So, I'm still sitting here not owning the X-men. It's an okay existence,
because I can still write this. Also, people seem to like it. I'll keep
this going for them!
The flashes of the dead bodies were playing through his mind. He could smell, and taste blood. Then he saw a body he'd never seen before...SARAH! Her name echoed painfully through his head as her lifeless body lay before him, and he saw deep gashes in her ribs. No, I...I couldn't have...I wouldn't have. He thought this, but when he looked at his hands he was covered with blood, her blood. He wanted to go to her and hold her in his arms, but fear seized him and all he could do was tremble. As tears ran down his face, and Sarah's body was replaced by...SCOTT?! WHAT...what happened?! These thoughts ran rapidly through Steven's mind, but he couldn't make sense of anything. Terror swept over his body as someone grabbed him by the shoulders and turned him around. Grief seized him, as tears streamed down his face. "Sarah...I'm...so sorry...I...I didn't mean to," he choked out. A wicked sneer spread across her face as she said, "You're a monster, and a murderer." Her voice grew cold as ice as she continued to speak, "You're just an animal, and you attack even those the want to help you." She pointed at Scott's body. Steven didn't turn to look, but instead he closed his eyes. He drifted away knowing what she said was the truth.
She wiped the tears from her face, and sitting there she couldn't gasp what had happened. This can't be real. It has to be a dream. He's lying there... Her thoughts trailed off as she refused to think about it, lest the tears start rolling down her cheeks again. Jean was in the hospital wing, and Scott and Steven both lay before her. Scott was hooked up to all kinds of equipment, and he looked scary to her. He had monitors on him, and something that was helping him breath. The bandages around his ribs covered the deep gashes, but it didn't matter. She'd already seen them, and could still feel the warmth of his blood on her hands. She hadn't washed them yet, because she didn't want to leave Scott alone with Steven. Why did I have to treat him like that? What if he doesn't wake up? I should have just told him...Her thoughts were pushed aside as she heard Scott grunt in his sleep. Jean wanted to go to him, but suddenly felt a rage overwhelm her. She stood up calmly and walked over to where Steven lay. You did this. You nearly killed him. You're no better than an animal! You're nothing but a monster! She beat down on his chest in frustration of these thoughts. "YOU'RE A MONSTER, DO YOU HEAR ME, YOU'RE NOTHING BUT AN ANIMAL," she screamed as him! Jean wasn't fighting her tears of rage as she collapsed to her knees beside the bed. She wished that he'd wake up right then so she could yell at him, so she could curse him. I HATE YOU! YOU TRIED TO KILL SCOTT! I shouldn't have been mad at him. I know why he did what he did. Why did I have to torture him over it? Her train of thought was interrupted as she saw tears run down Steven's face. She searched his mind, and saw the tormenting dream he was having. He's sorry?! It's as if he has no idea what happened. She calmed down at learning this, but didn't stop crying. She pulled a chair over to study Steven as he dreamt. His face showed pain, sorrow, and regret. Whenever he had attacked Scott he'd went from human, to looking like a cat crossed with a human, and then finally he'd tuned into some hulking cat-looking beast. All she could feel at that time was an animal working off instinct. Steven now lay there but not as a human anymore, but appeared to be stuck in a cat-human form. He looks a lot like Kurt does. She thought this due to the fact he was covered in brownish fur all over, had fangs and claws, his ears were pointy, and he even had a tail. The main differences were that his feet, except for the claws and fur, looked mostly normal, his nose was pushed up and looked like a cat's, he had whiskers, and his tail didn't have a sped tip. He still had Scott's blood on him, and he was shackled down to the table. He was restrained due to everyone's concern, even though the Professor didn't think if was necessary. She'd finally stopped crying while studying him. I wonder if he'll be able to accept how he looks, or what he's done. I know I should hate him, but looking at his dream I know he didn't want to hurt anyone. I just don't know what to do. The hopelessness of the situation washed over her as her mind pondered this dilemma. Jean hadn't realized how tiered as her eyes grew heavy, and she feel asleep in her chair.
