've been a diehard 'shipper ever since the third season, when Jean and
Rogue got me hooked on the show. I *knew* they were gonna get together. It was
inevitable."
"Why do you say that? Nothing indicated that they thought of each other as
anything more than partners. Just friends."
"Did that lip-lock say 'just friends' to you, Ev? They've been through hell and
back together, with only each other to trust. They've always been there for one
another, putting their lives on the line for each other, protecting each other.
If that isn't love, I don't know what is."
"I'm not saying they don't care about each other. I just think it's possible for
a man and a woman to work together and be close friends without being attracted
to one another. A platonic relationship is perfectly--"
"Shh," she said suddenly, letting go of my arm.
"Hey, you had your say, it's my tur--"
She shushed me again, clamping her hand over my mouth. "Did you hear that?"
I cocked my head, listening intently. I could hear a soft whimpering. "Sounds
like somebody crying. A kid maybe."
"I think it's coming from the alley over there," she said, pointing to the unlit
area between two buildings. "Let's check it out."
"Hold it," I said, grabbing her arm. "We don't know who or what's in there."
"Ev, it's probably some poor kid--lost, maybe hurt. We've gotta find out and
help."
"Jubes, it's not safe. It's probably some stoned junkie, or a mugger."
"It's not as if we can't defend ourselves. C'mon, Thomas, the truth is out
there, and I intend to find it, with or without your help." She turned from me
and headed toward the alleyway.
Sighing, I shook my head. Stubborn as usual. Well, I wasn't about to let her go
in alone without somebody to watch her back. "Hey, Lee, wait up," I said,
hurrying after her.
"I knew I could count on you," she said, holding up her index finger and
creating colorful energy plasmoids to serve as a makeshift flashlight. I synched
my aura to her powers, and created my own fireworks to add even more light.
We cautiously made our way to the source of the sobs.
"Sounds like it's coming from there," I whispered, pointing to some trashcans
that were lined against a wall.
Together, we slowly approached the spot. There, we found a woman huddled behind
the cans. We knelt down in front of her.
"Are you okay, miss? Are you hurt?" Jubilee asked, peering closer to get a
better look.
Trembling, the woman shook her head. "Go away!" she muttered brusquely. "Leave
me alone!"
"Can we help you?" I asked, moving my hand with its light source closer to get a
better look at the woman.
"No!" she hissed, and scurried further behind the garbage cans, as though trying
to hide her face in the darkness. From what little I could make out of her face,
I figured she couldn't be much older than me. Something did not feel right,
though. For some reason, I suddenly had the urge to grab Jubilee, get the hell
out of there, and never look back.
"It's okay, miss," Jubilee said softly. "We're not going to hurt you. We want to
help you. Please, let us help you." She reached out her hand to her.
At first, the young woman hesitated.
"Don't be scared. I won't bite. I promise."
The woman sat up then, and placed her hand in Jubilee's. As her face was
revealed from the shadows, we caught sight of her malicious grin. In the pit of
my stomach, I suddenly realized that we had made a grievous mistake.
Before either of us had time to react, out minds were filled with a searing
pain. I felt as though a white-hot knife were piercing my skull right between
the eyes. We screamed, and collapsed to the pavement.
Barely conscious, I saw the woman get to her feet. Several black-clad men
emerged from the shadows. I was too woozy to resist as they placed something
cold and smooth around my and Jubilee's necks.
*Inhibitor collars,* I realized. As I watched them restrain Jubilee's hands
behind her back, panic filled my mind. I knew it was now or never. I tried to
focus my thoughts, and sat up quickly, taking a swing at one of the goons. I was
still too groggy for my punch to be effective, though, and my fist barely
connected with the man's jaw. Before I could hit him again, I felt something
strike the back of my head. Darkness consumed me.
*****
When I awoke, my head felt like someone had been using it for a punching bag. I
opened my eyes and blinked repeatedly as I tried to get them to focus. I was
strung up, my limbs spread wide, arms bound by chains that connected to the
ceiling, while the restraints on my legs led to the floor. I tested them, but I
could barely move an inch. Looking around the enormous room, I saw piles of
wooden crates and a forklift over on the far side. Must be some sort of
warehouse, I realized.
Then I caught sight of Jubilee several yards across from me. She was strung up,
like me, and her face hung down, her chin near her chest. She did not appear to
be hurt.
"Jubilee," I called, my voice hoarse. "Can you hear me? Jubes!"
She moaned, and slowly lifted her head. "Did ya . . . get the license . . . for
the truck . . . that hit us?" she asked.
"You okay?" I asked, hearing the concern in my voice. "Did they hurt you?"
She looked up at me and smiled. At the sight of her grin, I felt relief wash
over me. "Aside from the Excedrin headache, I'm fine. But who brought us here?"
"That would be me," came a man's voice. The icy smoothness of his tone made my
flesh crawl. A tall man strode toward us, his jet black hair slicked back,
pencil-line scars crisscrossing all over his face. The raven-haired woman we had
tried to help, who was now dressed in skin-tight black leather, followed him.
"Who are you?" I asked.
"My name, boy, is Sebastian Shaw. And I believe you two have already met Tessa."
A derisive sound came from Jubilee's throat.
Tessa's eyes narrowed, and she took a step toward Jubilee. Shaw caught her arm.
"Not yet, my dear. All in due time."
Though she tried not to show it, I could see Jubilee's relief when Shaw held
Tessa in check. Can't blame her. She knew as well as I did that a psi attack was
not going to be fun.
"What do you want from us, scarface?" Jubilee asked, trying to muster her
courage.
"Why'd you bring us here?" I added.
"Now, now, children, I don't think *you* are in a position to be making
requests. *I* will be asking the questions. And, if you have any intention of
leaving here in one piece, you will answer them. Or else Tessa might have to pay
your minds another visit. Isn't that right, my dear?"
"It would be my pleasure, Sebastian," Tessa replied, her face erupting into that
same devilish grin she had had in the alleyway.
