F.Y.I. – This entry is 2 days after Ororo's, there is no date. Tessa's turn. She may not be saying a lot, but there's more to her than meets the eye. Just wait and see.
Disclaimer: I own everything. I'm a bit of a packrat, what can I say??
"talking" - 'thinking' - *telepathy* - foreign languages/Tessa's thoughts - «longer passages of foreign languages that I'm too lazy to translate badly»
Mutant Chronicles: The Xavier Institute Diaries
by, Caliente
Mental Log #2812036
It's been over three weeks since we arrived here. Here being the Astral Plane of course. The X-Men and I have poured over all the data we were able to compile, but, unfortunately, we have found nothing. Nothing. It is hard to accept that we are truly helpless. I do not want to believe that. However, my mind has run over the problem about 437 times and each time the results are the same. They tell me that we need an outside force to help us. Charles has assured me, and the other two, that the X-men will work to free us. I don't doubt them. I just have to wonder, how much can they really be doing? With all of the telepaths (and Gambit) incapacitated. The hope we felt with Rogue has begun to dwindle and it is not looking to return.
Being with Charles again has been interesting. I would have to say that I have missed his presence. There is just something about the man… he inspires both growth and confidence. I would be lying if I said I did not my friends, no my family, from my time at the Institute. I do not regret my decision to leave; however, it was difficult cutting all ties with the people I considered a family. Especially when my own family was… well, it is unimportant now. Sufficed to say, I am happy to be home, even if it is only my consciousness.
*Tessa, Betsy, Remy* the Professor called, pulling the computer-minded girl from her personal thoughts. *Did any of you feel that?*
*Oui* Remy drawled lazily. *Feels like somebody's --*
*-- searching for us* Betsy finished with a shrug. *So, it's probably just –*
*It's not Rogue* Tessa cut in. *This is different, it is definitely --*
*-- a telepath* Charles finished. *Yes, I believe that is the case. I don't recognize the signature though.*
*Signature?* the ragin' Cajun questioned with a frown.
Tessa unconsciously frowned at him, studying the mysterious man.
I do not trust the Cajun. He has mastered the art of talking about nothing. He does nothing to hide the fact that he was a thief; however, it is just another mask he wears. In truth, nobody knows anything about who he is or his past, other than the fact that he comes from Louisiana and he was an Acolyte. Why was he an Acolyte anyway? And how did he become such a skilled thief? Who is Remy LeBeau, really? We don not know. This is an unsettling thought. He must be secretive for a reason…
Tuning back into the conversation, Tessa observed Professor Xavier's explanation. *Each person has a unique psionic signature. Like a fingerprint. Some humans are in tune with these signatures, so they are more often referred to as "auras". I assume you've heard of those.*
*Yeah* Remy nodded. *So you don' know dis one?*
*No* was all the Professor offered.
*Den how do y'know de telepat' is tryin' t'help us?* the demon eyed man inquired with forced nonchalance.
*He doesn't* Tessa replied for her mentor, *but what other option do we have? If we do not reach out now, we may never be found. And the body cannot exist without the mind forever. If we say here, eventually we will be stranded forever. Just as the body cannot exist without the mind, the mind cannot exist without the body. We will slowly go insane and –*
*Enough* Charles announced. *We do not need to think about the "what if's". Let us concentrate on the here and now. Tessa, Betsy would you --*
*-- boost your powers?* the Brit finished. *Sure.*
The human computer nodded her agreement as well. The three telepaths concentrated all of their energies to call out to the unknown telepath. Remy observed different colored energies come from each of them. Betsy was most assuredly purple, Tessa's was a light green, while the Professor's was a pale golden color. The mini-rainbow seemed to shoot up into the air, like a beacon of hope.
A brown haired, honey-eyed boy quickly appeared in front of them. His face was younger, maybe fifteen or so, but his eyes were old. *Do yer have any idea 'ow hard it was ter find yer bloody wankers?* he asked with an apparent British accent.
