Loose Ends
By Trynia Merin
Disclaimer: Excalibur and its characters are property of XMEN. This is a work of fiction, and is not meant for profit or to demean the characters. The events here take place after my first story Dreams Nailed. Please R and R. This part has no R rated stuff, but I'd put it a PG for language and some tense situations. As for adult material, they'll be marked in upcoming individual chapters.
Chapter 4
Khaos was certainly on the mend, Amanda noted as he flew with her in his arms towards the rendezvous point, Rahne following the trail of Kitty's scent. Amanda knew she was going out on a limb trusting someone she hardly knew, but anyone who claimed Kurt as a friend was worth much in her book. Her man didn't give his trust away or his friendship lightly. Also, she had to admit she felt an attraction to him in some strange way. Maybe it was because he reminded her of Nightcrawler, with those light eyes in a dark skinned face, his grace and smooth voice striking a chord.
They arrived in the shadow of the large insect shaped craft, which was now visible to all of them. Khaos landed as Rahne stopped and sniffed about. Carefully Khaos put Amanda down, and glanced, drawing his twin blades in readiness for any encounter.
"Amanda, Rahne, thank God," Kitty whispered as she phased out of the trees. "What the... KHAOS? What are you doing here?"
"Lady Kitty, it is good to see you again," Khaos bowed to her. "Again fate has brought me across the path of Excalibur... but it seems you are as much in need of my aid as I am of yours."
"I can't phase through that ship," Kitty cursed. "Something's blocking my powers... I don't' know what to do, and Douglock's been trying to break into the ship's computer for a while..."
"He's still alive," Amanda said, her hair flaring green. "I can sense it..."
"But he might be in danger..." cursed Kitty.
"Unit Kittypryde," Douglock said through her comlink. "I have gained access to the ship's computer. I have gotten a hail in response to ours..."
"Finally..." Kitty said. "Look, can you get us... we need to talk..."
Douglock moved the Runner out of the trees, and Amanda let Khaos fly her up as Kitty phased Rahne up towards the Runner. Soon they were onboard, glancing anxiously at Douglock, who stared in confusion at their new arrival. Introductions were quick, and Kitty asked him again, "So... what did you find?"
"This is a Shi'ar ship, they identify themselves as a member of the Grand Jhar, and they say they are here to assist. Apparently Nightcrawler is unharmed, and they were waiting for the rest of Excalibur to assemble..."
"You tell this Shi'ar person to give back Nightcrawler safe and sound before we talk," Kitty said, and Amanda agreed. "If they come in peace why the HELL did they kidnap Nightcrawler and not even let ME onboard."
"Sending," Douglock said. "Apparently the ship says that Nightcrawler had some unfinished business... and that they will let US know before they beam..."
"Give me that!" Amanda hissed. Grabbing the mike she said, "Hello, whoever this is? This is Amanda Sefton, a member of Excalibur. You'd better have a DAMN good reason for abducting our leader, if you're some friendly party! And if you don't return him I promise we'll make it VERY difficult for you!"
"Amanda..." Rahne gasped.
"This is Kitty Pryde of Excalibur. Can we at least speak to Nightcrawler or at least SEE who we're talking to? We've both friends of Professor X, which you no doubt know..."
"Acknowledged," said a voice in response, and Amanda gasped as she saw the image of a lovely woman flicker over the screen, her hair feathery and brown, and a long white plume coursing over her back. "It is good to see you Kitty Pryde. Surely you recognize me, your former teammate Cerise..."
"Holy shit, Cerise? Is that you?" Kitty asked in a gasp. "Why on EARTH have you kidnapped Nightcrawler?"
"Milady," Khaos said before Amanda motioned him to silence. If this was Cerise, she didn't care for the other's tactics at all.
"It is a matter of utmost urgency and secrecy. I had to see if you were indeed of Excalibur, and warn you of a great danger. Nightcrawler is unharmed... but I am most confused..."
"Make that TWO of us," mumbled Amanda.