"Now, as I was saying," Shaw began, hands clasped behind his back as he started
to pace between us. "I require some information regarding Frost Enterprises."
"The White Queen's company?" Jubilee asked.
"Yes. It seems your headmistress--my former colleague--has a most intriguing
undertaking called Project Acquisition." He issued the last two words with
disgust, as though they left an unpleasant taste in his mouth. "What do you know
about it?" he asked, stopping to look me in the eyes.
I shook my head. "I've no clue what you're talking about."
"Don't lie to me, boy!"
"I'm no--oof!" Before I could even register what was happening, I felt the force
of Shaw's weight thrust at my gut through his fist. The air rushed out of my
lungs, and I was left gasping for breath.
"I'll ask you again, Thomas," Shaw said from between clenched teeth. "What are
the goals of Project Acquisition, and where is the file located?"
"I . . . told you, Shaw," I replied softly, keeping my eyes on him as he turned
his back to me and took a step away, "I've . . . never heard . . . of it."
"It's a shame you're making this difficult," Shaw said, turning on his heel and
thrusting his fist right into my left eye. A sharp pain engulfed me. I could
barely make out what Jubilee was saying.
"Ev!" she shrieked. "Stop it! Don't hurt him! He told you he doesn't know
anything!"
I knew then that Shaw must be looking at her with that intense gaze of his.
There was silence save for the heavy sound of my labored breathing. Then the
room echoed with laughter--a dark, foreboding sound that made me suddenly feel
very cold inside.
I looked up, and through my hazy vision, I could see Shaw take Jubilee's face in
his hand. She was trembling despite herself.
"Don't worry, my dear Jubilation," Shaw was saying, "you'll get your turn."
"Leave her alone, you bastard!" I shouted. "If you so much as touch her, I'll
kill you with my bare hands!"
The only reaction from Shaw was a raised eyebrow. "Is that so?" He walked toward
me again. "Forgive me if I don't find that threat very worrisome," he remarked
snidely, running a finger along the smooth metal of the inhibitor collar I wore.
"But, I assure you, Mr. Thomas, there is no need to worry. *I* would not dream
of harming a hair on young Miss Lee's head." He smiled and signaled to Tessa.
With a curt nod, Tessa approached Jubilee. "Tell me about Project Acquisition,"
she stated simply.
"Don't know nothing 'bout it," Jubilee replied.
"I'm giving you one last chance to tell me what you know about the file." Though
her words said she was giving Jubilee the opportunity to save herself, Tessa's
tone indicated that she hoped--she wanted--Jubilee to resist.
I knew that we did not have the answers they wanted. What would it take to
convince them that we really knew nothing?
"For the last time, mind-witch, I haven't got the foggiest idea what that stupid
file contains. Why don't you go ask Frost?"
"I was afraid you'd say that," Tessa said, eyes gleaming balefully.
I could see Jubilee try to physically and mentally brace herself as Tessa lashed
out at her with her mind, stunning her with a psi-bolt. Jubilee screamed.
I closed my eyes, unable to watch the pained expression on his her face as Tessa
attacked her. Despite Tessa's repeated questions regarding the file, Jubilee
told her nothing--but that was what I expected, because there was nothing for us
to tell. After a few minutes, Tessa stepped back, leaving Jubilee panting for
breath.
"Well, boy, have you changed your mind? Are you ready to tell me all you know
about Acquisition?"
"Shaw, I swear to you, I know nothing about it."
"I see," Shaw said, crossing his arms and slowly nodding his head as he began to
renew his pacing.
For a moment, I allowed myself the hope that Shaw would finally give up on this
pointless interrogation and set us free. My fool-hearty wish was short-lived.
"That's really too bad that you're protecting Emma this way. I never would have
thought she would have garnered such intense loyalty from her students. I guess
she's changed since our days in the Hellfire Club's Inner Circle. I'm sorry
she's not here to see it herself." Shaw halted in his pacing. "Now, Thomas, I
really suggest you tell me everything there is to know about this file. Or else,
I'll be forced to give Tessa the order to take apart Jubilee's mind, piece by
piece. A most unpleasant sensation, and quite painful--or, so I've been told."
This was no bluff; Shaw was serious. He had every intention of destroying
Jubilee's mind. But what could I do? God, if only I were not wearing this damned
inhibitor collar, I could fight fire with fire. But I couldn't fight Shaw
physically. And, in my position, obstinate words would mean nothing to him.
There was no way I could offer Shaw any threat. What could I do?
I saw Shaw signaling to Tessa again.
"No," Jubilee moaned, eyes quickly filling with tears. "No more. Please. . . ."
Panic overwhelmed me. I had to say something--anything--to prevent Tessa from
hurting Jubilee. I went through all the possible options in his mind. There was
only one thing I could do.
"Shaw, don't hurt her," I pleaded. "I don't care what you do to me. Just don't
harm her. Do anything you want to me, just please leave her alone."
"How noble of you to try to take this all upon yourself. Noble, or very foolish.
But, while I admire your loyalty to your teammate, I'm afraid that was not the
answer I was looking for." Shaw smirked, and punched me in the stomach for good
measure. Then he turned to Tessa and nodded.
I shuddered as the sound of Jubilee's screams filled the room. From her shrieks
of protest, and the way Jubilee started thrashing about, I figured Tessa must
have made her relive some horrible memories. I fought against his restraints,
trying to get at Shaw, to stop Tessa, but to no avail. I shouted at them to
stop, but they ignored me. Though the chains wouldn't give, I kept on struggling
against them, wanting desperately to help Jubilee, until I collapsed from
exhaustion.
I simply hung there, forced to listen to the wailing of my friend. A chill ran
up my spine as I shivered uncontrollably. I had never heard such a horrible
sound, and I did not think I would be able to forget it. I had never felt so
helpless in my entire life. My best friend was hurting, and there was not a
damned thing I could do to stop it. I clamped my eyes shut tightly, unable to
watch any longer, as though that would somehow drown out the tortured sounds of
Jubilee screaming. Lord, it sounded as though her soul were being torn apart. As
I felt the salty wetness stinging the cut on my cheek, I prayed that it would
end soon.