*Don't call us wankers you tosser* the England native shot back with a smirk. *I don't believe we've met* she prompted but he just looked at her blankly. Letting out a small sigh, she took the initiative, *I'm Elisabeth Braddock, but you may call me Betsy, luv.*
*Ah, Ms. Braddock* Jono responded with a teasing grin, matching her posh accent with one of his own. *It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I'm Jonothan Starsmore, but you may call me Jono.* He paused looking her over carefully and slipping back into his normal manner of speech. *Yer know, there was a super model named Elisabeth Braddock…*
*Yes* the Asian ninja replied shortly, a small frown replacing her smile. *That's me.*
The younger boy looked perplexed. *But then 'ow come yer look --*
*-- so different?* the purple-haired woman supplied with a dry laugh. *Let's just say, being a mutant isn't all it's cracked up to be.*
*I know 'ow that feels.* With a sad expression, Jono allowed the raw energy that filled the hole from his nose to his stomach show. Without a scarf covering it, there was simply yellow psionic energy to fill the void. *Mutant manifestations can be a bitch.*
Betsy reached her hand out, as if to touch the energy, but found that, like everything on the Astral Plane, it was nothing but an illusion. A manifestation of consciousness. *I'm so sorry* she whispered, her own bad memories caused by her mutation flooding her mind.
I find Elisabeth perplexing. She is practically a walking contradiction. She is beautiful but insecure. Intelligent but shallow. Hopeful but pessimistic. Friendly but judgmental. I find her very odd indeed. That's not to say that I dislike her, quite the contrary in fact. I find her interesting and do not believe we will have any problems in the foreseeable future.
*Mr. Starsmore, was it?* the Professor inquired politely. Jono nodded, replacing the illusion of a face and chest. *I am Professor Charles Xavier, the benefactor of the X-Men. I–*
*Know all about who yer are* Jono interrupted with a shrug. *How 'bout we concentrate on gettin' yer home? All of you.*
*Sounds good* Remy piped up. *Been wanting a --*
*-- fag. Great. I don't care. Let's go* Jono finished for him impatiently.
*Hey, 'm not gay* the demon eyed mutant defended himself.
*Never said yer were* was the boy's reply.
*But–* Remy was cut off by Betsy's laughter. *What's so funny p'tite?*
*A fag is a cigarette luv* she explained between giggles. *It's got nothing to do with being gay.*
*Oh* was all he could muster as he attempted to keep his cheeks from burning. *Language barriers suck.*
*You would know* Tessa responded evenly, speaking for the first time since Jono appeared.
*If I didn' know better chere, I'd swear you didn' like me* he commented off handedly.
Ignoring the annoying Cajun, Tessa addressed the new arrival. *How do we get back?*
*Just follow me* was all he said, and the group began their trek home. Jono carefully followed the signal from Rogue, leading the other four to the brink of consciousness. *Now comes the tricky part. If we don't do this right --*
*-- we could end up in each other's bodies* the human computer finished. *An unappealing prospect.*
*Do yer all do that finish each other's thoughts thing?* the younger boy inquired curiously.
*It's a by-product of the Astral Plane* the Professor explained.
*Creepy* Jono stated with a small shudder.
*Got it in one mon ami* Remy stated with a laugh.
Betsy addressed Jono, *So, how do we make sure that we end up in our own bodies?* After considering her words for a moment she amended her statement. *Perhaps I should have said, the bodies we began in.*
*Rogue and I worked out a system* the Englishman informed the X-Men. *We decided on an order before I came. The Professor is first. All yer have ter do is concentrate on Rogue's signal an' she'll lead yer back ter the land of livin'.*
*Thank you Jonothan* Charles stated graciously. *I hope we may have an opportunity to speak face to face before you leave.*
As the younger telepaths and Remy, watched as Professor Xavier began to fade before their very eyes. And then, like magic, he was gone. Back to the real world.
*Up next, Ms. Elisabeth Braddock* Jono announced, sounding remarkably similar to the announcer on "The Price is Right".
Betsy smiled at the other two nervously as she stepped next to Jono. Before she began, she gave him a quick peck on the lips, something she couldn't do in the real world. *Thanks* she said in an uncharacteristically soft voice. *See you on the other side* the former model called to the others as she too began to fade.
*An' den dere were t'ree* Remy quipped, trying to hide his nervousness.
*Tessa, if you would…* the younger boy said, ignoring the Cajun.
*Yes thank you* she stated evenly. *You're help has been most appreciated.* As she felt herself fade, Tessa had a strange sensation. It felt as if her whole body was tingling.
Coming from the Astral Plane back to my body was quite an experience, though I would rather not repeat it. First I faded from the Plane. That was slightly disconcerting, considering I could almost feel myself fading from existence. As if, had I not held on tight enough, I would surely disappear forever. Illogical, yes, but disconcerting none the less. As I found myself surrounded by darkness, I began to concentrate on the signal Rogue was sending out. I could feel myself consciousness traveling, something I had never experienced before, as it moved towards my body. I was in complete control. I anticipated it to be like awaking from a dream; however, my speculation could not have been more wrong. There was a "bright light" at the end of the darkness, probably a psychological manifestation of my assumption on how returning to consciousness should appear. When I reached it, I found myself blinking. Blinking. Something that I did not have a need for when I was on the Astral Plane, after all, they weren't really my eyes. I felt a clarity that I have never felt when waking from a dream, I could remember all of my time on the Plane. With my perfect memory, I could recall every word. Something I could not do with dreams. It was quite a different experience indeed.
