Chapter 19
"Wake up frail…" someone growled and she felt wetness sponging her brow.
Jubilee moaned, realizing someone was shaking her gently. She blinked, and jerked awake when she looked up into a blonde face, eyes hidden by Ray Bans. His teeth gleamed silver, and she shivered in fear at the sight of him leaning over her.
"Shit, shit shit… get away!" she cried as she backed off.
"Ya crazy kid…" he snarled as she felt him hold her down. "Lay still dammit… ya got a concussion and a few damn scrapes… I don't want ya puking or blackin' out again after I patched ya up!"
"What the FUCK happened and what do you want?" Jubilee yelled at him, shaking in fear.
"Got a mouth on ya, don'tcha… yer a little slip of a thing, but ya got a hell of a lotta moxy… lucky for you I like that in some frails… just as long as ya don't try n' be stupid wi' it," Creed laughed as he held her down. His hands were massive, but he was only using an ounce of strength to do what he did.
"Oh kay… you're bigger than me, and you didn't waste me… so obviously yer' like gonna keep me alive as long as I'm useful and stuff… so mind telling me why you didn't let me just lay there and bleed?"
"Look frail, it's like this. Michelle's in danger, and if ya don't help me yer ass is next…"
"I don't believe you…" Jubilee gasped, shaking as she raised her hands.
"Don't make me pissed at ya. You won't like me when I'm mad," Creed mumbled as he shoved her down roughly, but not enough to hurt her. She realized she was lying on a hotel bed, and saw the peeling and chipped wallpaper. Her hands were encased in strange metal mittens, and she couldn't use her powers.
"Oh shit… look Mister… I don't wanna piss you off okay… my bad. But hello… like if Wolvie ever finds out that I got taken away… he ain't gonna be too happy… and the other X men aren't either… so if I were you I'd be kinda careful about how you handle the merchandise…" Jubilee babbled, feeling panicky.
"Please, he has no friggin clue yer even here girly pie," Creed snorted. "You realize I saved yer ass?"
"Yeah, right… what do you WANT?" Jubilee yelled angrily. "I know you're mister badass and if I get outta line you bust my butt. Say I do believe you… what do you want me to do?"
"You help me help you," he said. "I smell Michelle on ya. It's like this. I put dose mittens on ya to keep you from making a big mistake. Cause I don't like it when peoples paff my face like. And I can't be responsible if I tear ya limb from limb cause you were being stupid. Lucky for you I kinda like the fact a frail like youse' a spitfire… plus you ain't legal, and I don't bang jailbait…"
"Gimmie a break. In one breath you're telling me I'm some sorta tool, and now you make with the left handed compliments… what is your deal…" Jubilee shivered.
"I ain't gonna hurt ya if ya cooperate, frail," he said.
"My name's Jubilee, not frail, okay… thanks for saving my ass and all… but would ya PLEASE use a moniker I can stand, okay?" she snapped.
"Fine Jujube," he said. She rolled her eyes and decided that was better than frail, so she wasn't going to complain TOO loudly.
"Fine, spill. Why do I owe you my life, Vic?" she snorted. "Thanks and all… but what do you want me to do in return for you? And are you going to make sure I get back in one piece or am I gonna get wasted when I'm no longer useful…"
"Just so ya know pup, I ain't gonna kill ya cause I like ya. An' if I like ya, you might end up getting something more outta dis… ya behave and ya could get a few simoleons, and maybe I'll let ya go… but as I was sayin, yer buddy Michelle's really some high class Japanese dame. She's pretty friggin important. Some lowlife named Shaw wants to off her. He hired Hydra… dere a bunch of assassins, to bump her off. But I don't want 'em to."
"Why not?"
"Cause I like her see," he said. "And what I like I get."
"Fat chance. She's Logan's woman… and I don't think he's gonna let her go without trying to carve you up… and you like have your own claws?"
"Yeah, I noticed," Creed snorted. "Ya see, she and me have kinda a history. We was REAL close in weapon X… I was like ya know, her mentor n' stuff. Like the runt is ta you…"
"You were her TRAINER? No FRIGGIN way!" Jubilee shook her head.
"Yes way, pup," Victor said gruffly. "Anywho, Hydra's gonna get some chick… some blind chick to bump her lovely ass off. Seems she an' another agent named Lady Deathstrike ain't too cozy. They both want Clan Yashida. So's dey grabbed Old man Shingen to make a deal. An' da matchstick went cryin' to Michelle to come home n' help pull his ass outta da fire. Only he don't know dat it's a trap… and da runt was stupid enough to go with her…"
"Why do you care again, other than the fact you wanna like jump her bones?"
