My Uncanny XMen Mini's

by LoganAlpha30

Archangel, Psylocke, Warpath, Siryn, Cannonball, Meltdown, and Psyflare vs the evils of Apocalypse and the Crimson Dawn. All New 4 Horseman. Chapter 39 Now Up...

35. My 35th Mini

UNCANNY X-MEN MINI #35: THE END OF ALL THINGS

BY: LOGANALPHA30

"" – Words

– Caption Boxes

( ) – Art Instructions

- Thoughts

- Time, Place Boxes

The Mansion

San Francisco, California

Wiling away the midnight hours in front of the fire Theresa Rourke Cassidy's mind flitters back and forth between the here and now and her hearts desire currently half a world away. Her only companion in this late hour is another whose love is not where he'd like her to be. (We open with a few panels of Sam and Siryn sitting in the mansion living room in comfortable chairs wrapped in blankets with Sam laying the arm attached to his injured shoulder on a pillow while Siryn is huddled in her blankets with a cup of hot tea in her hands). "Ye shouldn' be out of bed Sam," (We then see Siryn say with a concerned and somewhat worried look on her face before she takes a sip of her hot tea). "Ah'll be fine Terry, besides I never could sleep very well when ah know that she was in so much danger," (We then see a rather glum Sam say as he just stares off into the fire and furrows his brows).

"Tabitha will be fine Sam, if nothing else Jimmy will see to that, but ye can' just sit here all-night staring into the fire," (We then see Siryn say over the top of her cup of hot tea as the fire casts weird shadows on her face). "Watch me," (We then see a stern and worried Sam say while keeping his gaze fixed on the fire in front of him). "Sorry boyo, but that's not me job, that's Tabitha's doing," (We then see Siryn say with an almost scolding look on her face before she closes her eyes and inhales deeply the vapors of her hot tea). "And she's doing a great job at it too…not as much at the moment, but still that'll change once she gets back from Japan," (We then see Sam weakly offer up with a meager smile on his face before he leans his head back and stares up at the ceiling). "Hopefully sooner rather than later, I just hope that things aren't going to badly for them," (We then see Siryn say with a worried look on her face before she takes a sip of her tea as we then pull away from the two talking).

Meanwhile, A World Away

"This is not happening, please someone tell me this isn't happening," (We then see a scared but almost angry scared Erica shout as her face is upside down in the panel). (Then we cut over to a panel of a close up on Pete's face as it's full of worried surprise as he then says), "Bloody…!" (Then we pull back and see a big panel of Erica as she's being carried up into the air by two of the Aerous as each one is holding onto her by one of her ankle's and laughing with their eyes as they're dangling her over the edge of the cliff). "A little help here," (We then see Erica shout with a pleading and growing look of terror on her face as she's struggling to get free, firing off fire blasts every which way as some of them barely miss torching Warren and some of the others). "Warren," (We then see Gomurr shout with an angry scowl on his face as he's holding off one of the Aerous with one hand while glaring up into the sky).

"I'm a little busy here," (We then see Warren shout back with an angry sneer on his face as he has one of the Aerous in a headlock while slightly above and behind Warren we see another Aerous hovering there with a whip in its hand as it's rearing back to hit Warren in the back with the whip). (Then we see the whip wielding Aerous swing the whip at Warren, hitting him in the middle of the back between his wings as we see Warren howl in pain and let go of the Aerous that he had in a headlock as he is seemingly shocked with red and blue lightning). (Then we see Warren fall, smoking and almost unconscious, from the sky). "Bloody…," (We then see Pete shout with an annoyed sneer on his face before we then see him furiously, and painfully, begin to stagger forward, in an attempt to run forwards towards where Warren is falling from the sky). (Then we see Pete curse loudly as he throws his cane away and lunges forward and we see Pete grunt in pain as Warren lands right on top of him). (Then we see Warren shake his head with a painful grimace on his face as he starts to push himself up off of Pete before he then turns to Pete and says with an unhappy scowl on his face), "Thanks." "Don't mention it, seriously," (We then see an angry Pete say as he angrily shoves Warren off of himself).

(Then we see a few panels of Shatterstar taking the fight to the Aerous as he's fighting them in a very reckless manner as he gets separated from the others). "Someone should probably go to her aid before they let go and she drops a thousand feet to her untimely demise," (We then see Gomurr announce with a confused and almost overly excited smile on his face before he then fires off another spell at a charging Aerous). "You're a really cheery guy you know that," (We then see an unhappy and darkly sarcastic Pete say with a sneer on his face as he's picking himself up off of the ground and he's covered in snow and mud before he ruefully spits out some snow). "You should see me at the crimson dawn Christmas party, I'm a regular Bob Hope," (We then se Gomurr joke back with a rather smug grin on his face as he backhands one of the Aerous like Rafiki did to one of the hyena's in The Lion King). "I'll get her, wouldn't want any of you getting your hands dirty," (We then see Warren grumble with a sarcastic scowl on his face before he then launches himself up into the air as he flies off towards Erica and the two Aerous that are now looking ready to drop her).

(Then we see several of the Aerous gather overhead and glare down at Pete, who looks up into the air with a slowly growing look of panic on his face before we then see that group of Aerous tear down out of the sky at Pete). (Then we see the look on Pete's face change from one of fear to an almost excited smile on his face). With a possibly overzealous smile plastered on his face Pete Wisdom feigns and dupes his assailants into rushing headlong into their bloodlust. (Then we see a half page panel of Pete with his head back staring up into the sky as then the Aerous are descending down at him before we then see a panel very similar but with Pete having his hands on fire as then in the next panel we see Pete throw his hands up into the air and point his fingers at the Aerous charging towards him). (Then we see Pete laugh every maniacally as he fires off a flamethrower like stream of fire straight up into the sky as he strikes back at the Aerous and we see the Aerous flail around in pain as they're consumed by the fire).

The Mansion Nearby

(We open with a panel of Rictor kneeling down in the mansion's main room amidst the rubble and unconscious bodies while Forge angrily paces around the room). "Is this the part of the movie where one of the protagonists actually begins to fathom the level to which their chances of survival have sunk," (We then see Rictor ask with an openly sour and concerned look on his face as he brushes aside a tray of half eaten caviar and a few broken wine glasses). "Possibly, although I'm more inclined to believe that this is the scene in said movie where the friends and or allies of the main protagonists come to the conclusion that things are not as they appear to be and that the true horror facing them has only just begun," (We then see a grim and serious Forge say as he's on the other side of the main room, as he picks up an overturned chair and then sets it back down the correct way beside a half burnt out table).

"I like my version better," (We then see Rictor reply with an uneasy smile on his face as he stands back up and turns to Forge). "Let's move on, we haven't found any sign of them here and Warren and the others can't hold the Aerous off forever," (We then see Forge say with a frustrated and impatient frown on his face before he pushes aside a couple of smashed tables and heads for the stairs). "Should we split up, we could cover more ground that way, maybe find them faster," (We then see Rictor ask with a nervous look on his face as he gets to the bottom of the stairs). "I don't think that'd be wise Julio, we don't know how many hostiles are still actively roaming the hallways, damn it, why hasn't she contacted me," (We then see Forge disagree with an impatient and concerned scowl on his face as he turns back around to face Rictor with his hands on his waist). "Wait, what are you talking about, who hasn't contacted you yet," (We then see a surprised and somewhat angry and suspicious Rictor ask as he walks up to Forge and crosses his arms).

"Psylocke, even a rookie telepath should be sable to detect our presence here…and the fact that we haven't heard even the slightest peep out of her…is not filling me with confidence," (We then see Forge answer with a cold expression on his face as he's looking Rictor straight in the eye before he turns around and storms off down the hallway, leaving Rictor to stand there in silence for a few seconds before we then see him look back into the main room of the mansion to see the eerie stillness of the room). (Then we see Rictor scowl and then turn and hurry off after Forge).

Downstairs

(We then see a few panels of a shadowed hulking figure dragging Tabitha, with a rope or cable wrapped around her ankles, through a darkened hallway as we see that she's all beaten and bloodied up while she's starting to softly mumble something incoherently). "Foolish child, in a few short moments you will know true pain," (We then see the shadowy figure say with a delighted sneer on his face, as only his teeth are clearly visible, as he turns back to look down at Tabitha). "Nnh…I could seriously do with you shutting the hell up," (We then see Tabitha get out through bloody lips as one eye is closed, one is barely open with a dark bruise on her cheek as other than that she hasn't moved a muscle). "Eh…you're awake, I many have underestimated your resolve, or your stupidity," (We then see the shadowy figure say with a sneer before he stops pulling Tabitha behind him for a moment before he kicks her hard in the ribs, to which she cries out in pain and sheds some tears).

