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...

38. My 38th Mini

UNCANNY X-MEN MINI #38: NARROW MISSES

BY: LOGANALPHA30

""-Words

-Caption Boxes

()-Art Instructions

-Thoughts

+-Time, Place Boxes

The Danger Room+

+3:15 A.M.+

She swears that working this hard this early in the morning should be a crime. But despite all of her continuous rantings and ravings against what she considers forced labor she is compelled to admit when pressed that all of the extra work has done her good. Well that smarts , (We then see Tabitha think with a pained look on her face as she's picking herself up out of the rubble of what looks like an undersea cavern as we see that she's wearing a pair of jean shorts and a bikini top). "You reacted far to slowly Tabitha," (We then see someone say from off panel before we then see Betsy step out of the shadows wearing what looks like what the gymnasts wear at competitions except that it's made of a thicker material and black and red with a pieced up red x on her chest and two red stripes down the backs of her arms).

"Says you, I dodged the first few explosive darts and the only reason that I got totally tagged by that last one was because my foot slipped on the rocks," (We then see Tabitha say with an unhappy scowl on her face as she gets up and then starts to take a few steps towards Betsy before we then cut over to a more distant view of Tabitha approaching Betsy from what looks like a corner of the cavern and a dimly lit pool of water). (Then we see a panel of that same pool of water but from the opposite view as Strobe raises up out of the pool enough so that she can breathe through her nose). Doesn't she every shut up , (We then see Strobe think with a sarcastic furrowing of her brows before we then see her crawl up out of the water, wearing a very dark red one piece swimsuit with her hair pulled back into a ponytail). "That has been your excuse all morning Tabitha, I highly suggest that you choose another one…Maggie, nice of you to finally join us, I would have thought that you would want to help put Tabitha through her paces," (We then see Betsy say with a serious and almost scolding look on her face at the beginning before at the end of her speech she seems to almost be making fun of Strobe).

"I thought about it…really, but then I wasn't sure that you wanted my participation, I haven't really figured out all of this being one of the X-men thing yet, it's all still to damn new to me," (We then see Strobe say back with an almost joking and insolent smirk on her face as she walks towards Tabitha and Betsy while squeezing the water out of her hair). "Well it will stay new if you sit there all stationary on the sidelines, so now take your place over in that small pool of water while Tabitha, you take up your old position under that arch and we'll begin again," (We then see Betsy say with a slightly weary and pessimistic scowl on her face as she points to the two locations before she turns and walks back off into the shadows and disappears as we see the sounds of the danger room doors opening and closing). "Fine," (We then see Tabitha say with a grumpy expression on her face as she sulks over to the arch while Strobe shakes her head in dismay and starts off towards her spot).

(Then we see Warpath sitting at the controls of the danger room with a bit bottle of water in one hand and he's resetting the controls with the other before we then see Betsy walk in behind him and say), "Shouldn't you be down there helping Tabitha and Maggie instead of taking it easy up here?" "I'm not taking it easy boss lady, at least not any more so than you were ten minutes ago when you had this place looking like Tahiti…the warm sand…surf," (We then see Warpath say back with a nervous and sly grin on his face before he takes the cap off and then takes a drip of water). "I was in the middle of a three mile swim when Tabitha and Maggie decided to interrupt me and get a good tan," (We then see Betsy say with a serious and not to thrilled look on her face as she walks up to the control panel and then bats Warpath's hands away and then starts to type in a new set of parameters for the danger room). (Then we go back inside the danger room and see both Strobe and Tabitha standing around looking like they're getting bored). "We're waiting," (We then see Tabitha say with a bored look on her face as she looks up and turns around).

"Be patient Tabitha, why not use this time in a productive manner and decide upon your next excuse," (We then see Betsy say back over the danger room's intercom as we see Strobe snicker and look away as Tabitha gets frustrated). "And remember Tabitha, Maggie…even in the computer simulations the player was able to dodge the first five volleys, so you guys should at least manage to make it by seven or eight volleys," (We then see Warpath say with a sly grin on his face as he spins the top back on the bottle of water while Betsy stands at his side and is scowling down at him). "You're pretty smug about all of this James, why don't you come down here and do this right along with us," (We then see Strobe say with a sarcastic look on her face as she looks up and spreads a bit of light out into the cavern). "I'd love to ladies…honestly, but I've got to stay up here and make sure that everything keeps running smoothly," (We then see Warpath say back with a warm and somewhat nervous look on his face as he then starts to push some buttons and sits up in his chair before we then see Betsy tap Warpath on the shoulder and say with a proud grin on her face), "You know what Maggie, that sounds like a very good idea, including James in this exercise is a perfect way to work on your teamwork."

"But I…," (We then see Warpath say with a hurt and scared look on his face a she turns to look over at Betsy before she then says with a calm but yet very serious look on her face), "I'm sorry James, but if Maggie is going to be brought up to speed as part of the team then she needs to get some reps in with the rest of us." "Fine, but I reserve the right to sulk afterwards," (We then see Warpath say with a defeated look on his face before he stands up and starts to walk out of the room). "The seat's quite hot," (We then see Betsy say with a happy look on her face as she slops into the chair and looks back over her shoulder at Warpath). "Yeah…I uh, warmed it up for you, thought you'd like it," (We then see Warpath say with a less than happy look on his face as he waves goodbye and disappears out of the room). (Then we quickly cut back to Betsy sitting in the chair with an eager smile on her face).

Forge's Workshop

(We open with Forge kneeling beside a new machine and he is working on it, looking like he's been at it for awhile and is all greasy, while Warren is sitting backwards with his coat laid over the back of it and his tie is loose and the first few buttons on his shirt are undone). "So then these guys just came out of nowhere, you didn' have any warning," (We then see Siryn say with a worried look on her face as she walks out from around a table, wearing an old and stained pair of sweatpants and a size to small t-shirt with flowers on it, a pair of slippers and a hooded sweatshirt). "None whatsoever Terry, it's like they appeared out of thin air, I should have been able to…," (We then see Forge say with a very serious look on his face as he continues to work on his machine). "Ye would have needed Wolverine's senses t' know that they were there, don't knock yourself for it," (We then see Siryn add with a sympathetic look on her face as she walks over and squats down beside him).

"Maybe so, but I still should not have been as taken by surprise as I was, I'm not a rookie at this, I've been through more firefights than I'd care to remember and I couldn't even protect Erica, she had to save me," (We then see Forge say with an angry scowl on his face as he then stops working on the machine and sets the tools down nearby). "I know the feeling…did you find anything out about who attacked you, other than the fact that they were able to get the drop on you and Erica and somehow seemed to have your complete itinerary and the exact location of your private island," (We then see Warren say with a slightly guilty and embarrassed look on his face as he reaches back and scratches the back of his neck). "By the time that I woke up Erica and I were alone, I can't explain why they didn't off us both when they had the chance," (We then see Forge say with a confused look on his face as he stands up and brushes his hands off on his jeans). "Perhaps they let you live because there wasn't any sport in it," (We then see Warren say with an optimistic look on his face as he leans forward over the edge of the chair and smiles over at Siryn).

"Either that or Erica nuked them all," (We then see Siryn say with a sly grin on her face before we see both Warren and Forge stare oddly at her and she shrugs her shoulders). "I doubt that Erica would have don't that consciously," (We then see Forge say with a serious look on his face as he slowly shakes his head while picking up another tool). "That is unless she thought that they were going to kill you, I know that if James were in danger like that I would have done more than lost my cool," (We then see Siryn say with a very certain and serious look on her face as she stands up and looks over at Forge). "It did take her quite a lot of time to come to afterwards, I even had time to carry her back to the beach and do a sweep of the island before she opened her eyes," (We then see Forge say with a concerned look on his face as he walks back towards the machine that he had been working on earlier as Siryn crosses her arms and looks over at Warren with an almost scared look on her face). "What did the doctor's say," (We then see Warren ask with a concerned look on his face as he stood up and took off his tie).

"Nothing out of the ordinary, they said that she had experienced a massive shock to her system, she says she's fine but she has yet to fully recover," (We then see Forge say with a worried look on his face as he goes back to working on the machine). "If she wants some time off to recover she has it, you don't have to ask," (We then see Warren say with a serious look on his face before we then see Forge nod his head).

The Next Day

(We open back in the danger room with all of the team members decked out like they're on American Gladiators). (We see that the danger room looks like the old ball courts from the old Mayan or Aztec ruins with the hoop on each side of the court). (We see that Betsy, Warpath, Tabitha, and Forge are all wearing black while Warren, Siryn, Sam, and Erica are all wearing white). (We see that Strobe is sitting is sitting in a box at the far end of the room away from the court that's fortified with shatterproof glass and she's taking care of Charles and Moira). "Do we actually have to do this," (We then see Tabitha say with an anxious and frustrated look on her face as she's adjusting one of her elbow pads). "Ah'm afraid so Tabitha, but look at it this way, at least we get to have some fun," (We then see Sam say with a slightly cheesy grin on his face as he pats Tabitha on the shoulder).