"Like I said, pup, Michelle's kinda special to me, and you guessed part a da reason. And ain't nobody gonna clean her clock while I'm around. I seen dat ya like her like some kinda sister. And she's taken a shine to you, and sees yer worth somethin. I've been watchin' ya all nice and comfy for the last week, and ya got potential. So that's why I didn't pound yer pretty ass since ya got in da way. Yer gonna get a piece of the action and help me like to get her before they do…"
"So you're gonna drag me to Japan?" she asked, wide eyed.
"Yep. Bout the size of it pup. Only ya gotta do what I say, or I dump ya, and it's a LONG walk to the X mansion…" Creed said with a laugh.
"How do I know you're not just out to kill wolverine?"
"Please," he laughed harshly. "Da runt's not gonna be the one in a world o' pain. Shaw double-crossed me, and I'm gonna NAIL his ass. Michelle and I gotta little deal. And I aim to collect…"
"What's this deal, if I believe any of this shit?" Jubilee asked.
"Simple. I keep the yakuza japs outta her family, and she gives me what she owes me. Her life."
"You're not gonna kill her are you?"
"Nah kid. Ain't like that. She's kinda like a daughter to me, inna way," Creed laughed. "Ya see, I made her what she is. Ain't no coincidence she's gotta healing factor… cause I'm da one who gave it to her…"
"How in the…"
"She was gonna up and die, but I gave her a few transfusions. Lucky break for da frail, cause we're da same blood type like. Well da healing factor took a liking to her, and she's got it in her. Along with some other fringe benefits…"
"Oh god…"
"So she n' me's blood relatives."
"Great… so what does that mean for me?"
"You help me, and I'll get ya a chance to help her. When this caper's through, I give ya back to the x men. And you'll be way more of an asset to 'em…"
"Excuse me?"
"You don't know how ta use your powers pup. You want that skinny butt Kitty to whoop your ass all yer life? I can show ya a thing or two about fightin'… and how to use dose firework powers to do some REAL damage. You'll be a full class scrapper when I'm done wit ya."
"Cool," Jubilee mumbled. "Sorry but I'm still like not convinced you're not gonna off me… excuse me but you ARE kinda major league creepy."
"You're lucky, cause I kinda like ya kid. You're stupid enough to get your ass into trouble, but ya got spunk. I can see why the runt likes ya."
"Oh brother," she sighed. "Like enough already… he likes me I like him… so let's just cut the crap and tell me what you want me to do in this bonny and Clyde thing okay?"
"You can piss an moan all ya want. But those mitten's will stay on unless ya be a bit nicer to me," he said with a laugh. "And maybe you'll stop bitching long enough to eat something so ya don't end up an pass out on me… it's a LONG way ta Japan…"
"What the hell do I call you anyway, bright eyes?" she snorted.
"Got lotsa names. Just call me Victor or Vic…" he laughed.
"Victor WHAT?"
"You'll know soon enough kid. Now I suggest ya eat something," he snorted, throwing a box of donuts at her. It landed next to her knee, and he plunked a jug of milk near her. She managed to take a bite or two of the donuts despite the metal mittens that negated her powers. Victor stood up, and she saw his imposing frame cross between her and the window as he grabbed a shotgun and flipped it open. He loaded it, and set it against the wall. Other weaponry was sitting on the chair or the table of the small motel room. Hot coffee steamed as he shoved a paper cup in her hand.
"Thanks a heap," she mumbled, mouth full of donut. Her suitcase was sitting beside her on the bed, battered but intact. Her yellow raincoat was draped over a chair, and she realized someone had bandaged her head carefully. She didn't trust 'Victor' as far as she could throw him, but what choice did she have?
In New York City, they had landed the Minijet, and watched as it left them in Central Park. Then it was hailing a taxi to go to a location that Michelle had told him.
Wolverine put on his hat and shouldered his battered knapsack. While the valet had offered to take his bags, he grabbed Michelle's suitcase with a grunt instead, as they opened the door of the taxi. Michelle strode alongside him, wearing a formal business suit; her hair swept up in a bun with a few tendrils of hair hanging down.
"We've been expecting you," said two security guards as they strode up to the Japanese embassy.
"This is some joint," Logan whistled under his breath as he saw the eyes of the guards on him. They saw some shabby urban cowboy of all things standing beside the lady, and he glared at them to show he meant business.
"I've come to see the ambassador, Mr. Wing," she said quickly, then repeated in flawless Japanese.
"He's right this way… may we ask who your friend is?"
"He is my significant other," she said quickly. "And he can be trusted…"
"This way," they said as they bustled her in. Michelle walked across the glossy floor after abandoning her shoes. Logan yanked off his boots, and set them to one side, accepting the slippers they passed his way. He let the bags be taken away, but kept his watch on Michelle. Walking over he strode next to her, and she felt relief at his presence.
