Disclaimer: Okay, still don't own X-Men and I'm defiantly not making any money off of this so no one sue. You won't get nothing but a headache. And I don't own Buffy the Vampire Slayer or any of it's references or quotes or anything else you recognize from elsewhere. Oh, but I do own Ebony and the story idea and probably any characters you don't recognize. Yay me. And I don't technically own Sakura and Eric. My friend Megan does. So let's all thank her. Everyone together, THANK YOU MEGAN.
Authors Note: Everyone, y'all need to go and read Mercury Dream's stuff. It's really, really, really, really, really good. (Did I mention really?) A Rogue's Touch and All Grown Up are my favorites but the others are all really good as well. So go read her stuff to. Now, quickly! Oh, and if any of you didn't already know, Ishandahalf has posted a fic that you all need to go read too. And sorry for the wait y'all. Been busy this past week.
'text' internal speech
dreams
Wandering Souls
Chapter 36: Graduation.
Rogue stood before the mirror, a thoughtful expression on her face. She couldn't believe the day she'd been waiting for was finally hear. Graduation. She smiled at the maroon gown, and despite it's awful appearance, and the fact that it did nothing for her figure, she'd never been happier.
And the best part was, her entire family was there to watch it happen. "Her parents, whom she'd long thought dead. Her newly found family at the institute and the family that'd looked out for her all those years.
Madison, Tony, Sakura and Eric were still at the mansion, adjusting fairly well to the new set of rules and regulations they now had to live under. But Rogue knew it wouldn't last long. They were all too free spirited. She knew mostly they just stayed for her once Madison had recovered. She'd been in the Med Lab for a month and a half with her injuries, Doctor McCoy taking no chances with her condition. After that she'd started working on getting her strength back and now, was once again to the point where she could take Tony in a fight. And like she always told Rogue when they were back down in Mississippi, never turn down free food. But Rogue had seen the anticipation and anxiety on their faces of being cooped up for so long and she knew, sooner or later, they'd be gone again. And right now, she didn't know if she'd be with them or not.
"Y' look tres belle ma chere," Remy commented as he entered the room, wearing his gown as well. Although, his wasn't zipped and hung open revealing a blood read silk dress shirt over a pair of loose fitting black jeans. As usual, he looked devilishly handsome.
"Ya ain't looking' to bad yerself Cajun," Rogue commented, turning back to the mirror. Within moments, Remy was behind her, his arms wrapped comfortably around her waist. He rested his chin on her shoulder and they both gazed at their shared reflection.
"We look bon together non?" Remy asked smiling, squeezing her tighter.
"Oui," Rogue smiled at him. They did look good together, she had to admit it.
"What are y' thinkin' ma chere?" Remy murmured in her ear, nibbling the lobe a bit before moving down her necks, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake.
"Obviously not the same thing as ya," Rogue answered in mock annoyance as she leaned against him, enjoying his warmth through their clothing. "Didn't ya git enough at prom?"
"Non," Remy answered, moving her hair and working his way to the other side. "Ah never git enough of y' mon amore."
Rogue smiled and blushed as his hands rubbed slowly over her stomach and around her sides, bringing back Prom night in surround sound. Maddie and Sakura had rented them a room at the most expensive hotel in all of New York City and they'd definitely made use of it. They'd spent an entire twenty minutes at the dance itself and that was just to have the pictures taken and dance to at least one song before heading up to the city.
The night had been amazing. Since returning to the Institute about three months earlier, they hadn't had many opportunities to be alone and express their love physically. Between all the students running around the halls of Xavier's, the mind readers and her dad's advanced senses, it'd been damned near impossible. Logan may have said he was okay with them and liked Remy, but that didn't mean he was ready to turn a blind eye to their activities. So the few chances they'd had to sneak out, they'd taken advantage of. Rogue was surprised more than once, the most memorable being what Remy taught her on a motorcycle. She'd always thought you'd need a backseat but he'd made sure to clarify that misconception.
Rogue moaned slightly as Remy's hand began moving upward slowly, tracing a longing finger over the zipper of her gown.
"Ahem. Am I interrupting?" Meranda asked from the door, startling the two Southerners apart. "Please, tell me I'm interrupting," Meranda placed her hands together in mock prayer as she entered the room, her calf length black silk skirt flowing easily around her legs. Strapped black heels and a white silk business shirt finished the outfit, her hair falling in loose curls over her shoulder and ruby's hanging from her ears and a matching ruby teardrop hung from around her neck.