I began to assess my surroundings. I could see Elisabeth on the next bed, also blinking blearily, and Charles on the next one beside her. On my other side was the still comatose Gambit, and past him was the physical body of Jonothan. There were people surround each bed. The first thing I saw my old friend Logan, along with the first X-Man, Cyclops, helping my former mentor. Next I noticed Warren, who I knew as Sebastian's relative, and the youngest girl, Shadowcat, were quietly conversing with Elisabeth. When I turned forward, I saw the woman who christened me Sage, the pseudo-mother figure Ororo Monroe, standing over me. A large, muscular black man accompanied her with a strange "M" tattooed over his right eye. Curious. I watched the two doctors, a petite black woman with cornrows and my formerly non-blue friend, Beast, gave the okay signal to them. The girl with brown hair and white stripes, the Rogue if I wasn't mistaken, and I never am, followed them. The three moved on to Gambit and I was left with my old friend and her large companion.
Ororo Monroe immediately enveloped Sage in a tight hug, murmuring, "Goddess be praised." The pale woman noted that unfamiliar man hung back a little. Finally Storm stood, wiping a few stray tears from her eyes, and turned to her large companion. "Bishop, I would like you to meet Tessa Niles, codename Sage."
The former cop approached Tessa cautiously, almost as if he was afraid he might hurt her. After a moment of awkward silence, Bishop said, "It's very nice to meet you Tessa."
"Likewise," she replied immediately, wondering why Hellfire didn't have any data on the mysterious Bishop. Curious.
"Bishop is from the future," the Weather Goddess informed Tessa, a small smile gracing her lips at her confusion. That would explain it.
"Yes," Bishop confirmed with a nod of his own. "However, I am curious about you because, in my future at least, I was unaware of you ever being an X-Man. Actually, I was unaware of your existence at all, something I find a little disconcerting."
"Then I suppose we are quite alike because I feel the same way about you," Tessa told the larger man. "The Hellfire Club has a working knowledge of most mutants worldwide, especially X-Men, yet I do not believe we have anything about you. It is quite intriguing."
"That's one way of putting it…" Bishop joked slightly, trying to alleviate the weird tension that he felt.
The two, well three if you count the amused Ororo, were saved when they noticed Remy starting to stir. Rogue was concentrating on putting out a psionic signal while Cecelia checked his vitals. The large former Acolyte, Piotr, and the smaller blue elf, Kurt, were also standing there, much like Storm and Bishop had been for her. Things began to click in her computer mind. Rogue and Cecelia were working as a team to save the mind and body, respectively, while the rest of the X-Men were there for moral support of their colleagues. She noted that there was a very young blonde girl sitting by Jono. Tessa didn't recognize her either. Very curious.
"Rogue," Remy managed to groan, as he started to regain consciousness, pulling Tessa's attention back to him. The tears of joy that had been running down her face increased at the sound of his voice, and Rogue instantaneously squeezed gently his hand with her gloved one very gently. To let him know that she was there. Waiting for him. Before she could respond in her slightly shocked state, he spoke again. "Rouge, you're enough." His voice was barely above a whisper. "You're more den enough."
The thing about having a perfect memory is that I am forced to remember everything that happens to me. I may never forget. The bad or the good. Either way, anything that happens to me is stuck with me for the rest of my life. And, the probability is that the rest of my life will be a relatively long time. On the upside, once I see a movie, I need only to concentrate and I can watch it again. And multitasking is a breeze, I can do many things at once. Right now even, I am beating a grandmaster at chess. I adore chess. A real logic game, filled with strategy. If you play it right, that is.
But, back to what I was saying before. I recall the instance where Rogue "talked" to Remy. As if it had just happened yesterday. She told him, "Yer always gonna be a player." I remember there was determination in her voice, as if she was willing him to understand, despite the fact he was unconscious. Still, I could hear the ting of disappointment and sadness in her words. "It would never be enough. Ah would never be enough." Of course the thief was quick to deny. "Non," he had argued pointlessly. It didn't make sense to me. To argue when she couldn't hear him. But apparently it was important to the thief. "I can change. I wan' t'change. I wan' you. Why can't you see dat? You're more den enough." But she didn't hear him then. I guess he decided to tell her now. And therein lies my proof of him being untrustworthy. I believe he is manipulating her, using her words against her.