He removed his hat when they were marched into a large parlor. Other suited men, all Japanese, walked by and dipped their heads in a respectful bow. They opened the door on a large office suite, and Michelle strode in, motioning for Logan to follow. He knew better than to be stupid about this. Something told him that he was expected to comport himself with a strange dignity. Weapon X training kicked in, and he surveyed the room.
"Cousin, it is good to see you," came a voice in Japanese, and he saw a young man in a charcoal gray suit standing in the study.
"Shiro," she whispered, and he extended his hands. The two embraced, and Logan recognized the young man, about her age.
"It is good to see you safe, cousin," he said. "And who is this?"
"May I present Logan-san… the one person I can trust," she said.
"Who is this…"
"He insists on protecting me, cousin. He is the man I love," she whispered. Shiro glanced at the pendant that hung around his neck and snorted a bit, but backed down.
"So, he knows," he murmured.
"You bet I do, pal," he said quickly. "I ain't stupid, and I know what's going down. I'm prepared t' do whatever she needs. And that starts with knowing what in hell made ya drag her here after ya dumped her with…"
"Mind your manners, gaijin…"
"Shiro, you will treat him with the proper respect," Michelle said sharply, in a tone of voice that would brook no opposition. He actually backed away, to Logan's amusement. Her posture was almost regal in its bearing, and he saw again the noble that he had read the file on.
"My apologies… I am not accustomed to outsiders…" Shiro coughed. "You are one of the X men?"
"Yeah. I'm Wolverine to them, bub. And if yer thinking what I think ya are, you're wrong. I happen to think that she needs me here. And I don't take kindly t' people givin' me dirty looks unless they settle whatever's on their minds… if you have a problem with me, just say it to my face now, bub."
"I don't trust outsiders. But if my cousin has chosen you, I shall respect her wishes."
"Yeah, how about ya stop acting like she ain't here, for starters," Logan whispered. Shiro fumed, and Michelle gave a smile.
"Relax, beloved. He will have to as they say, deal with you. So, how bad are things?"
"Worse than imagined. We must go now… the plane is waiting…"
"Fine, let's get goin' then, and stop jawing," Logan mumbled. He'd thankfully removed his hat, and the white shirt under his leather jacket was freshly laundered. He had worn a pair of extremely nice slacks, and looked quite formal in a western sort of way. Shiro was uncomfortable at this 'outsider' but he stepped aside as Michelle slid her arm in his, and guided him alongside of her. He saw the security guards pick up their luggage, and Shiro fell in behind her as they were escorted outside of the Embassy.
"Just so you know, Logan-san, she is first and foremost my cousin. I will not take kindly to those who would think lightly of it."
"No problems here," Logan said firmly. "Unless some people make something of it…"
"Good," Shiro nodded. The guards opened the limo door, and Logan released Mariko's hand to allow her in first. He waited, and Shiro nodded that it was appropriate for him to sit next to her. Shiro slid in opposite, and the door was shut.
"This is gonna be interesting," he muttered to himself as the limousine glided off towards the airport, accompanied by several other unmarked vehicles.
"Um, can I like get these things off so I can change?" Jubilee asked. "If I promise like not to bolt out the bathroom window?"
"Fine, Jujube. Ya go clean up and I'll gather the crap outta here. I can smell ya before ya do anything anyway. Don't want ya not ta look yer best when we go to the airport," he said as he tossed her suitcase. "But try anything and there's ten Hydra goons on our tail who'll be a hell of a lot less hospitable den yer old pal Victor…"
"I get your drift… now please get these off me…" she said. Her eyes widened when she saw four long claws shoot out of his knuckles and slice through the mittens. They fluttered to the floor in shreds, and Jubilee released a breath as they retracted.
"Ya get my drift okay. Now go get cleaned up, girly pie. Fresh towels and all dat garbola while I get the paperwork out…" he said as he threw a pair of towels at her, from out of his large holdall. She held them up to her nose and noticed they smelled clean, and glancing at the towels set out from the fleabag hotel, she figured they were cleaner.
"Sure thing boss," she said as she tried to keep her spirits up. Okay he wasn't going to kill her. That was a good sign. Just behave and see your chance when you get on the other side of the pacific and maybe you'll find a way of escaping when there's more familiar surroundings.
She closed and bolted the door, and then proceeded to shower. The flip-flops were a necessity dealing with scummy bathroom tiles and she tried to relax enough to get a nice hot shower to at least pretend she was okay. Each passing moment and she breathed easier.
When she was finished she opened the door, and walked out in a pair of jeans and a baby T with a rhinestone star on the front. Victor Creed was watching by the window, his hand holding a gun at the ready by the door. Jubilee shivered in fear because she knew that he must have some of the same senses as Logan to be so trigger-happy. Not saying a word, she toweled her hair off and sat down on the bed to pull her boots with the pointy toes on and zip them up quietly.