"Hey Mamma," Rogue said blushing slightly at being caught and turning quickly to her vanity mirror, grabbing for her earrings. "Ya look nice." Remy nodded his agreement and leaned against Rogue's dresser, cards seeming to appear out of no where in his hands as he began to shuffle them idly.
"Thank you baby," Meranda replied smiling softly at her daughter. "Mister LeBeau, do you mind giving us a minute?" she moved to help Rogue with her hair, giving Remy a knowing glance.
"Of course," Remy rose and bowed dramatically. "Ah'll be downstairs mon amore," he said to Rogue as he closed the door behind him.
"Alright," Rogue responded, focusing on her hair.
Meranda waited until she was sure Remy had gone downstairs before hitting Rogue upside the head.
"Ow!" Rogue stated, rubbing the sore spot. Meranda was one of the few people with the strength to make Rogue's nearly invulnerable skin feel the hit. "What was that for?"
"For trying to make me a grandmother before my time," Meranda stated. She turned away from Rogue and sighed, hugging her arms to her chest. Her little girl was all grown up and that scared her. And what scared her more was the thought of Rogue repeated her mistakes.
"Mamma, What's wrong?" Rogue asked after a minute. It wasn't like Meranda to not say exactly what was on her mind.
"Do you know how old I was when I met your dad?" Meranda turned to face Rogue, biting her bottom lip and running her hands over her upper arms.
"No," Rogue looked at Meranda expectantly, wondering where her mother was going with this.
(AU: This is a DIFFERENT BACKSTORY for Logan and Meranda then the one I posted. There are some similarities, but it's NOT THE SAME STORY. That being said, let's carry on shall we?)
"I was seventeen when he came riding into town on that damned motorcycle of his. He was everything a girl could want in a guy. Tough. Handsome. An obvious rebel and way older than what my mother would have liked. That that motorcycle, just clenched the deal."
"How old was daddy?" Rogue sat down at her vanity, facing her mother and placing her elbows on her knees, her chin in her hands.
"Too old," Meranda snorted, turning and looking out the window. "He was strong though. When I felt so weak I didn't think I could breath, he was sturdy. My pillar," at this point, she turned to face Rogue. "You've got to understand that being a witch back then wasn't a popular thing. And I'd been raised to know that and to fear the repercussions of some ignorant bastard ever finding out. And to top of that, I was a mutant so it just made matters worse. So I kept to myself. Didn't really talk much to anyone really."
"Ah can't believe it. Ya were shy?"
"Do you want to hear this story or not smartass?"
"Ah want ta hear."
"Good, cause I want to tell it. I was working in this small dinner. Waitressing. Definitely not glamour work. And one day, I was wiping tables and in he walks, with a couple of his SHIELD buddies. And he was beautiful. That thick black hair and those powerful eyes. And then there was that body, umm," she closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip. "I fell in love that day." She paused for a long moment collecting her thoughts as she walked over to Rogues vanity and leaning against it, her hips resting on the edge and her hands palms down on the top. "I got their table. And flirted shamelessly, which was something I'd never done before. I guess a part of me figured nothing would come of it. I was just having a little fun, pretending that I stood a chance with a guy like him," she paused for a long moment, staring at her daughter, debating if she should tell Rogue the next part. "Of course, I quickly rethought that when I found myself underneath him later that night."
"Mamma!" Rogue sat up straight, shock on her face. "Are ya tellin' meh ya slept with him on the first date?"
"No," Meranda stated confidently. "I never said date."
"Mother! Ah don't need ta know this!"
"Yes you do. Because I don't want you tot have my regrets Marie, I really don't," Meranda rose and knelt before Rogue, covering her daughters hands with her own. "I love you. I've loved you since they placed you in my arms and I wouldn't give up bringing you into this world for anything. Or my years with your father. But look what happened. What I lost," here she brushed a white strand from Rogues eyes. "I know you love him baby but you two have your whole lives to be together. I'm not telling you to stop seeing him or even to back off, but please don't be in such a rush that you forget what's important."
"What do ya mean?"
"Meranda let out a long sigh. "I mean life. Take your time to take in every detail. My biggest regret is everything I missed. Watching you grow up. Even the dating relationship with your dad. The kind you and Remy have now. Enjoy every second of it. Cause before you know it, your watching your baby girl graduate in the gaudiest thing you've ever seen wondering what the hell happened and where all those little things, you always promised yourself you'd catch later, went."
"Don't worry mamma," Rogue wrapped her arms around Meranda, squeezing her tightly, knowing her own super strength would have very little effect on the woman.