(Then we see a panel or two of Tabitha crying and wincing badly in pain before she puts an arm out and tries to begin to crawl away). "Like the rest of your kind, cowering before me like the whore that you are," (We then see the shadowy figure add with an extra zealous and mocking sneer on his face before we flash down to Tabitha, who snaps to attention at the insult and she gets a very angry grimace of anger through the pain on her face as we also see her fingers begin to crackle with energy). "Well what do we have here…have you gone from turning tricks to…," (We then see the shadowy figure joke before we then see Tabitha painfully shout back, still with tears in her eyes), "Screw you," (as she points her hands towards the shadowy figure and lets loose a powerful plasma wave that blasts the shadowy figure, who growls in shock and pain, up into the air and then through a nearby wall, unfortunately thus taking Tabitha with him as she cries out at first), "Oh shi…," (with a scared look on her face and wide eyes before she then crashes through an already weakened part of the wall).

"Stupid girl, you'll pay for that," (We then see the shadowy figure howl in anger as he picks himself up off of the ground before he then grabs an even bloodier Tabitha by the neck and hauls her up as her feet are still bound together by the rope). "Y…you take a check," (We then see Tabitha stutter out weakly as she's trying to stay awake). "Don't you try that again you little bitch…or else I'll finish you off right here and now before…," (We then see the shadowy figure growl back at Tabitha before we then see him step forward into the dim light). (We see that he looks mostly human but his skin is cast in very black shadows, he has blood red slits for eyes with what looks like two large red jewels set through the palms of his hands that go through to the back of his hands). (We see that the jewels are both crackling with energy as then a similar round jewel, that's set into his forehead, begins to crackle with energy as well). "Let her go," (We then see someone say from off panel that makes the guy holding Tabitha to stop in mid act as he's about to speak before he glares out at us and yells angrily), "What…who the hell are you?"

"I said…let her go," (We then see Warpath say with a very stern and threatening look on his face as he's standing in the hole in the wall that the guy and Tabitha made as he pushes some of the crumbling drywall down). "I would advise you to let her go before things get ugly," (We then see Betsy add with a very serious and threatening look on her face as she painfully limps into the room over the debris). "Seems to me things just –got- ugly," (We then see the guy that's holding Tabitha shout back, with a mocking sneer on his face as he's glaring at Betsy). "Oh boy…now you're in for it," (We then see Tabitha say with an excited and pointed smile on her face as she glares at the guy that's trying to choke her). "Let her go…or else," (We then see Warpath state again with a more threatening look on his face as he takes a step forward). "Well now…looks like at least one of you X-men is not afraid to step up to the plate," (We then see the guy that's holding Tabitha say back with a cocky sneer on his face before Betsy cuts in as she's now suddenly right behind the guy that's holding Tabitha), "Guess I'll have to hit a home run then won't I." (Then we see Betsy rear back and activate her psyknife before she then drives it into the back of the guys head).

(Then we see the guy react like he got stabbed in the back as he howls in pain, drops Tabitha who falls to the ground with a thud, before he drops down to his knees). "Thanks," (We then see a nearly unconscious Tabitha say weakly in a close up panel of her face). "Don't mention it Tabitha, but…," (We then see Betsy start to reply with a tired look on her face before we then see Warpath take a step forward and interrupt), "What…no this psyknife is the total sum of my powers…seriously ma'am, it's a classic." (Then we see Betsy stare at Warpath like she's angry at him before she can't help but change her expression to a sly smile before she then laughs and says), "What can I say…out with the old and in with the new, I have to admit that I was getting pretty tired of always reciting that line over and over and over again." "Can we go home now," (We then see Tabitha ask with a tired yawn as she tries to catch her breath while gently rubbing her bruised throat with one hand while trying to untie the rope around her ankles with the other but she can't get it undone because the knot is to tight for her).

"Here Tabitha, let me," (We then see Warpath say with a sympathetic and worried frown on his face as he kneels down at Tabitha's side and sets about untying the rope while we see Betsy slump down to find a seat amidst the debris and she hands her head a bit, and as she does so she runs her hands through her hair, taking the ponytail fully out, with a tired and defeated posture). "I don't want to do this Tabitha, but I have no choice…we must find the nukes, even if it means that I have miss my children waking up…little Charles with those beautiful baby blue eyes of his, just like his fathers, and my beautiful Moira…no Tabitha even though it pains me to stay here a moment longer I have no choice, it's what must be done for the…for the…," (We then see Betsy say in a short series of panels of her face and upper body as we see the toll that this has all been taking as we see that it's breaking her heart to be away from her children as well as not knowing whether or not Warren is alive or dead). "For the sake of the world, we know…," (We then see Warpath finish with a very serious look on his face as he picks a sleepy Tabitha up in his arms).

"What the hell happened here," (We then see Forge ask with a concerned scowl on his face, gun drawn, with an edgy Rictor at his back, ready for anything). "We could try explaining it all to you…but that'd take far to long and I'm all sleepy at the moment," (We then see a quickly tiring Tabitha say as she drops her head into the crook of Warpath's shoulder before then in the next panel we see Tabitha fall asleep). "Should she be sleeping right now," (We then see a very worried Rictor ask as he lays a hand on Tabitha's shoulder before we then see Betsy lift her head up and turn to Rictor and then say), "For the moment she's alright, but it would be best if we do not stick around here any longer than we absolutely have to."

"Agreed, but we have more pressing matters to deal with at this time, namely the location of the two nuclear warheads currently still at large," (We then see Forge say with a very concerned and serious look on his face as he checks Tabitha's pulse). "Not to mention the hell that's still waiting for us outside…remember," (We then see Rictor add with a nervous look on his face before we then see Betsy look back up with a slightly confused look on her face and ask), "What are you talking about, what hell?" (Then we see them all jerk to attention as the mansion shakes violently).

Outside, The Aerous

(We open with a half panel of Warren flying in the air as he's almost bent over backwards with his wings outstretched in an attempt to avoid the snap of another whip before we then see Erica get blown off of the edge of the cliff and she shouts for help). (Then we see Warren shout), "Erica," (with a shocked look on his face before he goes into a sudden dive before we see him dodge and weave and avoid the whips and claws and other weapons of the Aerous as they try to stop him). He falls out of the sky, wrapping his wings tightly around his body, descending faster and faster in his attempt to save the life of a fellow teammate. (We then see Warren swoop down and deftly catch a tumbling Erica as she then lets out a yelp of surprise and relief before she wraps her arms tightly around Warren's neck as he starts to fly back up and out of the ravine). "My hero," (We then see Erica say with a flattered smile on her face before we then see Warren blush a bit and roll his eyes and then groan), "Damn straight Erica…just do me a favor okay."

"Anything you want handsome," (We then see Erica reply with a slightly cheesy grin on her face as Warren gets back up to the side of the cliff). "Don't make me do that again…understand," (We then see Warren answer with a very stern and cold look on his face as he rather rudely then dumps her into a deep bank of snow as she curses in surprise and anger before she jumps back up to her feet and glares up at Warren before he dodges to the left, catches the end of one of the whips and then he uses the whip to pull that Aerous closer to him so that he can then slam his fist into its face). "Any word from Forge," (We then see Pete ask with an unhappy frown on his face as he's using his cane to deflect the blows of the weapons of the various Aerous that are trying to overwhelm him). "Nothing yet," (We then see Erica reply with a very frustrated and impatient scowl on her face before an Aerous swoops down low and crashes headlong into her as the two then go crashing back into a large snowbank). (Then we see a few panels of Shatterstar and Gomurr fighting off the Aerous as Shatterstar drives his swords through the chest of one of the Aerous with an angry sneer on his face).

"Alright…," (We then see someone say from off panel before we then see a panel of Erica, getting up off of her knees as she looks like she's having a meltdown of sorts, with her fists tightly clenched and a very angry grimace on her face as her eyes are ablaze with fire as also there's a halo of fire around her with the snowbank melting instantly and the dirt and grass beneath that singed and burning and the nearby Aerous are burning like human bonfires). "That's it," (We then see Erica finish as she then fires off several jets of fire out at the nearest Aerous). "Remind me to never get that lady…," (We then see Pete start to say with a half sarcastic smirk on his face before he's nearly knocked out by a blow from one of the Aerous, a blow that sends him back hard into the side of the cliff). "Less talk more ass kicking," (We then see Gomurr crack with a sinister grin on his face before he jabs the end of his cane into the stomach of a charging Aerous and he then brings the head of his cane down on the back of that Aerous' head).

"I couldn't have said it better myself," (We then see Warren exclaim with a very stern scowl on his face before he grabs one of the Aerous by the wrist, spins around, and flings that Aerous up into the air and directly into one of the Aerous that is charging headlong down out of the sky at him). "Fekt…this is pointless, why must we fight these lackeys, where are those responsible," (We then see Shatterstar growl with a frustrated and angry sneer on his face as he kicks an Aerous in the gut and then flips his grip on his swords around and he then drives the swords down through the back of that same Aerous). "My…my, that boy certainly loves his work doesn't he," (We then see Gomurr joke in the background as it looks like he's just an observer in the whole fray as in the foreground we see Shatterstar shove his swords straight up through the chest of another of the Aerous). "He does at that," (We then see Pete add with a sarcastic look on his face as he painfully hobbles away from the side of the cliff and he then sets about trying to duck out of the way of another attack).