He jumped awake, only to find he was restrained. He head was spinning as his hyper senses kicked in. They were stronger than before. If he needed to he could get through this room on only one sense. He opened his eyes, and the quickly adjusted to the bright lights. He looked around, and saw Jean sleeping in a chair next to him. Due to his senses he know Scott was in here to, and that he was hurt. He looked down at his hands, and the shackles. WHAT THE FUCK?! I HAVE FUR, AND CLAWS!! I HAVE A TAIL! His breathing rate increased, and he forced the thoughts away. It didn't take Steven long to guess why he was restrained. I did it again, DAMN IT! I'm nothing but a murdering monster. These thoughts prompted tears to run down his furry face, and he didn't want to stay here any longer. The shackles were very tight, and Steven knew it wouldn't take much to break them. A low growl came out of him as he flexed his muscles. The shackles cracked, and then broke, releasing Steven. Hoping out of bed as quietly as he could, he backed over to the door. Steven found that he made almost no sound as he walked to the door. He forgot about it just as soon as Scott's lifeless body came into his view. Terror coupled with sorrow seized him as his body trembled, and tears streamed from his face. Forcing himself to look away, he opened the door and went into the hall. I can't stay here anymore. I've done this terrible thing, and I'm not fit to be around people. He had entered his super speed without realizing it, and he went to his room. They'd left him in nothing but his underwear, and he needed to get the most concealing clothes he could. Steven entered the dark room, but his eyes automatically adjusted and he could see as clear as if the light was on. The entire world seemed to fade away as he saw himself in the mirror. It was worse than any nightmare he'd ever experienced. Out of pure hatred of what he saw looking back at him, Steven emitted a low roar and smashed the mirror. The glass shattered, and left fragments in his hands. As he picked the fragments out of his fist, the skin healed up automatically. I even sound, and act like an animal. I guess it's fitting that I heal like one to. These thoughts twisted bitterly in his head, as he hurriedly rummaged through the draw for something to wear. What in the world possessed me to buy all this black? Oh well, it'll hide me better...I hope. Steven thought this, as he finished dawning his black jeans, black shirt, and black boots. He also put on sunglasses and a black stocking cap. The sunglasses didn't hinder his vision at all; if it weren't for their weight he wouldn't have even noticed he had them on. His ears and tail made their presence known by their discomfort. Steven ignored the issue as he went over to grab his leather trench coat. He was stopped in his tracks as a familiar voice said, "S...Steven, don't...don't go." Steven then turned to face someone he didn't expect.
Good move Pryde, now that you have his attention, do you have any plan that might actually be able to keep him here? Why do you care about him anyway? He nearly killed one of your dear friends, and here you do not want him to leave. You don't even know him all that well. These thoughts consumed her as Kitty looked at him with slight fear, and a whole lot of sadness. She'd heard all the noise he made, and could see the glass on the floor. She'd seen Kurt's room this way once before, and figured it was probably the same reason. He started to move again, and this time he was going toward the balcony. She didn't know why, but she wasn't about to let him leave. So what if he's scary looking, and who cares if everyone should hate him right now, YOU don't. He's been nothing but kind to all of us, even if no one wants to admit it right now. Steven wouldn't leave us when we needed someone, and I'll be damned if I'm going to desert him now. "Please don't leave, you don't have to face this alone," she said pleading with him, while looking for a sign of hope from him. She knew all to well about what is was like when you first used your powers, and she'd felt so alone at the time. Now, she felt, if was her turn to help someone cope, and to be there for them. He stopped moving, and turned to face her again. His voice was a low growl as he said, "Look at the monster before you, and know that I'm afraid of what I'm capable of." The statement was full of fear, anger, and self-loathing all rolled into one. "I've already almost killed Scott, and I do not wish anyone to suffer his fate should I loose myself to this animal again," Steven said, his tone not changing. He fell to his knees, and cried out, "I'VE KILLED ONCE BEFORE, AND I DON'T WANT TO HURT ANYONE EVER AGAIN!" Kitty froze in place, and everything became clear to her. She finally understood all the rumors, and knew what Scott meant by what he said to Steven earlier. No...it doesn't matter. He didn't mean to do any of it. His powers weren't under control. We...I...I can help him! Her mind made up, she pushed her fear away and walked over to where he was kneeling. She thru her arms around Steven without hesitation, and he hugged her back very tightly. Kitty's fingers seemed to disappear into his fur, it was warm, and much thicker then Kurt's, she realized. She noticed that his cheeks were wet, and could feel his sorrow from his embrace. The silence was finally broken, when Steven choked out almost at a whisper, "I'm...I'm so, so sorry Kitty." "I n...never wanted...this animal to come out," he whispered directly in her ear.