"Can't help it, comes with the title and the whole birth giving process," Meranda squeezed back, her voice a little choked up. "Come on, we should probably stop this. I'm getting emotional." Rogue laughed, with a half sob.
"You two are sickening," a gruff voice said from the now open door. Both women turned to look at Logan, standing in the doorway. He was in awe then. For a brief moment he was pulled back to a time when those two women were his world, and for a moment, the great Wolverine felt a tear in his eye.
"Aw, Daddy's gonna cry," Rogue smirked as Meranda laughed.
"That's an extra danger room session Stripes," Logan growled, wiping at his eyes. "And I ain't cryin!"
"Of course not dear," Meranda said sarcastically, rising and looking over at Rogue. "Men don't cry dear. Now, what's that song? When tough little boys grow up to be dads…" (AN: Thanks Rose! I really wanted to use it after you sent it to me.)
"They turn inta babies again," Rogue finished for her, rising and walking over to Logan, a smirk on her face. "Can't Ah have a hug on mah big day?"
"Of course darlin," Logan said softening, wrapping his arms around her. "Get over here kid," he said holding out an arm to Meranda.
"I guess I could make your day," Meranda smirked and walked into the embrace, holding her daughter and former husband close for a moment as they stood, a family once more.
After awhile, Logan pulled away. "Chuck sent me to get you guys. It's time to go."
"Come on then baby. Let's go say goodbye to that hell hole and it's lovely Satan of a leader," Meranda said wrapping her arm around Rogues shoulders and leading her out of the room. Logan just smirked and followed them to the cars, shaking his head slowly. "My baby's all grown up," he whispered as he watched the women ahead of him, feeling more than a little gloomy about the prospect.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"I can't believe our little girls growing up," Madison said dramatically, sobbing into Tony's arm. He just smirked as Sakura and Eric raised eyebrows in her direction.
"Knock it off," Tony stated, pushing his sunglasses up on his nose.
"Ruin my fun," Maddie pouted, bringing up her face, and pulling her own sunglasses from her hair, resting them over her eyes. "How long is this thing gonna take anyway?"
"A couple of hours," Sakura answered, leaning against Eric's chest as they sat in the bleachers surrounded by the faculty and younger students of the Xavier Institute.
"What fun," Wanda stated as she and Evan took their seats next to the Dragons.
"Oh come on babe, might not be that bad," Evan said as he leaned back, Wanda resting against his arm. "Besides, we've got to support them. They survived."
"True," Wanda answered as they looked down at the football field. The chairs were lined up in rows and filled with maroon gowns.
"Takes you back doesn't it," Madison said smiling. "Remember my graduation baby?" she turned to Tony.
"What are you talking about? You didn't graduate," he gave her a quizzical look.
"Yeah, but if I hadn't dropped out I would have. And don't you remember what we were doing the day I was supposed to have graduated?" she waggled her eyebrows suggestively.
"Oh yeah," he smirked and wrapped an arm around her waist, pinching her ass. "Now I remember."
"Dirty," Sakura stated, lacing her hands with Eric's on her lap.
"Oh, it's starting!" Kitty said excitedly as Principle Kelly took his place at the podium and began his speech.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
'Can you believe we're finally here Scott?' Jean asked her boyfriend telepathically as they sat amongst their peers ready to close a chapter in their lives.
'Seemed like a lifetime didn't it?' he replied, and she knew he was smiling.
'Our lives truly begin after today,' she stated.
'Together.'
Jean smiled brightly, thinking of the prospect. 'Always together,' she replied and looked back towards the principal.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Piotr sat stoically, staring straight ahead. Inside, his mind was a whirl though as he reflected on his current situation. 'If we graduate, then we're no longer students. Unless we go to college. But if we leave for college, then are we still x-men? And if we're not X-Men, then what are we? Do we even exist or are we simply pawns in a greater universe to beings that are only momentarily bored?' "Huh," he said aloud as he returned to listening intently for his name, pondering the deeper meanings of life.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Rogue was so bored as she sat amongst several people who didn't think to kindly of her or any of Xavier's. The tension was so high she could feel it in the air. 'Ah hope Rem's shields are holdin,' she thought as she shot a glare over at the nearest person.
Meanwhile, a few rows behind her, Remy shuffled a deck of cards idly, trying to focus on the sounds they made rather than the tumult of emotions that were crashing against his mental shields. He closed his eyes and gritted his teeth, clutching the cards in his hands as they unconsciously began to glow.
