Note: a certain group are slowly going to make their appearance in the chapters to come. Know it was supposed to be about moments in Kaledioscope that hadn't made it into the story; though the post AOA Rachel Summers Phoenix and other Marvel characters, two in specific simply bulldozed me. Wanting in on the story and completely and utterly shoving me out of the way. And there will be Dane Whitman bashing in this chapter and subsequent ones also; so if anyone likes him, well?!
"Hey old man!" Going to sit next to him, "couldn't sleep either, kid?!" The smoke from the cigar permeating the air. "I'm surprised you haven't tried to kill me yet?!" "What would be really the point, you always manage to find your way back to us. Besides, I can tell you are different from before."
Staring up at the sky, "you see the difference?!" "I do." "I wish all the others could." "Give them time, losing Rachel really wounded them. It may not be fair to you but…do what you have to, kid." He gets up, putting the cigar out before walking away. "Hey, Howlett, I know we may haven't always gotten along. But for what it's worth, thank you."
Turning to look at the clock, she slowly wipes the sleep from her eyes. Getting up, knowing sleep is going to be evasive once more. She makes her way to the terrace just as Ikaris touches the structure underneath them. "You should be sleeping, Lady Phoenix." "It is beautiful. I am surprised that the Grecian deities acquiesced to sharing all this and the glory that comes with it. Not that I don't appreciate it, just humbler than the selfish lot they are thought to be believed as?!"
"What troubles you, my lady?" "Just thinking. And there really is no need for the honorifics." Sitting on her bed, "oh, I know what about this…?!" Laughing at her companion, "absolutely not, Kate." "Well, then what, unless you are going to be fine with being called nothing but Kid Phoenix?!" "I just know it will sound and feel right when I hear it. I was thinking of Katherine as well. But not only would that be confusing, it would be a bad idea."
Sighing, "yeah. I know she really did a number on us. But if you are going to stick with the same initials, how about Kathleen?" "That does sound nice." An image of one of Rachel's dearest friend's springs in her mind. "Kathleen Pryce." Getting off the bed, Kate stands by The Phoenix. "Kathleen Pryce, it is.
Laying his hand on her shoulder, "I am sorry. And wish it had been a happy memory. Was it really all bad?" Covering his hand with hers, "no. I know that on some level they saw me. But her ghost prevented them from accepting me as I am." "Do you miss it, your life there?" "If I regret coming here, no. Though, yes, I do miss some things from that life."
Picking up the picture, "what is this?" "Oh, that. That is one of my headshots." "Headshot?!" "Yes, it is what models and actors use as a reference when looking for work." Laying the phot back down, "I am still amazed and have a lot to learn about this world, despite being exposed to it for years now. It is so extravagant. So many things lacked in Rachel's reality.
Thank you, Jean." "Should we discuss the elephant in the room...You know running away isn't the answer?! I thought the years you were with Rachel taught you this?!" "I am not running. But what am I supposed to do when I know deep down inside none of you really see me; much less bother to accept me?! It will be easier if I just left, besides I am here to find myself. And I think I would like to try this field."
Dawn begins to break, "come on. The others will be up soon. And if you want to get breakfast, sometimes being one of the first is the best option." She and Ikaris make their way to the dining hall passing certain deities along the way.
Laughing at Sprite's antics, she accepts the goblet Makkari hands her. "Thank you." The meal continues in comfortable silence, before Ikaris sits back, "yes, Hermes." "There is someone here to see." "Thank you but I can speak for myself." She and Ikaris share a look as she rises from her chair. "Dane Whitman, I must say you are being rude. And obnoxious as ever.
I am sure even though Hermes is considered the messenger, he has better things to do. Not to mention, we were quietly enjoying our breakfast. But if you are so admanant with speaking to me, we shall do it somewhere that isn't intruding on other's peace." Ignoring the looks as she walks out of the dining room, Dane not far behind her.
Crossing her arms, "well, speak. What is it that you want?" "Everyone misses you. I miss you." He lays his hand on her arm, before pulling her closer. The kiss sudden and definitely unexpected. Recoiling, "what on Earth?!" He silences her again as she struggles once more, before managing to break free this time. Socking him a good one, "you have some nerve." "Kathleen is everything okay?"
"It's fine, Ikaris. And don't even pretend you hadn't seen that." "But I love you." Rage fills her expression as she turns to their guest, shoving him. "What is wrong with you?! You sure seem like to become interested in those who are unattainable. You are repulsive, Dane Whitman. And you couldn't attract me more if you were scum. Or even a member of the Brood species.
And what is this about being the welcome wagon. I got tired of not living up to the expectations Earth's heroes had of me, I am not going back if I don't have to. I may still be making the choice to physically represent Rachel Summers. But that is where the similarities stop. And I am with people who see me for who I am, now.
"I have kept Rachel's memories. So, the reason she couldn't stand you is the same reason I can't. And it is also why we had been bias against Crystalia at first. But we eventually overcame our distaste after how far Pietro fell. She thought her love could keep him in check. And to a certain extent, Rachel had been correct. However, Pietro's need to control things couldn't be curbed entirely. But at least, for the most part, he had class and respect. If one of them said no, he didn't push.
You, however, we have tried to stay true. But you persisted with Crystal just like you are with me now. Though, I am adamant. I could never be tempted to look at you. Now crawl back to whatever rock you came out from under, scour." "So, that's it?!" "Yes. I don't know how much clearer I have to be." Defeated once more, Dane takes his leave.
"My lady, are you okay?" "I am fine, Ikaris. Thank you." Beginning to move past him. "The others must be waiting for us. The food is getting cold." The hand on hers halts her movements. "Kathleen Pryce, my Lady Phoenix." Looking at his hand before letting her gaze slowly move up, "I…" Ikaris, you are really afraid, aren't you?! You shouldn't worry, I am nothing like Sersi or Crystal. I meant what I said, Whitman could never tempt me."
Letting his hand drop from her arm, "if you are really unsure, ask me." The question he is unable to speak due to the lack of confidence due to possibly losing to Dane once before. 'It matters not that I am considered a god. Pryce, go out with me?" A soft smile appears on her face, "and where would you take me?" "I know the perfect place."