Sitting there holding Kitty in his arms was more than Steven could've dreamed of. It'd been so long since he let anyone get this close to him, and her hands in his fur felt so soft and caring. He wished she'd say something back to him, but he wasn't going to push her. The only thing he was worried about right now is that someone in this place didn't hate him. Don't say anything Kitty. I know you understand that I didn't mean it, that I'm sorry. I wish I could take it back. I wish this nightmare I'm stuck in would end. I know you really want to help me. I won't leave. I'll let you try to help me through this. It's the least I can do to repay your gentle kindness. Steven made up his mind to stay, and was just about to tell Kitty, when she cut him off with her own tears. She's crying?! This thought was pushed away as Kitty began speaking. "It'll be okay...I'll help you...you don't need to be afraid anymore," she said in a sad, yet soothing voice. He was about to thank Kitty for all her compassion and understanding, when their lips met. It was so warm, soft, and sweet that Steven barley could tell that it was happening. He let the sensation wash over him, and if felt so good to be touched after so long. Am I dreaming? What am I doing? I haven't felt like this since... His mind snapped off right then, and her quickly pulled his lips away from Kitty's. "I'm...I shouldn't have...I am really," he tried to get out, but Kitty cut him off. "No, I...I shouldn't have," she tried to get out, but one of Steven's fingers on her lips quieted her. "I'm going to stay here, and...we'll see if you can help me," he said trying to sound as hopeful as he could. They both smiled, and she hugged him again. Steven let her hug him, but didn't hug back. When she stopped, he stood up, and offered a hand to help her do the same. She took it saying a little more cheerfully, "I'm, like, glad to hear it, and don't you ever try to run off again." He took of his shades, raised and eyebrow, and tossed them on the dresser saying in a mocking manner, "Oh, and you'll do what to stop me?" Kitty shook a finger at him, and said jokingly, "You don't wanna know, buster." They both chuckled a little, and then Steven kicked off his boots as he sat down on the bed. He looked over at her caringly as she got a worried look across her face. "I'm gonna go to bed now...you and I can finish threatening each other tomorrow," he said trying to sound like his usual carefree self. She backed up phasing out of the room saying, "Okay mister, but you'd better be here tomorrow." As soon as she left, Steven through his shirt and pants off, and then feel back on the bed. Stupid. What are you thinking? You can't control this. She's trying to help you, but in the end she doesn't...can't know what you're feeling. Stupid. On top of that you kissed her. You're a murderer, and you can't be sure you won't hurt her, or anyone else for that matter. He stared at the ceiling thinking all this, and knowing he should just go to sleep. It would keep him from thinking about all this, but he knew it wasn't going to happen. In the end he knew he would stay at the institute, and he would try to let Kitty and everyone else try to help him. As he curled up into a ball, eyes getting heavy, he knew one more thing. No matter what anyone said, or how hard they tried to help him, he would always be all alone.