"Brian and Meggan are in trouble," said Kitty. "And we don't have time to play games! Saturnyne..."
"I will fill you in. You are free to enter the ship," Cerise said. "And unfortunately your friends are in dire danger as you have surmised. Even now the ship that has captured them has left your planet's surface..."
"NOW you tell us!" Kitty exclaimed. "What do we do? Here we are, wasting our time when..."
"That's Cerise?" Amanda said, glancing at Khaos.
"Cerise, do you not recognize me?" Khaos asked, stepping before them.
"Khaos?" Cerise cast him a puzzled look, her dark brown eyes opening in shock. "I never thought..."
"Cerise, you and I must speak at an appropriate time. There is much I have to discuss with you. I have given my aid to Excalibur, and..."
"We will talk in due time," Cerise said. "My ship is open to you all. Though your ranks have changed. I will provide transport as we pursue the captors of Brian and Meggan. Trust me, they will be recovered, or avenged. And we must work together to ensure the former rather then the latter."
"Then let's DO it already," Amanda Sefton gritted, glancing up at Cerise, who cast her a strange look.
"Your ship can dock with mine," Cerise said. "You may pilot it into our ship's bay before we take off..."
***
As each member boarded the ship, Nightcrawler waited in tense silence. Just how he was going to get out of this mess was beyond him. Cerise had returned to the bridge, vexed by his cool treatment of her, to leave him to wait for her return. She had said she had work to do, checking the reports of her officers to see if any change had been made on Brian and Meggan. He fretted, because the ship they had tracked had suddenly lifted off, disappearing into earth's orbit long before they could find it.
"Your friends are here," said Sgt. D'marran, as the wall opened up to the lounge. Nightcrawler's heart leapt when he beheld his friends who entered in a cacophony of questions and voices around him. Amanda was the first to reach him, and he folded her in his arms, giving her a grateful greeting kiss that she returned. Her sweet body pressed to his, all curves and muscle, the same muscle that had been honed on the trapeze and high wire so long ago at Der Jahrmarkt.
"Kurt!" Amanda cried. "You scared us to death, Fuzzy..."
"Amanda, danke Gott... Brian and Meggan..."
"We know," she said. "But there was someone else here who was looking for this Cerise..."
Kurt hugged Kitty as she came in, still keeping his arm around Amanda's shoulders. Rahne moved up fluid as water while Douglock followed, and the remote figure of Khaos. Seeing him, Kurt gasped in surprise.
"WE found a friend," Amanda said. "He says he knows you..."
"Khaos," Kurt said, scratching his head. "What brings you here?"
"WE share the same enemy. How could I not offer my aid..." Khaos said, striding up, his tall slender frame encased in elfin armor. His long white hair was swept back by the diadem helmet, his twin swords at his back in their sheathes.
"It's good to see you. We're going to need all the help we can get, but I am perplexed," Nightcrawler said.
"Saturnyne took him prison," Amanda said.
"Your lady healed me in an exceptional manner," Khaos nodded to Amanda. "And I am most grateful..."
"Kurt... what is Cerise's deal?" Kitty asked. "Kidnapping you..."
"Ye had us worried!" Rahne cried.
"I'll tell you what I can. Apparently Cerise... well... she's under strict orders to keep as much security as she can. And as the roster of Excalibur has changed considerably, she had to take me into her confidence."
"Oh," Kitty said. She looked at Amanda, who was still very much in the dark, biting her lip in concern. Kurt and she had a lot to talk about, regarding Cerise. She hoped they had the time.
"Cerise has also offered to help Herr Wisdom," said Kurt. "She has already transported him aboard the medlab of the ship. Her surgeon is tending to his injuries... for she says that all warriors of Excalibur must be ready to fight in the battle ahead..."
"Damn generous of her," Kitty nodded. "Can I see him?"
"She will return to speak to all of us, and brief us on what she knows about Saturnyne... and we must plan our moves carefully, with her help," Kurt said.