Up ahead, Rogue could feel his distress barring down on her. Lately her and Remy's psychic bond had developed, growing a lot stronger to where she was feeling his emotions and he hers, without using his empathic ability. 'Mamma, Ah'm worried 'bout Rems,' she called out with her mind. 'Professor, Jean, anybody!' she became somewhat frantic as she felt his anguish grow.
'Calm down Rogue,' Jean answered her, using her most soothing mental voice. 'What's wrong?'
'It's Rems, and Ah can't git the Professor or mah mamma,' Rogue replied , craning her neck back.
'It's alright Rogue, we're here,' Charles voice entered her mind. 'We've detected the problem. Your mother and I are trying to strengthen his mental shields. Please remain calm. With your psychic link being as strong as it is, any added stress on your part can greatly effect him. Perhaps you can help to calm his mind so he'll uncharged his cards?'
'Ah'll try Professor. Just make sure ya and mamma do somethin' bout those shields,' Rogue replied taking a couple of deep breaths, reaching out to Remy though their link. They'd played around with it a bit, trying to read each others thoughts, but it'd never worked before. The Professor said that perhaps, with practice, they'd one day have that ability. 'Figures, the one day Ah need it and Ah ain't got it,' Rogue thought as she continued to breath, becoming increasingly aware that they were getting closer to calling her name. 'Come on sugah,' she called out to him with her mind. 'Git control already. Don't wanna blow up half the field while Ah'm on stage do ya?'
Remy could feel Meranda and the Professor strengthening his shields, and for a moment the emotions cascading against his mind subsided. He took a few deep breaths to clear his mind when a sweet Southern voice entered his mind. 'Come on sugah,' she called out to him with her mind. 'Git control already. Don't wanna blow up half the field while Ah'm on stage do ya?'
Remy opened his eyes in shock and looked down at his hand, and the glowing cards he held. He quickly looked up to each side and saw both the entire row was staring at him, fear in their eyes. He quickly uncharged them and masked the shocked look on his face with one of his trademarked grins. "What homes? Don't wan' t' go out wit a bang?" A few of them giggled nervously before turning their attention back to the front. Remy looked up just in time to see Rogue walk across the stage and to hear the Xavier cheering crowd rooting for her, and his own screams joining them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"I can't believe you did it!" Madison shrieked as she wrapped her arms around Rogue, hugging her tightly. "We're so proud of you." Eric and Sakura nodded in agreement, arms wrapped around one another as Tony waited for Maddie to move aside before he swooped Rogue up into a giant hug, lifting her effortlessly off the ground.
"Thanks y'all!" Rogue laughed as he set her down and returned to Maddie. She stood surrounded by her friends, in the middle of the field, waiting for the rest of the graduates to make they're way over to the group. Only Piotr and Remy were missing and she was a little worried still. "Has anyone seen Remy?"
"He be de tall handsome homme non?" Remy's smooth voice answered causing Sakura to roll her eyes as Rogue spun to see him walking up behind her.
"Somethin' lahke that," Rogue smiled throwing her arms around his neck as he leaned over and wrapped his around her waist. "Are ya okay sugah?"
"Oui, bettah now ma chere," Remy squeezed her close. "Ah heard y' p'tite."
"What?" Rogue pulled back and looked up into his eyes.
"Ah heard y'. In mon head," Remy tapped his temple.
"Ya did?" Rogue smiled, awe clear on her face.
"Oui," here he rested his forehead against hers. "Y' did it mon amore."
"Wow," Rogue smile broadened as she closed her eyes and leaned against him.
"Oui," Remy kissed the tip of her nose gently.
"Is this little love fest over yet?" Madison called, bringing the two from their reverie. "Cause we're gonna go party."
"Comin!" Rogue yelled as her and Remy shared a tender kiss before following the group back to the vehicles.
Authors Note: Sorry if it's disappointing and not worth the wait. I've been really busy this past few weeks. And today I had a midterm so thought I'd post some stuff while I relax before I start cramming for my test next Thursday. As always, read and review. For some reason since I stopped replying to all my reviews I've been getting fewer and fewer. Hopefully it's just because everyone else is just as busy as I am and not that anyone thinks this story has started to suck.
Now, for a little bad news. Wandering Souls will officially end in 4 chapters. Expect Chapter 40 to be the last. I haven't had time to do it justice since school started back up and I'm sorry about that, and about the lack of updates for the same reason. And I've been writing a lot of the last few chapters with the help of Megan so it's taken time to get together and work on the chapters in both our schedules. But never fear, if y'all want one, there is an idea for a sequel. And Megan and I are also working on a back story for Maddie and Sakura and the Guys. And there are several other story ideas floating around in my head that I really want to work on and get posted. (One I posted up tonight. It's a one shot, Final Days, so please read and let me know what you think.) Well, that's all for now. See you next time (hopefully a lot sooner than it took to get this one up.).