"Good, yer ready," he nodded. "Nice threads. Just in time too cause our buddies are making dere move…"
"Oh crap… are they gonna get in…"
"Not if we can get outta here quiet like. You're in charge of th' paperwork an tickets, since yer a frail an have a purse. So take 'em and keep 'em safe," Victor growled as he moved closer to her. He shoved two passports, his and the one he took from her bag into her hand, with two tickets from Air Japan. She nodded and stuffed them into her black leather purse, the center compartment. She watched as he moved away, still sniffing the air and pointed to his suitcase.
Something tugged at her brain. Victor. She hadn't been with the team long, and this guy said he knew Logan.
Who had Logan mentioned? Some guy named Sabretooth was seriously bad. But he had another name. Creed something. She glanced down at the passport and her blood ran cold when she saw the name "Graydon Victor Creed Sr." on it with a picture of him. He was pulling a face for the camera, and she shivered.
"Oh crap, oh crap," she said internally as she put the passport away.
"Not my best picture, girly pie," he said as he snatched it away.
"Sorry dude… I mean Vic…"
"Don't mention it. Just remember it's a long walk home," he said with a low laugh as she shivered in fear.
He loved the smell, and she shrank away. "Yeah, I get it. Anything ELSE you want me to do?" she asked nervously.
"Oh god," she thought as she remembered Logan's horror stories. Creed was bad news. He would use her and kill her. She was dead meat, and she felt like screaming but nobody would hear.
"And while yer at it, get yer stuff together and ready ta bolt if ya gotta on da way to da Hummer," he added. "And better take dis… in case ya can't use yer powers…"
She caught a small pistol that he tossed her; almost yelping before she realized it was a small glock with the safety on. In a neat holster. But it was made completely of plastic, undetectable by most airport scanners. "How am I gonna get past air port security packing heat?" she hissed.
"You'll stash dat in yer purse. Made of a polymer dat lets x-rays pass through. They'll think it's nutin… even da ammo's plastic. Shatters on impact…"
"Lovely," Jubilee muttered. "And I see you got permits for the rest of the hardware…"
"Good thinking. Now, let's roll," Victor ordered in a low voice.
"Relax, I ain't gonna off ya," he said, as if guessing what she thought. "Yer worth far more alive than dead… so get over it."
"You sure about that? I know who you are… I'm not stupid."
"Smart kid. So ya know you're better off not makin' me upset…"
"Yeah, duh," she muttered.
The Leer jet streaked across the blue skies, on a direct flight towards San Francisco, and Tokyo. Logan was sitting in a very comfortable seat, and the door had shut, leaving him in the main cabin near where Shiro sat. Michelle had wandered off in the company of one of the stewardesses, and he had straightened up.
"It's all right. I have to change into something more appropriate," she said slowly.
"Don't mind me, I'm just a bit jumpy that's all…" he muttered.
Now Shiro had returned, wearing more traditional clothes, and Logan couldn't believe what he was seeing. Shiro was holding something out to him, in a silk box. "My cousin suggests you might wish to change into something more… suitable for a man of your station…"
"For me, you shouldn't have," Logan joked sarcastically. He took the box, and Shiro directed him to the rear cabin where Mariko had gone.
"If you will," he said.
"Sure, why the hell not," Logan shrugged. He opened the door and whistled at the large oak paneling, and the sumptuous furnishings. A door lead to what was probably a small bedroom, for the door was shut and he could hear female voices from behind it. The other was a lavatory. This was the lounge, and he put down the box and opened it up. A rather nice suit was enclosed inside, and he grumbled as he realized he would have to leave certain parts of his comfortable nature behind.
Later after he had buttoned the cuffs, he looked at himself in the mirror. It fit well, and he was relieved he didn't have to wear a bowtie, because the Nehru collar buttoned a bit around his neck and the jacket fit nicely. Still he wore those blasted slippers and wondered when the ladies would emerge.
He sat down, and then the door slid open. One of the stewardesses was dressed in a cream colored kimono, long and lovely, and wore the traditional outfit of a geisha or lady in waiting. Another walked over, and he glanced up at the sound of her footsteps.
"I know it's a bit much, but I hope you don't mind," she said.
"You talking about ME or you," he trailed off as he saw her in the robes of a Japanese lady, and his heart skipped a beat. Damn if she didn't' look like some blasted fairytale princess with the tall wig bound in her hair, and the long robes trailing slightly on the floor. She was about his height, but something about the kimono, embroidered with multicolored threads, and the red robe around her shoulders made her seem taller.