"You trust this Cerise then?" asked Amanda. "Even after she sneaked you out from under our noses?"
"Um, Cerise is a remarkable woman," Kurt coughed, seeing Amanda's suspicious look. "She has reasons for what she does. And well..."
"Why didn't' you tell me about her even being IN Excalibur?" Amanda asked. "You said almost NOTHING about the team mates you had... why keep us in the dark? Care to bring some of us late timers up to speed?"
"Um Cerise was part of Excalibur for a long time," Kurt said. "As were Kylun, Feron, and Micromax. I simply didn't find the occasion to bring it up... I'm sorry Liebchen..."
"Uh oh," Kitty mumbled to Rahne, who sighed. "This is going to be a big mess..."
"Cerise is a warrior of honor," said Khaos. "I would trust her with my life..."
"Uh Khaos, there is something you should know," said Kitty, looking up at him.
"There's a lot we dinna ken," Rahne said patiently. "And I think we're wanting t' ken aboot yon Shi'ar..."
"Especially if she's working for LILANDRA," said Kitty, meaningfully.
"Affirmative. WE must know about our allies," said Douglock. "For the benefit of as you say... being on the same page? And if my sensors are correct, this vessel is now flying through space..."
"Another sneaky trick she forgot to tell us," Amanda grumbled.
"All right, sit down. Since we're in space, you must know," Kurt said to his friends.
********
"Cerise will speak with you now," said Sgt. D'marran, only a few minutes later as the wall swished open. Behind him strode Commander Cerise, resplendent in her violet and crimson battle armor, her long feathery cape unfurling behind her like a thread of Milky Way.
"Okay, what's the situation?" Kitty asked her friend. "And by the way, its GREAT to see you again, Big C."
"The affection is likewise returned."
"Cerise, I am also glad to see you again," said Khaos, stepping forwards. This time it was Cerise's turn to look awkward as she beheld Kurt's arm around Amanda, who kept a possessive grip on his ladyfriend to show that he was spoken for.
"Khaos, I am likewise pleased to see you again," Cerise smiled, choking back her shock to see Kurt's hands around another female, particularly the one who had so insultingly chastised her over the comlink.
"I have offered my aid. Saturnyne has held me prisoner for many months, and I seek vengeance..."
"You shall have it and more, Khaos," Cerise promised. Amanda heaved a sigh of relief. Perhaps if there were a way to work on widening this relationship she'd get Kurt's eyes off the alien amazon.
"Please, before we get into this, can your surgeons do anything for Pete Wisdom?" Kitty asked Cerise, taking her hand.
"All will be accomplished to help your teammate, Kitty," Cerise said graciously. "The team has changed Nightcrawler..."
"Cerise, may I present Amanda Sefton, my Girlfriend," Kurt said. At the mention of this Cerise darkened in anger.
"Pleased to meet you," Amanda said.
"And this is Rahne, Douglock, and the other is Pete Wisdom..." Kurt said quickly.
"We must talk later," said Cerise, looking pointedly at Kurt.
"Isn't it MORE important to talk about what we're REALLY here for?" Kitty asked, quickly interrupting Cerise's staring Amanda down. Indignantly Amanda glared back at the alien amazon.
"She is right,' said Khaos, the feminine challenge between Amanda and Cerise not escaping his notice. "And I for one am anxious to attack her when she is unaware of our presence..."
"Her station is guarded by a stealth shield comparable to Shi'ar technology," Cerise said firmly, waving her hand over a small raised bulb, and summoning a three dimensional image to flare above it of an asteroid. "The latest in Shi'ar intelligence reports is that she has pushed her personal technology to that of her world... free to act in space... her station is in this solar system's asteroid belt..."
"What is your tactical plan?" asked Khaos.
"WE will continue cloaked, at sub light speed," Cerise said. "So as not to attract attention. And in the meantime, you are welcome to rest and refresh yourselves... I must speak to Kurt Wagner alone."
"Surely you can talk about ANYTHING with all of us here," Amanda said curtly.
