See, I knew I should have handed out tissues for the last chapter. I love all you Rogue/Remy softies!! Writing that last chapter was absolute pain--and proof reading it was a new kind of happy torture...--sigh-- gotta love my own angst. What was that movie that said humans define their existence by misery...??
The poem Rogue recited was not of my own making. It's Edgar Allan Poe's "Alone" and my story title is obviously derived from the last line. For clarification purposes, I wasn't really implying anything with Rogue going into the woods. There are woods between the Institute grounds and gazebo and she has to go through them to get to the mansion. Plus, trees have shadows and I wanted her to run into some darkness. Think of it symbolically if you wish. Anyway, since I missed out on review replies last time, I shall be extra indulgent for this round!
Blackrougefillie: I just don't even know what to say--can't believe I made you cry...but I was right there with you, sister. Fear not though, the hurt can't last forever. Kendokao: Aren't we all a sucker for Rogue/Remy romance...wish I could have something like that. Here, have a tissue. Glad you agree that it makes sense. I thought lots of people would be mad at me! Watch out for Remy's return! (because of course he's going to or else this story would ultimately suck). Enchanted light: hehe, I find it funny how you say the exact same thing every time. Pomegranate Queen: Hi! Haven't heard from you in a while. Ah, yes, the dreaded yet much-loved anguish...we all experience it--and there will be more. GreenFairyGirl88: Hi, you're a new "face". And yeah, the last chapter sure did suck on the happiness, but it won't stay this way, I promise. As for how the story ends, you'll have to keep reading. Don't tempt me to divulge plot info! Allie: You're sentimental, sensitive, and a sissy! J/K, lol. You're not the only one that was crying, girl--and I am absolutely flattered that my writing could have that affect on people. Ooh, love the oustanding writer comments, make me smile extravagantly. I promise not to delay story updates too long. Horror if I start following the examples of other authors! Freak87: I just can't get enough drama, really. It's what makes life so interesting. It's good that you understand Rogue's reasoning behind all this, she's not just being a horrible tease. As for the woods, read above statement. Totally Obsessed47: Sad, nice--don't usually co-relate but I think they did for the last chapter. You guys all love the angst don't you? Update shall come soon. Ishandahalf: I'm sorry, but I had to giggle at your description of such an emotional rollercoaster! I'm sorry that I made you go through so many ups and downs (but really I'm not!). Good! I tried to be as heartwrenching as possible. This is all very distressing, but for insanely happy fluff, write more of your story and upload it! Yay. Citrus Rain: I think we all teared up at some point, if not outwardly then on the inside. The heavy emotion doesn't even end here, my friend. Poem information above. Love your penname, by the way. Sounds like a type of fruity drink or fragrant shampoo. Silky black: Don't mind hearing about my writing skills--really, lol. Dark and beautiful, now there's way to describe it. That's why it's one of my favorite chapters. Ooh, your pooor French manicures! Please, do wear gloves. I empathize as a girl who loves her neat nails. And noooo, I didn't write the poem--not so darkly brilliant as Edgar Allan Poe. You're about the fourth person that's had inklings of something going down in the woods. Hmm... And I don't know if this chapter is much happier, but it does well for distraction purposes? BananaPanda24: Yay, another addition to my growing fans! Thank you, never get tired of compliments on my writing. I just keep wanting to get better and better as the chapters come along. Keep reading! It's not even close to being over. Just me: Here! My review response! Isn't it so unfair that Remy, Mr. I-don't-love-girls-I-just-lust-after-them, finally admits his feelings for Rogue, and she can't even see a way for them to be together? The idea of it is enough to make me tear up. I'm such a sap--but hey, as long as I keep this story going nobody is going to make fun of me, got it? LoL. And I am just going to tell you right now that the next victim is not going to be Jean...yet...wait, is that right? I don't even know myself! Gotta check the later chapters... Sweety8587: More sweet than bitter? Hmm...I'll have to ponder that for a while because I sure got a taste of bitter after reading it myself. Then again, it was kind