Light shimmered off the small pieces of silver that dangled from the ends of twin decorative sticks thrust into either side of the ornate bun. Flowers and other decorative hairpieces were woven into the whole thing for effect, and he saw a bit of makeup had covered her freckled skin, giving her the appearance of something out of Madame Butterfly. Those silk robes were easily worth far more than what were most people would make in an average year, and her small feet barely were visible as she walked lightly towards him.
"It's still me," she whispered as he stood there, stunned.
"I know, but you're so beautiful," he murmured, rubbing a hand through his hair. She nodded to both of the women… Logan thought the term 'ladies in waiting' was the appropriate term… and they walked over to the small minibar to pull out refreshments.
Her hands were partly obscured by the long bell sleeves, and she strode up to stand before Logan, in his suit. He suddenly felt like he was rough, uncultured and some sort of beast in clothes pretending to be a man compared to the vision in front of him. Damn, what did he do to get into this?
She held up a hand and stroked his face, and he reached out to touch her sleeve, as if he was afraid she'd dissolve into mist. He saw her eyes were moist with something like tears, and there was no trace of the feral woman that had shared his bed, for the fine clothes and makeup hid them well. But her scent was the same, buried under lotus water and rich perfume.
"I'm not going to break," she said, noticing the faraway look on his face. "Please say something Logan…"
"Just admiring the view," he whispered as he stroked her cheek. She took his hand and squeezed it. Taking her hand in his he lead her over to sit down on the sofa, and kept a distance between them as the ladies in waiting brought various food items and set them down before them.
"You can leave us alone now," she said softly, and they both bowed. Logan saw the sadness in her eyes as she watched them, and didn't look directly at him.
"I'm sorry darlin…" he said as he reached over and took her hand, kissing it. "I didn't mean to upset ya…"
"It's not you, Logan-chan, it's just… for a moment I thought you were thinking you weren't worthy of…"
"What do ya see in me, darlin? I'm nothing like ya… I'm sorry to even THINK that but that was what was runnin' through my head…"
"What does fleshly appearance matter when the heart's noble…" she said as she met his gaze. "I'm still the Michelle you love under it all…"
"I know… and I'm sorry… you forgive a dumb butt like me?" he said, giving her puppy dog eyes.
"Always," she said as she leaned over, and he slid his arm around her, moving close so their thighs touched. Logan slid his arm and pulled her close, and she felt his lips cover hers in a gentle kiss. His fingers rubbed over the nape of her neck, and she lightly teased his lips with her tongue.
He opened his mouth to allow her access, inhaling her scent and feeling the richness of silk under rough fingers. Their tongues caressed, and he grasped her closer feeling her fingers burying in his hair. Easily he reached down and picked her up, to pull her onto his lap, silk robes and all.
"Gotta be more comfortable than this damn sofa…" he mumbled against her lips, and she knew he was humoring her because it was extremely soft. Though the feel of his hard muscled thighs was familiar, and the taste of his mouth was a grounding influence. He pulled her to him again for another kiss that was restrained but slow and passionate.
"Now ya got it?" Victor Creed asked as Jubilee felt his hand gripping her shoulder firmly. They walked towards the commercial airline, Jubilee wearing an inhibitor collar and no mittens this time.
"Yeah, yeah," she muttered, tired and her head still aching. At least he wasn't trying to kill her, and she had been starving when he had tossed her the donuts. She was still sniffling from the dust in the fleabag motel. In his other hand Creed carried her suitcase and his backpack slung over his body, while urging her with his gloved hand on her shoulder.
"Um maybe it's better if we held hands like?" Jubilee suggested. "It's kinda suspicious if you're digging my shoulder… and I'll take my luggage…"
"Fine Jujube," he nodded curtly, and she pulled the leash out of her bag and strapped her purse across her body under her coat. Victor swung his duffel onto his back, and clutched her hand in his massive one. The contact of his skin was nerve wracking, but she was more scared to think of the two people who he pointed out that had been following them since he stowed the HMV in the parking garage.
A black man in a cowboy hat reading the New York Times. And a woman with a long green trenchcoat and Indian braids. She wore them tied together and down her back, and her tanned face was lined with age with streaks of silver in it. The jeans and stiletto heeled moccasin boots were stylish, but the bright eyes were looking at them without looking at them.
"You mean those two?" she whispered.
"Good eye. De're old buddies too. But they don't take kindly to old buddy Vic minding his own damn business… so stay close…"
"This way sir," said the flight attendant. Jubilee grudgingly handed the two tickets to the lady, with her passport and his, and she nodded. Creed's saccharine smile made her sick but she took the passports back and he shoved them into his trenchcoat pocket.
"All right, let's do this," jubilee mumbled as Creed slid an arm around her shoulder, and moved her before him.