"Cerise, let me make this quick and clear," Kurt said, taking a deep breath. "WE shared a lovely relationship. And I'm sorry I didn't tell you Amanda, but I didn't' think I'd ever see her again."
"I wish you had told me, Fuzzy," Amanda said with a sigh. "But I'm not surprised."
"You two are... lifemates?"
"I've known here for far longer," Kurt said. "And we've renewed our relationship..."
"Then ours meant nothing?" Cerise asked.
"I had to move on, and I figured you had as well. Professor X himself had difficulties with a Trans galactic relationship," Kurt said as pragmatically as possible, realizing this was no longer a secret to anyone. "I'm sorry to hurt you, but that is reality..."
"Can we not speak of this later?" Khaos interceded. "The lives of Brian and Meggan are far more important then our own squabbles... we must focus ALL our powers and talents in that direction. When we have won the battle we will be able to sort out our lives... and our personal relationships."
"Aye, he's right ye ken," Rahne finally cut in. "This be NAE time t' get into a fight over matters in the past. And Kurt's private life is NAE something we all need t' hear right now."
"She is correct," Kurt said. "We will speak of this later Cerise, at a more appropriate time..."
"Can I go see Pete now?" Kitty asked. "Speaking of personal relationships..."
"D'marran, escort Kitty Pryde to our sick bay," Cerise said. Nodding, D'marran led the way out of the suite with Kitty behind him. Kurt heaved a big sigh as did Amanda, and Khaos.
"You will all be escorted to guest quarters," Cerise said. "It will be a few hours journey to Saturnyne's base, so I suggest you take advantage of the time to rest and refresh ourselves... Shakarr... show them the way..."
"Thank you," Khaos nodded.
"But Brian," Kurt said.
"There is little we can do for them now except be at our best," Cerise said coolly. "I suggest that you of all people should know the best way to prepare for their rescue is to be well rested and fed. I offer the use of our recreation facilities for you to practice your fighting skills so they are at optimum efficiency when we engage the enemy. You will also have the chance to augment those of you without heavy impact fighting armaments to select the best of what the Shi'ar empire has to offer in that regard."
"Let's not argue with the lady," Amanda sniffed, realizing that remark was aimed at her specifically. "After all, we have to focus on Brian and Meggan!"
Arm in arm with Nightcrawler she pulled him along after the line of teammates, feeling the acrid glare of Cerise upon her. Green eyes met brown in a challenge, and she knew that Cerise was perhaps considering all the ways in which she could rid herself of the rival. Or was it her overactive imagination. Khaos bowed to Cerise, kissing her hand, as he was the last to leave.
"We will reconvene in two spans for an early morning meeting," Cerise called. "May your rest period be sufficient..."
"Good night to you two, birdy," mumbled Amanda. Who the hell did she think she was, counting her out just because she wasn't armed to the gills in that battle armor? Obviously Amanda didn't want to stoop to the level of a catfight, but she would guarantee if push came to shove, she'd show this amazon the harder side of Romany magic.
"Amanda, liebchen, I'm truly sorry I didn't tell you," Nightcrawler said as they walked down the hallways. Several other guards motioned to each of them in turn, showing them to their quarters.
"Kurt, you could have," Amanda said firmly. "There used to be no secrets with us..."
"It was nearly a year ago," Kurt said. "And I..."
"We'll talk about it in private," Amanda waved her hand.
"Amanda Sefton, your room is this way, with Rahne... Kitty and Wisdom's chamber is down the hall, and Lord Khaos you will be housed here, next to Douglock," Shakarr said. "Commander Cerise requests that each of you eat an evening refreshemnt and report to the weapons armory so that you may be armed... once you have settled into your rooms and taken advantage of the freshers and food synthesizers."
"She is with me," Kurt said sharply, curling his arm around Amanda, and staring the guard down as he walked towards their chamber. Sighing Amanda squeezed his arm, thankful for the public display, even though it was a bit late. Mumbling to herself she realized that Cerise was beginning to piss her off.