of sweet...dunno. But poor Remy...he never loved and now that he does he gets heartbroken...I just don't know what to do with this guy! You'll find action in the next few scrolls down! Cd lover: Ooh, I'm sorry--but really I'm not. The more angst the better, I say. Queen of Gambitia/Minion: I don't see anything wrong with it--angst and suffering makes life interesting. Otherwise everything would be happy and boring! I am a complete masochist, I've decided...horrible. Skyangle: Yeah, talk about emotional whiplash. I seriously think if anything like this were to happen to me, the neurons and synapses of my brain would be fried senseless. OMG, quick like a bunny on crack couldn't make you smile? That is something! But don't fret, things can't stay horrible forever otherwise the story would suck to the extreme, don't ya think? Ninjamonkey: Have a tissue and thank you! Favoritest chapter of mine so far! Gren44: I'm such a dork--reading your review made me giggle happily. Isn't it just poetic, the complexity of Rogue and Gambit's relationship? It makes you wonder how any two such people could make it work. But by God, they are going to make it work! Kitty-mm: Done?? Nooooooo, this is far far from being done. But how can you be confused? I was pretty sure I wrote everything out to be understandable. Did you miss some chapters perhaps? Zen Master White Dragon: Your review is tardier than usual, but I guess it evens out bc this update is tardier than usual! Seeing as how you're the supreme objective reviewer in this fan community, your compliments are truly taken to heart. I am so glad you think Love In Vain was heartwrenching--hope I made you cry! Hmm, did that sound messed up? Oh, well, gotta say I just love seeing the pain and emotion--b/c in the end, the rewards are worth it. Good! I would love to read one of your stories for once! Yersi Fanel: Just gotta say there's no way this fic is ending without a great conclusion. Somebody thought Love In Vain was the last chapter and I'm just wondering how that's possible! I'd be the worst author in the world to leave it like that!
He didn't care.
Remy stalked through the mansion, still feeling slightly woozy. If he turned too quickly a sharp dizziness would wash over him and make him stumble. He reached the foyer and paused at the stairs to clear his head. Had Rogue really absorbed him? Purposely?
He didn't care.
Shaking his head, Remy frowned. Merde, how pathetic he was now... Back in the day, nobody would ever see the King of Hearts like this. He groaned and rubbed his eyes. Focus, damn it. He still could not believe what she had done. What was she trying to prove?
He didn't care.
If she wanted it that way, then he would let her have it. If she didn't want him around, then he wouldn't be. He was not her friend, he was not an X-Man. He had no place here and he wanted to kick himself for not realizing that sooner. If this was the way she wanted it...
He didn't care. After all, she was just another femme, an untouchable one at that. What difference did it make that she was beautiful. What difference did it make that she was amazing. There were many girls out there just like her who had the same fathomless green eyes, the same witty personality, the same ironclad inner strength... Obviously he hadn't been thinking when he spoke those ridiculously saccharine words to her. It had to have been the moment, the scenery--the romantically cliché moonlight at an ocean-view gazebo. And he always had been a romantic, non? It was the best way to charm those filles.
He took a deep breath and ran a hand through his hair. No more. He had never said such things to anyone before and now he realized why. None of it mattered, none of it made a difference, because in the end all he had was himself. He would not brood over this anymore. There was really nothing to brood about--because he didn't care.
"Gambit, wait."
He spun around, pulse quickening. His face dropped.
"Are you okay?" Jean asked, coming down the stairs. "You look a little...uh..." She looked down guiltily. "I saw Rogue run into the mansion earlier. Did something happen between you guys? She was kind of...I mean, she was crying..."
Good. "Ain't my doin'," Remy said, turning towards the door. He didn't care. He just had to keep telling himself that. She wasn't worth it--she shouldn't have been worth it.
"You can't leave like this," Jean said, voice hard. "I can feel it too, you know. It's dripping off of you like rotted flesh it's so strong." Her tired eyes were piercing.
Remy frowned at her, "Why do y'care so much, Red?" He was slightly perturbed by her morbid analogy.