Next: Choices Scott still out and the X-men need a new leader. Steven meets the Brother Hood, and they make him and offer. He also has a surprise in store for him.
The flashes of the dead bodies were playing through his mind. He could smell, and taste blood. Then he saw a body he'd never seen before...SARAH! Her name echoed painfully through his head as her lifeless body lay before him, and he saw deep gashes in her ribs. No, I...I couldn't have...I wouldn't have. He thought this, but when he looked at his hands he was covered with blood, her blood. He wanted to go to her and hold her in his arms, but fear seized him and all he could do was tremble. As tears ran down his face, and Sarah's body was replaced by...SCOTT?! WHAT...what happened?! These thoughts ran rapidly through Steven's mind, but he couldn't make sense of anything. Terror swept over his body as someone grabbed him by the shoulders and turned him around. Grief seized him, as tears streamed down his face. "Sarah...I'm...so sorry...I...I didn't mean to," he choked out. A wicked sneer spread across her face as she said, "You're a monster, and a murderer." Her voice grew cold as ice as she continued to speak, "You're just an animal, and you attack even those the want to help you." She pointed at Scott's body. Steven didn't turn to look, but instead he closed his eyes. He drifted away knowing what she said was the truth.
She wiped the tears from her face, and sitting there she couldn't gasp what had happened. This can't be real. It has to be a dream. He's lying there... Her thoughts trailed off as she refused to think about it, lest the tears start rolling down her cheeks again. Jean was in the hospital wing, and Scott and Steven both lay before her. Scott was hooked up to all kinds of equipment, and he looked scary to her. He had monitors on him, and something that was helping him breath. The bandages around his ribs covered the deep gashes, but it didn't matter. She'd already seen them, and could still feel the warmth of his blood on her hands. She hadn't washed them yet, because she didn't want to leave Scott alone with Steven. Why did I have to treat him like that? What if he doesn't wake up? I should have just told him...Her thoughts were pushed aside as she heard Scott grunt in his sleep. Jean wanted to go to him, but suddenly felt a rage overwhelm her. She stood up calmly and walked over to where Steven lay. You did this. You nearly killed him. You're no better than an animal! You're nothing but a monster! She beat down on his chest in frustration of these thoughts. "YOU'RE A MONSTER, DO YOU HEAR ME, YOU'RE NOTHING BUT AN ANIMAL," she screamed as him! Jean wasn't fighting her tears of rage as she collapsed to her knees beside the bed. She wished that he'd wake up right then so she could yell at him, so she could curse him. I HATE YOU! YOU TRIED TO KILL SCOTT! I shouldn't have been mad at him. I know why he did what he did. Why did I have to torture him over it? Her train of thought was interrupted as she saw tears run down Steven's face. She searched his mind, and saw the tormenting dream he was having. He's sorry?! It's as if he has no idea what happened. She calmed down at learning this, but didn't stop crying. She pulled a chair over to study Steven as he dreamt. His face showed pain, sorrow, and regret. Whenever he had attacked Scott he'd went from human, to looking like a cat crossed with a human, and then finally he'd tuned into some hulking cat-looking beast. All she could feel at that time was an animal working off instinct. Steven now lay there but not as a human anymore, but appeared to be stuck in a cat-human form. He looks a lot like Kurt does. She thought this due to the fact he was covered in brownish fur all over, had fangs and claws, his ears were pointy, and he even had a tail. The main differences were that his feet, except for the claws and fur, looked mostly normal, his nose was pushed up and looked like a cat's, he had whiskers, and his tail didn't have a sped tip. He still had Scott's blood on him, and he was shackled down to the table. He was restrained due to everyone's concern, even though the Professor didn't think if was necessary. She'd finally stopped crying while studying him. I wonder if he'll be able to accept how he looks, or what he's done. I know I should hate him, but looking at his dream I know he didn't want to hurt anyone. I just don't know what to do. The hopelessness of the situation washed over her as her mind pondered this dilemma. Jean hadn't realized how tiered as her eyes grew heavy, and she feel asleep in her chair.