"Don't look now, but we got company," he mumbled in her ear. She glanced out of the side of her vision to see uniformed guards with strange helmets moving towards them. Airport security stopped them at the gate, and they heard arguing back and forth.
"How stupid is that… talk about LAME…" Jubilee mumbled as she craned her neck to see them yelling and fussing as their weaponry and equipment was confiscated.
"Dumb asses are just a decoy. That clown's on the plane with us… not her, but that black guy," Creed mumbled as he indicated a man with a cowboy hat and thick glasses who was reading a paper. Jubilee noticed how he looked at them without directly watching them. Creepy. Even creepier than Creed.
"First class?" she asked as he pushed her firmly yet gently into the window seat.
"View's better there, pup," he mumbled as he indicated she should sit. Jubilee mumbled as she realized she wasn't going to ditch Victor anytime soon, and might as well make the most of it. He pushed his bag into the overhead and sat down, clipping on his belt as Jubilee did hers. Something thumped in her lap and she realized it was her Walkman.
"Thanks," she muttered as she turned on the tape and slipped her headphones on.
"Excuse me, but she can't have that onboard…"
"There a problem, twinkletoes?" Creed snarled under his breath at the man. He lifted his sunglasses and the steward backed off.
"Um… it's just that…"
"It's a long flight an' that's the only thing that'll keep her happy, and if she's happy, I'm happy. Ya don't wanna piss me off do ya?" Creed growled. "Everybody knows that crap about portable players is not true cause ya just want us poor sobs to listen to your canned bunk ya call music… so buzz off will ya… or else get me a rum an' coke if you're gonna bother getting in my face punk…"
"Sorry…" he mumbled as he backed away.
"You didn't have to scare the crap outta him," Jubilee mumbled.
"Stupid punks. Just listen to yer music, pup and lemmie sleep…" he muttered as he lay his head back, and soon he was snoring. Jubilee realized there was no way in hell she could climb over his bulky body with him sitting there.
"Hope I don't get sliced to ribbons if I gotta use the can," she muttered as the plane moved away from the gate.
As she sat there, she noticed that the black man was shoving past to get into the seat a few down from them. He tossed his paper onto the empty seat, and pretended to ignore the Indian woman who moved past them into the back section of the plane. Her eyes almost met Jubilee's for a moment, and they were cold as ice.
Something heavy leaned against her shoulder and she heard snoring. Creed had leaned heavily, and his head was pushed on top of hers. "Dude, get off," she mumbled, pushing him away and he turned away, muttering in his sleep as he repositioned himself.
Jubilee saw the cabin lights dim, and the steward coming around again. "Um… can I get you anything…"
"Hey Victor…" Jubilee nudged Creed. "Vic…"
"Gimmie a glass o' whisky straight. And whatever the kiddo wants," he muttered, not opening his eyes. "An make it snappy…"
"Diet coke," Jubilee said. The desired beverages appeared, and she was sipping gratefully on her soda, watching him sip his whisky out of the corner of her eye now and then.
"Relax, pup, yer making me nervous,' he muttered.
"Can you blame me… god, you're like… creeping me out…"
"Least yer honest," he laughed. "Smart kid. Always be on yer guard, and trust nobody…"
"Something coming from you…" Jubilee mumbled.
"Ya see you got no choice cause I'm the only way ya can get there an back without incitin' an incident," Creed reminded her.
"Duh," she mumbled. "So, like what are we gonna do? Sightsee?"
"You'll see, Jujube," he muttered, and she was glad he didn't call her frail. Was it just her imagination or was he actually being civilized? She didn't trust him, but he could have been a whole lot nastier than now.
She grabbed her magazine and started to read. Something plunked down in front of her and she noticed it was a bag of nacho flavored Doritos. She glanced up at him, and he had his face buried in a paper of all things. Not questioning it she tore it open and began to eat ravenously. It wasn't one of those lame small microscopic bags they give you on the plane, but a real 16-ounce that you'd get in a convenience store. The wrapped chilidog was also slightly warm, and she ate it gratefully when she realized he had pulled them out of the holdall he'd shoved under the seat before them.
He was devouring a huge pastrami sandwich, and she saw the gleam of his metallic teeth. That was a serious creep out moment, she thought. Metal choppers. She half wondered if they were made of adamantium. Reminded her of a James bond movie villain. He burped inelegantly and knocked back another whisky, not looking in the least bit drunk.
She managed to make a good meal, and relaxed a bit more as she lost herself in her fashion magazines. Creed read the paper, hiding his sidelong gazes of the black guy in the cowboy hat that had been watching them the past hour. She was tempted to ask who he was, but knew better.
"Logan," Mariko murmured.