Inside

They hurriedly tear through every nook and cranny of the dwelling, furiously tearing each and every room apart at the seams. After having abandoned the search of the upper levels, due largely to the lack of time and evidence, they descend into the depths of the lower levels. (We open with a fully blackened out panel with all sorts of creaking and other sounds like that as someone is walking down the stairs). (Then we see a light be turned on and we see Rictor standing in the midst of a trashed room). "I'm simply compelled to say that I love what they've done with the place," (We then see Betsy say with a sarcastic smirk on her face as she limps into the light and wipes her finger across the top of a very dusty desk). "Guess they must have fired the maid then," (We then see Rictor say back with a sly grin on his face as he's squatting down amidst all of the debris). "Pushing aside your wretched attempt at candor Julio I believe that we're on the wrong track here, this room is exactly like the last half dozen that we spent a god-awful amount of time sifting through…damn," (We then see Betsy say back with a rather angry and scornful scowl on her face as she then violently overturns the desk that she just took the dust from and the desk comes very close to hitting Rictor in the process).

"Hey, that almost hit me," (We then see Rictor exclaim with an angry and startled look on his face as he jumps back away from the desk and then glares up at Betsy from his place on the floor). "Don't be such a sourpuss, it missed you by at least a few centimeters…," (We then see Betsy reply with a somewhat cold look on her face as she looks as if she isn't bothered that he desk almost hit Rictor). "Your concern for my wellbeing is astounding Psylocke, you know that right," (We then see Rictor say back with a sarcastic scowl on his face as he then stands up and brushes himself off). "My concern for your well being is directly proportionate to the fact that your timely arrival probably saved this mission from being a complete and miserable failure, but don't be deluded into believing that it goes any further than that, my caring is reserved for those who are willing to stay in the trenches beside me and…," (We then see Betsy say back with a very serious look on her face before she waves Rictor to follow her as she limps away towards another door that's slightly ajar).

"Hey now don't make this out to be about me supposedly being a coward or something like that," (We then see Rictor yell with an angry and slightly hurt look on his face as he clenches his fists tightly and starts to walk towards her). (Then we see Betsy turn back to look at Rictor over her shoulder and then say with a scolding and almost angry look on her face), "You coming?" (Then we see a panel of Rictor about to say something but he then just shakes his head in anger and mutters to himself as he follows along after Betsy). (Then we see a side panel of Betsy and Rictor walking down the stairs as it's a cut away side panel). (Then we see Betsy get to the bottom of the stairs and the door and she stops abruptly as we see Betsy's psychic butterfly flash onto her forehead before we then see Rictor almost stumble into her as he starts to ask her what happened). (Then we see Betsy turn back and harshly hiss at him to shut up).

Stay where you are , (We then see Betsy think back to Rictor with an unhappy scowl on her face before we then see Rictor think back with a shocked and surprised look on his face), What…why? Because I have a run in my hose… , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically with a rather scornful sneer on her face as she glares back up and over her shoulder at Rictor, who furrows his brows in confusion). (Then we see Betsy roll her eyes and shake her head before we then see her very painfully kneel down in front of the door and place her palm flat up against the door and she closes her eyes while behind her we see Rictor at first start to stop and ask Betsy what she's doing but he stops and then puts his hands together like a gun and we see him get in a nervously defensive stance like he's awaiting an attack). "What is it," (We then see Rictor ask under his breath as we see him build up a bit of energy around his hands in preparation for anything). How the bloody hell should I know, maybe if you'd shut your mouth and be quiet for a few seconds I could try to figure that out , (We then see Betsy angrily say back telepathically with a sarcastic look on her face and cocking of one eyebrow).

Let's just get his over with , (We then see Rictor growl back via Betsy's telepathy with a sarcastic scowl on his face before we then see Betsy slowly and carefully push the door open). Learning as much as she can via a simple application of her telepathy Elizabeth Braddock decides to take a more proactive approach in the search. (Then we see a side panel of Betsy pushing the door open before we then see a panel of a lot of guards firing laser weapons directly at the open door). "Look out," (We then see Betsy yell as she falls back and brings up a telekinetic shield that covers the doorway).

San Francisco

(We open with a panel of Siryn in the kitchen, leaning on the counter, yawning heavily as the microwave is running). (Then we see Sam taking a drink of water with an open bottle of pills sitting in front of him on the counter). "Remind me again why ye're still up," (We then see Siryn ask with a weary look on her face as she pushes away from the microwave with one hand while she then winces a bit with the other hand over the wound on her stomach). "Because it wouldn't be right for me to go to bed and leave you up all by yourself," (We then see Sam say with a smirk on his face before he then finishes off the glass of water). (Then we see Sam try to close the bottle of pills on his own but he has trouble and then we see Siryn watching him fail to close the pill bottle with an amused smirk on her face as she then starts to laugh at Sam but stops and then winces badly in pain and leans back on the counter for support as we see Sam turn his head and look over at Siryn with a concerned look on his face). "I'm fine Sam, don' fret about little old me…I'm fit as a fiddle," (We then see Siryn say with a slight smile on her face as she tries to wave off the concerned look on Sam's face).

"I'll remember to tell Jimmy that the next time you try to bow out of something," (We then see Sam say with a half smirk on his face before he turns away and starts to walk out of the kitchen but he stops when the light above the door blinks on and starts to flash). "Perfect…," (We then see Siryn moan with an unhappy look on her face as she throws her head back slightly and rolls her eyes before we then see Sam half turn back and say with a weary and serious look on his face), "We'd better go see what Warren wants." "Yeah, who knows maybe it'll be good news…for once," (We then see Siryn say with a hopeful look on her face before we see the two walk out of the kitchen and then we see a few panels of them walking to the ops room as there's a light blinking underneath the large screen television).

(Then we see Sam sit down in the main chair while Siryn turns the television on and gingerly pulls up a chair as we see Xavier appear on the screen as he doesn't look very happy). "Hello Professor, what can we do for you," (We then see Sam ask with a genteel smile on his face as he leans back in his chair). "I wish that I could say that I come to you with good news, but I'm afraid Samuel…that I cannot," (We then see Xavier say with a very unhappy scowl on his face as we see that Xavier is in his bathrobe). "Ye make it sound like doomsday is about t' descend upon us before morning Charles, it can' be that bad," (We then see Siryn ask with a very worried look on her face as she leans forward slightly and holds a hand over the knife wound on her stomach). "I'm afraid that it is Theresa, two hours ago I was awoken suddenly by such a powerful and chaotic psychic backlash that I immediately became concerned about Warren and Elizabeth and the rest of you," (We then see Xavier say with a very grim and concerned look on his face as he's holding a cup of hot coffee up near his mouth).

"We're fine Professor, Terry and I are only up because we couldn't sleep," (We then see Sam reply with a slightly sheepish grin on his face as we see that Xavier isn't buying it in the least). "Don't lie to me Samuel, you're better than that," (We then see Xavier say with a grim and serious frown on his face as we then see Siryn and Sam cringe a bit and give each other scared looks). "So you know about that…," (We then see Siryn say with a timid and somewhat worried look on her face as she hunches her shoulders a bit and brushes some strands of hair off of her face and back behind her ear). "Yes Theresa…I do, Warren and Elizabeth are currently embroiled in a bitter struggle against the Aerous," (We then see Xavier say with a restrained and impatient look on his face as he reaches up and scratches his chin). "Wanna run that by us again Professor…the what…," (We then see Siryn ask with a bewildered look on her face as she turns to face the large screen).

"For now I'll keep it to the basics children, the others are in mortal danger and need our assistance," (We then see Xavier say with a serious look on his face as he looks back and forth between Sam and Siryn). "I hate t' be the one to burst your bubble here sir…but in case ye haven' noticed Sam n' I aren't exactly in any sort of condition to be up at this hour, let alone trek across the globe t' help our loved ones, no matter how badly we want to," (We then see Siryn say with a look of sincere earnest on her face as she straightens up and looks almost ready to tear up). "A handicap only hampers you if you allow it to," (We then see Xavier say with an almost teacher and mentor like look on his face before he rubs his eyes and lowers his head a bit). "But Professor Xavier, you've had years to come to terms with you…condition, Terry can barely walk without doubling over in pain, and me…well about an hour or so from now I should be passed out on my bed so...," (We then see Sam say with an uneasy look on his face before he yawns widely).