"Says you, you're not the smallest person here," (We then see Tabitha say with a slightly scared look on her face as she then pouts when Warpath walks over and says with a cheesy grin on his face), "Don't worry, I'll try not to squash you." "Thanks Jimmy," (We then see Tabitha say back with a less than thrilled look on her face as she rolls her eyes and pats Warpath on the arm). "Alright everyone enough talk, this match is a contest where no powers are to be used, each time that the ball passes through the hoop it will count for one point, we play to eleven," (We then see Betsy say with a very calm and serious look on her face as she walks out into the half tunnel and looks everyone in the eye as she goes by them). "Any extra pointers in this game, like a three pointer," (We then see Erica ask with a hopeful look on her face as she adjusts a sweatband that she had at first around her neck to up around her forehead).

"Not this time Erica, each time the ball passes through the hoop it will only count as one point," (We then see Betsy say back with a serious look on her face as she's pulling on a pair of black gloves). "It only means that when they lose it will be a long and excruciating process," (We then see Warren say with a sly grin on his face before he brushes up against Betsy with his wings and we see a quick panel of her scowling over at him before then in the next panel we see her scowl turn into a sly grin). "You seem pretty sure about that Warren, you want to put a little wager on the outcome," (We then see Warpath say with an eager grin on his face as he walks up to Warren and rubs his hands together greedily). "A bet," (We then see Warren say with an interested smile on his face as he looks up at Warpath while Betsy gives him a stern look and walks away). "The loser buys the winner dinner at the most expensive restaurant in town," (We then see Warpath say with an interested grin on his face as we then see Erica look over with some concern).

"It's a deal, but just be ready to max out all of your credit cards because Betsy's been dying to try out that new Thai restaurant down on the corner of Franklin and Wilshire," (We then see Warren say with an expectant look on his face as he walks over and picks up the ball that they'll be playing with off of a table that then recedes into the floor). "I've heard about that place, Terry's always having to go on an extra delivery trip there because they never order enough flowers," (We then see Warpath say with a nervous look on his face as we also see Siryn scowl heavily and look like she's going to add something but she then thinks better of it and stays silent). "Good, then you won't have a problem finding it," (We then see Warren say with a slightly juvenile grin on his face before we then see an irritated Betsy walk over and snatch the ball out of Warren's hand as she then says with a less than pleased scowl on her face), "Are the two of you finished or should I have the maid put a spot of tea on?"

"No need, we're done here," (We then see Warren say with a guilty look on his face as he and Warpath shake hands and then we see everyone go to their respective corners and then we see a scoreboard pop out of the wall like those for a basketball game complete with the different people's numbers). (We see that Warren is number seven, Siryn three, Sam five, Erica nine, Forge eight, Tabitha six, Warpath four, and Betsy is number one). "Everyone ready," (We then see Betsy say with an eager look on her face as Warren then tosses the ball into an upward column of air and it stays hovering there and everyone puts their mouth pieces in). "Yes," (We then see Sam say through his mouthpiece before a horn sounds and the ball gets shot up into the air as everyone rushes in towards the ball). (We then see Erica get to the ball first and she then dodges under Warpath and throws the ball towards Siryn). They battle for the ball and position near the hoops as if they were in a battle for their very lives…. …but yet at the same time they keep their wits about them and manage to keep the game a clean one without any dirty plays or questionable calls.

(We see a couple of pages of panels of the various members as they pass the ball between them and then we see Betsy jump over Sam's attempt at a block before she then rolls up the side of the half tunnel and she side arms the ball through the hoop). (Then we see a panel or two of Betsy celebrating the score with the rest of her team while Warren and the others on his team being down). (Then we see the ball as it gets thrown around again and then we see Warren dodge a block from Warpath and he then elbows the ball through the hoop closest to him). (Then we see some more panels of the game as everyone is really getting into it before we then see Tabitha block a shot and then crash into the boards with a pained grimace on her face and then Erica catches a wild pass and unintentionally crashes into Tabitha and Tabitha grunts in pain). "Sorry," (We then see Erica say through her mouthpiece with a regretful look on her face as Tabitha is glaring back at her). Settle down Tabitha, Erica did not mean to crash into you, (We then see Betsy say telepathically to Tabitha with only Tabitha in the panel as then we see Tabitha slowly calm herself down and shrug the hit off and do her best to smile).

Later

"Good game everyone," (We then see Betsy say with a tired but pleased look on her face as she's throwing a towel around her neck while beside her we see Warren pulling off his helmet and shaking his head as beads of sweat fly off and then we see Betsy lean away with an annoyed smile on her face). " I couldn't have said it better Betts," (We then see Warren say with a happy smile on his face as he puts an arm around Betsy's shoulders and she doesn't try to pull away as in the background we see the scoreboard that Warren's team won the game). "Don't sweat it guys, you played well…but we won," (We then see Erica say with a proud smile on her face as she and the others walk out of the danger room as the tunnel is dissipating while Warren and Betsy make their way over towards Charles and Moira).

(Then we switch to the locker rooms first to the ladies one as we start off with Erica walking into the showers in a panel from behind her as she slips her towel off where we also see Tabitha washing her hair and facing us with the mist and spray hiding the necessary parts of Tabitha's anatomy). "You're not still smarting about that hit are you…I said I was sorry," (We then see Erica ask with a concerned look on her face as she hangs her towel on a hook and then steps into the shower). "Forget it…," (We then see Tabitha say with a sincere look on her face as she reaches out and changes the temp of the water spraying out onto her). "Good, I tried to avoid you but I didn't have any chance," (We then see Erica say back with a relieved and nervous look on her face as she turns on the showerhead directly in front of her). "At least ye didn't break anything," (We then see Siryn say with a thankful smile on her face as she grabs the soap and then holds it out underneath the spray of water from her showerhead).

"But now I have to listen to Sam gloat about the victory for the next God knows how long," (We then see Tabitha say with an unhappy look on her face before Betsy steps into the shower and then adds with a confidant smirk on her face), "Don't worry Tabitha, I will make sure that Warren collects on his prize sooner rather than later." "Thank you," (We then see Tabitha say with a grateful look on her face before she shuts her showerhead off). "Any word on The Legacy, did any of your contacts pan out," (We then see Siryn ask with a bored look on her face as she's rubbing some soap onto her shoulders). "Depends on who you ask, three of my informants were found floating in the river, two have seemingly dropped off the face of the Earth, and one of them isn't returning any of my calls, and we've known each other for years," (We then see Betsy say with a concerned look on her face before she dunks her head under the spray of water just as Erica pulls all of her hair back with both hands and leans back out of the spray of water).

"So far so good then," (We then see Siryn say with a sarcastic smile on her face before she ducks out of the panel to continue her shower as Tabitha grins widely). "Warren isn't having much luck with any of his contacts either so I'm not feeling that down," (We then see Betsy say with a slight smirk on her face before she begins to rub a bar of soap against a washcloth). (Then we see several panels of them all continuing to shower before we then cut over to the guys locker room as we see Warren buttoning up his shirt while Sam is walking out of the shower and putting his towel around his waist, Warpath is squatting down to use the mirror, and Forge is buttoning up his jeans with no shirt on). "I think I finally managed to wash the sweat smell off," (We then see Sam say with a relieved smile on his face as he tries to get some water out of his ear).

"I know what you mean, but at least you're not over seven foot tall and four hundred pounds," (We then see Warpath say with a fake look of anger on his face as he turns away from the mirror and shrugs his shoulders). "Any leads turning up on The Legacy yet Warren," (We then see Forge ask as he's sitting down on the bench beside Warren the opposite way as he's pulling a shirt from out of his locker). "Unfortunately not many, and apparently several of my sources have forgotten who I am, and what's worse is that I've known them for most of my life," (We then see Warren say with a very concerned look on his face as he buttons up the final button of his shirt and then reaches over for his tie). "Perhaps we should hit several of Apocalypse's old haunts and see if that turns up anything," (We then see Forge offer up with an optimistic and hopeful look on his face as he's pulling his shirt on).

"Well if we do then it had better not be until next week because I've got to register for classes and they've already been nice enough to keep it open for another week past normal," (We then see Sam say with a tired look on his face as he walks up to his locker and starts to open it up). "Your concerns are duly noted Sam, duly noted and taken into consideration, take all the time that you need to register for classes, I have a feeling that we'll be able to handle it without you," (We then see Warren say with a kind and confident look on his face as he loops his tie around his neck and fluffs up the collar of his shirt to help that along). "Thanks, I think I might take Tabitha with me to…see if maybe I can get her to finish high school and get her degree," (We then see Sam say back with a relieved look on his face as he pulls another towel out of his locker and begins to use it to dry his hair). "Good idea Sam, Tabitha should continue her education, who knows maybe after she finishes her high school requirements the two of you could take the same classes," (We then see Forge say with a proud and approving look on his face as he looks back over his shoulder at Sam).