The shock was evident on the younger mutant's face. She couldn't utter a single word, just stared at the demon-eyed man. He managed to catch her green orbs with his gaze. When he tried to reach out to her, she backed away slowly, then turned tail and fled. Nobody moved all eyes on Gambit as he stared after her. Finally he just sighed and closed his eyes again.
Only moments later, Jono's "voice" piped up in everybody's heads. *So, what'd I miss? Everybody in the bodies they started in.*
"Yes they are young Mr. Starsmore," the Beast replied after a moment of silence, quickly checking him over. "And you are free to go."
Before he could move, the blonde haired girl, who, according to Sage's calculations, couldn't be older than eight, leapt up excitedly and rushed to Jono. She jumped into his lap and wrapped him in a hug. She began to prattle off in Russian, which nobody except Piotr and Sage, who knew 23 different languages, could understand. «Pretty light man, I missed you. Are you okay? You slept for a very long time. Were you tired? When I'm tired, I sleep too. Pretty light man, will you show me your lights? Please. I know you usually hide them but they are very lovely.»
«Illyana, leave the boy alone» Piotr scolded lightly, as he gently pulled her off of the younger boy. "I am sorry," he told the Englishman. "My sister. She is still young. She called you zhe 'pretty light man' for some reason, and ees apparently fascinated by your 'lights', as she put eet."
*I would show 'er* Jono told him, *but it's dangerous. I wouldn't want ter hurt 'er. Tell 'er I'm sorry, would yer?* Tessa felt the corners of her lips turn up slightly at Jono's compassion. He'd unconsciously tapped into all of the telepaths' brains, probably due to the uncontrollable nature of his mutation.
"Of course comrade," the large Russian agreed with a smile. He picked up the little girl, placing her on his shoulders, and began to carry her out. All Tessa heard him say was, «You cannot snowflake, I am sorry. However, we may go play if you like…»
As the X-Men picked up their small conversations again, Tessa looked around the room, watching them carefully. This was her new family. An interesting prospect, to say the least. Her eyes lingered on Jono for a moment longer.
Jonothan Starsmore is an interesting soul. I find him most intriguing. He is not particularly friendly… or kind… or even neutral. For the most part he seems bitter and angry. Not at all like the "happy youth of America". But, there is something inside of him. I could see it when he spoke with Illyana. A pain that runs deep, fueled by self-hatred. He wants so much to be one of the happy ones, but he is stuck. He is now a mutant, one with a very visible physical manifestation, and nothing will ever be the same.
His plight almost makes me thankful for my own experiences. Granted, I did not have the most normal childhood. Fighting on the cusp of the Hindu Kush. But, I was able to save myself. In a way at least. And, strangely enough, it began by saving someone else. Charles Xavier. Sometimes I ponder what my life would have been like, had he not come along. Had he not saved my by letting me save him. Not an appealing prospect. I suppose I was just one of the lucky ones.
Bishop could feel her eyes linger on him as she observed the room silently. He couldn't help but wonder about her. It was a completely different experience, talking with her than with the others. He didn't know what her past, present, and future held, unlike the rest of the X-Men. It almost reminded him of home, but in a good way. Finally she spoke to him, "Am I mistaken, or have I seen you before?"
That wasn't what he had been expecting. "I don't remember seeing you…" Bishop replied slowly. 'And I would have,' he added silently, subtly checking her out again. 'I definitely would have.'
Bishop is curious indeed. Already I feel odd in his presence. The expression on his face when he looks at me is different. Like he is searching for something, perhaps? I'm not sure. Still, he seems familiar, like I have seen him somewhere before. And I never forget a face. It's not possible. No matter how obscure the circumstances. But where would one see a man from the future? Unfortunately, I cannot answer this question. Hmm… I suppose I can scan through my memories again. It couldn't hurt to look.
"So, when can we leave luv?" Betsy asked from her bed. She looked ready to leap out and take off running the moment she got the okay. Apparently she wasn't too fond of med labs.
"Yeah, I'm ready t'go," Gambit agreed from his bed. His eyes popped open but the uncharacteristic frown remained. "Have a fille t'see an' all."
"Yeah, 'cause she, like, really wants to see you," Kitty remarked sarcastically to Kurt.
The harried Dr. Reyes looked about ready to hurt something. Anything. So Dr. McCoy spoke up. "It would be better if the peanut gallery left, considering we do have five patients to look after."