He jumped awake, only to find he was restrained. He head was spinning as his hyper senses kicked in. They were stronger than before. If he needed to he could get through this room on only one sense. He opened his eyes, and the quickly adjusted to the bright lights. He looked around, and saw Jean sleeping in a chair next to him. Due to his senses he know Scott was in here to, and that he was hurt. He looked down at his hands, and the shackles. WHAT THE FUCK?! I HAVE FUR, AND CLAWS!! I HAVE A TAIL! His breathing rate increased, and he forced the thoughts away. It didn't take Steven long to guess why he was restrained. I did it again, DAMN IT! I'm nothing but a murdering monster. These thoughts prompted tears to run down his furry face, and he didn't want to stay here any longer. The shackles were very tight, and Steven knew it wouldn't take much to break them. A low growl came out of him as he flexed his muscles. The shackles cracked, and then broke, releasing Steven. Hoping out of bed as quietly as he could, he backed over to the door. Steven found that he made almost no sound as he walked to the door. He forgot about it just as soon as Scott's lifeless body came into his view. Terror coupled with sorrow seized him as his body trembled, and tears streamed from his face. Forcing himself to look away, he opened the door and went into the hall. I can't stay here anymore. I've done this terrible thing, and I'm not fit to be around people. He had entered his super speed without realizing it, and he went to his room. They'd left him in nothing but his underwear, and he needed to get the most concealing clothes he could. Steven entered the dark room, but his eyes automatically adjusted and he could see as clear as if the light was on. The entire world seemed to fade away as he saw himself in the mirror. It was worse than any nightmare he'd ever experienced. Out of pure hatred of what he saw looking back at him, Steven emitted a low roar and smashed the mirror. The glass shattered, and left fragments in his hands. As he picked the fragments out of his fist, the skin healed up automatically. I even sound, and act like an animal. I guess it's fitting that I heal like one to. These thoughts twisted bitterly in his head, as he hurriedly rummaged through the draw for something to wear. What in the world possessed me to buy all this black? Oh well, it'll hide me better...I hope. Steven thought this, as he finished dawning his black jeans, black shirt, and black boots. He also put on sunglasses and a black stocking cap. The sunglasses didn't hinder his vision at all; if it weren't for their weight he wouldn't have even noticed he had them on. His ears and tail made their presence known by their discomfort. Steven ignored the issue as he went over to grab his leather trench coat. He was stopped in his tracks as a familiar voice said, "S...Steven, don't...don't go." Steven then turned to face someone he didn't expect.
Good move Pryde, now that you have his attention, do you have any plan that might actually be able to keep him here? Why do you care about him anyway? He nearly killed one of your dear friends, and here you do not want him to leave. You don't even know him all that well. These thoughts consumed her as Kitty looked at him with slight fear, and a whole lot of sadness. She'd heard all the noise he made, and could see the glass on the floor. She'd seen Kurt's room this way once before, and figured it was probably the same reason. He started to move again, and this time he was going toward the balcony. She didn't know why, but she wasn't about to let him leave. So what if he's scary looking, and who cares if everyone should hate him right now, YOU don't. He's been nothing but kind to all of us, even if no one wants to admit it right now. Steven wouldn't leave us when we needed someone, and I'll be damned if I'm going to desert him now. "Please don't leave, you don't have to face this alone," she said pleading with him, while looking for a sign of hope from him. She knew all to well about what is was like when you first used your powers, and she'd felt so alone at the time. Now, she felt, if was her turn to help someone cope, and to be there for them. He stopped moving, and turned to face her again. His voice was a low growl as he said, "Look at the monster before you, and know that I'm afraid of what I'm capable of." The statement was full of fear, anger, and self-loathing all rolled into one. "I've already almost killed Scott, and I do not wish anyone to suffer his fate should I loose myself to this animal again," Steven said, his tone not changing. He fell to his knees, and cried out, "I'VE KILLED ONCE BEFORE, AND I DON'T WANT TO HURT ANYONE EVER AGAIN!" Kitty froze in place, and everything became clear to her. She finally understood all the rumors, and knew what Scott meant by what he said to Steven earlier. No...it doesn't matter. He didn't mean to do any of it. His powers weren't under control. We...I...I can help him! Her mind made up, she pushed her fear away and walked over to where he was kneeling. She thru her arms around Steven without hesitation, and he hugged her back very tightly. Kitty's fingers seemed to disappear into his fur, it was warm, and much thicker then Kurt's, she realized. She noticed that his cheeks were wet, and could feel his sorrow from his embrace. The silence was finally broken, when Steven choked out almost at a whisper, "I'm...I'm so, so sorry Kitty." "I n...never wanted...this animal to come out," he whispered directly in her ear.