"Don't say that, she's already asked me about that after I made it clear to her that she couldn't talk her way out of going back to get her G.E.D.," (We then see Sam say back with a slightly cheesy grin on his face as he drops his second towel onto the bench and then reaches back up into his locker). "So you're saying that you don't want to spend every waking moment with the woman that you love…that's just a tragedy," (We then see Warren say with an aghast look on his face as he finishes tying his tie and then starts to stand up before he then grins). "I know…it's horrible," (We then see Sam say back with a rather stern look on his face before he grins and shakes his head as he pulls his main towel off while there is his duffel bag sitting on the bench beside him that hides everything). "No Sam, you're just sane, separation is good for a relationship," (We then see Forge add with a sly grin on his face as he stands up and walks out of the locker room).

"Not to change the subject away from Sam and Tabitha and their riveting courtship but are you guys going to be needing my services this fine evening," (We then see Warpath say with a cheesy grin on his face as he's looking in Sam's direction at first before he then turns to Warren and his smile goes away). "Got a hot date tonight James," (We then see Warren say with a sly grin on his face as he walks over to the mirror and checks his hair as Warpath then steps up behind Warren in the mirror). "Really funny, actually there's this silent auction at the botanical center that Terry likes to visit…yeah you see it's fallen on hard times and I told her that I'd be more than happy to take her tonight," (We then see Warpath say back with a very serious and nervous look on his face as he puts his hands in his pockets and looks off to the side). "Go James, take Theresa with you and have a great time tonight," (We then see Warren say back with a happy smile on his face as he turns away from the mirror and pats Warpath on the shoulder).

Forge's Workshop+

Three Hours Later+

(We open with Forge sitting at his giant computer that resembles the Bat-cave computer as he's looking through a lot of files as other than the light from the computer screen the rest of the lab is dark). (We then see a quick panel of Forge's face as he's scowling impatiently). (Then we see a panel of far behind Forge as the doors open and a beam of light goes all the way up to where Forge is sitting, from the doorway of the lab, as we see someone say while they're in the doorway), "Hey Forge, you in here?" "Apparently," We then see Forge say back with a tired sigh as he rubs his eyes and doesn't look back). "Ooh…someone's a bit grouchy today," (We then see Erica say back with a bit of scorn on the look on her face as she walks into the room and lets the door shut behind her as the shutting of the door causes the line of shadows to pass across her from her feet up to her head).

"I'm not grouchy Erica, this is serious business and as of your entrance I have yet to uncover a solitary shred of data on The Legacy," (We then see Forge say with an unhappy and frustrated expression on his face in the dim glow of the computer screen before we then see Erica step up into the glow and she lightly leaned on the back of Forge's chair). "They're really that hard to find," (We then see Erica ask with a surprised look on her face as she is looking up at the computer screen while she lets a hand drop down to the collar of Forge's shirt). "That hard and then some my dear," (We then see Forge say back with an anxious and unhappy look on his face as he mostly stays still and only moves enough to type). "Is there anything I can do," (We then see Erica ask with a sincerely wanting to help Forge out look on her face as she begins to massage the tension out of Forge's neck and shoulders).

"I wish, but whoever the members of The Legacy are they know how to cover their tracks," (We then see Forge say with a frustrated sigh as he shakes his head and rubs his eyes before Erica then takes a deep breath and walks around the chair and then plops herself down on Forge's lap with one arm draped back around his neck and says with a calm and serious look on her face), " Relax Forge, you can't stop them all by yourself, and you today." "I can try," (We then see Forge say with a steady but tired look on his face as he slips an arm around her waist and then uses his free hand to reach up and pull her into a kiss). "Yes…you can, but only if I let you," (We then see Erica say back with an eager grin on her face as she pulls back away from Forge just long enough to speak before she then leans back in and kisses him again). Beginning to get a little more than comfortable she is not very pleased when she is interrupted from behind. (We see Forge and Erica start to really get into it but then they get interrupted by the sounds of the computer as it starts to make all kinds of noises).

"Grr…dam nit, just when it was getting good," (We then see Erica say with an angry scowl on her face as she pushes herself up off of Forge's chest as her shirt is unbuttoned most of the way down with her bra visible underneath and her hair is all a mess and she then drops her head down onto Forge's chest with a big exasperated sigh along with Forge). "It may be important," (We then see Forge say with a reluctant sigh and deep breath as he wipes a hand across his eyes). (Then we see Forge sit up with Erica sitting on top of him as she's not too happy about having to move). (Then we see Forge start to punch up some of the new information that came as a result of the computer making noises). "Well…what's the prognosis, is it worth anything," (We then see Erica ask with an upset and angry scowl on her face as she turns and looks up at the screen). "I don't know yet, I set the search pattern for a wide dispersal net…for all I know all that the search picked up could just end up being useless spam," (We then see Forge say back with a slight shrug of his shoulders as he continues to type in keys to clarify the findings of the search).

"Perhaps, but then didn't you put that special spam blocker on your systems three months ago," (We then see Erica say with a hesitant look on her face as she stands back up and then starts to button up her shirt). "That I did, however there are so many new bugs and viruses created every day that my software is taxed in trying to keep up with them all," (We then see Forge say back with a serious look on his face as he glances up at Erica a bit before he then starts to check the new information as we see the different bits of information come up in various windows and there are a lot of them). "This is going to take forever," (We then see Erica say with a tired shrug of her shoulders as she leans forward on the console beside Forge and stares intently at the screen). "It very well could Erica, but it needs to be done, one of these small bits of data could hold the key to everything," (We then see Forge say back with a very serious look on his face as he starts to sort the various windows). "Want some help there," (We then see Erica offer with a warm smile on her face as she walks over and flips on another computer and pulls up a chair).

"Only if she's as beautiful as you," (We then see Forge shoot over to Erica with a sly grin and wink before we then see Erica scowl back at him and shoot a small ball of fire at him that poofs out of existence on the counter near his right hand). "Hey," (We then see Forge shout with a surprised and shocked look on his face before we then see Erica shrug her shoulders and then turn her head back to her computer screen before we then see her smile warmly).

The Break Room

"It's not that bad…right," (We then see Sam say from off panel as we see the reflection of his bare shoulder in the mirror as we can tell that he's checking out his scar). "Oh no…you can barely see it," (We then see someone say from off panel as Sam turns back away from the mirror and looks back into the room). "Ye know Sam, just forget about it, think that it builds character," (We then see Siryn say with a laid back look on her face and the television remote in her hand as her legs are bent up onto the couch and her other arm is thrown over the back of the couch while Tabitha is lazily taking up the rest of the couch with her feet up lying perpendicular to Siryn and is busy reading a magazine). "Relax Sam, no one really cares about that scar, just don't pick at it," (We then see Warpath say with a laid back look on his face as he has a basketball in his hands and is spinning it in his hands).

"Ah don't pick at it Jimmy, you're startin to remind me of my mother though with that comment," (We then see Sam say with a tired look on his face as he walks away from the mirror and over to the couch before he then picks up Tabitha's legs, sits down, and then lays her legs back down on his lap and he tickles her bare feet as she's wearing cut off jean shorts). "I thought that was my job," (We then see Tabitha say with a joking grin on her face as she peers around the side of the magazine). "Aye, but then don't you think that you two should be somewhere other than here, like registering for classes maybe," (We then see Siryn say with her eyebrows raised as Sam then looks surprised while Tabitha cringes a bit and tries her very best to act as if she never heard Siryn). "You're right Terry, I thought that Sam was going to register for those college classes and then those other classes for Tabitha here today," (We then see Warpath say with a cheeky grin on his face as he reaches over and lightly taps Tabitha on the top of her head with the basketball getting an annoyed scowl from her).

"It's only nine thirty, they don't open for a couple more hours," (We then see Sam say back with a joking smile on his face as he begins to rub Tabitha's feet and Tabitha ducks behind her magazine). "Then you're going to miss out on that little trip that Warren's heading up later today to Apocalypse's old safe houses," (We then see Warpath say with a tired look on his face as we then see Tabitha break in), "But you guys won't be able to go either, don't you two have a hot date tonight?" "Yes Tabitha we do, only Forge, Maggie, and Erica are going with Warren and Elizabeth…that should be fun," (We then see Warpath say with an interested look on his face as then we see the four share an odd look and then they all laugh as we pull away to a corner of the room as we then see Strobe looking on with a very upset look on her face).