Kurt opened his mouth to object but Cecelia stepped in. "That was not a question. Out. NOW!" As the X-Men not confined to beds, and Jono, exited the room, Dr. McCoy placed a calming hand on his colleague's shoulder. The tension in her body seemed to immediately dissipate as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
Dr. Reyes is an interesting person. Her obvious impatience for those who she deems unnecessary for her to complete her job is actually rather alarming. Her bedside manor could obviously use some work, even to a dispassionate person as myself. However, I can see why Henry finds her intriguing. She seems passionate about her work, and just the way they interact shows that they do care for one another. Possibly as more than friends. As Ororo would say, "How sweet."
Some time later, after a myriad of tests and X-Rays, the occupants of the med lab were allowed to leave. The Professor chose to remain, in order to discuss what was happening with his colleagues. As the three younger mutants made their way upstairs, they passed both Wolverine and Storm, heading to the infirmary. All three paused to hug Ororo and Tessa shook Logan's hand.
"Good to see you again kid," he grunted as they stood in the hall. "Though I'm not sure about the new fashion statement you're sportin'." He gestured towards the two tattoos that now marked her face, under her eyes.
"A parting gift from the Hellfire Club," was all she offered as an explanation.
Mental Log #2812044
I would not say more. I dare not. The unspeakable things that maniac did… it is too much. The mere memory, which I am forced to recall with uncanny detail, is enough to make me cringe. Bogan. The mutant predator. One day, I will have my revenge. He will pay for the pain he has put me, and many others, through. The Hellfire Club can only protect him for so long… Enough. These thoughts are not helpful. I am home at last. And it feels good.
The three mutants parted when they reached above ground. Betsy appeared to be heading for her room, while Tessa made her way to the kitchen to, "find libations," as she put it. Remy watched the girls go before heading outside. If she went anywhere, it would be out here. Away from the mansion's other occupants. If he was going to find his Rogue, this was where to look. Stepping outside after so many days felt good. Despite his weary body, which had not moved for weeks, he relished every moment. Feeling the wind, actually feeling it. Smelling the cut grass, actually smelling it. Lighting a cigarette and actually smoking it. Suddenly, his cigarette was plucked out of his mouth. "Hey, I–"
"Didn't yer momma ever tell ya smokin's bad fo' ya?" the cigarette killer, Rogue, asked. Remy opened his mouth to reply but was cut off. "Don't answer that, it was a rhetorical question." Before he could say anything to defend himself, she wrapped him in a hug.
Shocked and confused as hell, Gambit briefly wondered when the pod people had abducted Rogue. "Take it y'missed me chere," he finally stated, regaining his cool.
"'Course Ah did ya stupid swamp rat," she replied half muffled into his shirt. She began to move away but he caught her by the waist. "Don't ya ever do somethin' like that 'gain, ya hear?"
Smiling at the young woman he took her gloved hand in his. "Well, since y'asked so nice mon River Rat," he replied dryly. "But what's in it f'r me?"
"What do ya mean?" Rogue inquired suspiciously. She wasn't sure she liked where this conversation was going.
"Jus' thinking mebbe y'could do a li'l convincing, say tomorrow night, around eight," Remy suggested with a smirk. "Preferably in a li'l black dress."
Rogue's mouth dropped in surprise and she hit him indignantly. "Why you–"
"Now, now chere, play nice," he scolded playfully. "Actually, y'could play naughty too…"
"If Ah agree, can we end this painful conversation?" she questioned with an eye roll. Remy nodded. "Fine then. Ah'll be happy ta accompany ya. But yer still a swamp rat."
"An' yo' still a river rat, so we be even, non?" was Remy's witty response.
On a balcony on the second floor of the Xavier Institute, Jonothan Starsmore felt his heart break.