***
By Trynia Merin
Disclaimer: Excalibur and its characters are property of XMEN. This is a work of fiction, and is not meant for profit or to demean the characters. The events here take place after my first story Dreams Nailed. Please R and R. This part has no R rated stuff, but I'd put it a PG for language and some tense situations. As for adult material, they'll be marked in upcoming individual chapters.
Chapter 4
Khaos was certainly on the mend, Amanda noted as he flew with her in his arms towards the rendezvous point, Rahne following the trail of Kitty's scent. Amanda knew she was going out on a limb trusting someone she hardly knew, but anyone who claimed Kurt as a friend was worth much in her book. Her man didn't give his trust away or his friendship lightly. Also, she had to admit she felt an attraction to him in some strange way. Maybe it was because he reminded her of Nightcrawler, with those light eyes in a dark skinned face, his grace and smooth voice striking a chord.
They arrived in the shadow of the large insect shaped craft, which was now visible to all of them. Khaos landed as Rahne stopped and sniffed about. Carefully Khaos put Amanda down, and glanced, drawing his twin blades in readiness for any encounter.
"Amanda, Rahne, thank God," Kitty whispered as she phased out of the trees. "What the... KHAOS? What are you doing here?"
"Lady Kitty, it is good to see you again," Khaos bowed to her. "Again fate has brought me across the path of Excalibur... but it seems you are as much in need of my aid as I am of yours."
"I can't phase through that ship," Kitty cursed. "Something's blocking my powers... I don't' know what to do, and Douglock's been trying to break into the ship's computer for a while..."
"He's still alive," Amanda said, her hair flaring green. "I can sense it..."
"But he might be in danger..." cursed Kitty.
"Unit Kittypryde," Douglock said through her comlink. "I have gained access to the ship's computer. I have gotten a hail in response to ours..."
"Finally..." Kitty said. "Look, can you get us... we need to talk..."
Douglock moved the Runner out of the trees, and Amanda let Khaos fly her up as Kitty phased Rahne up towards the Runner. Soon they were onboard, glancing anxiously at Douglock, who stared in confusion at their new arrival. Introductions were quick, and Kitty asked him again, "So... what did you find?"
"This is a Shi'ar ship, they identify themselves as a member of the Grand Jhar, and they say they are here to assist. Apparently Nightcrawler is unharmed, and they were waiting for the rest of Excalibur to assemble..."
"You tell this Shi'ar person to give back Nightcrawler safe and sound before we talk," Kitty said, and Amanda agreed. "If they come in peace why the HELL did they kidnap Nightcrawler and not even let ME onboard."
"Sending," Douglock said. "Apparently the ship says that Nightcrawler had some unfinished business... and that they will let US know before they beam..."
"Give me that!" Amanda hissed. Grabbing the mike she said, "Hello, whoever this is? This is Amanda Sefton, a member of Excalibur. You'd better have a DAMN good reason for abducting our leader, if you're some friendly party! And if you don't return him I promise we'll make it VERY difficult for you!"
"Amanda..." Rahne gasped.
"This is Kitty Pryde of Excalibur. Can we at least speak to Nightcrawler or at least SEE who we're talking to? We've both friends of Professor X, which you no doubt know..."
"Acknowledged," said a voice in response, and Amanda gasped as she saw the image of a lovely woman flicker over the screen, her hair feathery and brown, and a long white plume coursing over her back. "It is good to see you Kitty Pryde. Surely you recognize me, your former teammate Cerise..."
"Holy shit, Cerise? Is that you?" Kitty asked in a gasp. "Why on EARTH have you kidnapped Nightcrawler?"
"Milady," Khaos said before Amanda motioned him to silence. If this was Cerise, she didn't care for the other's tactics at all.
"It is a matter of utmost urgency and secrecy. I had to see if you were indeed of Excalibur, and warn you of a great danger. Nightcrawler is unharmed... but I am most confused..."
"Make that TWO of us," mumbled Amanda.