Later+

Somewhere In Egypt+

The ancient land of pharaohs, scarabs, mystic arts, and sphinxes. On this dark starless night two members of the newest team of X-men strike out into the unknown hoping to find something but expecting little. One a winged warrior that has dark memories of the ancient mutant that decimated his life and one grizzled ex soldier that has lost more than an arm and a leg during the myriad of battles that he has endured. (We open with a quick aerial view of the desert and the sphinx's in Egypt as the X-jet then goes in and lands behind one of the pyramids). (Then we see Warren and Forge walk in the shadows towards a doorway with torches surrounding it as we see that both are wearing slightly different outfits than the norm as Warren has no sleeves and there are mesh patches to let air flow through and keep him cool while Forge looks like he's wearing a flap jacket and he has his guns and Warren has a staff that is similar to Gambit's old one). "I thought you said that this place was deserted," (We then see Forge say with a skeptical look on his face as he turns and looks up at Warren as the two are peering around the corner of one of the pyramids as Warren is scowling back).

"The thermals were negative," (We then see Warren say back with a nervous and skittish look on his face as he pulls his wings in closer to his body as a wind picks up). "They've been wrong before Warren, who's to say that they're not wrong now," (We then see Forge say back with a very serious look on his face as they get to the door and open it). "Only one way to find out," (We then see Warren add with an equally serious look on his face as he follows Forge inside). (Then we see Warren and Forge sneak through the darkened hallways as they're sneaking up towards a corner where two guards are stationed). "Looks like we're not the only ones that thought this place was worth checking out," (We then see Warren whisper to Forge with a serious look on his face as he points towards the guards). "Perhaps then it's time that we uncover the secrets that everyone's trying to find," (We then see Forge say with an equally serious look on his face before he then kneels down, takes aim, and blasts one of the guards back into the wall, knocking him out).

"Dave," (We then see the other guard shout in alarm before he looks away from where Warren and Forge are and towards his friend before we then see Warren leap out of the shadows and then slam the end of his staff into that guards stomach). (Then we see Warren change gears and swing the staff in an upward motion, cracking the guard in the jaw that then sends that guard back into the wall, falling unconscious on top of the other guard). "Nice work," (We then see Forge say with an approving look on his face as he walks up and kneels down beside the guards and then starts to search through their pockets). "Thank you," (We then see Warren say back with a calm look on his face as he walks past Forge and the two guards and flutters his wings a bit as some dust is picked up). "We should probably hurry," (We then see Forge say back with a suddenly very grim scowl on his face as he pulls a piece of paper out of one of the guards pockets, glances at it, and then hands it up to Warren). "What's this," (We then see Warren ask with a confused look on his face as he looks down at Forge and then at the piece of paper that Forge handed him).

(Then we see a quick panel of the piece of paper that Forge handed to Warren as we see that it is a list of the other guards and their patrol times and radio frequencies). "A big problem, these two are only the beginning, if we don't hurry then their replacements are going to show up and we won't be able to take them by surprise," (We then see Forge say with a very serious look on his face as he stands back up and then turns to Warren). "This is where it gets fun," (We then see Warren say with a sarcastic grin on his face before he turns and pockets the list in one of the pockets of his coat). "A regular barrel of laughs," (We then see Forge add with a sarcastic grin of his own on his face back to Warren as he then takes one last look down the hallway from where they came in before he then heads off down the hallway). (Then we see Warren and Forge moving through the tunnels before we then see the two get to a downward sloping section of tunnel and they then carefully make their way down that tunnel before we then see Warren stop Forge by holding up his hands as Forge has a confused look on his face). (Then we see Warren half smile and tap his ears a couple of times before he then holds up three fingers and then points further on down the tunnel as then we see Forge nod his head in agreement).

(Then we see Forge and Warren drop down to their knees and scuttling down the ramp before we then see the two get to the bottom and we see that it's a jail are that looks like the cellblock from the first Star Wars movie). (We see that there are three laid back looking guards that don't seem to heavily armed as then we see Forge kneel down and take aim while Warren sneaks into the room and ducks back behind a big cabinet). (Then we see the two share a look before Forge then fires off the first shot that hits the first guard, who's leaning back in his chair a ways, back onto the floor on his back as the other two guards are startled but then one is silenced when Warren leaps out and jabs the end of his staff into the stomach of one of the other two guards and then rears back and brings the staff down on the back of that guards head, knocking him out and to the ground). They manage to easily subdue the first two guards, however the third proves to be more of a challenge. (Then we see the third guard block Forge's next shot with the computers keyboard and then we see his hand morph into a laser blaster and he fires of Forge, hitting him in the shoulder, driving him back into a bookshelf as he wrecks it all). "Forge," (We then see Warren shout in surprise and alarm as he then leaps to attack the guard that just attacked Forge).

(Then we see Warren duck into the bay of cells as the guard then starts to shoot at him instead of firing at Forge). (Then we see Warren scrambling to get around the corner in the cellblock as he's followed closely by laser blasts). What the hell is that thing…a leftover Sentinel , (We then see Warren think in a panic as he's being showered with debris in his attempt to stay out of the line of fire). (Then we see in a darkened cell someone get up off of their bunk and rush to the door and then shout), "Hey, what's happening…what's going on out there?" "My death," (We then see Warren shout back as he dives out of the way of another laser blast before he gets nicked by the latest laser blast in the shoulder as the force of getting hit sends him twirling back into one of the metal doors as there is some blood dripping from his shoulder). (Then we see the guard stand over Warren with his weapon pointed straight at Warren's head as he's looking straight up into the weapon).

"You should not have come here mutant, you have been deemed unworthy by the council, you are to be terminated," (We then see the guard say with a very serious and also threatening sneer on his face as he prepares to fire). "Sorry Ahnold, but if I had a dollar for every time that I've been deemed unworthy by some crackpot board of spoiled rich kids or insane tyrannical despots…I'd be a very wealthy man," (We then see Warren say back in protest with an very sarcastic scowl on his face as he's picking himself up off of the ground as then a lamp is driven straight through the guard from behind as we see someone say after the guards top half explodes), "I thought you were a wealthy man." "Good point," (We then see Warren say back with a sarcastic grin on his face as he starts to get up and uses the wall to help him). "You okay," (We then see Forge ask Warren with a concerned look on his face as he pushes back some of the shoulder piece of Warren's suit away and stares at the wound). "Bah…tis merely a flesh wound," (We then see Warren say back with a carefree wave of his hand and a deep breath). "If you say so, but don't come crying to me when Elizabeth kicks your ass over this," (We then see Forge say back with a grimly sarcastic grin on his face before he pats Warren on his injured shoulder, which causes Warren to cry out in pain and grab his shoulder as Forge then starts to walk away).

"Hey…come on, let me out, open the door," (We then see the person in the darkened cell yell out as they begin to pound on the door, as we also see both Forge and Warren share a quick look as they then look over at the door). (Then we see Forge walk over to the door that the person is behind and then says with a serious look on his face and his hand pressed flat up against the door), "Who are you?" (Then we see Warren step away from the wall and look over at Forge as we then see the person inside the cell shout back), "Just open the door…please!" "Not until you tell us who you are," (We then see Warren shout back with a very cautious look on his face as he walks towards the cell and he and Forge share a look). "Grr…fine, my name is Olivia Hatherington, now please open the door," (We then see the person in the cell shout while leaning heavily on the door of the cell). (Then we go back outside of the cell to Warren and Forge as we see Forge shrug his shoulders in Warren's direction before we then see Warren say with a cautious look on his face as he steadies himself and nods back to Forge), "Okay, open the door." (Then we see Forge turn back to the door and the blast the lock away with one of his guns as we see the person inside the cell jump back in alarm).

(Then we see Forge holster his gun and then slowly open the door before we then see the person that was in the cell rush out but then trip over one of Forge's feet and then crash into Warren, finally with a panel of her looking very small and vulnerable as she looks up at Warren with an embarrassed smile on her face as some of her hair has fallen in front of her face). (Then we see her straighten up awkwardly and we see that she has long dark hair that's all the way and goes down to the small of her back and she looks to be Egyptian and she is wearing an outfit that would make a harem girl blush with the extreme amount of skin showing and the clothing being made of silk, lace, and fancy and expensive looking cloth that's almost see through with a lot of jewelry to boot). "Why were you locked in there," (We then see Forge ask with a very serious look on his face as he takes one of his guns out and starts to aim it at Olivia's head as she steps back and puts her hands up). "They didn't like me crashing their little party," (We then see Olivia say with a nervous look on her face before she then smiles widely at the two). "Care to enlighten us as to whose party you crashed and why," (We then see Forge ask with an unsure look on his face as he keeps his gun aimed at Olivia).