"I'm a telepath, damn it," Jean spat. She rubbed her eyes tiredly, the stress finally arousing latent frustration. "I can sense things even if I don't want to and--and whatever this thing is between you and Rogue--God, you're just going to leave her? Like it doesn't matter?"
"She de one dat left," Remy shot back.
"Then go after her!" Jean shouted. She released a frustrated sigh and rubbed her eyes again. "How can you be so conceited--who gives a damn about pride--especially now when anyone of us could be next..." She shook her head, fiery tresses trembling with the motion. "God, if I could have one more moment with Scott, just one more before he...he..."
Remy understood now. He wearily shook his head. There was nothing he could say to her to explain what he was feeling. He looked at her one last time in silent apology and left before she could utter another word.
Sabertooth was nowhere to be seen. Remy walked around the base and found no trace of the big cat. Good. He wasn't in the mood for growling interrogations. There was only one thing he positively knew he needed at the moment.
The shower was long and hot. He closed his eyes, letting the searing liquid relax his taut muscles. The comfort reminded him of the feel of Rogue in his arms, her inner warmth despite the icy exterior. He had almost broken through that bane of a mask, he had almost gotten her to let go--he shook his head furiously. No more. He didn't care.
When he emerged from the shower his skin tingled from the intense heat. He changed into a fresh uniform but left the headdress off. He thought of Annabel, he thought of Wraith. Where was she now? Annabel the girl, Annabel the ghost. He didn't want to contemplate it anymore.
The kitchen held nothing appealing. It was in the same condition as before. Remy looked around the depressing scene. He realized he hadn't eaten for a long time. He rummaged around the cupboards and found a box of animal crackers. Coupled with a bottle of bourbon, he had his meal. His health was sure to be deteriorating. He sat at the uncomfortable table, munching on a buffalo-shaped cracker. He tried not to think, willed his mind to focus on the taste of semi-sweet flour--but it wasn't working.
He saw her sitting at the gazebo. He saw her tears. He felt her warmth and her face buried in his chest. He remembered the moments of peace, the feeling of contentment--but then it had been ripped away by an abrupt touch. So sought after, so deadly.
A noise caught his attention.
He took a swig of his bourbon as he headed in the direction of the sound. Sure enough, the patter of footsteps could be heard around the next corridor. They were not the deliberate strides of confidence like Sabertooth's, but the secretive creeping of an intruder. Remy listened carefully. There was more than one of them. A smirk played across his lips. It seemed Fate was giving him something to release frustration on.
He stood around the corner, watching their shadows on the floor as they drew nearer. Amateurs--they were making so much noise. Remy finished off the rest of the bourbon. Despite the alcohol, he was feeling very energized. As the first goon came around the corner, he smashed the bottle on his head. The man fell to the floor and his friends leapt back in surprise. Remy chuckled, "Guess t'was too strong fo'him, non?"
Several guns cocked in response.
Remy quickly leapt out of the way. He dove around the corner just as bullets pelted the floor where he stood. Several ricocheted off the metal walls and he heard shouts of pain spew from the intruders. Dieu, he hadn't been expecting that many. There were at least a dozen, all wearing dark jackets and bearing guns. They didn't belong to any government agency; they were dressed too casually. They had to be privately hired minions and Remy could think of only one man that would come after him.
Farrat, y'bastard, he thought.
"He's over there!" Several of the intruders came rushing.
Remy was prepared. He decked the first one with a well-aimed punch, readily whipping out his bo-staff to knock over the next. With an upwards twirl, the metal pole connected with jaw, rendering another man unconscious. Remy side-stepped a blow and propelled himself up on the man's shoulders. His feet smashed into his next adversary then swung around to clobber the man he was holding onto. Both fell to the floor, Remy poised on top, his unfortunate opponent knocked senseless. Just as he crawled off he felt the cold barrel of a gun press against his left temple.
"Move and I'll blow your brains out," a gruff voice rumbled.
"All right, homme, I can be cooper'tive," Remy said. He smirked.
The man frowned, realized the gun was getting hotter in his hands. At first the feeling did not register, until it turned into pain. The weapon glowed with unwarranted heat energy, searing his flesh. He cried out and dropped it. Remy had already moved away when the gun exploded. Shouts of anger, surprise, and pain erupted--painting a satisfied grin on Remy's face.