When her screams finally subsided, I hesitated before opening my eyes. But I
forced myself to look. Eyes closed, Jubilee's pale, tear-streaked face was hung
low against her chest. Watching her a moment, I could make out the shallow rise
and fall of her chest, and I sighed. She had passed out. I only hoped she had
found some peace.
"Come, Tessa," Shaw said, heading for the door. He looked back at me, and I
glared at his face hatefully. Shaw smiled, evidently not feeling threatened in
the least. "This isn't over, boy."
Taking another look at Jubilee to ensure myself that she was still breathing, I
closed my eyes and gave in to my exhaustion.
*****
Hearing a soft voice whisper my name, I slowly opened my eyes. Jubilee was
looking at me, concern on her weary face. "You okay, Ev?"
"Fine," I replied. "But what about you? Tessa--"
"I don't wanna talk about it," she replied, her eyes avoiding my gaze. "So, any
ideas on how we're gonna get out of here?"
"You're the brains of this outfit. I'm just here because of my rugged good
looks."
She laughed. But just as quickly as the smile appeared, it was replaced by a
somber expression. "Ev, I- I'm scared."
"Me, too. But it's gonna be okay, Jubilee. We'll get out of this. Miss Frost and
Mr. Cassidy'll find us, and we'll all give Shaw and Tessa what for."
"But they have no clue where we are. Heck, they probably don't even know we're
missing."
"Paige and Monet knew we were going to the movies in Boston. When we don't get
back to the school, they'll know something's up, and they'll all come looking
for us. They'll find us, Jubes. I'm sure of it. We're gonna get out of here.
Together."
I wished I could be as sure as I sounded. What worried me, though, was the fact
that Jubilee was giving up hope. That was not like her at all. Usually, *she*
was the one copping the major 'tude, the one who convinced the rest of
Generation X that no matter how terrible the situation seemed, it was not as bad
as it seemed. No matter how hopeless their predicament, she had survived a more
horrible one, none the worse for wear. If I had a dollar for every time I heard
her tell a story that began "When I was with the X-Men. . ." I would be loaded.
"So, does this bring back any memories about your time in the major leagues?" I
asked her.
I saw her face brighten as she smirked. "Actually, there was this one time when
I was with--"
"Ahh, so good to see you're both awake."
As the sound of Shaw's voice, we both stiffened. He walked over to us, Tessa
beside him and two henchmen on their heels. At the sight of Tessa, Jubilee tried
to draw back as much as her restraints would allow. This movement did not go
entirely unnoticed, and Tessa beamed in pleasure at the way her mere presence
made Jubilee squirm in fear.
I steeled myself against what I was sure would come next. My eyes met Jubilee's,
and I nodded at her. Taking a deep breath, she nodded in reply, and I saw her
neck straighten as she increased her resolve. We would endure this. Together.
"So, Mr. Thomas, have you changed your mind? Are you ready to tell me all you
know about the file?"
I set my jaw determinately. "Shaw, you listen to me, and you listen good,
because this is the last time I'm gonna tell you." I paused, taking a breath to
steady my nerves, but hoped it merely appeared to be for dramatic effect. I said
each word slowly to punctuate my statement. "We--don't--know--anything--about--
that--damned--file!"
Slowly, Shaw shook his head. "That really is too bad. And I had so hoped that a
little time alone to rest would refresh your memory. It appears I overestimated
your abilities." He gestured toward the two men.
The henchmen, well over six feet tall and all muscle, stepped toward me. They
took turns punching and kicking me--in the face, the stomach, the chest. Through
I was quickly engulfed by a red wave of pain, I could still hear Jubilee's
voice, high pitched and agitated.
"Oh, God, please, stop! Stop it! You'll kill him!" I could hear the rattling as
she pulled against her restraints, trying to get Shaw's attention. "Shaw,
please, make them stop. I'll tell you what you want. Look at me, damn you!"
Slowly, Shaw turned his face toward her, and I could picture the pompous
expression on his face, one dark eyebrow raised quizzically at Jubilee.
"You heard me, Shaw. Call off your goons, and I'll tell you what you want to
know."
Shaw dismissed his men, and they left the room. Then he walked over to Jubilee,
and stood several feet in front of her.
I looked up, barely able to see through the blood dripping down my face and into
my eyes.
"Come closer," Jubilee said softly.
His patience beginning to tire, Shaw nonetheless did as she asked, stepping
closer to her, his face just over a foot from hers. "Well?"
She looked up at him, eyes cold and hard as ice, as she met him in an unblinking
gaze. She spat in his face. "Go to hell!"
Shaw immediately lost his composure. Enraged, he grabbed her by the hair and
yanked her head up and back as much as her restraints would allow before
slapping her across the face with the back of his hand. "You're going to pay for
your impertinence, you little bitch," he vowed, releasing her head roughly.
"Tessa," he called, stepping back and removing a handkerchief from his pocket to
wipe his face.
"No," I protested in little more than a whisper. But my words, if heard at all,
fell on deaf ears. Tessa entered Jubilee's mind, and the torture began anew.
Mercifully, this time it was only a few minutes before Jubilee stopped screaming
and her head dropped forward. I prayed that she were merely unconscious.
As Shaw and Tessa left us, and the blackness once again claimed me, I found
myself wondering how much more of this torture Jubilee and I would be able to
withstand.
*****
Everett paused, resting his head in his hand, and shuddered.
He felt Sean's touch on his knee. "It's all right, Everett me boyo. We all know
there was nothin' ye could do. There's no reasonin' with a man as warped as
Shaw. Nothin' ye said could have prevented what he was plannin' to do."
Everett looked up, and his one non-swollen eye glistened with tears. "The sick
thing is, I think he knew all along that he wasn't going to get any information
from us. It was as though he were doing it for the sheer enjoyment--like he got
off on it, or something. He left us alone for a little while. Jubilee just hung
there in her restraints, head bowed, barely breathing. I started talking to her.