"A bunch of jerks that like to call themselves The Legacy, they threw the party for their favorite hired goons, one of which I have a beef with," (We then see Olivia reply with a serious look on her face as she puts her hands down and looks up at Forge). "And is…this your usual outfit," (We then see Warren ask with a sly and appreciative grin on his face as he puts his hands on his waist, looking Olivia up and down, as Forge grins). "Get your minds out of the gutter boys, I had to blend in with the entertainment, I certainly couldn't walk in wearing a cocktail dress or a kimono," (We then see Olivia say back with a sexy grin on her face as she takes a step forward towards Warren and caresses his cheek with the back of her hand). "Don't, unless you want to lose that hand," (We then see Warren say with now a stern look on his face as he looks down at Olivia as she takes an almost scared step back away from Warren before she takes her hand down and says with a reserved look on her face), "You guys wrestlers…or did the Village People auditions not pan out?" "You should know, the strippers were meeting down the hall," (We then see Forge say with a skeptical and less than impressed look on his face as he holsters his gun and then starts to walk past Warren).

"Real cute, look thanks for letting me out but I have work to do so if you don't have anything else to say I'll leave you two to your own devices and we'll call it even," (We then see Olivia say with a nervous smile on her face before she then starts to walk away but Warren then lays a hand on her shoulder). "You're not going anywhere until we figure out if you're telling us the truth, even if we have to give you a lie detector test," (We then see Warren say with a very determined scowl on his face as he makes Olivia turn around and look back at him as she doesn't make an attempt to get loose). "Are you sure, maybe we should just toss her back into her cell and let the local authorities handle her," (We then see Forge say with a half smile on his face as he crosses his arms and then leans back up against the doorway). (Then we see a panel of Warren and Forge as they share a look of some humor as Olivia looks on with at first a little bit of uncertainty before the look on her face changes to that of a scared and nervous smile as she then says while casually trying to push Warren away), "Hey guys…don't go overboard here, don't lose your heads and go and do something crazy like bringing the locals into this." "A few skeletons in the closet Olivia," (We then see Warren say with a sly smirk on his face as he bends over and picks his staff back up off of the ground).

"Right…it's just that the head of the local police is a real ass that's had it in for me since I was a child," (We then see Olivia say back with an unhappy look on her face as we see Warren direct her out of the cellblock and back into the guards office). "I've known a few men like that in my lifetime, the money comes with its detractors, but we don't have time to reminisce," (We then see Warren say with a serious look on his face as he rights the guards chair and then politely pushes Olivia down into it, as she looks up in some unhappiness but she makes no move to stop him). "Speaking of time gentlemen, I'm not sure if now is the best time for this, can't it wait until we're all far away from here," (We then see Olivia say with an uncomfortable smile on her face as she tries to appear like a scared little girl while sitting in the chair and looking up at Warren and Forge). "You talk to her and find out why she's really here while I'll go and keep watch, don't let her snowball ya, there's something important that she's not telling us," (We then see Warren say softly to Forge as he leans in close while looking back at Olivia on hi sway out of the room).

"Just don't take any unnecessary risks, I can't get out of here on my own and I am beginning to fear that we're going to be going home with a guest," (We then see Forge say back to Warren with a very serious and dreading the thought of having to bring Olivia back with them to the mansion look on his face as he starts to follow Warren out of the room as he keeps his gaze back on Olivia). "I'll be careful, besides I have a feeling that we've only scratched the surface of the secret that this place holds and we're running out of time," (We then see Warren say back with an unconvinced look on his face as he nods his head before leaving the room).

Deep In The Jungle+

"Remind me again why I agreed to come on this little expedition," (We then see Strobe say with an unhappy and slightly disgusted look on her face as she smacks a mosquito on her arm). (We see that she has her hair up in cornrows and her outfit looks like what Elektra wore in the Daredevil movie). "You're helping us root out the members of The Legacy Maggie, and it's your own fault for not putting any insect repellant on before we left the mansion," (We then se Betsy say back with a disapproving look on her face as she scowls back at Strobe before she then raises a machete and chops away a thick vine). "You didn't say anything about the jungle in the briefing," (We then see Erica say back with a less than thrilled look on her face as she then uses her powers and causes all of the mosquito's that are swarming all around her to burst into flames as if they all spontaneously combusted and then they all fall straight down towards the ground as they all burn up). "I know that, it's just that what secret society in its collective right minds would ever operate out of a hellhole like this," (We then see Strobe say back with a look of disgust on her face as the three pass into an area of the jungle that's dark and she sheds some light into the area).

"Our enemies have not always had the best ideas when choosing their headquarters," (We then see Betsy say back with a slight look of mockery on her face as we see that she is dressed in a lighter material than Strobe is wearing but she has less skin showing and she is wielding a machete and sweating heavily). "You know I've always wondered about that, do supervillians really have that bad of taste in hideouts, the heroes always seem to find them," (We then see Erica add with a cheesy smile on her face before Betsy then cuts her off). "Only in the movies and comic books, and we are in neither," (We then see Betsy say with a stern and disapproving look on her face before she turns back away from Erica and Strobe and begins to hack away some more vines as she starts to make her way towards a ridge a ways away as we pull back and up as we see that the three are heading towards what looks like an old Aztec or Mayan temple that's off in the distance). "Do you sense anything," (We then see Strobe ask with a nervous look on her face as she steps up beside Betsy as they stand on the top of the ridge and pushing aside a large leaf). "Of course, even if I were on the top of Mount Everest I would still be able to sense something, however minute, I'd have to be alone in space before I couldn't sense anything," (We then see Betsy reply with a bit of scorn on her face as she keeps looking straight across the valley at the temple, as then we see the look on Strobe's face change from a nervous and curious look to one of forced calm and keeping her temper down).

"I think a simple yes would have sufficed," (We then see Erica say with an unsure look on her face as she walks forward over the top of the ridge and past Betsy and Strobe). "True, but that would have been entirely too easy, no fun at all," (We then see Betsy say with a slightly amused look on her face as she switches the machete between her hands and then continues on down the side of the hill, leaving Strobe standing at the top of the hill). "You're sick you know," (We then see Strobe grumble back with an unhappy scowl on her face as she starts to follow Betsy and Erica before she stops suddenly and looks back over the edge of the cliff back from where they came as if she heard or saw something). (Then we see Strobe shake her head and then start to go back and follow Erica and Betsy as Betsy is leading the way with her machete before we then see something small and shiny shoot out of the jungle and then slice through the top of Strobe's left shoulder as she then screams in pain and surprise as there's a lot of blood and she drops to her knees while Betsy and Erica stop and whirl around in surprise). "Maggie," (We then see Erica shout in alarm before she and Betsy begin to race and scramble up the hill towards Strobe as she then starts to fall forward and look like she's about ready to pass out).

"Stay down," (We then see Betsy shout with authority and a very serious look on her face as she crouches down and keeps the machete at ready before then in a half panel she closes her eyes and the psychic butterfly appears on her forehead). (Then we see a panel of Erica doing her best to pick Strobe back up into a seated position while Betsy is pushing the range of her telepathic search out away from her further and further until she can find Strobe's attacker). (Then we see Erica start to say something but then stops as a shower of tiny bright and highly reflective items come flying out of the jungle, making them duck down into the underbrush). (Then we see Strobe grit her teeth and try to collect herself before we then see a group of heavily camouflaged soldiers stealthily move out of the jungle with weapons drawn as they then start to spread out as then we see Betsy open her eyes and she then stands up with a very calm look on her face and boldly stares down the camouflaged men).

(Then we see the camouflaged men start to shoot at Betsy as she dives down and rolls underneath the bullets and then lashes out and slices the Achilles tendons of the two soldiers nearest to her as then Erica adds with a frantic look on her face as she's lying flat on her stomach on the ground with her hair having fallen in front of her face as she throws her hand out towards the soldiers), "Let's heat things up!" (Then we see a pillar of fire shoot out of Erica's hand that hits several of the soldiers in the chest before she then dodges a hail of bullets and then she reaches out and we see the barrels of the guns of the soldiers and the flash at the end of the barrels starts to heat up and then explode, causing havoc). (Then we see Strobe half sit up and cover the entire area with a cascade of light as the soldiers cry out and cover their eyes but then we see Betsy close her eyes calmly and then almost smile and go into action). Using what would normally be a determent she turns it into a positive instead, dipping deeply into her many hours of sometimes grueling training she acts on what every one of her senses, except for sight, to direct her path.

(Then we see Betsy jump towards the nearest group of soldiers, with her eyes still closed, and she kicks first one soldier in the stomach and then she skewers one with her machete and then pulls it out). (Then we see her spin-kick the legs out from under another soldier and then knock him out with a punch). (Then we see Erica tackle the first soldier that tries to get back up to his feet as she then tries to use the soldiers own gun to try and choke him out). (Then we see that she has her eyes mostly closed as Strobe's lights are still blinding everyone but Erica is squinting her eyes and she then adds her powers to the gun and everywhere but her hands on the gun and the soldiers flesh and clothes start to get singed). (Then we see that soldier scream in pain before we then see one of the soldiers that Betsy hasn't gotten to yet gets off a lucky shot that hits Erica in the shoulder, as she shouts in pain and reaches for the injury as then she falls off to the side). (Then we see Betsy finish off the last of the soldiers just as Strobe passes out and her cascade of light disappears). (Then we see Betsy stand fully back up very calmly and opens her eyes as if nothing had happened and Erica sits up and grits her teeth before we then see Betsy turn back to her and then say with an easy going look on her face), "You okay?"