"What is required of the two of you is minimal when compared to the price that others have been forced to pay in the service of the greater good," (We then see Xavier say with an almost scornful and disapproving look on his face as he slumps down in his seat). "He didn' mean to slight you sir, I'm sure that…," (We then see Siryn say with a nervous and regretful look of embarrassment on her face as she scoots forward to the edge of her seat). "I'm not the world's most powerful telepath for nothing Theresa, I am well aware of what young Samuel meant by his words…but that is a discussion best saved for a later date…as for our current predicament I need the two of you to do me a small favor," (We then see Xavier say with a somewhat somber frown on his face as he takes a deep breath). "What kind of favor Professor…exactly," (We then see Siryn ask with a worried look on her face as she slowly pushes herself back up to her feet and leans heavily on one of the desks).

"I know that I am asking a lot and would not be asking this of you if the need were not dire…," (We then see Xavier say with a deadly serious look on his face as he sets his drink down and forms a steeple in front of his face with his fingers as we see a panel of him deep in thought). "Just spit it out sir, the suspense is killing me faster than Tabitha's cooking," (We then see Sam add with a slight smirk on his face as he leans forward in his chair and then doubles over in pain and also grunts in pain). "Sam," (We then see Xavier ask with a worried look on his face as he leans forward slightly in his chair). "Ah'm okay…," (We then see Sam say weakly with a hand up in front of him before he then lifts his head just a bit and we then see him grimace in pain). "Okay…I know that you have another X-jet at your disposal," (We then see Xavier begin with a very serious frown on his face as we then see a wider panel of Sam and Siryn with looks on their faces as if something is coming to a head).

"Let me guess, ye want t' borrow it," (We then see Siryn joke with a half amused smile on her face before Sam then joins in), "Though I doubt that Warren would just…." "He'll take it easy on me granted that we get there quickly enough and keep them all from dying," (We then see Xavier add with a very serious look on his face as he leans back in his chair). "Okay sir, ye can drop all of the suspense…just spill it," (We then see Siryn say with an impatient and frustrated pout on her face as she turns back to look at Xavier on the big screen). "I want the two of you to pilot the spare X-jet back here to the mansion and pick me up, I'll be waiting for you by the pool, before we race across the Pacific and hope that we're not to late," (We then see Xavier say as he punches up some info onto the screen and looks up at Sam and Siryn and awaits their answer).

(Then we see a quick panel or two of Sam and Siryn as they give each other a nervous and confused looks on their faces before we then see Sam look up and say with a very serious look on his face), "Ten four sir…just don't expect any miracles." (Then we see Xavier reply with a serious look on his face in the background, as in the foreground we see Sam and Siryn get up and slowly start to make their way out of the ops room), "I expect only your best Samuel, but I am not an overly cruel man…I won't expect any more than you are able to give."

Japan

"Got any more bright ideas…oh wise one…," (We then see someone say from off panel before we then cut to a panel of Warren, half lying face down in the snow and holding himself up out of the snow with one arm while he's grimacing in pain and holding his side with the other as we also see that his side is bleeding heavily through a large rip in his suit and he's covered in wet snow and his wings look pretty ratty), "…because at this moment we could really use of one of your master plans because I'm not a very big fan of my lower intestines being skewered by my own broken ribs…." "Hush you, I've gotten out of far worse than this in my long life…why have I ever told any of you kids about the time that I…," (We then see Gomurr say with a slightly cheesy and hurt smile and look on his face as he turns back to Warren).

"Would someone please shut him up," (We then see Erica yell with an extremely pissed off sneer on her face as she's trying her best to strangle one of the Aerous). "You waste your breath, these…creatures, have no honor to…," (We then see Shatterstar growl with a very scornful and mocking expression on his face before he blocks the attack of one of the Aerous with his sword and he then kills that same Aerous with his other sword). "It doesn't matter if they have any bloody honor kid, just rip their hearts out," (We then see Pete yell with an angry grimace on his face before he then jabs the end of his cane into the stomach of one of the Aerous). "Do they even have hearts," (We then see Eric ask with a confused look on her face as she lets the Aerous that she had been trying to choke fall unconscious to the ground).

"Let's find out then shall we," (We then see a very determined and driven Warren say as he picks himself up off of the ground and then grabs a nearby Aerous by the throat with his left hand while he rears back and then drives his right first into the chest of the same Aerous while yelling loudly as in the background we see everyone with very shocked looks on their faces, except for Gomurr, who looks excited at the prospect of finding out whether or not the Aerous have hearts). "Oh my…," (We then see Erica exclaim with a surprised and disgusted look on her face before she then turns away, goes to her knees with a hand up on the side of the cliff and the other hand is over her mouth as she's trying desperately not to throw up as we hear a few odd sounds). "Well that's certainly one way to go about it," (We then see Gomurr add with a calm look on his face as he turns around and stares back at Erica who's still trying not to throw up near the cliff).

(Then we see a panel of Pete Wisdom and Shatterstar as they give each other an unsure look before we then see Pete shrug his shoulders before Shatterstar gets a better grip on his swords and then launches himself at the nearest concentration of the Aerous). "Guess they do have a heart," (We then see Warren say with a slightly surprised but not overly impressed look on his face as he holds the bloody heart of the Aerous in his hand as the blood runs down his forearm as the Aerous drops dead at his feet). "That they do kid," (We then see Gomurr say with a satisfied look on his face as he walks towards Warren and then pats Warren on the back before we then see Warren say with a very stunned and to a degree horrified look on his face as he lets the heart drop out of his hand and drop to the ground as it slips out and his fingers remain in the same exact position), "My God…what have I done?"

"Fallen under the influence of the Aerous I'm afraid, you'd better do something soon or else you'll be lost to," (We then see Gomurr say with a serious and concerned look on his face as he turns back to face another group of charging Aerous). "That won't happen," (We then see Warren say with a very determined and somewhat vindictive scowl on his face as he turns to face the onslaught of the Aerous that are charging towards him). "See that it doesn't my friend," (We then see Pete exclaim with a very serious and almost mocking look on his face before he gives the nearest Aerous a face full of fire). "I am…fekt, usually not one to admit to any weakness on the field of battle, but even I cannot defeat an army of this size alone," (We then see Shatterstar say with an unhappy scowl on his face as he's sweating heavily and very dirty while stabbing another Aerous through the chest). (Then we see a wide fighting panel of everyone fighting in the foreground as then in the background we see Erica not spin away from an attack from behind as she gets an elbow in the back that knocks her down into a nearby bank of snow as she lets out a yelp of both pain and shock as she gets a giant face full of snow).

The Basement

(We open with a panel of several laser blasts slamming into a well fortified telekinetic force field with words in the panel as well that say), "How long can you keep this up," (and also), "In theory forever…although in truth the time is more akin to the amount of time that I am able to keep my concentration." "Then let's hope nothing breaks your concentration…," (We then see Rictor say with a very serious and scared look on his face as he's looking out at us over Betsy's left shoulder as we see Betsy's face as the pinnacle of concentration as beads of sweat are rolling down her face in waves). "Whether I am able to hold my shield up forever is not what's important right now , this is wasting valuable time, time that we cannot afford to lose, we need to find the nukes," (We then see Betsy say with an unhappy look on her face as she looks back at Rictor out of the corner of her eyes). "So…," (We then see Rictor ask with a confused look on his face as he turns and looks back up the stairs).

"So…Julio, don't you think that you should do something about that…as in finding the nukes," (We then see Betsy add with a less than thrilled scowl on her face as she loses her grip just a bit and the telekinetic shield slips a bit and a stray laser blast is deflected into the wall just above Rictor's head, sending a small shower of plaster, wood, dust, and paint chips down on to the heads of Betsy and Rictor). (Then we see Betsy's psychic butterfly appear on her forehead as we see that she almost loses her concentration as she's very surprised by her powers acting up). "What…what is it," (We then see Rictor ask with a confused and very worried look on his face as he lays a hand on Betsy's shoulder). "Shut it," (We then see Betsy hiss back at him, causing Rictor to snatch his hand back in a hurry before we then see Xavier's head appear next to Betsy's as a psychic connection as we then see Xavier say with a serious and somewhat curious look on his face), Elizabeth…where are you?

Not now Charles, I'm a bit busy at the moment , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically with an unhappy frown on her face as it's clear that she's beginning to weaken). We don't have time for this Elizabeth, to much is on the line…have you located the warheads yet , (We then see Xavier reply back telepathically with a very stern frown on his face as we see that Betsy is barely paying him any heed). Not…as of yet, but in our defense we have run into a few quite unexpected impediments in our search for the nuclear warheads Charles , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically in a bit of a huff and an impatient scowl on her face as we see her strengthen the shield as Rictor takes a couple of steps up the stairs and stops and looks back down at Betsy). We can place blame all you want Elizabeth, but it'll have to wait until everyone is home safe and sound and all…of the nukes are located and turned over to the proper authorities, then we will… , (We then see Xavier shoot back with a stern and unmovable look on his face as he turns his head and glances over at the soldiers that are firing their lasers at Betsy and Rictor).