"What love?" he asked as he pulled away, smiling now that he was reassured she WAS the same Michelle he knew and loved.
"Shiro wants an audience," she chuckled.
"Flamin' great," Logan groaned. "Do I gotta give up having ya on my lap?"
"No. Let him see us as we are… he knows you're my consort…"
"Consort? Ouch," Logan chuckled as his cheeks took on a rare shade of pink. "Guess that's classier than saying boyfriend or mate… sure, I can live with that…"
"You're going to have to," she smiled, nipping at his nose. He glanced up as the two ladies in waiting opened the door, and Mariko nodded to them.
"My apologies cousin… I wished to talk to you, but if I am interrupting you…"
"It's all right, if it's all right with the lady," Logan said.
"It is all right. I'm sure you have questions beloved, that you want answered…"
"So, mind telling me just what we're up against?" Logan asked. "This Shaw character is someone we've tangled with before… but Lady Deathstrike… she's no lightweight…"
"It is appropriate that he fight with us, Shiro," said Mariko quietly. "She is a common enemy to us all."
"There is another with her. The assassin Kwannon, and the others under her thumb. And the ones known as Hydra…"
"Oh hell," Logan groaned. "Not THEM…"
"It is worse," Mariko shivered. "Dear God what are you getting us into?"
"Your brother was correct in calling on you. If I am to understand, you are quite the warrior yourself Logan-san…"
"Now this is a change. First yer ready to boot me out the door and now you're buddy buddy," Logan snorted.
"I apologize. I did not recognize you," said Shiro. "Friends are few and far between…"
"I know who YOU are, bub. I remember Weapon X. I know what Silver Fox did to mess with your head," Logan said quietly. "And if I'm not mistaken, she's screwing with ya now…"
"Silver fox is not our enemy. Who do you think tipped me off that you were safe, cousin?"
"Now just a minute," Logan said.
"Silver Fox is ever your ally, though she despises you personally," said Shiro uncomfortably.
"I know all about that. Get to the damn point," Logan cut in. "She hates my guts but she's ready to help me… how sweet of her…"
"She has respect for my cousin and me. She has acted as a double agent for Hydra. Though she is an operative she is a mercenary first. You would be surprised to know that she has been aware of your whereabouts for a while, cousin. She has kept the other Weapon X operatives from kidnapping you from the X men…"
"Great, who ELSE is after me?" Mariko groaned.
"The one known as Sabretooth…"
Logan growled, his teeth bared in anger as Michelle's face creased in anger. "What does he want?"
"You have to ask?" Logan snarled. "If he comes within three feet his ass is MINE!"
"He won't, thanks to Silver Fox," said Shiro. "And that will keep Hydra suitably occupied, for us to deal with those that captured my father…"
"How do we know he's alive?"
"Silver Fox is ensuring that. Lady Deathstrike is no idiot. She knows he's no use to us dead."
"What is the price?"
"Half of our holdings in Japan in exchange for his life," said Shiro. "And our word that we will not interfere with their activities…"
"Not much of a deal," said Mariko. "I think it's time we thought of a better option."
"Yes. And that's where you come in. Your x man training and my skills, and those of Wolverine will be most useful. We will find their rock and drag the cowards out into the sunlight," Shiro nodded.
"And where does her brother fit in?"
"He's in charge of the clan, but he is inexperienced. He needs your guidance and your wisdom, cousin," said Shiro. "You are still loved and respected, despite what Creed has done. My father has good reason to look beyond the obvious situation…"
"Smart man," Logan growled. "Cause if anyone gives her crap about it, they'll have to deal with ME…"
Shiro saw his wrists flex, and the gleam of sunlight off the adamantium claws. They quickly slid back into his arms and he looked visibly shaken. "And me…" he nodded slowly.
"While you are posturing, let me say something," Mariko snorted. "I won't stand for this stupidity. They will treat him with respect, or deal with me. Understand? He's worth far more than any of those that would kiss your feet and stab you in the back. I trust him with my life… and he will be given all the authority due a man of his position…"
"You heard the lady… you gotta get along with me, warts and all," Logan smirked.
"I hear you," Shiro said as he tugged at his collar a bit. "They will know better than to make such mistakes…"
He got up, and bowed to them both before exiting. Mariko sighed and looked at Logan and then smiled warmly at his smug look.
"So darlin, just what authority are ya talking about?" Logan asked as he leaned over and slid his hand over hers.
"Basically that of a noble of the clan," said Mariko matter of fact.
"So you're in their good graces or something?"
"Yes. As long as I'm alive, their claims to the leadership are void. I think that's why my brother insisted I return. The staff remembers and knows me. And they will listen to me…"
"Good for them… but does this mean…"
"Till they find my uncle, I fear I am in charge," she said, as she looked grimly out the window.