(Then we see the immediate look of both surprise and shock on Erica's face before she scowls and then answers), "What do you think!" "It's never nice to answer one question with another, though despite your appalling lack of tact in this matter I'm going to save that discussion for another time because I don't think that Maggie would last that long," (We then see Betsy say back with a serious look on her face as she wipes the blood off of the machete on the body of one of the soldiers). "I'm touched…honest," (We then see Erica say back with a sarcastic look on her face as she painfully gets back up to her feet and looks around). "We'd better leave now, Maggie will need more advanced medical attention than we can give her in the X-jet, if we hurry we can stop off in Mexico City before heading home, I'll get in touch with Warren once we're airborne," (We then see Betsy say with a very serious look on her face as she kneels down beside Strobe and checks her pulse). "Fine, just as long as you're the one that lugs her sorry ass back to the X-jet, I can barely move my arm," (We then see Erica say back with a pained look on her face as she walks over to where Strobe and Betsy are).

"We'll do it together, besides I'm not entirely sure that these soldiers whoever they may be are alone," (We then see Betsy say with a very serious look on her face as she's looking around the jungle before the two slowly begin to carry Strobe back towards the X-jet as we pull up and away).

Later+

"Here you go," (We then see Warren say with a weary and tired look on his face as he walks into a small waiting room with one wall of windows, he still has his sleeveless outfit on except that his top is loose with his shoulder all bandaged up, as he hands Betsy a cup of coffee as she's wearing her suit as well and it's loose as well and she's sitting in one of the chairs and she's on her cell phone). "Thanks," (We then see Betsy say back with a welcoming smile on her face as she closes her cell phone and then takes a drink of coffee as Warren sits down beside her and begins to massage her neck and shoulders). (Then we see a panel or two of the two sitting there in peace and quiet as Warren continues to give Betsy a massage and she has her eyes closed and is beginning to let herself go). Did you call Sam yet, did he get Moira to take her medicine , (We then see Betsy say telepathically to Warren, still with her eyes closed, and a calm look on her face as Warren then says back telepathically with a tired grin on his face while continuing to give Betsy a massage), Tabitha was able to get her to take the medication by lacing her milk with it, Charles tried to take it away from her but she wouldn't let him, she actually tried to slap him but Sam stopped her before she could .

That's my girl , (We then see Betsy say back with a proud smile on her face, telepathically back to Warren, as she keeps her eyes closed and she takes a drink of coffee). How did I know that you were going to say that , (We then see Warren shoot back with a sly grin on his face before he then takes her cup of coffee and then finishes it off). (Then we see a close up panel on Betsy's face and then her eyes snap open and then slide over to look sternly at Warren as he then only grins back and leans back in his chair). "Now don't look at me like that…you know as well as I do that you always take Moira's side in everything," (We then see Warren say with a fake look of anger on his face before Betsy then shoots back with a calm look on her face as she looks away), "Only because you always take Charles' side." "I do not, it's just that Moira is usually the one that instigates their disagreements," (We then see Warren shoot back as he sits up in his chair and crosses his arms). "Whatever helps you get a good nights sleep Warren," (We then see Betsy say with a proud smile on her face as she then closes her eyes and turns back to Warren before he then starts to say something before he gets interrupted by a group of doctors as they madly rush a patient by on a gurney).

"Do you think they knew that we were coming," (We then see Warren ask as he checks his watch and then puts an arm around Betsy and pulls her close as she lets out a sigh and lays her head on his shoulder and looks off down the hallway as she slowly opens her eyes just a bit). "Honestly, I'm not sure, they couldn't have been listening in on any of our communications and everyone that went along tonight is beyond repute," (We then see Betsy say back with a concerned look on her face as she looks over and up at Warren). "Perhaps their network of informants is wider than we realize, one of the locals that we contacted to get our information could have rolled over on us," (We then see Warren say with a grim look on his face as he sets the cup of coffee down onto the table next to him). "It would be pointless to try to get a reading from all of them, but we do need to do something before one of us doesn't make it back from a mission," (We then see Betsy say with a worried look on her face as she lifts her head up off of Warren's shoulder and looks over at him).

"The only problem with that though is the fact that we still do not have a clue as to how to identify the members of The Legacy or their accomplices," (We then see Warren say back with a worried and slightly scared look on his face as he looks back at Betsy and walks his fingers up her arm up towards her neck). "Well…did your new friend tell you anything useful, or did you get distracted by her outfit," (We then see Betsy say back to Warren with a mocking smirk on her face as she trails her hand back up Warrens arm and then up his lips to the tip of his nose). "No, Olivia didn't give us anything that we didn't already know, but then gain I'm not sure that she's told us everything that she knows about The Legacy and its members," (We then see Warren say back with a calm but serious look on his face as he leans back away from Betsy and takes a deep breath). "Maybe I should have a talk with her, woman to woman, perhaps she might feel more comfortable talking to me…besides if she tries to lie to me I'll use my powers to give her a telepathic lobotomy, which is also what I will do to you if I find out that anything happened between the two of you in Egypt," (We then see Betsy say with a certain look on her face before she then turns to Warren and looks him straight in the eye and grabs his jaw from underneath to make sure that he stays looking at her).

"Nothing happened Betts, but not for her lack of thinking…she brought up the idea but I snipped it in the bud," (We then see Warren say back with a serious look on his face as he stays where he is and she stays in form and keeps holding onto Warren's jaw as she is looking seriously at Warren before he then cracks a grin and after a quick panel of Warren grinning at Betsy and her being all stoic before she then can't help it and she smiles back and then the two start to laugh as Betsy drops her hand away from Warren's jaw as she then continues to laugh and drops the top of her head down to his chin). "But really now Warren, we were lucky tonight, I'm not going to let things continue as they have been, because sooner or later our luck will run out and I for one am through simply reacting to one surprise attack after another, we should put an immediate halt to any and all missions that consist of less than five of us," (We then see Betsy say with a heartfelt look of seriousness on her face as she stays with the top of her head on Warren's chin as Warren looks off and up into the darkened hallway).

"But if we do that, give in to the fear, then we've already lost, we'll just have to think of something," (We then see Warren say back with a very calm and serious look on his face as he pulls Betsy into a hug and gives her a good tight squeeze as we see a wide shot of the two in a tight embrace with a halo of light all around them). (Then we see Betsy pull away from Warren and look up at him with an almost bored and apathetic look on her face as she then says), "Okay, I think that I've had about as much tender loving care as I can handle for the time being, we should check on Maggie and see if the doctors have given her the okay to be discharged yet." "Sam and Tabitha managed to get Charles and Moira to sleep so they should be okay until we get home, that's saying that we can actually find a doctor around here at this hour…let alone one that isn't prejudiced against mutants," (We then see Warren say back with at first a serious look on his face before the expression then changes to a sly smirk as the two then stand up and start to leave the waiting room).

(Then we see Warren and Betsy walking through the hospital before they then get to Strobe's room as we see that Erica is sitting half asleep in a chair outside of the room while Forge is busy watching every little thing that the doctors do with a very determined look on his face while Olivia is sitting handcuffed to the chair that she's sitting in across from the bed that Strobe is lying in with her shoulder heavily taped and bandaged as we see also that Olivia has changed into hospital scrubs and she looked extremely less than thrilled). (Then we see her try to jerk her handcuffed wrist away in an attempt to break the chair to free herself but it doesn't work and she sulks and pouts). "Comfy," (We then see Betsy ask Olivia with a sarcastic grin on her face as she walks into the room and then looks down at her). "You're loving this aren't you," (We then see Olivia say back up to Betsy with an impatient scowl on her face as she grabs the armrests and squeezes them tightly). "Ever so much," (We then see Betsy say back with a proud smirk on her face ass he crosses her arms and leans back up against the wall).

"So what's the prognosis," (We then see Warren ask with a serious look on his face as he steps up beside Forge and the two then watch as the doctors continue to work on Strobe as they're checking her stitches and her other vitals). "She was lucky, they missed her vital organs but she lost a lot of blood…they're going to release her in a few days if she doesn't suffer any setbacks," (We then see Forge say back with a very serious look on his face as we're looking at him head on as behind him we see Erica stand up and then step into the room and lean up against Forge). "We should have someone here around the clock, they nearly got her before and I do not want to give them a second chance," (We then see Warren say back with a very serious look on his face before at the end he half looks back over his shoulder at Betsy, as she looks up casually and locks eyes with Warren briefly before she nods her head).