"Brian and Meggan are in trouble," said Kitty. "And we don't have time to play games! Saturnyne..."
"I will fill you in. You are free to enter the ship," Cerise said. "And unfortunately your friends are in dire danger as you have surmised. Even now the ship that has captured them has left your planet's surface..."
"NOW you tell us!" Kitty exclaimed. "What do we do? Here we are, wasting our time when..."
"That's Cerise?" Amanda said, glancing at Khaos.
"Cerise, do you not recognize me?" Khaos asked, stepping before them.
"Khaos?" Cerise cast him a puzzled look, her dark brown eyes opening in shock. "I never thought..."
"Cerise, you and I must speak at an appropriate time. There is much I have to discuss with you. I have given my aid to Excalibur, and..."
"We will talk in due time," Cerise said. "My ship is open to you all. Though your ranks have changed. I will provide transport as we pursue the captors of Brian and Meggan. Trust me, they will be recovered, or avenged. And we must work together to ensure the former rather then the latter."
"Then let's DO it already," Amanda Sefton gritted, glancing up at Cerise, who cast her a strange look.
"Your ship can dock with mine," Cerise said. "You may pilot it into our ship's bay before we take off..."
***
As each member boarded the ship, Nightcrawler waited in tense silence. Just how he was going to get out of this mess was beyond him. Cerise had returned to the bridge, vexed by his cool treatment of her, to leave him to wait for her return. She had said she had work to do, checking the reports of her officers to see if any change had been made on Brian and Meggan. He fretted, because the ship they had tracked had suddenly lifted off, disappearing into earth's orbit long before they could find it.
"Your friends are here," said Sgt. D'marran, as the wall opened up to the lounge. Nightcrawler's heart leapt when he beheld his friends who entered in a cacophony of questions and voices around him. Amanda was the first to reach him, and he folded her in his arms, giving her a grateful greeting kiss that she returned. Her sweet body pressed to his, all curves and muscle, the same muscle that had been honed on the trapeze and high wire so long ago at Der Jahrmarkt.
"Kurt!" Amanda cried. "You scared us to death, Fuzzy..."
"Amanda, danke Gott... Brian and Meggan..."
"We know," she said. "But there was someone else here who was looking for this Cerise..."
Kurt hugged Kitty as she came in, still keeping his arm around Amanda's shoulders. Rahne moved up fluid as water while Douglock followed, and the remote figure of Khaos. Seeing him, Kurt gasped in surprise.
"WE found a friend," Amanda said. "He says he knows you..."
"Khaos," Kurt said, scratching his head. "What brings you here?"
"WE share the same enemy. How could I not offer my aid..." Khaos said, striding up, his tall slender frame encased in elfin armor. His long white hair was swept back by the diadem helmet, his twin swords at his back in their sheathes.
"It's good to see you. We're going to need all the help we can get, but I am perplexed," Nightcrawler said.
"Saturnyne took him prison," Amanda said.
"Your lady healed me in an exceptional manner," Khaos nodded to Amanda. "And I am most grateful..."
"Kurt... what is Cerise's deal?" Kitty asked. "Kidnapping you..."
"Ye had us worried!" Rahne cried.
"I'll tell you what I can. Apparently Cerise... well... she's under strict orders to keep as much security as she can. And as the roster of Excalibur has changed considerably, she had to take me into her confidence."
"Oh," Kitty said. She looked at Amanda, who was still very much in the dark, biting her lip in concern. Kurt and she had a lot to talk about, regarding Cerise. She hoped they had the time.
"Cerise has also offered to help Herr Wisdom," said Kurt. "She has already transported him aboard the medlab of the ship. Her surgeon is tending to his injuries... for she says that all warriors of Excalibur must be ready to fight in the battle ahead..."
"Damn generous of her," Kitty nodded. "Can I see him?"
"She will return to speak to all of us, and brief us on what she knows about Saturnyne... and we must plan our moves carefully, with her help," Kurt said.
"You trust this Cerise then?" asked Amanda. "Even after she sneaked you out from under our noses?"