I tried to be positive, to tell her that everything was going to be okay. I'm
not even sure if she heard me. But I was so scared that Shaw was going to come
back any minute and finish the job." He paused a moment, awkwardly looking away
toward the window.
Jean sensed a sudden anxiety in Everett--different from the apprehension she
knew was the result of Logan's presence, and also not due to the teenager's
feelings of failure. She was not quite sure what was the cause of his distress.
She pushed away the thoughts as Everett concluded his story.
"I guess Shaw finally realized we weren't going to be able to take any more. For
some reason, he decided to let us live--just barely. They removed me from the
restraints and punched me around a bit before tossing me down some stairs and
into a pile of crates. I passed out. When I came to, Monet was standing above
me. I guess they beat Jubilee some more as well, before tossing her body
somewhere in the warehouse. That's all I know. I've no idea where they went
after that. I couldn't even tell you where the warehouse was located."
"That's okay, Everett. Ye've told us plenty," Sean assured him. "And I'm sorry
ye had to relive that horrible ordeal again. Ye never should'a been through it
inna first place, son. I'm sorry."
"Jubilee was just trying to help someone in need--like you've taught us."
"Lot of good it did her," Logan growled. "She's payin' for that act of kindness-
-in spades."
"Would you expect any less?" Jean asked him. "You would have done the same,
Logan, and you know it."
"Yeah, only difference is, I could'a hurt 'em back. Like I still can. Cassidy,
where was that warehouse you found 'em in located?"
Sean told him the address. "Why, Logan? Ye can't be meanin' to--?"
"I can, and I am. I don't like hospitals, and I'm not one for sittin' around,
twiddlin' my thumbs, when there's somethin' else I can do. I'll be back, soon as
I take care of some unfinished business." He headed out the door.
"Logan, wait!" Jean called, hurrying after him and following him into the
hallway. "You can't be serious!"
"Jeanie, Shaw is out to get Emma, and he used her students to try to get to her.
I've got to stop him, before he hurts any of the others. I'll be back soon. I
promise. Just tell Jubilee that I'm gonna get the bastards that did this to her,
and they're gonna pay."
"Why don't you call the mansion and get some backup?"
"'Cause, by then, the trail will be cold. I'm wastin' precious time as it is.
I've gotta go."
Jean realized there would be no changing his mind. "Just be careful, okay?
Jubilee's going to need you to help her get well. Hurry back."
"I will, Red. I will." With a reassuring smile, he walked away, leaving Jean
standing alone in the hallway.
Sighing, she wrapped her arms around herself and closed her eyes. God, how she
wished Scott were here. She could use his strength and his love right now.
Wherever he was, she wished he were safe and well.
Times like these, she wondered why it was they did what they did--why they were
X-Men, devoting their lives to the fight for peaceful coexistence between humans
and mutants--when it seemed as though no one else cared whether they all lived
or died. But then she thought about Jubilee and Everett and Paige and Monet--the
children. They did it so that these kids, and others like them, would have the
chance to live in a world where they would not be feared and hated for being
mutants, but accepted and loved for who they were. With Everett's story fresh in
her mind, she could not help but wonder if the price was worth it.
Hearing her name called, she quickly turned around. "A nurse just came in an'
told us Jubilee made it through the surgery," Sean said, approaching her. "The
doctor will be out to speak to us in a few minutes."
Nodding, Jean walked with Sean back to the lounge. They sat down on the couch
and waited. About ten minutes later, a middle-aged balding man wearing scrubs
came to greet them. "I'm Dr. Knight," he told them, shaking their hands.
"Sean Cassidy, headmaster at Jubilee's school. This is Jean Summers, an
associate and friend to Jubilee and meself."
Dr. Knight sat down in a chair across from them. "Have Jubilee's parents been
notified?"
"She's an orphan," Jean told him.
"Who is her legal guardian then?"
"That'd be me," Sean said.
"I see."
"Please, Doctor, how is she?" Jean asked.
"Well, she made it through the surgery, which is a good sign. But we'll have to
see how things go from here. Her head injuries were rather extensive, I must
tell you. Our main concern at this point is to ensure that there isn't any
swelling in her cranium."
"Will there be any permanent damage?" Jean questioned.
"It's hard to say at this point. There is the possibility of some impairment of
motor functions, or some memory loss. We'll have to wait and see when she
regains consciousness."
"What about her other injuries?" Sean asked.
"Her fractured wrist was attended to, as were her broken ribs. We were able to
stop the internal bleeding. She needed a transfusion, and she'll be on
antibiotics for a while. As I've said, the injuries were severe. Right now,
she's hooked up to a respirator." He paused a moment before continuing.
"Dr. Knight?" Sean asked, prompting him. "There's somethin' else, isn't there?"
Slowly, he nodded. "She also sustained some minor damage to a lower vertebra in
her back. There is a chance that this will result in loss of gross motor
function or possibly even partial paralysis."
"Oh, God," Jean muttered, drawing a shaking hand to her mouth.
Silently, Sean placed a comforting hand on her back.
"We'll have to take this one day--one hour--at a time. We're going to monitor
her very closely. But she's young. She's strong. I believe she has a good chance
of coming out of this on top. I've had patients with similar injuries who've
recovered completely."
"Can we see her?" Jean asked.
"Of course. Come with me."
End Chapter 2
*****
Author: Somogyi
Email: somogyi02@yahoo.com
Archive: Sure, just please ask first
Rating: PG-13 for language, violence, and disturbing imagery
Summary: Synch and Jubilee are captured by Tessa and Shaw. A thoughtful look at how
the resulting scars have lasting effects on the whole GenX team.
Disclaimer: The X-Men and Generation X are property of Marvel Entertainment.
Characters are used without permission, no profit is being made, and no infringement
on copyright is intended.
*****
A Friend In Need
by Somogyi
somogyi02@yahoo.com
Chapter 2
Jubilee and I left the movie theater and walked into the cool Boston night.