I know the drill Charles, but unless you're just going to droll on and on about one inane topic after another and then pop out like some stereotypical old time magician… , (We then see Betsy grumble with a look of scorn on her face as it looks like Betsy thinks of Xavier's psychic head more of as an annoying fly buzzing around her head rather than of her friend and mentor). You know me better than that…but this matter is to urgent for us to squabble about like schoolchildren, hold your position and advance if you can…I'm going to check in with the others and get and update on their progress , (We then see Xavier reply with a very serious look on his face before he then dissipates into thin air, leaving a confused Rictor and an upset Betsy there to continue the good fight).

The Dining Room

"God…this is all just so…so…," (We then see a half asleep Tabitha start to say with an uncomfortable look on her face as she traces a circle with the tip of her index finger around the rip of one of the fancy unbroken plates as she's sitting in one of the fancy chairs at the table). "Gluttonous…there are what, thousands…if not tens of thousands of people starving all over the world and these guys…," (We then see an angered and upset Warpath say as he leans on the table opposite Tabitha's seat with a knocked over chair at his feet). "Should be ashamed of themselves, yes James I'm well aware of the have's and have nots, trust me kid, I saw enough of that in Nam for three lifetimes," (We then see a stern and disapproving Forge say as he's sifting through a large stack of papers). "Right, so then you know what I'm talking about," (We then see Warpath say back with a somewhat relieved look on his face before Tabitha breaks in as she gingerly gets up to her feet and says), "You two gonna mope all night…cause if you are then I'm just gonna hafta find those bombs all by myself."

(Then we see a panel or two of Tabitha slowly making her way out of the room, leaning heavily on one thing or another to keep herself upright as Warpath is surprised at this and looks to Forge as if he's asking for permission to stop her while Forge looks a bit confused as to why Warpath is even asking him). (Then we see Tabitha just about get to the door before we then see a telepathic voice stop her in her tracks as she looks up), That's far enough Tabitha." "Charles," (We then see Forge say with a surprised somewhat look on his face as he stops sifting through the papers and looks up). I am on my way to your location and hope to arrive with the hour , (We then see Xavier's telepathic voice say as both Warpath and Tabitha look excited and to a point relieved looks on their faces before we then cut over to Forge who has a concerned look on his face as he turns back to face Warpath and Tabitha as he then says), "Listen Charles, not to spoil the moment here but…last I knew you did not know how to pilot one of the new X-jets, so unless…."

I have not made a miraculous and sudden change of any of the faculties or abilities Forge, to combat that I've enlisted Samuel and Theresa's aid , (We then see Xavier's voice say as we see first Tabitha and then Warpath look up at first with happy and excited looks on their faces before their looks change to a more concerned one). "Wait a minute, Professor…how dare you get Sam to…," (We then see Tabitha say with an angry scowl on her face as she tightly clenches her fists at her sides and she glares up into the air as we then see Warpath not looking very happy as he's also gazing up into the air). Easy Tabitha, I am well aware of Sam's physical condition, Theresa's as well James, I have only enlisted their service because I do not know how to pilot the new X-jet, to put your fears at ease both Sam and Terry will stay aboard this X-jet, well away from any of the fighting…and when this is all over I'm sure that you will have some downtime to recover, and I promise you that I will work to make sure that you both make it to that point , (We then see Xavier telepathically say back as we see Warpath relax a bit and then Tabitha does as well, but she keeps her fists clenched at her sides).

"Well that's all well and good to say Charles, but we're still not closer to finding the weapons than we were three hours ago, and Warren and the others out fighting the Aerous cannot hold out forever," (We then see a pessimistic Forge say with an impatient scowl on his face as he crosses the room and lays his hand on the doorknob that leads out of the room while he holds his gun at the ready). I hope to help you with that Forge, when we land I'll scan everyone's minds, but being respectful I will restrict my search to only thoughts and memories that pertain to the nuclear warheads , (We then see Xavier say back telepathically to everyone as Forge looks up a bit unsure, Tabitha looks a bit worried, and Warpath looks a bit nervous). "I don't know sir, that sounds a bit fishy to me, won't you still be invading their minds without their permission," (We then see a concerned Tabitha ask as she takes a step back into the room and then comes to stand directly in front of Warpath, who doesn't look like he's completely convinced that Xavier's plan is a very good one).

With our circumstances being what they are Tabitha…I don't truly see any other course of actions to take , (We then see Xavier reply telepathically as we see Tabitha frown sadly and let her chin dip down a bit and Warpath wring his hands before he then puts his hands on his hips as then we see Forge open the door that he had been about to open and he takes a quick look around and then shuts that door and turns back to Warpath and Tabitha). "How about we serve them some tea and ask them real nicely if they'll tell us where the nukes are," (We then see Tabitha ask with a really and almost sugary sweet, smile on her face as she turns and looks up at Warpath, who tries to smile). "Nice try Tabitha, but I don't think that'd work even if you stripped down to your skivvies and pirouetted by them in a rainstorm," (We then see Warpath say with an uneasy and unsure pout on his face as he lays a consoling hand on Tabitha's shoulder as she looks back up at him with a glare).

Be that as it may James I believe that your mere presence at the interrogations will help our cause immensely , (We then see Xavier's voice say telepathically as Warpath shrugs his shoulders and looks to be agreeable to at least try Xavier's idea). "That's all well and good Charles, but it still does not facilitate our finding the ordinance, by my calculations we have thirty…maybe fifty minutes at most, those interrogations that you're suggesting had better…," (We then see Forge say with a pessimistic scowl on his face as he walks towards Warpath and Tabitha). Then we shouldn't waste any more time arguing over this , (We then see Xavier say back telepathically before we then leave Warpath, Tabitha, and Forge where they are and move out of the mansion and up and into the X-jet as we see Sam at the controls, flying the X-jet with one hand while he holds his injured arm in a sling while we see Siryn sitting in another of the seats looking very uncomfortable and not happy at having to be where she is and we then see Xavier in his wheelchair at one of the other stations within the X-jet).

"So what did Tabitha say Professor, when she found out that we were coming," (We then see Sam ask with an unsure and concerned smile on his face as he half turns and looks over at Siryn). "Not much, she was happy at first…but then she became a bit terse," (We then see Xavier say in the background as we're looking back through the X-jet from the front screen as Sam's face is in the foreground and at first Sam smiles warmly and almost laughs a bit before his look changes to an almost scared look on his face). "You're in for it now boyo," (We then see Siryn joke with a wide grin on her face as she leans over and winks at Sam before she has to cut her joke short as she then winces a bit in pain). "You should be so lucky there Theresa, James did not say much about your inclusion in this, however I believe that he will want to talk to you later on," (We then see Xavier say with at first a calm and even keeled expression on his face before he smiles a bit at the end as we see Siryn sigh deeply and look worried).

"Ye really know how t' kill the mood don't you sir," (We then see Siryn say with a sarcastic pout on her face as she carefully crosses her arms in front of her). "I try Theresa, I stay up really late into the night coming up with ways to ruin your…," (We then see Xavier reply with an amused grin on his face before we then see some proximity alarms start to go off causing Xavier's smile to instantly slip off of his face as he looks up, Siryn looks as if she just got goosed and Sam closes his mouth firmly, takes a deep breath through his nose and scowls heavily). "Great…now what," (We then see Siryn say with an angry scowl on her face as she uncrosses her arms and gingerly leans forward in her seat and begins to click off a number of switches and turns some knobs as it seems that she doesn't like what she's seeing). "What's out there Terry," (We then see Sam ask with a very serious look on his face as he struggles to maintain control with only one arm while Xavier then adds with an equally serious look on his face as he reaches up overhead and flips a switch on an overhead panel that shuts the alarms off), "I sense a very evil intent here."

"I'm not sure Sam, I don't recognize any of these configurations…I don't think that they're even human," (We then see Siryn answer with a confused and unsure look on her face as she continues to check the readings). "That's nothing new Theresa, at least for us," (We then see Xavier say with a concerned look on his face as his wheelchair backs away from the center console and rolls over to sit beside Siryn, who seems to welcome his assistance). "I know that sir, it's just that…oh I don't know, don' you ever wish that just for once we could actually take on an adversary that's normal," (We then see Siryn say with a frustrated and anxious look on her face as she runs her fingers through her hair). "Define normal…," (We then see Sam ask with a serious look on his face as he turns around in his chair as best he can and looks over at Siryn and Xavier).

"Normal, as in your usual run of the bloody mill muggers, bank robbers, petty thieves…that kind of normal…," (We then see Siryn answer with a look of some regret on her face as she leans forward on the console with her elbows as her chin is resting in her upturned palms). "You want bank robbers, muggers and the like caught Terry…call Spider-man," (We then see Sam joke with a smile on his face before the alarms go off again, much to Siryn's chagrin). "That is starting to become annoying," (We then see Siryn moan with an annoyed scowl on her face as we then see Xavier scowl and furrow his brows in concern as he leans forward over the control panel and closely inspects the readings as they come in). "You recognize anything sir," (We then see Siryn ask with a concerned look on her face as she leans forward and takes a deep breath as she looks hopefully at Xavier).