"Um, Cerise is a remarkable woman," Kurt coughed, seeing Amanda's suspicious look. "She has reasons for what she does. And well..."
"Why didn't' you tell me about her even being IN Excalibur?" Amanda asked. "You said almost NOTHING about the team mates you had... why keep us in the dark? Care to bring some of us late timers up to speed?"
"Um Cerise was part of Excalibur for a long time," Kurt said. "As were Kylun, Feron, and Micromax. I simply didn't find the occasion to bring it up... I'm sorry Liebchen..."
"Uh oh," Kitty mumbled to Rahne, who sighed. "This is going to be a big mess..."
"Cerise is a warrior of honor," said Khaos. "I would trust her with my life..."
"Uh Khaos, there is something you should know," said Kitty, looking up at him.
"There's a lot we dinna ken," Rahne said patiently. "And I think we're wanting t' ken aboot yon Shi'ar..."
"Especially if she's working for LILANDRA," said Kitty, meaningfully.
"Affirmative. WE must know about our allies," said Douglock. "For the benefit of as you say... being on the same page? And if my sensors are correct, this vessel is now flying through space..."
"Another sneaky trick she forgot to tell us," Amanda grumbled.
"All right, sit down. Since we're in space, you must know," Kurt said to his friends.
********
"Cerise will speak with you now," said Sgt. D'marran, only a few minutes later as the wall swished open. Behind him strode Commander Cerise, resplendent in her violet and crimson battle armor, her long feathery cape unfurling behind her like a thread of Milky Way.
"Okay, what's the situation?" Kitty asked her friend. "And by the way, its GREAT to see you again, Big C."
"The affection is likewise returned."
"Cerise, I am also glad to see you again," said Khaos, stepping forwards. This time it was Cerise's turn to look awkward as she beheld Kurt's arm around Amanda, who kept a possessive grip on his ladyfriend to show that he was spoken for.
"Khaos, I am likewise pleased to see you again," Cerise smiled, choking back her shock to see Kurt's hands around another female, particularly the one who had so insultingly chastised her over the comlink.
"I have offered my aid. Saturnyne has held me prisoner for many months, and I seek vengeance..."
"You shall have it and more, Khaos," Cerise promised. Amanda heaved a sigh of relief. Perhaps if there were a way to work on widening this relationship she'd get Kurt's eyes off the alien amazon.
"Please, before we get into this, can your surgeons do anything for Pete Wisdom?" Kitty asked Cerise, taking her hand.
"All will be accomplished to help your teammate, Kitty," Cerise said graciously. "The team has changed Nightcrawler..."
"Cerise, may I present Amanda Sefton, my Girlfriend," Kurt said. At the mention of this Cerise darkened in anger.
"Pleased to meet you," Amanda said.
"And this is Rahne, Douglock, and the other is Pete Wisdom..." Kurt said quickly.
"We must talk later," said Cerise, looking pointedly at Kurt.
"Isn't it MORE important to talk about what we're REALLY here for?" Kitty asked, quickly interrupting Cerise's staring Amanda down. Indignantly Amanda glared back at the alien amazon.
"She is right,' said Khaos, the feminine challenge between Amanda and Cerise not escaping his notice. "And I for one am anxious to attack her when she is unaware of our presence..."
"Her station is guarded by a stealth shield comparable to Shi'ar technology," Cerise said firmly, waving her hand over a small raised bulb, and summoning a three dimensional image to flare above it of an asteroid. "The latest in Shi'ar intelligence reports is that she has pushed her personal technology to that of her world... free to act in space... her station is in this solar system's asteroid belt..."
"What is your tactical plan?" asked Khaos.
"WE will continue cloaked, at sub light speed," Cerise said. "So as not to attract attention. And in the meantime, you are welcome to rest and refresh yourselves... I must speak to Kurt Wagner alone."
"Surely you can talk about ANYTHING with all of us here," Amanda said curtly.