Smiling, she took my arm and walked closer to me for warmth. "So, what did you
think?" she asked as we slowly walked down the street toward the bus stop.
"It was pretty good," I replied. "The special effects were awesome. Especially
the space ship and the cloning tanks."
"Yeah, they were cool, but that's nothing compared to the UST! Or should I say
RST. That kiss was over six years in coming! I tell ya, Ev, by the next movie,
those two'll be doing the wild thing!"
I laughed. "Geez, who would've believed that Jubilation Lee was a romantic?"
"Hey, I've been a diehard 'shipper ever since the third season, when Jean and
Rogue got me hooked on the show. I *knew* they were gonna get together. It was
inevitable."
"Why do you say that? Nothing indicated that they thought of each other as
anything more than partners. Just friends."
"Did that lip-lock say 'just friends' to you, Ev? They've been through hell and
back together, with only each other to trust. They've always been there for one
another, putting their lives on the line for each other, protecting each other.
If that isn't love, I don't know what is."
"I'm not saying they don't care about each other. I just think it's possible for
a man and a woman to work together and be close friends without being attracted
to one another. A platonic relationship is perfectly--"
"Shh," she said suddenly, letting go of my arm.
"Hey, you had your say, it's my tur--"
She shushed me again, clamping her hand over my mouth. "Did you hear that?"
I cocked my head, listening intently. I could hear a soft whimpering. "Sounds
like somebody crying. A kid maybe."
"I think it's coming from the alley over there," she said, pointing to the unlit
area between two buildings. "Let's check it out."
"Hold it," I said, grabbing her arm. "We don't know who or what's in there."
"Ev, it's probably some poor kid--lost, maybe hurt. We've gotta find out and
help."
"Jubes, it's not safe. It's probably some stoned junkie, or a mugger."
"It's not as if we can't defend ourselves. C'mon, Thomas, the truth is out
there, and I intend to find it, with or without your help." She turned from me
and headed toward the alleyway.
Sighing, I shook my head. Stubborn as usual. Well, I wasn't about to let her go
in alone without somebody to watch her back. "Hey, Lee, wait up," I said,
hurrying after her.
"I knew I could count on you," she said, holding up her index finger and
creating colorful energy plasmoids to serve as a makeshift flashlight. I synched
my aura to her powers, and created my own fireworks to add even more light.
We cautiously made our way to the source of the sobs.
"Sounds like it's coming from there," I whispered, pointing to some trashcans
that were lined against a wall.
Together, we slowly approached the spot. There, we found a woman huddled behind
the cans. We knelt down in front of her.
"Are you okay, miss? Are you hurt?" Jubilee asked, peering closer to get a
better look.
Trembling, the woman shook her head. "Go away!" she muttered brusquely. "Leave
me alone!"
"Can we help you?" I asked, moving my hand with its light source closer to get a
better look at the woman.
"No!" she hissed, and scurried further behind the garbage cans, as though trying
to hide her face in the darkness. From what little I could make out of her face,
I figured she couldn't be much older than me. Something did not feel right,
though. For some reason, I suddenly had the urge to grab Jubilee, get the hell
out of there, and never look back.
"It's okay, miss," Jubilee said softly. "We're not going to hurt you. We want to
help you. Please, let us help you." She reached out her hand to her.
At first, the young woman hesitated.
"Don't be scared. I won't bite. I promise."
The woman sat up then, and placed her hand in Jubilee's. As her face was
revealed from the shadows, we caught sight of her malicious grin. In the pit of
my stomach, I suddenly realized that we had made a grievous mistake.
Before either of us had time to react, out minds were filled with a searing
pain. I felt as though a white-hot knife were piercing my skull right between
the eyes. We screamed, and collapsed to the pavement.
Barely conscious, I saw the woman get to her feet. Several black-clad men
emerged from the shadows. I was too woozy to resist as they placed something
cold and smooth around my and Jubilee's necks.
*Inhibitor collars,* I realized. As I watched them restrain Jubilee's hands
behind her back, panic filled my mind. I knew it was now or never. I tried to
focus my thoughts, and sat up quickly, taking a swing at one of the goons. I was
still too groggy for my punch to be effective, though, and my fist barely
connected with the man's jaw. Before I could hit him again, I felt something
strike the back of my head. Darkness consumed me.
*****
When I awoke, my head felt like someone had been using it for a punching bag. I
opened my eyes and blinked repeatedly as I tried to get them to focus. I was
strung up, my limbs spread wide, arms bound by chains that connected to the
ceiling, while the restraints on my legs led to the floor. I tested them, but I
could barely move an inch. Looking around the enormous room, I saw piles of
wooden crates and a forklift over on the far side. Must be some sort of
warehouse, I realized.
Then I caught sight of Jubilee several yards across from me. She was strung up,
like me, and her face hung down, her chin near her chest. She did not appear to
be hurt.
"Jubilee," I called, my voice hoarse. "Can you hear me? Jubes!"
She moaned, and slowly lifted her head. "Did ya . . . get the license . . . for
the truck . . . that hit us?" she asked.
"You okay?" I asked, hearing the concern in my voice. "Did they hurt you?"
She looked up at me and smiled. At the sight of her grin, I felt relief wash
over me. "Aside from the Excedrin headache, I'm fine. But who brought us here?"
"That would be me," came a man's voice. The icy smoothness of his tone made my
flesh crawl. A tall man strode toward us, his jet black hair slicked back,
pencil-line scars crisscrossing all over his face. The raven-haired woman we had
tried to help, who was now dressed in skin-tight black leather, followed him.
"Who are you?" I asked.
"My name, boy, is Sebastian Shaw. And I believe you two have already met Tessa."
A derisive sound came from Jubilee's throat.
Tessa's eyes narrowed, and she took a step toward Jubilee. Shaw caught her arm.
"Not yet, my dear. All in due time."
Though she tried not to show it, I could see Jubilee's relief when Shaw held
Tessa in check. Can't blame her. She knew as well as I did that a psi attack was
not going to be fun.
