Author's note: This interlude is Jean's vision from the last chapter. Don't worry if it doesn't make too much sense now. It shouldn't ^_^

--Interlude: Jean's Vision--


Jean tried to fall asleep, but the vision which had awakened her continued to haunt her.

"Everyone has at least three powers within," the voice was calm and musical, "the power of their heart, their soul, and their strength. Those born different have four, adding their power. But there is a fifth power. One that can be given, but never taken. It must be given, with freewill, and blessing. If the heart is at all unwilling, then the power may not be given." It was a mysterious voice. Beautiful and ancient, with a sage-like hint.

There was blinding flashes and Jean suddenly felt more power than she ever had in her life. It was like being drunk on power. She was soaring, flying in a sea of omnipotence. Something told her it wasn't right, but it didn't stop her. Suddenly, suddenly she was grounded. Her feet stood on the ground and she was painfully aware of it. Gravity pulled her down, down, she was choking, screaming, the power was leaving her.

She saw swords clash. Sparks flew threw the air. Crimson blood rained down from the sky. Jean couldn't breathe.

"Rogue! Where is Rogue!" her mind jumped.

She was running through lanes of fire, and shadows of black and white. Then everything exploded. A fire in the distance. She could feel a burning sensation all over. A great blast of fire, shaped like the letter X, was all that she saw before her eyes.

"It can never been given if the heart is unwilling..." the voice sounded again.

She sobbed and sobbed, "Let me go!"

She was being held down by the strong gravity, this time her body being pressed into the dirt. It was crushing her. She couldn't even lift a finger. She couldn't protest.

"Help me!"

No one came.