Always, Calliann
Authors Note: Everyone, y'all need to go and read Mercury Dream's stuff. It's really, really, really, really, really good. (Did I mention really?) A Rogue's Touch and All Grown Up are my favorites but the others are all really good as well. So go read her stuff to. Now, quickly! Oh, and if any of you didn't already know, Ishandahalf has posted a fic that you all need to go read too. And sorry for the wait y'all. Been busy this past week.
'text' internal speech
dreams
Wandering Souls
Chapter 36: Graduation.
Rogue stood before the mirror, a thoughtful expression on her face. She couldn't believe the day she'd been waiting for was finally hear. Graduation. She smiled at the maroon gown, and despite it's awful appearance, and the fact that it did nothing for her figure, she'd never been happier.
And the best part was, her entire family was there to watch it happen. "Her parents, whom she'd long thought dead. Her newly found family at the institute and the family that'd looked out for her all those years.
Madison, Tony, Sakura and Eric were still at the mansion, adjusting fairly well to the new set of rules and regulations they now had to live under. But Rogue knew it wouldn't last long. They were all too free spirited. She knew mostly they just stayed for her once Madison had recovered. She'd been in the Med Lab for a month and a half with her injuries, Doctor McCoy taking no chances with her condition. After that she'd started working on getting her strength back and now, was once again to the point where she could take Tony in a fight. And like she always told Rogue when they were back down in Mississippi, never turn down free food. But Rogue had seen the anticipation and anxiety on their faces of being cooped up for so long and she knew, sooner or later, they'd be gone again. And right now, she didn't know if she'd be with them or not.
"Y' look tres belle ma chere," Remy commented as he entered the room, wearing his gown as well. Although, his wasn't zipped and hung open revealing a blood read silk dress shirt over a pair of loose fitting black jeans. As usual, he looked devilishly handsome.
"Ya ain't looking' to bad yerself Cajun," Rogue commented, turning back to the mirror. Within moments, Remy was behind her, his arms wrapped comfortably around her waist. He rested his chin on her shoulder and they both gazed at their shared reflection.
"We look bon together non?" Remy asked smiling, squeezing her tighter.
"Oui," Rogue smiled at him. They did look good together, she had to admit it.
"What are y' thinkin' ma chere?" Remy murmured in her ear, nibbling the lobe a bit before moving down her necks, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake.
"Obviously not the same thing as ya," Rogue answered in mock annoyance as she leaned against him, enjoying his warmth through their clothing. "Didn't ya git enough at prom?"
"Non," Remy answered, moving her hair and working his way to the other side. "Ah never git enough of y' mon amore."
Rogue smiled and blushed as his hands rubbed slowly over her stomach and around her sides, bringing back Prom night in surround sound. Maddie and Sakura had rented them a room at the most expensive hotel in all of New York City and they'd definitely made use of it. They'd spent an entire twenty minutes at the dance itself and that was just to have the pictures taken and dance to at least one song before heading up to the city.
The night had been amazing. Since returning to the Institute about three months earlier, they hadn't had many opportunities to be alone and express their love physically. Between all the students running around the halls of Xavier's, the mind readers and her dad's advanced senses, it'd been damned near impossible. Logan may have said he was okay with them and liked Remy, but that didn't mean he was ready to turn a blind eye to their activities. So the few chances they'd had to sneak out, they'd taken advantage of. Rogue was surprised more than once, the most memorable being what Remy taught her on a motorcycle. She'd always thought you'd need a backseat but he'd made sure to clarify that misconception.
Rogue moaned slightly as Remy's hand began moving upward slowly, tracing a longing finger over the zipper of her gown.
"Ahem. Am I interrupting?" Meranda asked from the door, startling the two Southerners apart. "Please, tell me I'm interrupting," Meranda placed her hands together in mock prayer as she entered the room, her calf length black silk skirt flowing easily around her legs. Strapped black heels and a white silk business shirt finished the outfit, her hair falling in loose curls over her shoulder and ruby's hanging from her ears and a matching ruby teardrop hung from around her neck.
"Hey Mamma," Rogue said blushing slightly at being caught and turning quickly to her vanity mirror, grabbing for her earrings. "Ya look nice." Remy nodded his agreement and leaned against Rogue's dresser, cards seeming to appear out of no where in his hands as he began to shuffle them idly.