"What do you want from us, scarface?" Jubilee asked, trying to muster her
courage.
"Why'd you bring us here?" I added.
"Now, now, children, I don't think *you* are in a position to be making
requests. *I* will be asking the questions. And, if you have any intention of
leaving here in one piece, you will answer them. Or else Tessa might have to pay
your minds another visit. Isn't that right, my dear?"
"It would be my pleasure, Sebastian," Tessa replied, her face erupting into that
same devilish grin she had had in the alleyway.
"Now, as I was saying," Shaw began, hands clasped behind his back as he started
to pace between us. "I require some information regarding Frost Enterprises."
"The White Queen's company?" Jubilee asked.
"Yes. It seems your headmistress--my former colleague--has a most intriguing
undertaking called Project Acquisition." He issued the last two words with
disgust, as though they left an unpleasant taste in his mouth. "What do you know
about it?" he asked, stopping to look me in the eyes.
I shook my head. "I've no clue what you're talking about."
"Don't lie to me, boy!"
"I'm no--oof!" Before I could even register what was happening, I felt the force
of Shaw's weight thrust at my gut through his fist. The air rushed out of my
lungs, and I was left gasping for breath.
"I'll ask you again, Thomas," Shaw said from between clenched teeth. "What are
the goals of Project Acquisition, and where is the file located?"
"I . . . told you, Shaw," I replied softly, keeping my eyes on him as he turned
his back to me and took a step away, "I've . . . never heard . . . of it."
"It's a shame you're making this difficult," Shaw said, turning on his heel and
thrusting his fist right into my left eye. A sharp pain engulfed me. I could
barely make out what Jubilee was saying.
"Ev!" she shrieked. "Stop it! Don't hurt him! He told you he doesn't know
anything!"
I knew then that Shaw must be looking at her with that intense gaze of his.
There was silence save for the heavy sound of my labored breathing. Then the
room echoed with laughter--a dark, foreboding sound that made me suddenly feel
very cold inside.
I looked up, and through my hazy vision, I could see Shaw take Jubilee's face in
his hand. She was trembling despite herself.
"Don't worry, my dear Jubilation," Shaw was saying, "you'll get your turn."
"Leave her alone, you bastard!" I shouted. "If you so much as touch her, I'll
kill you with my bare hands!"
The only reaction from Shaw was a raised eyebrow. "Is that so?" He walked toward
me again. "Forgive me if I don't find that threat very worrisome," he remarked
snidely, running a finger along the smooth metal of the inhibitor collar I wore.
"But, I assure you, Mr. Thomas, there is no need to worry. *I* would not dream
of harming a hair on young Miss Lee's head." He smiled and signaled to Tessa.
With a curt nod, Tessa approached Jubilee. "Tell me about Project Acquisition,"
she stated simply.
"Don't know nothing 'bout it," Jubilee replied.
"I'm giving you one last chance to tell me what you know about the file." Though
her words said she was giving Jubilee the opportunity to save herself, Tessa's
tone indicated that she hoped--she wanted--Jubilee to resist.
I knew that we did not have the answers they wanted. What would it take to
convince them that we really knew nothing?
"For the last time, mind-witch, I haven't got the foggiest idea what that stupid
file contains. Why don't you go ask Frost?"
"I was afraid you'd say that," Tessa said, eyes gleaming balefully.
I could see Jubilee try to physically and mentally brace herself as Tessa lashed
out at her with her mind, stunning her with a psi-bolt. Jubilee screamed.
I closed my eyes, unable to watch the pained expression on his her face as Tessa
attacked her. Despite Tessa's repeated questions regarding the file, Jubilee
told her nothing--but that was what I expected, because there was nothing for us
to tell. After a few minutes, Tessa stepped back, leaving Jubilee panting for
breath.
"Well, boy, have you changed your mind? Are you ready to tell me all you know
about Acquisition?"
"Shaw, I swear to you, I know nothing about it."
"I see," Shaw said, crossing his arms and slowly nodding his head as he began to
renew his pacing.
For a moment, I allowed myself the hope that Shaw would finally give up on this
pointless interrogation and set us free. My fool-hearty wish was short-lived.
"That's really too bad that you're protecting Emma this way. I never would have
thought she would have garnered such intense loyalty from her students. I guess
she's changed since our days in the Hellfire Club's Inner Circle. I'm sorry
she's not here to see it herself." Shaw halted in his pacing. "Now, Thomas, I
really suggest you tell me everything there is to know about this file. Or else,
I'll be forced to give Tessa the order to take apart Jubilee's mind, piece by
piece. A most unpleasant sensation, and quite painful--or, so I've been told."
This was no bluff; Shaw was serious. He had every intention of destroying
Jubilee's mind. But what could I do? God, if only I were not wearing this damned
inhibitor collar, I could fight fire with fire. But I couldn't fight Shaw
physically. And, in my position, obstinate words would mean nothing to him.
There was no way I could offer Shaw any threat. What could I do?
I saw Shaw signaling to Tessa again.
"No," Jubilee moaned, eyes quickly filling with tears. "No more. Please. . . ."
Panic overwhelmed me. I had to say something--anything--to prevent Tessa from
hurting Jubilee. I went through all the possible options in his mind. There was
only one thing I could do.
"Shaw, don't hurt her," I pleaded. "I don't care what you do to me. Just don't
harm her. Do anything you want to me, just please leave her alone."
"How noble of you to try to take this all upon yourself. Noble, or very foolish.
But, while I admire your loyalty to your teammate, I'm afraid that was not the
answer I was looking for." Shaw smirked, and punched me in the stomach for good
measure. Then he turned to Tessa and nodded.
I shuddered as the sound of Jubilee's screams filled the room. From her shrieks
of protest, and the way Jubilee started thrashing about, I figured Tessa must
have made her relive some horrible memories. I fought against his restraints,
trying to get at Shaw, to stop Tessa, but to no avail. I shouted at them to
stop, but they ignored me. Though the chains wouldn't give, I kept on struggling
against them, wanting desperately to help Jubilee, until I collapsed from
exhaustion.