"Cerise, let me make this quick and clear," Kurt said, taking a deep breath. "WE shared a lovely relationship. And I'm sorry I didn't tell you Amanda, but I didn't' think I'd ever see her again."
"I wish you had told me, Fuzzy," Amanda said with a sigh. "But I'm not surprised."
"You two are... lifemates?"
"I've known here for far longer," Kurt said. "And we've renewed our relationship..."
"Then ours meant nothing?" Cerise asked.
"I had to move on, and I figured you had as well. Professor X himself had difficulties with a Trans galactic relationship," Kurt said as pragmatically as possible, realizing this was no longer a secret to anyone. "I'm sorry to hurt you, but that is reality..."
"Can we not speak of this later?" Khaos interceded. "The lives of Brian and Meggan are far more important then our own squabbles... we must focus ALL our powers and talents in that direction. When we have won the battle we will be able to sort out our lives... and our personal relationships."
"Aye, he's right ye ken," Rahne finally cut in. "This be NAE time t' get into a fight over matters in the past. And Kurt's private life is NAE something we all need t' hear right now."
"She is correct," Kurt said. "We will speak of this later Cerise, at a more appropriate time..."
"Can I go see Pete now?" Kitty asked. "Speaking of personal relationships..."
"D'marran, escort Kitty Pryde to our sick bay," Cerise said. Nodding, D'marran led the way out of the suite with Kitty behind him. Kurt heaved a big sigh as did Amanda, and Khaos.
"You will all be escorted to guest quarters," Cerise said. "It will be a few hours journey to Saturnyne's base, so I suggest you take advantage of the time to rest and refresh ourselves... Shakarr... show them the way..."
"Thank you," Khaos nodded.
"But Brian," Kurt said.
"There is little we can do for them now except be at our best," Cerise said coolly. "I suggest that you of all people should know the best way to prepare for their rescue is to be well rested and fed. I offer the use of our recreation facilities for you to practice your fighting skills so they are at optimum efficiency when we engage the enemy. You will also have the chance to augment those of you without heavy impact fighting armaments to select the best of what the Shi'ar empire has to offer in that regard."
"Let's not argue with the lady," Amanda sniffed, realizing that remark was aimed at her specifically. "After all, we have to focus on Brian and Meggan!"
Arm in arm with Nightcrawler she pulled him along after the line of teammates, feeling the acrid glare of Cerise upon her. Green eyes met brown in a challenge, and she knew that Cerise was perhaps considering all the ways in which she could rid herself of the rival. Or was it her overactive imagination. Khaos bowed to Cerise, kissing her hand, as he was the last to leave.
"We will reconvene in two spans for an early morning meeting," Cerise called. "May your rest period be sufficient..."
"Good night to you two, birdy," mumbled Amanda. Who the hell did she think she was, counting her out just because she wasn't armed to the gills in that battle armor? Obviously Amanda didn't want to stoop to the level of a catfight, but she would guarantee if push came to shove, she'd show this amazon the harder side of Romany magic.
"Amanda, liebchen, I'm truly sorry I didn't tell you," Nightcrawler said as they walked down the hallways. Several other guards motioned to each of them in turn, showing them to their quarters.
"Kurt, you could have," Amanda said firmly. "There used to be no secrets with us..."
"It was nearly a year ago," Kurt said. "And I..."
"We'll talk about it in private," Amanda waved her hand.
"Amanda Sefton, your room is this way, with Rahne... Kitty and Wisdom's chamber is down the hall, and Lord Khaos you will be housed here, next to Douglock," Shakarr said. "Commander Cerise requests that each of you eat an evening refreshemnt and report to the weapons armory so that you may be armed... once you have settled into your rooms and taken advantage of the freshers and food synthesizers."
"She is with me," Kurt said sharply, curling his arm around Amanda, and staring the guard down as he walked towards their chamber. Sighing Amanda squeezed his arm, thankful for the public display, even though it was a bit late. Mumbling to herself she realized that Cerise was beginning to piss her off.
***