"Thank you baby," Meranda replied smiling softly at her daughter. "Mister LeBeau, do you mind giving us a minute?" she moved to help Rogue with her hair, giving Remy a knowing glance.
"Of course," Remy rose and bowed dramatically. "Ah'll be downstairs mon amore," he said to Rogue as he closed the door behind him.
"Alright," Rogue responded, focusing on her hair.
Meranda waited until she was sure Remy had gone downstairs before hitting Rogue upside the head.
"Ow!" Rogue stated, rubbing the sore spot. Meranda was one of the few people with the strength to make Rogue's nearly invulnerable skin feel the hit. "What was that for?"
"For trying to make me a grandmother before my time," Meranda stated. She turned away from Rogue and sighed, hugging her arms to her chest. Her little girl was all grown up and that scared her. And what scared her more was the thought of Rogue repeated her mistakes.
"Mamma, What's wrong?" Rogue asked after a minute. It wasn't like Meranda to not say exactly what was on her mind.
"Do you know how old I was when I met your dad?" Meranda turned to face Rogue, biting her bottom lip and running her hands over her upper arms.
"No," Rogue looked at Meranda expectantly, wondering where her mother was going with this.
(AU: This is a DIFFERENT BACKSTORY for Logan and Meranda then the one I posted. There are some similarities, but it's NOT THE SAME STORY. That being said, let's carry on shall we?)
"I was seventeen when he came riding into town on that damned motorcycle of his. He was everything a girl could want in a guy. Tough. Handsome. An obvious rebel and way older than what my mother would have liked. That that motorcycle, just clenched the deal."
"How old was daddy?" Rogue sat down at her vanity, facing her mother and placing her elbows on her knees, her chin in her hands.
"Too old," Meranda snorted, turning and looking out the window. "He was strong though. When I felt so weak I didn't think I could breath, he was sturdy. My pillar," at this point, she turned to face Rogue. "You've got to understand that being a witch back then wasn't a popular thing. And I'd been raised to know that and to fear the repercussions of some ignorant bastard ever finding out. And to top of that, I was a mutant so it just made matters worse. So I kept to myself. Didn't really talk much to anyone really."
"Ah can't believe it. Ya were shy?"
"Do you want to hear this story or not smartass?"
"Ah want ta hear."
"Good, cause I want to tell it. I was working in this small dinner. Waitressing. Definitely not glamour work. And one day, I was wiping tables and in he walks, with a couple of his SHIELD buddies. And he was beautiful. That thick black hair and those powerful eyes. And then there was that body, umm," she closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip. "I fell in love that day." She paused for a long moment collecting her thoughts as she walked over to Rogues vanity and leaning against it, her hips resting on the edge and her hands palms down on the top. "I got their table. And flirted shamelessly, which was something I'd never done before. I guess a part of me figured nothing would come of it. I was just having a little fun, pretending that I stood a chance with a guy like him," she paused for a long moment, staring at her daughter, debating if she should tell Rogue the next part. "Of course, I quickly rethought that when I found myself underneath him later that night."
"Mamma!" Rogue sat up straight, shock on her face. "Are ya tellin' meh ya slept with him on the first date?"
"No," Meranda stated confidently. "I never said date."
"Mother! Ah don't need ta know this!"
"Yes you do. Because I don't want you tot have my regrets Marie, I really don't," Meranda rose and knelt before Rogue, covering her daughters hands with her own. "I love you. I've loved you since they placed you in my arms and I wouldn't give up bringing you into this world for anything. Or my years with your father. But look what happened. What I lost," here she brushed a white strand from Rogues eyes. "I know you love him baby but you two have your whole lives to be together. I'm not telling you to stop seeing him or even to back off, but please don't be in such a rush that you forget what's important."
"What do ya mean?"
"Meranda let out a long sigh. "I mean life. Take your time to take in every detail. My biggest regret is everything I missed. Watching you grow up. Even the dating relationship with your dad. The kind you and Remy have now. Enjoy every second of it. Cause before you know it, your watching your baby girl graduate in the gaudiest thing you've ever seen wondering what the hell happened and where all those little things, you always promised yourself you'd catch later, went."
"Don't worry mamma," Rogue wrapped her arms around Meranda, squeezing her tightly, knowing her own super strength would have very little effect on the woman.
"Can't help it, comes with the title and the whole birth giving process," Meranda squeezed back, her voice a little choked up. "Come on, we should probably stop this. I'm getting emotional." Rogue laughed, with a half sob.