I simply hung there, forced to listen to the wailing of my friend. A chill ran
up my spine as I shivered uncontrollably. I had never heard such a horrible
sound, and I did not think I would be able to forget it. I had never felt so
helpless in my entire life. My best friend was hurting, and there was not a
damned thing I could do to stop it. I clamped my eyes shut tightly, unable to
watch any longer, as though that would somehow drown out the tortured sounds of
Jubilee screaming. Lord, it sounded as though her soul were being torn apart. As
I felt the salty wetness stinging the cut on my cheek, I prayed that it would
end soon.
When her screams finally subsided, I hesitated before opening my eyes. But I
forced myself to look. Eyes closed, Jubilee's pale, tear-streaked face was hung
low against her chest. Watching her a moment, I could make out the shallow rise
and fall of her chest, and I sighed. She had passed out. I only hoped she had
found some peace.
"Come, Tessa," Shaw said, heading for the door. He looked back at me, and I
glared at his face hatefully. Shaw smiled, evidently not feeling threatened in
the least. "This isn't over, boy."
Taking another look at Jubilee to ensure myself that she was still breathing, I
closed my eyes and gave in to my exhaustion.
*****
Hearing a soft voice whisper my name, I slowly opened my eyes. Jubilee was
looking at me, concern on her weary face. "You okay, Ev?"
"Fine," I replied. "But what about you? Tessa--"
"I don't wanna talk about it," she replied, her eyes avoiding my gaze. "So, any
ideas on how we're gonna get out of here?"
"You're the brains of this outfit. I'm just here because of my rugged good
looks."
She laughed. But just as quickly as the smile appeared, it was replaced by a
somber expression. "Ev, I- I'm scared."
"Me, too. But it's gonna be okay, Jubilee. We'll get out of this. Miss Frost and
Mr. Cassidy'll find us, and we'll all give Shaw and Tessa what for."
"But they have no clue where we are. Heck, they probably don't even know we're
missing."
"Paige and Monet knew we were going to the movies in Boston. When we don't get
back to the school, they'll know something's up, and they'll all come looking
for us. They'll find us, Jubes. I'm sure of it. We're gonna get out of here.
Together."
I wished I could be as sure as I sounded. What worried me, though, was the fact
that Jubilee was giving up hope. That was not like her at all. Usually, *she*
was the one copping the major 'tude, the one who convinced the rest of
Generation X that no matter how terrible the situation seemed, it was not as bad
as it seemed. No matter how hopeless their predicament, she had survived a more
horrible one, none the worse for wear. If I had a dollar for every time I heard
her tell a story that began "When I was with the X-Men. . ." I would be loaded.
"So, does this bring back any memories about your time in the major leagues?" I
asked her.
I saw her face brighten as she smirked. "Actually, there was this one time when
I was with--"
"Ahh, so good to see you're both awake."
As the sound of Shaw's voice, we both stiffened. He walked over to us, Tessa
beside him and two henchmen on their heels. At the sight of Tessa, Jubilee tried
to draw back as much as her restraints would allow. This movement did not go
entirely unnoticed, and Tessa beamed in pleasure at the way her mere presence
made Jubilee squirm in fear.
I steeled myself against what I was sure would come next. My eyes met Jubilee's,
and I nodded at her. Taking a deep breath, she nodded in reply, and I saw her
neck straighten as she increased her resolve. We would endure this. Together.
"So, Mr. Thomas, have you changed your mind? Are you ready to tell me all you
know about the file?"
I set my jaw determinately. "Shaw, you listen to me, and you listen good,
because this is the last time I'm gonna tell you." I paused, taking a breath to
steady my nerves, but hoped it merely appeared to be for dramatic effect. I said
each word slowly to punctuate my statement. "We--don't--know--anything--about--
that--damned--file!"
Slowly, Shaw shook his head. "That really is too bad. And I had so hoped that a
little time alone to rest would refresh your memory. It appears I overestimated
your abilities." He gestured toward the two men.
The henchmen, well over six feet tall and all muscle, stepped toward me. They
took turns punching and kicking me--in the face, the stomach, the chest. Through
I was quickly engulfed by a red wave of pain, I could still hear Jubilee's
voice, high pitched and agitated.
"Oh, God, please, stop! Stop it! You'll kill him!" I could hear the rattling as
she pulled against her restraints, trying to get Shaw's attention. "Shaw,
please, make them stop. I'll tell you what you want. Look at me, damn you!"
Slowly, Shaw turned his face toward her, and I could picture the pompous
expression on his face, one dark eyebrow raised quizzically at Jubilee.
"You heard me, Shaw. Call off your goons, and I'll tell you what you want to
know."
Shaw dismissed his men, and they left the room. Then he walked over to Jubilee,
and stood several feet in front of her.
I looked up, barely able to see through the blood dripping down my face and into
my eyes.
"Come closer," Jubilee said softly.
His patience beginning to tire, Shaw nonetheless did as she asked, stepping
closer to her, his face just over a foot from hers. "Well?"
She looked up at him, eyes cold and hard as ice, as she met him in an unblinking
gaze. She spat in his face. "Go to hell!"
Shaw immediately lost his composure. Enraged, he grabbed her by the hair and
yanked her head up and back as much as her restraints would allow before
slapping her across the face with the back of his hand. "You're going to pay for
your impertinence, you little bitch," he vowed, releasing her head roughly.
"Tessa," he called, stepping back and removing a handkerchief from his pocket to
wipe his face.
"No," I protested in little more than a whisper. But my words, if heard at all,
fell on deaf ears. Tessa entered Jubilee's mind, and the torture began anew.
Mercifully, this time it was only a few minutes before Jubilee stopped screaming
and her head dropped forward. I prayed that she were merely unconscious.
As Shaw and Tessa left us, and the blackness once again claimed me, I found
myself wondering how much more of this torture Jubilee and I would be able to
withstand.