"Damn," he mumbled. "No wonder you were upset…"
"You now know what this means, don't you? If he IS dead… then I can't go back…"
"We'll have to make sure he IS alive then," said Logan quickly as he squeezed her hand.
"But if he isn't… Logan, I wasn't ready for this. I truly thought this life was behind me. Now I can't escape it… they'll INSIST that I become Clan leader. Though my brother has his own aspirations…"
"I know… he might not be so cute n' cuddly…" Logan mumbled. "He was a slippery customer… I don't trust him…"
"Nor do I, but we must put on a united front for the sake of my family. Shiro we can trust. He will watch my brother…"
"And I'll make sure you're safe. Nobody's gonna mess with ya on my watch…"
"That could be a VERY long time," she whispered. "That's why I didn't want you coming with me. Because the X men need you… and to come with me…"
"I love ya darlin, and you need me just as much now. We're in this together."
"Do you realize what you're saying?" she asked softly as she slid her hand over the pendant. "You might not see our friends again… for a long time if I am expected to…"
"We'll worry about that when it happens, darlin… one thing at a time…" he said as he put a hand over her lips. "Sure they're gonna miss me, but I can't bail on you…"
"Excuse me Lady, but we are going to land soon…" said the security guard in Japanese.
"And they want to make certain we're seat belted in, I know," she sighed, rolling her eyes. "Tell them thanks but I do believe I am adult enough to know…"
"My apologies for disturbing you, milady," said the security guard as he bowed and retreated. Logan shook his head, snickering.
"Not a word from you, mister," Mariko said, trying to keep a straight face.
Logan pulled her face close and kissed her gently at first, and then deepened it. A low growl came through him, and she felt his hand sliding up and down her body through the silk. Sighing she slid her fingers in his hair and he thrust his tongue more deeply in her throat as he crushed her to him.
"Damn, I wanna have ya, but I don't wanna mess up the nice warpaint and threads," he cursed.
"You'll get your chance soon, beloved," she whispered, shifting in his lap. Logan moaned in desire and grumbled at his lack of self-control.
"Don't move just yet, I kinda got a problem," he joked.
"I have a solution. Just close your eyes and lay still," she whispered as she stood up, and Logan complied. He opened one eye when he heard silk rustling.
"No peeking," she whispered, with a smile on her face. She removed the outer robing to reveal the kimono below and gently straddled him, draping the folds of silk around them so his legs were hiding.
"Ohh damn, that took them a hell of a long time to fix you up…" Logan groaned as she reached between them, and parted the silk of her kimono so she was sitting between them.
"There is a more private room in back," she whispered in his ear. Logan grabbed her hips, and got up, lifting her as if she were a small child.
Jubilee blinked awake, and heard the droning of a plane. She was sure that she had stayed awake, but the mere fact of being asleep had spooked her. Yet another aspect of something was rather comfortable. The large seats made it easier to lean back, and she was resting her head and shoulders on something solid that was emitting warmth. Something was holding her down, and she realized it was a sleeved arm that was holding her against a massive chest.
He was snoring under her, and it was pitch dark. Everyone was asleep and this madman was holding her against his chest with her face pillowed there. His arm was heavy about her shoulders, and she shivered, wondering if she dared move without fear of waking him. Nevertheless she did feel comfy before she remembered who it was.
"Go back t' sleep kid," he muttered, and pulled her down against him. She couldn't move his grip was strong, and she realized it was more comfortable, but still felt nervous.
Sighing, she prayed that he wouldn't slit her throat, and reluctantly shivered there with his arm pinning her there. It seemed a minor miracle but she eventually drifted off to sleep.
Another lapse and she was being shaken gently by his rough hand. "Wake up, pup we're gonna land."
"Oh god I gotta go," she whined.
He unclipped his belt and got up, muttering under his breath. With relief Jubilee stumbled off to the lavatory, and thanked her lucky stars she was still alive.
When she returned, Creed was standing looking out the window. She saw a pair of green eyes fixing her in a gleam, and sat down. The watchful gleam softened discernibly, and she wondered if she was going bonkers to think that he might be in some way actually caring if she lived or died. He could have killed her any time, but didn't. As long as she was use to him, he would keep her alive. Point was not to piss him off. Yet he said he 'liked' her and she wondered what THAT meant.
"Relax an enjoy the ride, cause it's gonna get more interesting from now on…" he said. "And I ain't kidding when I told ya that the creeps after us make me look like a Boy Scout…"
She peered out the window, and poked at the bowl of Lucky Charms. Slowly she ate enough o keep from getting sick, and sipped the coffee, letting the caffeine do its work. Creed tore into a full three-course breakfast, washing it down with coffee before they had to return their trays and get ready to land in Tokyo.