"Not right off hand no Theresa, but that's no reason to let that stop us from discovering something new," (We then see Xavier say with a very serious and contemplative frown on his face as he runs his right index finger down a list of the readouts). "Onward and upward eh," (We then see Siryn say with an odd smirk on her face before Xavier turns and scowls at her, causing her to drop her smirk instantly and turn to Sam). "I don't recognize these readings, not fully, although they do strike me in an odd way, as if I have…," (We then see Xavier add with a concerned look on his face as he continues to study the readings). "Come on sir, we're almost there…and we aren't gonna get a warm reception," (We then see Sam say with a concerned look on his face as he then grimaces in pain and looks out through the front view-screen). "I'm aware of that Samuel, while Theresa and I try to discover the identity of our forthwith adversaries I'm going to need you to get in contact with the rest of the team and get a progress report," (We then see Xavier reply with an authoritative expression on his face as he looks back over his shoulder at Sam).

"Over the regular frequencies," (We then see Sam ask as he carefully lets go of the controls and flips a couple of switches on the console in front of him). "Better try and use some of the lesser scrambled ones, run it through the computer a couple of times before you try to contact Elizabeth and Warren and the others," (We then see Xavier reply with a concerned and serious look on his face before we then see Sam nod his head).

Elsewhere

"This is…disappointing," (We then see Betsy say with a pained look on her face as she's a mess as she's picking herself up out of the rubble that was the doorway that she had taken shelter in as she's on her knees and elbows). "Don't move," (We then see one of the soldiers shout with a half sneer on his face, and his gun up and at the ready, as he and the other soldiers encircle Betsy with their guns aimed at her head as we then see a quick panel through the scope of one of the soldiers guns and we see the crosshair's straight over the side of Betsy's head). "That an order…soldier," (We then see Betsy ask with a sly grin on her face as she turns her head and looks up through her hair at the closest soldier, as her eyes also begin to glow a bit). "Don't even think about it mutant," (We then see that same soldier state with an angry sneer on his face as he repositions his gun at his shoulder).

"Try and what luv…trickle into your mind using my mutant powers and tiptoeing through your mind, your fantasies…," (We then see Betsy add with an impish smirk on her face before the soldier that she had been taunting rears back and kicks her in the ribs with his steel toed boot, causing Betsy to grunt in pain and grab her side as she rolls away). "Stupid mutant," (We then see that soldier shot at Betsy as he kneels down and starts to push the point of his gun into Betsy's temple). (Then we see Betsy turn her head to look up at the soldier and she winks at the soldier as her eyes glow and a faint impression of her telepathic butterfly on her forehead and then she says with a sly and sexy smirk on her face), "You're quite the naughty boy aren't you, a dirty little boy, going into stores and buying all of that lacy and silky lingerie, saying that it's all for your girlfriend…but here's the kicker folks, you don't have a girlfriend." (Then we see the other soldiers look around nervously before that soldier then smashes the but of his gun into the side of Betsy's face as he yells), "Shut up!"

(Then we see Betsy take a couple of labored breaths and then turn to look up at the soldier again, with a very bloody nose). "Flattery won't work luv, you can't have any of mine, especially any of my thongs or g-strings, Warren likes them to much," (We then see Betsy add with a sexy wink and smile on her face as we then see that soldier read back and get ready to smash Betsy's head in before then a nearby explosion gives him pause). A momentary hesitation is all that she needs. (We then see Betsy flip over onto her back and then slam the foot of her good leg into the stomach of that soldier as he then grunts in pain and falls back). (Then we see the other soldiers recover from the initial shock of the explosion and half of them go off to find the origin of the blast while the others rush forward to try to subdue Betsy). "Not this time pal," (We then see someone say from off panel before all of the soldiers turn around just as a large and powerful blast strikes the ground at their feet, knocking them all off of their feet as Betsy covers up as parts of the floor go flying everywhere).

"About bloody time you showed up, I was beginning to think that you'd forgotten about me," (We then see Betsy yell with an angry sneer on her face as she starts to pick herself up out of the rubble and she touches her nose gingerly before then pulling her fingers away and she ruefully looks down at the blood on her fingers). "I'm sorry," (We then see an embarrassed Rictor say as he walks back into the room, looking like he's been through a few battles). "Tell that to my nose, now help me up," (We then see Betsy shoot back with an angry scowl on her face before we then see Rictor rush over and help Betsy back up to her feet). "Find anything useful," (We then see Rictor ask with a sheepish look on his face as he then helps Betsy over towards the remnants of the stairway). "Other than a cross dressing soldier no, what about you," (We then see Betsy say with a tired look on her face as she lays a hand on the wall before she slouches down against it).

"No such luck, I didn't get to far before I had to turn back…Professor Xavier gave me an offer that I couldn't refuse, if you know what I mean," (We then see Rictor answer with a serious look on his face as he goes tot make sure that all of the guards are unconscious). "What about the others, did you check with James and Tabitha, Forge get any readings," (We then see Betsy ask with a tired look on her face as she sniffles and goes to pull her hair back into a ponytail as she starts to run her hands through her hair as her head dips down just a little bit). "I didn't get that far, but I'm hoping that they had better luck than we did," (We then see Rictor say with an optimistic look on his face as he stands back up and brushes his hands off on his pants).

Outside

(We open with a panel of Pete pulling his fist back as he prepares to deck one of the Aerous before we then cut to a panel or two of Warren being slammed into the side of the cliff as he howls painfully before we then see Gomurr duck underneath an attack and then smack that Aerous in the knees with his cane). (Then we cut over and see Shatterstar, down to using his bare hands, to beat and pound the Aerous into submission). "This is getting out of hand," (We then see Erica exclaim with an annoyed look on her face as she desperately tries to pry apart the hands of one of the Aerous that has its arms wrapped around her waist and is trying to squeeze the breath out of her). "I'm well aware of that," (We then see Warren say through heavily gritted teeth as he reaches up and grabs a hold of the side of the cliff and uses it to pull himself slowly up). "I'm glad someone bloody well is…," (We then see Pete shout with a very skeptical and sarcastic sneer on his face before he ducks underneath an attack and then sets the two Aerous that are nearest to him on fire).

"Ever the comedian," (We then see Gomurr add with an odd smile on his face before he then gets knocked to the ground). "No one's laughing now, half-pint," (We then see someone state from off panel that makes Warren and the others turn and all look at the same point before we then see Erica's shoulders slump down in defeat and a scared and an increasingly terrified look on her face before she drops down to her knees in the snow). "I knew this was all going to well…," (We then see Pete add with a sarcastic scowl on his face as he then reaches his head up and wipes some blood off of his bottom lip). "I hate my life," (We then see Erica mutter sadly to herself as he lower lip starts to jut out more and more as it looks like she's coming close to shedding a tear or two). "Hate is a dangerous word for such a piece of worthless genetic filth such as yourself," (We then see War say with a very arrogant and mocking grin on his face as he's powering up and all around him are more Aerous and some original crimson dawn warriors).

"You always were one for the big entrance, and still you can't do it alone, always having to bring friends," (We then see Gomurr say with a disappointed look on his face as he shakes his head and crosses his arms). "And you still don't know when to quit…always letting others do your fighting for you, and still using those best reserved for the bottom of the genetic barrel," (We then see War say with a mocking sneer on his face before he fires off a blast aimed at Erica, who only barely dives out of the way in time but several of the Aerous don't get out of the way and they all get blasted all to hell). "Still sticking with the shoot first and ask questions never strategy I see," (We then see Warren say with a sarcastic look of mockery on his face as he makes sure that none of the Aerous get around behind him and try to jump him from behind). "enough of this, you can portray this any way that you like, but it will all end the same way, with my lord Apocalypse crushing your inferior bones to dust under his boots," (We then see War say with a rather smug and confidant look on his face before he then lets off a wide spread of plasma bombs that cause everyone, the Aerous and Warren and the others included, hastily diving wildly out of the way).

"This guy's a damn maniac," (We then see Erica say with a stunned and surprised look on her face as she's elbow deep in the snow and there's a lot of snow in her hair). "A trait quite popular amongst Apocalypse's acolytes and followers I assure you," (We then see Warren say with a pessimistic look on his face before he gets a large plasma blast from War straight in the chest, causing him to howl in pain as he gets slammed first up into the air and then very hard into the side of the cliff as we see the sounds of bones breaking as Warren again grunts in pain with a very pained grimace on his face as we then see Erica scream), "Warren!" (Then we see a panel of Erica as she begins to frantically scramble through the knee deep snow towards the side of the cliff). "Come coward, we shall see if your mettle is as sharp as your tongue," (We then see Shatterstar declare with a very confidant and also confrontational expression on his face as he's driving straight through the snow towards War and the other Aerous and the few crimson dawn warriors, complete with his swords).