"James and Theresa should be back from that fundraiser at the botanical center by now so they're the most likely candidates, the rest of us need to catch some shuteye," (We then see Forge offer up with a very tired look on his face before Erica then adds after a large yawn), "Yeah, let them handle it, look Warren can Forge and I leave now, my shoulder is killing me, the drugs they gave me must be starting to wear off." "Sure, go ahead and get out of here, when you get back to the mansion fuel up the X-jet and then get James and Theresa back her to relieve us as soon as possible," (We then see Warren say back with a tired grin on his face before he then turns around and walks back over to the wall and leans back up against it next to Betsy). "Quite the way to take charge there luv," (We then see Betsy say with a light look of making fun and amusement on her face as she grins and looks over at Warren casually). "Thank you, I'm just glad that you were able to get Maggie here in time, another few minutes and she wouldn't have made it," (We then see Warren say back with a sly grin as he turns his head and looks over at Betsy). "Precisely why we should halt any future two, three, or four person missions before we're not as lucky," (We then see Betsy say back with a convinced and certain look on her face as she then unfolds her arms and looks directly at Warren's injured shoulder). "Alright Betts…you got me, we'll only go out in five person groups from here on out until further notice, I'll take the first watch and brief James and Theresa when they get here you should get some sleep," (We then see Warren say as he smiles and puts his hands up in surrender as Betsy can't help but grin and nod her head in triumph).

"Alright, wake me when they get here, and keep an eye on her, don't let her out of your sight…no matter what she says, or else," (We then see Betsy say with a tired yawn as she pushes away from the wall and then leans in closer to Warren and then kisses him on the cheek before she then starts to leave the room as they hold hands as they pull away and they keep holding on even down to their fingers). "How'd you ever land her," (We then see Olivia say with a skeptical half smile on her face as she glances over at Warren, who crosses his arms and scowls). "God only knows," (We then see Warren say with a nervous shrug of his shoulders as he stays staring out of the doorway after Betsy's departure). "I bet he does," (We then see Olivia say with an amused smirk on her face as she turns her head and looks over at Warren). "Well he's not talking at the moment so I suggest that you take this free time to get some sleep, because once Elizabeth wakes up she is going to want to talk to you, and I feel that I should warn you that she does not take no for an answer," (We then see Warren say back with a calm but yet very serious look on his face as he turns back to Olivia and then over and on to Strobe as the doctor's all leave the room).

"Thanks for the warning, speaking of which how about you cut me a little slack and take these things off," (We then see Olivia ask with a sly grin on her face as she yanks the handcuffs tight to help further add to her point). "Now you know that I can't do that, because if I did then Betsy would get a dull kitchen knife and cut off my…," (We then see Warren say with an almost mocking look on his face as he walks over to Olivia and faces her before leaning forward and supporting himself with his hands on the chair's armrests as Olivia at first looks like she is going to eagerly sit up and then kiss him but as he speaks she start to scrunch down in her seat and look up at Warren with a sickened look on her face). "Ugh…gross, way to much information, you could have just said no," (We then see Olivia say with a grossed out look on her face as she reaches up and pushes a grinning Warren away).

Later+

Having changed on the run after receiving their orders they take their time finding Strobe's room. (We see Siryn and Warpath, wearing normal clothes that were appropriate for the climate of Mexico City, walking through the hallways of the hospital looking tired). (Then we see Siryn run her hands through her hair while Warpath has his hands in his pockets with his thumbs out as we also see that there's very little light in the hallways). "What room did Forge say that Strobe was in," (We then see Warpath ask with a bored look on his face as he continues to check the room numbers while walking by them). "Fifty three I think," (We then see Siryn say back with a sleepy look on her face as she turns and looks up and over at Warpath as they continue walking and get to a corner). "You think," (We then see Warpath say back with a stymied look on his face before we then see the two stop walking and turn to each other). "Okay I'm sure it was fifty three," (We then see Siryn snap back at Warpath with an angry scowl on her face before she can't stay mad and she lets out an exasperated sigh and then she takes a step forward and then leans up against Warpath and then does her best to wrap her arms around his waist and she turns her head and lays the side of her face up against his stomach).

"Then we have a ways to go because we're only in the teens," (We then see Warpath say back with a relaxed sigh as he puts an arm around Siryn and the two then start off down the hallway and then turn another corner). (Then we see a panel of Warren standing outside of Strobe's room with his arms crossed and his head down in the foreground as in the background we see Siryn and Warpath coming down the hallway). "You're late," (We then see Warren say with a very serious and almost angry look on his face as he keeps his arms crossed and his head down as we see Warpath and Siryn walk up and then start to defend themselves verbally but they we see Siryn shrug her shoulders and say with an embarrassed look on her face), "Sorry but I didn't know that we were on the clock." "You're always on the…oh forget it, Maggie was seriously injured on her latest mission and right now she's here recovering from her injuries, the reason that the two of you are here is because we're not sure that whoever tried to kill her tonight is done trying," (We then see Warren say with a very serious and tired look on his face as he turns to the two and as he does we see his wings bend and flex so that they don't hit anything as he turns).

"Who's she," (We then see Siryn ask with a bored shrug of her shoulders as she nods her head into the room towards Olivia, who looks back at her with a less than thrilled look). "A new friend, her name is Olivia Hatherington, Forge and I met her in Egypt, don't let her fool you, she's smarter than she looks, no matter what she says or does just leave her where she is, Betsy and I will pick her up in a couple of hours so you only have to baby-sit her until then, otherwise just stand guard and make sure that Maggie keeps breathing," (We then see Warren reply with a weary look on his face as his hands slip down to his hips in a frustrated stance and the doctors are walking down the hallway in the far background). "What happened tonight," (We then see Warpath ask with a serious look on his face as he takes a step forward and then leans forward and looks into the hospital room as Strobe looks off to the side with a drugged out look on her face). "I'm not completely sure but somehow The Legacy became aware of our plans and set up a trap for both of our teams, Forge and I managed to slip out of their trap…but just barely, Elizabeth, Maggie, and Erica were not as lucky," (We then see Warren say back with a very serious and concerned look on his face as he crosses his arms and then glances into the room at Strobe).

"Do we have any leads," (We then see Siryn ask with a concerned and worried look on her face as she crosses her arms and then reaches up and rubs her eyes). "Very few I'm afraid, Betts didn't have time to bring anything back from the jungle and the only piece of information that Forge and I could bring back from Egypt was Olivia in there, and she's been less than fully cooperative," (We then see Warren answer with a very serious look on his face as he takes a deep breath before he then yawns widely). "You okay Warren, you're looking a little pale," (We then see Warpath ask Warren with a concerned look on his face as he puts a hand up to steady a visibly tired and weary looking Warren). "Guess this wasn't just a mere flesh wound, I'll have to tell Forge that he was right," (We then see Warren start to say with a joking smile before he falters a bit and we see Siryn and Warpath jump forward in alarm but we then see someone catch Warren from behind and say), "Easy there dear, you see where your bravado has gotten you?" "Are you okay," (We then see Siryn say with a worried look on her face as Warpath and Betsy guide Warren to a chair just inside Strobe's room as we see Olivia look on with a concerned look on her face).

"I'm fine," (We then see Warren say with a frustrated look on his face as he looks up at Betsy as she reaches out and puts a hand on Warren's cheek while her other hand is on his knee). "I'll be the judge of that," (We then see Betsy say with a determined look on her face as she uses her hand on his cheek to make him look her in the eye as we see that she's checking him out). "Do you want me to stick out my tongue and say ah to," (We then see Warren ask with a sarcastic look on his face as he starts to lift a hand up towards her shoulder but she stops him and slaps his hand away). "At least we know that you still have your sense of humor," (We then see Betsy say with a worried look on her face before she then turns up and back and says to Siryn and Warpath), "Go find one of the doctors." "I said that I'm fine Betts, a good nights sleep is all that I need, I don't need to see a doctor," (We then see Warren say with a frustrated look on his face as he stands up and tries to push Betsy away but she then activates her psyknife and put it up in between her and Warren's faces).

"Don't make me use this," (We then see Betsy say with a very serious look on her face as she starts to push Warren back down into his chair by putting her free hand on his chest to do it). "Fine," (We then see Warren say with a tired look on his face as he sits back down and lets out a breath). (Then we see Betsy shut off her psyknife and then sit down in a chair that's directly across from Warren's that Warpath set down).

Later+

The Mansion+

After a long day finally over they take a well-deserved sleep. (We start with a three hundred and sixty degree pan around in the nursery with Warren and Betsy sitting in the twin rocking chairs with Charles and Moira in their arms as they're all asleep and the lights are off except for a nightlight). (Then we go back outside of the nursery and see a refreshed looking Erica walking down the hallway with a training suit on with her hair pulled back and up into a ponytail with a similarly dressed Sam and Tabitha behind her). "They still sawing logs," (We then see Sam ask with a calm look on his face as he is putting his goggles on and then positions them correctly over his eyes). "Yeah, they barely had time to get home and shower before they crashed, right in the middle of rocking Charles and Moira back to sleep, those two always sleep through the night when Warren and Elizabeth rock them…but not if one of us…," (We then see Erica reply with a half smile on her face as she pulls a pair of fingerless gloves out of her belt and then puts them on). "Perhaps that's because they're Charles and Moira's parents," (We then see Tabitha say with an overly sarcastic look on her face as she leans forward slightly and pokes Erica on the shoulder).