Author's Note: Sorry it took a li'l longer than I anticipated, but better late than never, right?? YIPEE!! They're awake!! I just hope it wasn't TOO confusing. The thing was, each italicized passage was a "mental log" of Sage's. I didn't number them all, just the first and last (do the math, it should be right), but I think (hope, pray!!) y'all got the idea. I figured, with a perfect memory, why bother to write stuff down?? I know I wouldn't… And I tried to keep Tessa's past cannon, but I know so little about it, well, I just didn't delve in too much. Lemme just say YAY!! that Tessa and Bishop actually met. Where they were both conscious. Don't worry about her "recognizing" him, it's not important… yet. Anyway, the ROMY fans should be happy. They have a date. Told you the wake-up call was gonna be good. Too bad about what's gonna happen next chappy. It's Warren's turn, and he's not ready to watch her date the "Swamp Trash" that hangs around her. Plus Betsy isn't quite ready to forgive Rems yet. He's in it deep… watch out Bayou boy!! Hehe. Also, Tessa's opinion of Remy is in NO WAY representative of mine. Just so y'all know. And, lastly, a lot of y'all have been asking about Jono. Who is he? What's his deal? Well, he's a mutant from the Generation X series (along with Jubilee, with Sean Cassidy and Emma Frost as headmaster and headmistress) who later graduated to the X-Men. He has been in Uncanny X-Men as of late, but is currently in the series Weapon X as a spy. And he got his face back, the manifestation and such was all cannon. Anyway, point is, if you want more info on him, go to triple w dot uncannyxmen dot net, and in the spotlight section you can check him out. It's a li'l behind the current issues but useful none the less. They have great cannon info on a lot of the characters used in Evo and beyond. ^_^ Sorry for the LOOONG note.
Review Responses: Aw, you guys. I feel so loved. And I just want you to know, I love you all in return!! Y'all TOTALL rock!! Don't forget to review again!! I live off these things. And frosted mini-wheates. Mmm.. frosted mini-wheates. *Homer Simpson drooling noises* - Katrina5: Well, I also posted two new things!! How 'bout them apples?? Tho, only one was ROMY related… I'm glad you liked the Rogue/Jono friendship. Punky power!! ^_^ Kitty's just a social butterfly like that. I think she's fun. Her relationship with the New Mutants is 180° different than the comics, and I like that. Aw, you're TOO kind!! Tessa is fun, and she spend the whole chappy analyzing the other X-Men. Too true about Kordey's art… let's not go there… *shudders* And I'm blushing from your compliments. Thank you!! - RahneMan: I'm never gonna call you "The Uncanny R-Man" just because I loved your old name SOSOSO much!! The new one's cool and all, but still… Okay, onto the actual response. Firstly, no comments on the fact that I put Rahne in OR how the accents were?! I'm offended!! *pouts* As for Spidey and DD, I haven't decided how involved I want them. Alpha Flight is probly just gonna be a cameo like the Avengers, who will actually be part of a bigger storyline later. You were right, FF helped get her out, but didn't discover her. Well, in my story, they will be 'cause I don't want the Avengers involved in that part. It'll be after my first FF cameo. Funness, huh?? Jono played a good sized role this chappy -- more than a cameo, but now they're all headed to Mass Academy. Illyana will play a BIG role in Petey's chappy. *coughcough* Magik *coughcough* As for others, Husk will show up at some point, but only after Jono's over his crush on Rogue. I dunno 'bout the others… we'll see. Maybe Everett or Skin. *shrugs* Too many storylines, so little time. - Leishy: Uhm, thanks… I think. :) Jono love. He deserves face time in Evo stories too!! Yes, there was some Astral Plane fun. But now, alas, they have awoken. Actually, I think that's a good thing. ^_- I doubt Remy and Jono will fight… we'll just have to see. Will keep it up. Check. - Shockgoddess: Wow, you're enthusiastic. Makes me feel all warm 'n' fuzzy inside. :^D You're TOO sweet. I'm glad the dialogue was good. And eloquent. Comic references abound!! Huzzah!! Yep, more updates the merrier, right?? Or however that saying goes… Bon Jovi is tight, Aerosmith is tighter!! Don't feel bad, I'm in the same boat. Old music, w00t!! - Risty: Authorial narration… interesting definition. At least now I know it's a compliment!! :P So, thanks!! *blushes a deep red* Oh, you're right about Rahne's name. For some reason, I messed it up. No worries, I fixed it!! Thanks for the heads up. I think I'll leave Rahne and Roberto together, for now. But, you know how young love goes… A Terry fan?? YAY!! I think she's fun, tho the whole drinking problem thing is kinda sad. I'm not sure how it is in the comics, but here I made Theresa younger, mostly