"Farrat warned us he was a dirty mutant!"
"Trash--where's that mutant predator when you need it?"
"Careful, we don't know what else he can do."
Oh, there was just too much fun to be had. Remy watched as they moved past below him. He was perched upon the pipes and framework of the ceiling. His nimble fingers shuffled a deck of cards in one hand.
Farrat's men snuck by below. They checked around corners and through doors. "Ey, what the hell's this?" one of them said. He stared at the glowing Jack of Spades spiraling down in front of him. "Deaver?"
A brunette man with a hard-set, rectangular jaw stepped forward. Immediately his eyes widened. He turned away with a shout, "Hit the deck!"
The card exploded and rendered several men insensible. More cards suddenly fell upon them, erupting with bright surges of light and fire. Vision became impaired as smoke clouded the area. While punches sounded and the sound of metal clanging against flesh reached his ears, Deavers grabbed his mouthpiece and called for backup.
Remy was too busy debilitating the ranks of his adversaries to notice. He moved fluidly through and around them, using the hazy smoke to his advantage. One by one they fell. Then a pounding reached his ears, the sound of many footsteps approaching in frenzy. He had not expected more.
Guns cocked, bullets flew.
Remy scurried away, feeling one of the tiny missiles graze his shoulder. He gritted his teeth in pain and retreated. Merde, he hated running from a fight, but he was outnumbered. His feet carried him swiftly around familiar corridors, all the while pursued by many gun-happy goons.
"Dis ain't de way I planned 't," he muttered under his breath.
Skidding around a corner, he tossed more charged cards over his shoulder. Their explosions shook the halls but the men did not relent. Bullets pelted the walls and floors, leaving behind many holes in their wake. Remy rushed into the warehouse compound to avoid being shot. He dodged behind storage crates, retaliating against the gunfire with more explosive cards. As the wooded crates chipped away under assault, Remy calculated what to do next. He stopped throwing cards.
"What's he doing?"
"Keep quiet, fool."
"Bring up the heavy artillery."
Farrat sure wanted him dead--which meant he was hiding something too precious to risk exposure. Remy immediately thought of Annabel. The girl he met couldn't have been her; they were like two different people. They had to be two different people. Remy growled at his own ignorance. So where was the real Annabel?
He spared a peak around the side of the crate, realizing the gunfire had ceased. His eyes widened as a bazooka missile came sailing his way. Uttering a curse, he leapt aside and the crate exploded. Splinters and burning fragments of wood flew in all directions. He fell against the rounded edge of the storage dome, reminded of one encounter with a mind-controlled Rogue. There wasn't much time to reminisce as he saw Farrat's men aim their guns. Before their bullets could add excess cavities to his body, he rolled through the circular opening of the dome and disappeared from view. Once inside he realized his mistake. All around him sat an assortment of weapons and explosives, the fruit of Magneto's collective efforts. "Merde," he muttered.
"Fool's trapped himself," Deaver announced. "Send him another one."
The bazooka fired another round, its cylindrical discharge trailing a smoky tail. It entered the dome and instantly catalyzed a series of dynamic explosions. The entire structure shook, trembling from the force, but stayed intact to contain the eruptions. When the thick smog cleared, all that remained were pieces of charred rubble and flaming debris.
"Target eradicated," Deaver announced. "Move out."
He looked back one more time to make sure the mutant had not survived. There was no movement except for flickering flames and dancing shadows. Smirking at a job well-done, Deaver followed his men out of the compound.
Yeah, I know this is kind of a lame cliché ending but bare with me. I had to cut this chapter here--BECAUSE I UPLOADED TWO TONIGHT! I go a lot by "feeling" when it comes to these stories and I "felt" that this would have been a sucky place to leave you guys until another chapter came up.
This is the longest I've gone without updating--just my second day of senior year and already I'm having trouble getting time to do simple homework. God, just wait until the work gets really complex, huh? Plus with college applications.... Rogue/Remy stories are my only escape!!
All right, go read and review!