(Then we see a panel of War as he dodges Shatterstar's first attack before the Aerous and crimson dawn warriors that War brought with him all converge on Shatterstar). "Stupid kid…," (We then see Pete growl with a sarcastic and annoyed scowl on his face before he grabs one of the Aerous and drives its head down into the snow). "We could be in trouble here," (We then see Gomurr say with a slightly concerned look on his face before we then see Shatterstar get knocked back and then several Aerous and crimson dawn warriors dive down onto him and pin him to the ground while he valiantly struggles to free himself). (Then we see War rear back and build up some energy around his fists as he then says with a confidant and gleeful grin on his face), "And now excrement…this…!" "Ends," (We then see someone yell from off panel that makes War look up and say), "What," (with a confused look on his face before in a wide panel we see a plasma blast scream out of the sky from off panel that sends the Aerous , crimson dawn warriors, and the X-team frantically scrambling away as War gets the plasma blast straight in his chest as he shouts in both anger and surprise as his own plasma buildup explodes as well and builds up into a chain reaction of a bunch of big explosions all over). "Who…," (We then see Erica say as she half turns around and looks back up and over her shoulder with a confused and nervous look on her face).

(Then we see a panel of Sam leaning out of the hatch of the X-jet complete with a safety harness, shout over the wind as he has one arm outstretched and fingers outstretched and he's readying another blast), "Everybody down!" (Then we see Sam unleash a powerful blast that slams into the ground, sending the crimson dawn warriors and Aerous off of their feet as the team all dives for cover). "Clear a path Sam, Terry bring the weapons systems online and target anything that comes close to our people," (We then see Xavier say with a serious look on his face as he wheels up in his wheelchair to the pilots seat as we see Siryn begin to flip some switches). (Then we see a few panels of the X-jets guns being deployed before we then get a panel or two and we see a screen at Siryn's position that shows like a radar screen with big X's that mark the positions of Warren and the others and there are big spheres that are meant to represent everyone else). "All set sir, all weapons fully deployed and on line, targets acquired, awaiting the order to fire," (We then see Siryn say with a very serious look on her face before she gets a slightly queasy look on her face). "By all means Theresa, fire at will," (We then see Xavier say with a sly smile on his face as he steers the X-jet in closer).

(Then we see Siryn nod her head in agreement, with a small smile on her face, and then we see a close up panel of Siryn's finger as she pushes the fire button). (Then we jump back outside and see the X-jet's gun go crazy, blasting any and all Aerous and crimson dawn warriors in the area). (We also see Warren and the rest of the team scramble to get out of the way). "Who's aiming those things," (We then see Pete shout with an annoyed and sarcastic scowl on his face as he gets up out of the snow and glares up at the X-jet). "Well since Sam's the one doing the blasting and I'm betting that Chucky's piloting so that leaves…," (We then see Erica say with a serious and calm look on her face as we see her rub her arms to stay warm and she uses her powers to help her warming up). "The firecracker," (We then see Gomurr answer with an excited and almost proud smile on his face as he puffs his chest out and looks up into the air at the X-jet as all of the lasers blast all around him and he acts as if he doesn't even notice all of the firing that's going on all around him).

"Get down ya bloody dwarf," (We then see Pete growl with an angry and frustrated grimace on his face before he cries out in pain from his injured hip and tackles Gomurr down into the deep snow). "How are we doing Sam," (We then see Xavier ask with a concerned look on his face as he looks up at an overhead console in the foreground and Sam is hanging out of the hatch with the safety harness on in the background). "Well sir…Terry's aim could be a little bit better but…," (We then see Sam yell out above the howling wind with an impish grin on his face before we then see Siryn turn sharply in her chair towards Sam and yell back with an angry scowl o her face), "Hey!" "Continue firing at will Theresa, Sam…keep an extraction lane open," (We then see Xavier say with a commanding look on his face before he's then startled by the very sudden and shocking appearance of a number of Aerous in the X-jets front view screen). "Charles look out," (We then see Sam shout loudly with an arm outstretched forward and a startled and very surprised look on his face). A sudden change of events…

(We then see the Aerous come crashing in through the front view screen as Xavier shouts in alarm and puts his hands up in a defensive manner before he's knocked back out of his wheelchair and to the floor of the X-jet). (Then we see Siryn quickly spin around in her chair and level a powerful sonic scream straight at the Aerous). (We then see her first scream hit the Aerous that is about to hit Xavier with its claws). (Then we cut back to Siryn ass he prepares to fire off another sonic scream but can only start it before she then suddenly doubles over in pain and collapses to the floor in front of her chair and moans in pain). "Terry," (We then see Sam yell with a panicked look on his face before we then see him frantically begin to try to get to Siryn, but he becomes entangled in the harness because of his injured shoulder). (Then we cut back outside of the X-jet as we see Pete looking up into the air as the X-jets engines begin to falter and sputter as the X-jet begins to spin around slowly in the sky). "What's going on up there," (We then see Erica ask with a confused and worried look on her face before we then see Warren struggle back up to his feet, as we see that he looks like hell, and then say), "I don't know, but I'm going to find out."

(Then we see Warren try to fly up and get only a little bit off of the ground before a flaw is seen in his idea as both of his wings are broken and therefore unable to fully open up as we see the sounds of more bones breaking before he cries out in pain). (Then we see everyone look up and be surprised and shocked as we see Warren falling out of the sky and he then crashes hard into a deep bank of snow). "Warren," (We then see Erica shout with a scared look on her face as she scrambles towards Warren). (Then we cut over to Shatterstar as the momentary interruption gets used to his advantage as he slips out of the grasp of the Aerous and the crimson dawn warriors and he grabs his swords and sets about clearing a way for Erica to get to Warren). (Then we see back inside of the X-jet and see the Aerous as they pounce on Siryn and then one of them rears back to slash at her throat but we see Sam push himself away from the side of the X-jet and he blasts that Aerous off of her).

(Then we see Xavier try to push himself away from the center console and look up and over at Siryn with a very concerned look on his face as we see that the back of the X-jet is slowly going down as the front of the X-jet is rising up into the air as the entire X-jet is flying diagonally in the air). (Then we see Siryn doing her best to fight off the Aerous despite her injuries, as she's got a hold of one of the Aerous by the throat with one hand and she is holding onto the base of her chair with the other). "Get off me," (We then see Siryn yell with an angry sneer on her face before then one of the Aerous punches her in the stomach, an act that causes her to cry out in pain and also to let go of both the throat of one of the Aerous and also let go of the base of her chair). "Terry," (We then see Xavier yell with a shocked look on his face before the entire X-jet is shaken violently by a big explosion).

The Parlor

(We open with a panel of Rictor helping Betsy limp out of a darkened hallway and into the parlor as Betsy looks off to the side). "You can make it, we're almost there," (We then see Rictor say with a worried look on his face as then he and Betsy pass by a still smoldering table and set of chairs). "No, we're not Julio, we're not almost there, because the there that we're talking about is back home in San Francisco with Warren at my side and Charles and Moira in our arms," (We then see Betsy shoot back with a rather pessimistic look on her face as she turns her head back and glares over at Rictor). (Then we see a loud crashing sound come from behind and above them as a shower of broken pieces of wood and plaster shower down onto Betsy and Rictor). "Look out," (We then see Rictor shout with a shocked look on his face as he and Betsy dive down to the ground and Rictor positions himself overtop of Betsy to protect her).

(Then we see the shower of debris stop and Betsy and Rictor roll away and look up at the second floor balcony and the railing as we see Warpath standing in the remains of the shattered doorway with a very surprised look on his face before we then see a bleary eyed Tabitha walk out from behind of Warpath and she weakly waves and then lays her head up against Warpath's arm). "Jimmy, Tabitha…," (We then see Rictor ask with a surprised and somewhat relieved look on his face as he sits up and looks up as we also see Betsy sit up and rub her tired eyes). "That's my name," (We then see Warpath say with a tired grin on his face before Forge walks out of a nearby doorway and he looks down at Betsy and Rictor and then says with a calm but concerned look on his face), "Are you two okay?" (Then we see Betsy lift her head up and say with a serious and almost commanding scowl on her face), "That remains to be seen Forge." "Now what," (We then see Rictor ask with a serious look on his face as he stands up and brushes himself off). "We help Warren and the others," (We then see Warpath say with a serious look on his face before he grabs Tabitha and picks her up and then jumps down to the lower level beside Betsy and Rictor, making sure that Tabitha is okay).