"You two are sickening," a gruff voice said from the now open door. Both women turned to look at Logan, standing in the doorway. He was in awe then. For a brief moment he was pulled back to a time when those two women were his world, and for a moment, the great Wolverine felt a tear in his eye.
"Aw, Daddy's gonna cry," Rogue smirked as Meranda laughed.
"That's an extra danger room session Stripes," Logan growled, wiping at his eyes. "And I ain't cryin!"
"Of course not dear," Meranda said sarcastically, rising and looking over at Rogue. "Men don't cry dear. Now, what's that song? When tough little boys grow up to be dads…" (AN: Thanks Rose! I really wanted to use it after you sent it to me.)
"They turn inta babies again," Rogue finished for her, rising and walking over to Logan, a smirk on her face. "Can't Ah have a hug on mah big day?"
"Of course darlin," Logan said softening, wrapping his arms around her. "Get over here kid," he said holding out an arm to Meranda.
"I guess I could make your day," Meranda smirked and walked into the embrace, holding her daughter and former husband close for a moment as they stood, a family once more.
After awhile, Logan pulled away. "Chuck sent me to get you guys. It's time to go."
"Come on then baby. Let's go say goodbye to that hell hole and it's lovely Satan of a leader," Meranda said wrapping her arm around Rogues shoulders and leading her out of the room. Logan just smirked and followed them to the cars, shaking his head slowly. "My baby's all grown up," he whispered as he watched the women ahead of him, feeling more than a little gloomy about the prospect.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"I can't believe our little girls growing up," Madison said dramatically, sobbing into Tony's arm. He just smirked as Sakura and Eric raised eyebrows in her direction.
"Knock it off," Tony stated, pushing his sunglasses up on his nose.
"Ruin my fun," Maddie pouted, bringing up her face, and pulling her own sunglasses from her hair, resting them over her eyes. "How long is this thing gonna take anyway?"
"A couple of hours," Sakura answered, leaning against Eric's chest as they sat in the bleachers surrounded by the faculty and younger students of the Xavier Institute.
"What fun," Wanda stated as she and Evan took their seats next to the Dragons.
"Oh come on babe, might not be that bad," Evan said as he leaned back, Wanda resting against his arm. "Besides, we've got to support them. They survived."
"True," Wanda answered as they looked down at the football field. The chairs were lined up in rows and filled with maroon gowns.
"Takes you back doesn't it," Madison said smiling. "Remember my graduation baby?" she turned to Tony.
"What are you talking about? You didn't graduate," he gave her a quizzical look.
"Yeah, but if I hadn't dropped out I would have. And don't you remember what we were doing the day I was supposed to have graduated?" she waggled her eyebrows suggestively.
"Oh yeah," he smirked and wrapped an arm around her waist, pinching her ass. "Now I remember."
"Dirty," Sakura stated, lacing her hands with Eric's on her lap.
"Oh, it's starting!" Kitty said excitedly as Principle Kelly took his place at the podium and began his speech.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
'Can you believe we're finally here Scott?' Jean asked her boyfriend telepathically as they sat amongst their peers ready to close a chapter in their lives.
'Seemed like a lifetime didn't it?' he replied, and she knew he was smiling.
'Our lives truly begin after today,' she stated.
'Together.'
Jean smiled brightly, thinking of the prospect. 'Always together,' she replied and looked back towards the principal.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Piotr sat stoically, staring straight ahead. Inside, his mind was a whirl though as he reflected on his current situation. 'If we graduate, then we're no longer students. Unless we go to college. But if we leave for college, then are we still x-men? And if we're not X-Men, then what are we? Do we even exist or are we simply pawns in a greater universe to beings that are only momentarily bored?' "Huh," he said aloud as he returned to listening intently for his name, pondering the deeper meanings of life.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Rogue was so bored as she sat amongst several people who didn't think to kindly of her or any of Xavier's. The tension was so high she could feel it in the air. 'Ah hope Rem's shields are holdin,' she thought as she shot a glare over at the nearest person.
Meanwhile, a few rows behind her, Remy shuffled a deck of cards idly, trying to focus on the sounds they made rather than the tumult of emotions that were crashing against his mental shields. He closed his eyes and gritted his teeth, clutching the cards in his hands as they unconsciously began to glow.
Up ahead, Rogue could feel his distress barring down on her. Lately her and Remy's psychic bond had developed, growing a lot stronger to where she was feeling his emotions and he hers, without using his empathic ability. 'Mamma, Ah'm worried 'bout Rems,' she called out with her mind. 'Professor, Jean, anybody!' she became somewhat frantic as she felt his anguish grow.