because I wanted her to be about the same age as Jamie. Recall the hook-up between her and one of his dupes?? Amara left the New Mutants for the Hellions in the comics too. Just cannon fun. ^_^ - Ishandahalf: Aw shucks. You're TOO sweet!! I'm sorry you're twitchy in anticipation of ROMYness; however, there was a tad bit in this chappy. YAY!! Date fun, right. Do you read the comics?? The first… and second dates were… exciting, to say the least. *laughs maniacally* Reunion goodness despite my threats. Sorta. Before she ran away. Mags 'n' Storm – random pairing fun. She's the type that would inspire fear in the motherly disappointed way, verses Logan's I'm gonna maim you way. Jono the British punk, nothing wrong with that. I feel the same way 'bout finding one of my own… or maybe a blonde Southerner from Kentucky… The thing about Rogue and Jono is that, I'm not sure they've ever met in the comics. They've never been on a team together, so I figured that if they did, they could bond over crappy powers. *shrugs* Makes sense right?? Bittersweet that he's going to the Massachusetts Academy, but my thinking was sorta the same as yours. I think we have enough jealousy with the whole Warren thingy. Don't worry about Joseph showing up, he won't for a LO-OO-OO-NG time, if he does at all. I'm not really a fan. They came back to the Xavier Institute to wake 'em up. Duh. I'm not THAT evil. Thanks for the fun review. - Peace215: Sorry!! Writer's block was a killer!! Well, Banshee and Moira showed up a couple times in the cartoon, during the Phoenix Saga when Charles went to Muir Island. The others didn't tho, I don't think… Think that's a lot. Honey, I'm planning on bringing more in yet. And other teams of superheroes. We're just scrapping the tip of the iceberg. Wake-up call it is. I'm glad you liked my portrayal of Storm. YAY!! Thanks for reviewin'!! - Jukebox: Thanks for the forgiveness… and the review!! Aw, I never travel either. *shrugs* 'Tis the cross we must bear. Jono is pretty tight… but Gumbo is cooler. That is the truth!! :^D - Rouge4787: Writer's block, the most evil disease known to man. Or wo-man. Keeping track of the mutants isn't so hard, I drew up some flow charts for myself and it was pretty simple after that. *shrugs* It helps that I have a pretty good running knowledge of the comics. ^_^ Background on Jono in the author's note. He was in Uncanny lately… now he's in Weapon X, before that he was in Gen X. The answer to him losing his face is in this chappy. ROMY and wake-up call?? Check. :P - Aro: Aw, shucks. *blushes* You're TOO sweet. Been there with review/response confuzzlement. Yummy cake. Make me hungry. *insert Homer Simpson drool noises* Sammy part in Changes?! YAY!! How will I take it?? Hehe. More randomness. Updates are hard for this fic. I'm just having difficulties with it. *shrugs* I'm doin' my best. The Jono/Rogue thing just kinda happened, like the Mags/Storm hinting. Randomness that I thought made the story more interesting. Rest assured, still a ROMY. You tell me, was it interesting?? Trying to update, really!! You too, by the way!! - Remy's ange: Whoa. Just… whoa. Trying to keep the chappies coming. I'm working as fast as I can. Glad you agree with me 'bout Storm. It's just kinda her nature. The Goddess complex and all that. Mags needs lovin' too, and since Rogue's not old enough in Evo… *shudders at evil comic pairing* Love/hate, check it, that's how I feel 'bout Emma. :P Now I'm just hoping the accents will be consistent. *prays* There's info on Jono and such in the A/N. Check it out, he's hella tight. Trust. ^_^ He does kinda have the hot guy complex. Similar to Remy, with a cute accent ta boot. Shame 'bout his face huh?? No kissing in his future. *cries* There is Jono/Rogue friendship, and another boy crushing on her. Though, it is slightly mutual, nothing will come of it. Promise. *runs and hides from angry Remy fan girls* ROMY, I swear!! Well, they reunited. And will be embarking on a date. So, not too shabby, right?? I always liked Sam, New Mutants power!!, but he did become quite the babe after X-Force. No, just no, to the black hair and goatee. Talk about scary. I just don't like Lila, period. It kinda goes back to the AoA, where she was Gumbo's girlfriend, and also the fact that she never seemed good enough for Sam. Same goes for Tabby. Ew. You're REALLY TOO sweet!! *blushes deeply* Thank you. - GambitsRogue: Aw, thanks. You're UBER sweet!! Douglock is the man. *cheers* Gambit's back!! Heartbreaker that he is. ^_~ ROMY is a'comin'. Well, sorta here. Hmm… Wonderful writing?? You're good for my ego. Thanks. :^D - PomegranateQueen: O-kay. So, I'm glad you read the fic… sorry that you didn't like the title. *shrugs* Can't please everyone. But hey, the story quality showed through in the end. *gloats like a loser* Hey, everybody has character