Sitting there holding Kitty in his arms was more than Steven could've dreamed of. It'd been so long since he let anyone get this close to him, and her hands in his fur felt so soft and caring. He wished she'd say something back to him, but he wasn't going to push her. The only thing he was worried about right now is that someone in this place didn't hate him. Don't say anything Kitty. I know you understand that I didn't mean it, that I'm sorry. I wish I could take it back. I wish this nightmare I'm stuck in would end. I know you really want to help me. I won't leave. I'll let you try to help me through this. It's the least I can do to repay your gentle kindness. Steven made up his mind to stay, and was just about to tell Kitty, when she cut him off with her own tears. She's crying?! This thought was pushed away as Kitty began speaking. "It'll be okay...I'll help you...you don't need to be afraid anymore," she said in a sad, yet soothing voice. He was about to thank Kitty for all her compassion and understanding, when their lips met. It was so warm, soft, and sweet that Steven barley could tell that it was happening. He let the sensation wash over him, and if felt so good to be touched after so long. Am I dreaming? What am I doing? I haven't felt like this since... His mind snapped off right then, and her quickly pulled his lips away from Kitty's. "I'm...I shouldn't have...I am really," he tried to get out, but Kitty cut him off. "No, I...I shouldn't have," she tried to get out, but one of Steven's fingers on her lips quieted her. "I'm going to stay here, and...we'll see if you can help me," he said trying to sound as hopeful as he could. They both smiled, and she hugged him again. Steven let her hug him, but didn't hug back. When she stopped, he stood up, and offered a hand to help her do the same. She took it saying a little more cheerfully, "I'm, like, glad to hear it, and don't you ever try to run off again." He took of his shades, raised and eyebrow, and tossed them on the dresser saying in a mocking manner, "Oh, and you'll do what to stop me?" Kitty shook a finger at him, and said jokingly, "You don't wanna know, buster." They both chuckled a little, and then Steven kicked off his boots as he sat down on the bed. He looked over at her caringly as she got a worried look across her face. "I'm gonna go to bed now...you and I can finish threatening each other tomorrow," he said trying to sound like his usual carefree self. She backed up phasing out of the room saying, "Okay mister, but you'd better be here tomorrow." As soon as she left, Steven through his shirt and pants off, and then feel back on the bed. Stupid. What are you thinking? You can't control this. She's trying to help you, but in the end she doesn't...can't know what you're feeling. Stupid. On top of that you kissed her. You're a murderer, and you can't be sure you won't hurt her, or anyone else for that matter. He stared at the ceiling thinking all this, and knowing he should just go to sleep. It would keep him from thinking about all this, but he knew it wasn't going to happen. In the end he knew he would stay at the institute, and he would try to let Kitty and everyone else try to help him. As he curled up into a ball, eyes getting heavy, he knew one more thing. No matter what anyone said, or how hard they tried to help him, he would always be all alone.
Next: Choices Scott still out and the X-men need a new leader. Steven meets the Brother Hood, and they make him and offer. He also has a surprise in store for him.