"Is it really that bad out there," (We then see Betsy ask with a very concerned look on her face as she lets Warpath help her back up to her feet). "The fact that you even had to ask Elizabeth should…," (We then see Forge say as he slowly makes his way down the stairs before he then leaps over some trashed furniture). "That bad huh," (We then see Warpath say with a slightly humorous look on his face as he sets Tabitha down and then turns to Forge). (Then we see a panel of Betsy as she wipes some fresh blood away from her nose before then we see another panel as Betsy is surprised by a voice that contacts her telepathically and also activates her pink butterfly as the voice says), Betsy! "Charles, what…," (We then see Betsy say with a very shocked and surprised look on her face as she turns towards the open window). Betsy… , (We then see the voice say again as we see Betsy begin to falter as he knee starts to buckle). Charles what , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically with a worried look on her face as we see Warpath put a hand out and Betsy puts a hand on his wrist that keeps her upright).

Situation critical…need immediate assistance , (We then see the voice say back as Betsy puts a hand up to her forehead and temple with a pained and uncomfortable grimace on her face). Charles, where are you, what's going on , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically with a nervous look on her face as she picks her head up and then takes a deep breath). On the Cliffside near your original landing site, I'm here with Sam and Theresa, we're in a code black, we need assistance immediately , (We then see Xavier's voice say as Forge walks up beside Betsy and Warpath). What about Warren…and the others , (We then see Betsy say back telepathically with a well concealed look of concern on her face as she summons up the strength to walk away from Warpath and Forge and towards the broken in half front doors as she then leans on the doorway and looks out into the night and blowing snow with a serious look on her face). I'm afraid not well from what little of the telepathic traffic that I was able to pick up Warren's wings are broken and… , (We then see Xavier say back telepathically in a series of panels as we see Betsy's reactions to what Xavier is saying).

(Then we cut back inside and see Tabitha turn and look at Rictor and say with a nervous and worried look on her face), "Hey Ric, who's she talking to…is it Sam?" "I don't think so Tabitha, more than likely it's the Professor that she's in contact with," (We then see Rictor reply with a serious look on his face before he reassuringly pats Tabitha on the shoulder). "Xavier, maybe he's the rescue party," (We then see Warpath say with an optimistic look on his face before we then see Forge say with a very stern and serious look on his face), "Don't get your hopes up James, with the Aerous out there and undoubtedly the remains of the crimson dawn warriors and whoever else was trying to kill us all still around…." "Then what's the plan bosslady," (We then see Tabitha ask with a nervous and unsure look on her face as she turns away from Forge and Warpath and then turns to look up and over at Betsy).

"We salvage as much of this pitiful farce as we possibly can…and hopefully somehow we can locate the nuclear warheads and not allow some third world county to be wiped off of the face of the earth by Apocalypse," (We then see Betsy say with a very serious look on her face as she turns back away from the outside and stares at Tabitha as the wind blows her hair all around).

The X-jet

(We then cut back outside and over to the X-jet as we see Pete looking up into the air from his knees as we also see that the X-jet's engines are on fire and the X-jet is going down). (Then we go inside of the X-jet and see Sam, Xavier, Siryn, and the Aerous all getting thrown around as they all try desperately to grab a hold of something to break their fall). "We're going down," (We then see Siryn yell with a panicked look on her face as she is finally able to grab on to the base of her chair and cling to it for dear life as we see everything on the X-jet that wasn't tied or bolted down goes flying around the inside of the X-jet and some of it hits Sam, causing him to yell in pain and momentarily lose his grip on one of the rails at his end of the X-jet). "Hold on," (We then see Xavier yell with a very serious look on his face as he's trying to push himself back up towards the controls).

(Then we see one of the Aerous throw its whip out and then end catches around Xavier's left ankle and then it tries to pull Xavier away from the center console). (Then we go back outside as we see Erica helping Warren up and out of the snow with a very concerned look on her face as she then says), "Come on Warren, say something." "Come to me…my X-men," (We then see Warren say with a somewhat dopey smirk on his face before we then see him shakes hi head and bring a hand up to his temple). "Okay that's it, now I know that you had to of hit your head sometime, because…," (We then see Erica say with a concerned look on her face before Pete cuts her off). "Erica move, the X-jet's going to crash," (We then see Pete yell with a very serious look on his face before he's grabbed from behind by several Aerous and then they smash him in the back of the head with the butt end of one of their whips).

(Then we see a few panels of Shatterstar as he hacks and slashes his way through the army of Aerous and the crimson dawn warriors before then in a big two page panel that is rimmed with smaller panels of Xavier, Sam, Siryn, and the others reactions as in the majority of the two page panel we see War leap up to his feet and then fire off one continuous plasma blast, looking very much like one of Cyclops' mixed with one of Sam's, straight up into the air and then through the middle of the X-jet as it blasts a hole right through the craft and there's a huge explosion that throws everyone off of their feet and to the ground). "Damn…ow," (We then see Erica shout with an angry and pained grimace on her face as she sits up after starting out flat on her back beside Warren after the blast). "Fingers…toes…all present and accounted for," (We then see Warren say with a pained and stunned look on his face as he blinks his eyes to make sure that they still work).

"I feel like I've been run over by a bloody cement mixer," (We then see Pete groan with annoyed look on his face as he sits up and puts his palm on his forehead in a way that would mean that he would have a big headache). "That was fun, let's do it again," (We then see Gomurr say with an excited smile on his face as he pushes himself up off of the ground as his entire front is covered in snow). (We then see a panel of Shatterstar as he's getting out of the snow bank as if he could care less about having had to dive into the snow bank). "Now you will fee pain," (We then see War announce with a very confidant and arrogant sneer on his face before he turns and begins to stalk over towards Warren as we see Erica still trying to come to as Warren has barely moved after the blast). "Like hell we will," (We then see Erica say with a very serious and angry grimace on her face as she's trying to get back up to her hands and knees). "Weak…just like the rest of your pitiful insurrection against my master," (We then see War say with a mocking sneer on his face as we also see that War is injured and is showing the sings of getting blasted by Sam earlier).

"I'll show you weak you stupid son of a …," (We then see Erica snap with an angry and a little scared look on her face as she's staggering to get back up to her feet and then we see War get ready to rear back and slap Erica aside when the X-jet crashes to the ground and more explosions follow and everyone is thrown to the ground again). And suddenly all hell breaks loose. (We then go inside of the crashed X-jet and for a few panels we only see the innards of the smashed ship with the bodies of the dead Aerous lying in pieces but we don't see Sam, Siryn, or Xavier). (Then we see a shower of sparks from a circuit panel before we then see some of the debris get shoved aside and a very shaky and extremely beaten up looking Sam who's all cut up stagger up to his feet). "Terry…nnh…Professor," (We then see Sam shout with a combination of pained and terrified look on his face as he takes a less than steady step forward).

"Nnh…," (We then see someone say from underneath another pile of the rubble that's across the wreckage). "Terry," (We then see Sam ask with a hopeful and optimistic look on his face as he kneels down beside the pile of debris that the sound came from with a very pained look on his face before he then does his best to push the debris away). "Sir…," (We then see Sam ask with a concerned look on his face as we see Xavier lift his head up, as we see that there's a long cut on his head that's bleeding, and say with a hurt and tired look on his face), "Sam…thank you." "Xavier…are you okay," (We then see Sam ask with a worried look on his face as he helps Xavier up to a seated position). "Nnh…yes I'm fine, thank you again Sam, now find Theresa," (We then see Xavier answer with a deep breath and a very tired look on his face as he reaches a hand up and then gingerly touches the cut on his head and then winces in pain and blinks his eyes a couple of times to try and clear his vision).

"Okay…stay still sir, I…I'll find Terry," (We then see Sam say with a very serious look on his face as he sits down and then goes about getting to the other side of the crashed X-jet as Sam climbs over the dead bodies of the Aerous). (Then we see Sam get to the other side of the X-jet and he then shoves a big panel off and then we see Siryn lying on her stomach , she's unconscious and all beaten up, as their is a little trickle of blood running down the side of her face). (Then we cut back up to Sam who has a very concerned look on his face as he then says), "Oh no…Terry." (Then we cut back outside of the X-jet and see War kneeling down in the snow at Warren's side and he's got Warren by the throat as we then see Erica try to blast War with a pillar of fire but she misfires as then we see someone grab her wrist from behind and then pull her up and off of the ground as she yelps in shock and surprise as we then pull back and see Apocalypse himself standing there with a pleased and very confidant look on his face as he then says, as we also see the expression on Erica's face as her eyes grow very wide in shock and surprise as she gasps), "What do we have here…the prodigal son has returned, and on top of that he's brought along the rest of his rabble of genetic degenerates."

"# you," (We then see Erica snap back with an angry scowl on her face as she grabs Apocalypse's wrist and we see her hands start to glow red as it's apparent that she's trying to free herself). "Your efforts are in vain mutant, no mater how hard you try you do not have the sheer power or determination to do anything more than try my patience," (We then see Apocalypse say with a confidant look on his face before he rears back and begins to laugh as we pull back up and into the sky and follow his trail of laughter).-END