"I know that Tabitha I'm not stupid, I only mentioned it because I thought that it was cute," (We then see Erica shoot back at Tabitha with an unhappy look on her face as she stops walking and turns back around to lightly glare back at Tabitha). "Oh…sorry," (We then see Tabitha say back with a look of regret on her face as she slows down and then turns back and looks at Sam with a worried look on her face before we then see Sam look back at her with a supportive look on his face as he also puts a hand on her shoulder and then gives it a squeeze). "So what program should we run today," (We then see Sam ask with a nervous look on his face as he pulls his hand back off of Tabitha's shoulder). "How about urban assault, I've heard that you two have had some experience in that arena," (We then see Erica answer with a sly wink back at Sam before she grins at Tabitha). (Then we see Sam and Tabitha share a look that seems to suggest that neither one has happy memories of their battles in San Francisco back in their X-Force days). "That was a long time ago, so much so that I've only just now been able to stop having constant nightmares about it," (We then see Tabitha say back with a roll of her eyes as she shakes her head before Sam then cuts in with a small smile on his face), "Ah think what Tabitha is trying to say is that our experiences with fighting in an urban environment are not some of our happiest memories, those that we are not very eager to relive."

(Then we see the three get to the door of the danger room). "Okay then, if you two are to scared to do a little bit of street fighting then…," (We then see Erica say with a joking smile on her face as she reaches up and starts to punch in the beginnings of the code to open the door but Sam stops her as he reaches up and puts his hand up and over the keypad). "Hold up Erica, we're not scared, we're just not to keen on taking a trip down memory lane…but if you insist…we wouldn't want to break your little heart," (We then see Tabitha say with an unhappy look on her face as she checks her own ponytail and looks to Sam). "Perish the thought, now if you'd be so kind I need to get my exercise time in today or else Elizabeth will have my head, I already skipped yesterday and she very nearly tore my head off," (We then see Erica say with a slightly skittish look on her face as she bats Sam's hand away and then punches in the full code and walks in as the doors slide open). "Okay fine Erica, we'll play your little game, but we don't have to like it," (We then see Tabitha say in a childish huff before she then takes a deep breath and shakes her head as she walks into the danger room).

"It's gonna be one of those days," (We then see Sam say with a sigh of frustration before he then also walks into the danger room). He walks into the room with some trepidation, passing out of the friendly and familiar and into the perilous and surreal. (We see Sam walk slowly into the danger room as it changes from its standby mode to a scene of urban chaos). (We see a lot of rundown buildings with a lot of graffiti and piles of burning tires along with a number of burning and trashed cars). "Nice place ya," (We then see Sam start to say with a slightly cheesy grin on his face before something whizzes past his head and then a piece of the wall behind him explodes, showering him with pieces of the wall). "Watch it there Sam, this may only be a simulation but it can still hurt you," (We then see Erica shout back at Sam with a sarcastic grin on her face before she gets knocked to the ground by a punch). "Erica," (We then see Sam shout in alarm as he sees one of the thug looking enemy about to smash Erica's head in with a big rock).

"That's a good idea pal, however Forge would probably have a problem with it," (We then see Tabitha shout with an interested and excited grin on her face before she then blasts that thug to pieces). (Then we see a counter with Tabitha's name appear near her head and the score jumps from zero up to one thousand). "Are you alright, shut down the program," (We then see Sam shout with an alarmed look on his face as he rushes forward before we then see Erica regain her composure, dodge an attack, and then arch her back by bringing her knees and feet up into the air and then jumps back up to her feet like Shawn Michaels does in his matches and adds with a big grin on her face), "Leave it on Sam, I'm fine." "You sure," (We then see Sam shout back with a very serious look on his face as he blocks a punch from one of the thugs and he then blasts a hole clean through that thug, and we see his tally jump up from zero to five hundred).

"Yeah," (We then see Erica shout back to Sam with a determined look on her face before she picks up a smashed up piece of a door and then uses it to beat away some more of the thugs). "Nice one Sam, but watch this," (We then see Tabitha shout back with an excited and energized grin on her face before we then see her rear back and summon up a large amount of plasma energy and then she unleashes it all down a line that knocks out several of the thugs as they all go flying up into the air and then down again through the walls and the windows of the buildings). (Then we see Tabitha's points counter go up sharply). "Show off," (We then see Sam shout with a cheering grin on his face before we then see him almost get clobbered from behind but Erica then saves him by leaping onto the back of that thug and trying to choke him out). "How is this supposed to be helping us again," (We then see Tabitha ask with an overly bored look on her face as she's looking back over her shoulder at Sam and Erica as she's blasting away more thugs).

"It is helping us to deal with the unexpected Tabitha," (We then see Erica shout back with a very serious look on her face before she then finishes off the thug that she had been fighting and then turns to Tabitha). "Unexpected…ya mean like that," (We then see Sam say with a stunned look on his face as he's looking back behind Tabitha and Erica before we then see the two spin around in shock). (Then we see a panel of the three staring in surprise before we then see a panel of several of the thugs as they then begin to merge together until there are several large thugs and then more normal thugs appear all over as well). "Well that's new," (We then see Tabitha say with a surprised look on her face before she then instinctively turns to look up at Sam). "You can say that again…Erica, is this part of the programming," (We then see Sam ask as we're looking out over his shoulder at the steadily increasing army of thugs).

"I'm not sure Sam, Maggie said that Elizabeth had added a few new sequences to the programs but…I didn't know that they were anything like this," (We then see Erica say back with a very serious and somewhat scared look on her face as she looks to Sam and then back to the mass of thugs that then all turn their attention to the three of them). First there is silence, and then action. (Then we see a panel of a large mass of the thugs surging towards Sam, Tabitha, and Erica). "Here they come," (We then see Sam shout with an alarmed look on his face before he blasts away and forward while also bringing up his shield, Erica dives off to the side, finds cover, and then starts to fire back with shoots of fire and Tabitha rolls away). (Then we see several panels of the three fighting tooth and nail against the thugs as Sam has taken to the air and is fighting the large one's that the thugs merged into). (Tabitha is using judo moves that Betsy taught her along with making good use of her powers). (Erica has resorted to using anything and everything that she can get her hands on and heat up).

"This isn't going so well Sammy," (We then see Erica shout up to Sam with a very nervous look on her face as we see the bodies of the thugs that they've defeated in large and ever growing piles around them). "I'm aware of that," (We then see Sam shout back at Erica with a very serious look on his face as he's blasting away at the larger creatures). "So then what are we going to do about it," (We then see Tabitha shout out with a look of scorn on her face before we then see her duck under the table of a smashed apart bar). "Shut the program down," (We then see Sam shout back with a very serious look on his face as he lands on the ground beside Erica). "Easier said than done," (We then see Erica say with a nervous look on her face as she tries to get to a control panel but it then gets smashes by one of the thugs). (Then we see Sam pull Erica away from the control panel while Tabitha blasts away several of the thugs as then we see Erica get back up to her feet and then she surrounds herself and Sam in a wall of fire). (Then we see Sam power up within the tunnel of fire as we see Erica watching him closely as she keeps the wall of fire up with one hand while getting ready to drop the wall at Sam's word).

"Just tell me when you're ready Sam and I'll drop the wall," (We then see Erica say with a very determined look on her face before long we see that she's sweating heavily). "Ah'm almost there," (We then see Sam say back with a very serious look on his face as he's building up more and more energy). (Then we see Tabitha get knocked back by one of the big thug mergers). "Hurry up, these guys aren't playing nice," (We then see Tabitha shout with a somewhat angry look on her face as she's getting back up to her feet and then blasts away the nearest group of thugs). (Then we go back inside of the wall of fire and see Sam look up and smile before saying), "Okay…drop it!" "With pleasure," (We then see Erica say back with a proud smile on her face as we then see a wide shot of Erica bringing down the wall and then she drops down to her knees). (Then we see Sam unleash the power that he had been building up). (Then we see the blast be unleashed and vaporize the thugs nearest to him while the rest of them get blasted off of their feet and then slam into the ground as then Tabitha follows him up with a large blast of her own that knocks out the thugs that didn't get knocked out by Sam's blast).

"Think we got them all," (We then see Tabitha ask with a spent look on her face as she's trying to calm her breathing down as she walks over to Sam and leans heavily on his shoulder). "Let's hope so," (We then see Erica say with a deep sigh as Sam helps her back up to her feet). "Yes Erica, that is all of them…for now," (We then see someone say from off panel before we then see Betsy standing in the doorway of the danger room and holding hands with Moira, who looks like she's all dressed up to go out somewhere for dinner).-END