flaws, I know I do. Storm's is her condescending attitude. But yeah, with the Goddess thing, it makes sense. ^_^Thanks for reviewing!! - DemonRogue13: Thanks!! You're sweet. And the info on Jono is in the author's note. Mags and Stormy need lovin' too, right?? :P Glad you like my sick sense of irony. Bwa-ha-ha!! Thank you for the review!! - Epona: Alana is Irish and it means love?? Cool beans. I just think it sounds cool. *shrugs* All my stories (that aren't fan fiction) seem to end up with a character having that name. Very appropriate considering St. Patrick's day is right around the corner tho. Or was by the time this is posted. Like the Jono/Rogue friendship. YAY!! Funness. :^D You're UBER sweet!! - Klinoa: *bows covered in confetti* I am back. This is true. You're TOO sweet. Thank you. Ray and Roberto fighting is OOC, I know… *reader deadpans* Kidding!! Sam's a good guy like that. *lets out pathetic fangirl sigh* Jono is my Mutant of the Moment (check the profile) and there's info on him in the A/N. Check it out. ^_^ Thanks again!! My ego need a boost. *brother shouts, "Not!"* Shut up Eddie!! Randomness. Sorry. - Steph Silverstar: Thanks. Actually, Jean won't be back TOO soon, sorry. But, on the upside, a woman with an uncanny resemblance to Jean will show up soonish. ^_^ Thanks. She who is called Caliente wrote. - Khay: Wow, thanks. *blushes* You're TOO kind. Ultra-mega-super-duper fun, huh?? Tell some hot boys, would you?? My dating life has been lackluster as of late. ^_~ More Bishop?? I think there was some interestin' stuff with him in this chappy. And, someday, his past (their future) and reasons for traveling back in time will be revealed. And it will be good. I hope. *crosses fingers* Well they woke up. And there was a bit of fluffiness. And angst, of course. Where would I be without that?? :P Thanks for the UBER sweet words!! - Girl Number 1: Aw, you're UBER sweet!! *blushes* Thank you!! I'm glad you like Ororo and Jono, tho not together of course. Ew. Bad mental picture *shudders* Betsy and Rogue will become friends, I promise, but it won't be soon. They still have some residual issues. I did like the update to Higher Ground, I've been traveling a lot tho, and don't have as much time to review. I barely have time to update my own fics. I have a plan for Polaris, but it won't be happenin' for a while. Someday she'll show up tho, promise. There are just so many characters to work with right now… *sighs* Excuse, excuses, I know. X-Men addict #17632, here. :P Anyway, thanks again!! - Lady Sir Henry Morgan: Aw, you're TOO sweet!! Thanks!! Ew, don't get me started on reality shows. *groans* They keep multiplying, like, like… bunnies on crack. *shrugs* I couldn't think of a better example. RAHBERTO is cute, too true. They, unfortunately, won't last forever. Sorry. Same goes for Alex and Dani, I just felt bad for her 'cause she never gets any guys in the comics. Go ahead and use the Alex/Dani pairing, I've never seen it before and it's fun to write. I kinda, tried to at least, hint at it in Scott's chappy, when she talked to him 'bout leader stuff. Anyway, off topic. Rogue and Jono are fun, dark, angsty characters. I think they work, so thanks!! Amara's leaving is cannon, strait from the comics. Drama-rama baby!! Thanks for all your kind words!! - Beaubier: I agree with your Storm/Evan assessment. I like him better underground where I can ignore him. :P My Callisto stuff came more from when Storm battled her for leadership of the Morlocks, but Arena works too. ^_^ Cannon fun!! Not touching the hot tub stuff. Another Storm/Mags fan… and here I thought people would flame me for it. *shrugs* I guess people with white hair just belong together, right?? *blushes* You're TOO kind. I'm glad you like my take on Ororo. YAY!! *grins like an idiot* Rahne is fun, as are Siryn, Banshee, Moira, Chamber, and Douglock. Phew. That's a lot of mutants when I think about it. *shrugs* They'll all find a place in my Evo universe. A Douglock fan?? Cool. I know nothing about him, just that he talks kinda weird. But I thought I'd throw him in for kicks. Why not, right?? Dude, I love Jono SOSOSO much!! He's like a male Rogue. Scratch that last statement, it seems wrong somehow. Actually, Gothic, angsty, cute accent… maybe not. Well, the thing about Jono is, I never really got what the exact extent of his powers are, since they're kinda outta control, ya know?? I mean, he has to use telepathy to "talk" all the time, so I just figured, with Rogue's help, he could find the Astral Plane, no sweat. Eh, call it creative licensing. Plus, I was REALLY stuck on how to wake 'em up. Done with that now, phew. *wipes brow comically* Another Rogue/Jono fan, yay!! Just no romance 'cause I don't want to be ceremoniously slaughtered by ROMY fans. I'm glad you reviewed, and better late than never!! :^D