*****
Everett paused, resting his head in his hand, and shuddered.
He felt Sean's touch on his knee. "It's all right, Everett me boyo. We all know
there was nothin' ye could do. There's no reasonin' with a man as warped as
Shaw. Nothin' ye said could have prevented what he was plannin' to do."
Everett looked up, and his one non-swollen eye glistened with tears. "The sick
thing is, I think he knew all along that he wasn't going to get any information
from us. It was as though he were doing it for the sheer enjoyment--like he got
off on it, or something. He left us alone for a little while. Jubilee just hung
there in her restraints, head bowed, barely breathing. I started talking to her.
I tried to be positive, to tell her that everything was going to be okay. I'm
not even sure if she heard me. But I was so scared that Shaw was going to come
back any minute and finish the job." He paused a moment, awkwardly looking away
toward the window.
Jean sensed a sudden anxiety in Everett--different from the apprehension she
knew was the result of Logan's presence, and also not due to the teenager's
feelings of failure. She was not quite sure what was the cause of his distress.
She pushed away the thoughts as Everett concluded his story.
"I guess Shaw finally realized we weren't going to be able to take any more. For
some reason, he decided to let us live--just barely. They removed me from the
restraints and punched me around a bit before tossing me down some stairs and
into a pile of crates. I passed out. When I came to, Monet was standing above
me. I guess they beat Jubilee some more as well, before tossing her body
somewhere in the warehouse. That's all I know. I've no idea where they went
after that. I couldn't even tell you where the warehouse was located."
"That's okay, Everett. Ye've told us plenty," Sean assured him. "And I'm sorry
ye had to relive that horrible ordeal again. Ye never should'a been through it
inna first place, son. I'm sorry."
"Jubilee was just trying to help someone in need--like you've taught us."
"Lot of good it did her," Logan growled. "She's payin' for that act of kindness-
-in spades."
"Would you expect any less?" Jean asked him. "You would have done the same,
Logan, and you know it."
"Yeah, only difference is, I could'a hurt 'em back. Like I still can. Cassidy,
where was that warehouse you found 'em in located?"
Sean told him the address. "Why, Logan? Ye can't be meanin' to--?"
"I can, and I am. I don't like hospitals, and I'm not one for sittin' around,
twiddlin' my thumbs, when there's somethin' else I can do. I'll be back, soon as
I take care of some unfinished business." He headed out the door.
"Logan, wait!" Jean called, hurrying after him and following him into the
hallway. "You can't be serious!"
"Jeanie, Shaw is out to get Emma, and he used her students to try to get to her.
I've got to stop him, before he hurts any of the others. I'll be back soon. I
promise. Just tell Jubilee that I'm gonna get the bastards that did this to her,
and they're gonna pay."
"Why don't you call the mansion and get some backup?"
"'Cause, by then, the trail will be cold. I'm wastin' precious time as it is.
I've gotta go."
Jean realized there would be no changing his mind. "Just be careful, okay?
Jubilee's going to need you to help her get well. Hurry back."
"I will, Red. I will." With a reassuring smile, he walked away, leaving Jean
standing alone in the hallway.
Sighing, she wrapped her arms around herself and closed her eyes. God, how she
wished Scott were here. She could use his strength and his love right now.
Wherever he was, she wished he were safe and well.
Times like these, she wondered why it was they did what they did--why they were
X-Men, devoting their lives to the fight for peaceful coexistence between humans
and mutants--when it seemed as though no one else cared whether they all lived
or died. But then she thought about Jubilee and Everett and Paige and Monet--the
children. They did it so that these kids, and others like them, would have the
chance to live in a world where they would not be feared and hated for being
mutants, but accepted and loved for who they were. With Everett's story fresh in
her mind, she could not help but wonder if the price was worth it.
Hearing her name called, she quickly turned around. "A nurse just came in an'
told us Jubilee made it through the surgery," Sean said, approaching her. "The
doctor will be out to speak to us in a few minutes."
Nodding, Jean walked with Sean back to the lounge. They sat down on the couch
and waited. About ten minutes later, a middle-aged balding man wearing scrubs
came to greet them. "I'm Dr. Knight," he told them, shaking their hands.
"Sean Cassidy, headmaster at Jubilee's school. This is Jean Summers, an
associate and friend to Jubilee and meself."
Dr. Knight sat down in a chair across from them. "Have Jubilee's parents been
notified?"
"She's an orphan," Jean told him.
"Who is her legal guardian then?"
"That'd be me," Sean said.
"I see."
"Please, Doctor, how is she?" Jean asked.
"Well, she made it through the surgery, which is a good sign. But we'll have to
see how things go from here. Her head injuries were rather extensive, I must
tell you. Our main concern at this point is to ensure that there isn't any
swelling in her cranium."
"Will there be any permanent damage?" Jean questioned.
"It's hard to say at this point. There is the possibility of some impairment of
motor functions, or some memory loss. We'll have to wait and see when she
regains consciousness."
"What about her other injuries?" Sean asked.
"Her fractured wrist was attended to, as were her broken ribs. We were able to
stop the internal bleeding. She needed a transfusion, and she'll be on
antibiotics for a while. As I've said, the injuries were severe. Right now,
she's hooked up to a respirator." He paused a moment before continuing.
"Dr. Knight?" Sean asked, prompting him. "There's somethin' else, isn't there?"
Slowly, he nodded. "She also sustained some minor damage to a lower vertebra in
her back. There is a chance that this will result in loss of gross motor
function or possibly even partial paralysis."
"Oh, God," Jean muttered, drawing a shaking hand to her mouth.
Silently, Sean placed a comforting hand on her back.
"We'll have to take this one day--one hour--at a time. We're going to monitor
her very closely. But she's young. She's strong. I believe she has a good chance
of coming out of this on top. I've had patients with similar injuries who've
recovered completely."
"Can we see her?" Jean asked.
"Of course. Come with me."
End Chapter 2
*****