'Calm down Rogue,' Jean answered her, using her most soothing mental voice. 'What's wrong?'
'It's Rems, and Ah can't git the Professor or mah mamma,' Rogue replied , craning her neck back.
'It's alright Rogue, we're here,' Charles voice entered her mind. 'We've detected the problem. Your mother and I are trying to strengthen his mental shields. Please remain calm. With your psychic link being as strong as it is, any added stress on your part can greatly effect him. Perhaps you can help to calm his mind so he'll uncharged his cards?'
'Ah'll try Professor. Just make sure ya and mamma do somethin' bout those shields,' Rogue replied taking a couple of deep breaths, reaching out to Remy though their link. They'd played around with it a bit, trying to read each others thoughts, but it'd never worked before. The Professor said that perhaps, with practice, they'd one day have that ability. 'Figures, the one day Ah need it and Ah ain't got it,' Rogue thought as she continued to breath, becoming increasingly aware that they were getting closer to calling her name. 'Come on sugah,' she called out to him with her mind. 'Git control already. Don't wanna blow up half the field while Ah'm on stage do ya?'
Remy could feel Meranda and the Professor strengthening his shields, and for a moment the emotions cascading against his mind subsided. He took a few deep breaths to clear his mind when a sweet Southern voice entered his mind. 'Come on sugah,' she called out to him with her mind. 'Git control already. Don't wanna blow up half the field while Ah'm on stage do ya?'
Remy opened his eyes in shock and looked down at his hand, and the glowing cards he held. He quickly looked up to each side and saw both the entire row was staring at him, fear in their eyes. He quickly uncharged them and masked the shocked look on his face with one of his trademarked grins. "What homes? Don't wan' t' go out wit a bang?" A few of them giggled nervously before turning their attention back to the front. Remy looked up just in time to see Rogue walk across the stage and to hear the Xavier cheering crowd rooting for her, and his own screams joining them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"I can't believe you did it!" Madison shrieked as she wrapped her arms around Rogue, hugging her tightly. "We're so proud of you." Eric and Sakura nodded in agreement, arms wrapped around one another as Tony waited for Maddie to move aside before he swooped Rogue up into a giant hug, lifting her effortlessly off the ground.
"Thanks y'all!" Rogue laughed as he set her down and returned to Maddie. She stood surrounded by her friends, in the middle of the field, waiting for the rest of the graduates to make they're way over to the group. Only Piotr and Remy were missing and she was a little worried still. "Has anyone seen Remy?"
"He be de tall handsome homme non?" Remy's smooth voice answered causing Sakura to roll her eyes as Rogue spun to see him walking up behind her.
"Somethin' lahke that," Rogue smiled throwing her arms around his neck as he leaned over and wrapped his around her waist. "Are ya okay sugah?"
"Oui, bettah now ma chere," Remy squeezed her close. "Ah heard y' p'tite."
"What?" Rogue pulled back and looked up into his eyes.
"Ah heard y'. In mon head," Remy tapped his temple.
"Ya did?" Rogue smiled, awe clear on her face.
"Oui," here he rested his forehead against hers. "Y' did it mon amore."
"Wow," Rogue smile broadened as she closed her eyes and leaned against him.
"Oui," Remy kissed the tip of her nose gently.
"Is this little love fest over yet?" Madison called, bringing the two from their reverie. "Cause we're gonna go party."
"Comin!" Rogue yelled as her and Remy shared a tender kiss before following the group back to the vehicles.
Authors Note: Sorry if it's disappointing and not worth the wait. I've been really busy this past few weeks. And today I had a midterm so thought I'd post some stuff while I relax before I start cramming for my test next Thursday. As always, read and review. For some reason since I stopped replying to all my reviews I've been getting fewer and fewer. Hopefully it's just because everyone else is just as busy as I am and not that anyone thinks this story has started to suck.
Now, for a little bad news. Wandering Souls will officially end in 4 chapters. Expect Chapter 40 to be the last. I haven't had time to do it justice since school started back up and I'm sorry about that, and about the lack of updates for the same reason. And I've been writing a lot of the last few chapters with the help of Megan so it's taken time to get together and work on the chapters in both our schedules. But never fear, if y'all want one, there is an idea for a sequel. And Megan and I are also working on a back story for Maddie and Sakura and the Guys. And there are several other story ideas floating around in my head that I really want to work on and get posted. (One I posted up tonight. It's a one shot, Final Days, so please read and let me know what you think.) Well, that's all for now. See you next time (hopefully a lot sooner than it took to get this one up.).
Always, Calliann