A/N This chapter starts a bit off topic but it's the best way I can think of to show the aftermath of the Vegas Incident, it has a big surprise in it, a bombshell and a half, but it'll make sense as the story progresses. It's quite long, but full of important moments. Now, everyone, meet Senator Hollander...
XxXxx
"People of America, my friends, my brothers and sisters, my fellow human kind. I come before you not a man seeking to be elected your President, but as one of you. I am just like you, just like the factory worker, the office worker, the policeman, the doctor and the honest lawyer. I feel the pain of the ordinary, over taxed, over-controlled guy on the street. I'm like you because I'm human, an honest, hard working, an all-American Human being." The man speaking with a deep southern accent behind the podium paused for a moment, staring out at the cheering crowd at filled the arena he was speaking in. "The same human blood that runs through your blood runs through mine, I feel the same emotions, I have strengths and I have my weaknesses. This is what makes me like you, and what sets me apart from the Mutant Menace."
The crowd erupted into passionate applause, Hollander stopped and waited for them to calm, his stern expression never fading from his tired old face. As the audience calmed, he began to speak again.
"They are an affliction on America; they are the cause of our woes, the reason why we are losing our greatness. America is full of violent, unemployed, atheist mutants who use their unholy powers to exploit us. They act as violent thugs but expect us to treat them like they're better than us. The have shown themselves to be little more than terrorists, destroying public property, attacking innocent civilians, harming Officers of the Law, and yet what do they want us to do? Respect their rights and privileges, and have people like Trawman forcing us to act as if we are the ones in the wrong. It doesn't have to be that way; I represent the voice of the ordinary man, the man that says no to mutant equality, to allowing them loose on our streets.
"To anyone who disagrees with me, today's attack on Las Vegas by the criminal organization called The X-Men shows exactly what they can do. Senseless, random violence ripped through the streets, Six special forces operatives were killed in the mutant attack, with countless innocents injured and millions of dollars worth of property destroyed. The mutants have no respect for the peace that we humans offered to them. It shows that no matter how many concessions we make they will never stop."
He paused for a moment to allow his reddening face to cool, before wiping the spit to from his script and continuing.
"If you vote for me to be your president I will re-introduce Mutant Registration, so that we know who and where they are. I'll legalize the mutant cure so that those who want to be like us can be. And I will abolish the equal pay laws and employment laws that discriminate against hard-working, ordinary Americans. A vote for me is a vote for change, a change of direction, a change of ideas, a change to put down trodden humans back on top."
The crowds leapt to their feet and applauded, almost deafening. Red, white and blue confetti began falling from the ceiling as Hollander stepped from behind the podium to wave to the crowd. He was quickly joined by his picture perfect family, a smiling, blonde wife in her mid-forties and two teenage children. A forced smile lined his lips as he stared out into the masses, holding placards and posters declaring their love for Hollander or their hatred for mutants.
Muffled music began blaring out from giant speakers as he took the ovation for several minutes, until finally stepping back and leading his family off the stage. As soon as they were away from the view of the crowd his 'wife' threw his hand off her shoulder and gave him a scolding look.
"How many times, no touching." She said in a nasal, whining voice, whilst he glared back.
"Look Miriam, if you want the people out there to think were a normal family, then we need to act like one." He said in a superior tone that grated through the air. "That means I have to occasionally show some affection."
"Barph, the thought of you being affectionate makes me want to be sick." His daughter proclaimed, a teenage girl with braces and small glasses.
"Watch your manners young lady, I have a good mind to-" He was cut off as an army of aides and helpers swamped them, ensuring their every whim was met before they reached their separate dressing rooms. As soon as Hollander was alone inside he practically threw himself on to the large couch along the wall and draped himself over it.
"Interesting speech, I must congratulate you on your charismatic demeanor." The voice came from the far corner of the room; it was as deep, English voice that sent a chill up Hollander's spine.
"I must say, it rather reminded me of someone." It said, emanating from a shadowed figure in the corner sitting in a small armchair. "Hmmn, I can't remember his name, a German fellow with a stupid moustache and a penchant for genocide."
"Your wit knows no bounds." Hollander replied sarcastically. "You're very clever, for a mutant."
"I wish I could say the same for you." The shadowy replied. "Then again, the fact that so many listen to you suggests that I miscalculated my admittedly low estimate of the intelligence of your race."
"What do you want mutant, I'm tired and listening to you." Hollander said.
"Come now, there is no need to be uncivil." The intruder answered. "Even humans can be civilized at times. After all, we have a great deal to discuss."
"I'm assuming your talking about that thing in Vegas, I lost six men in that little battle, not to mention a very expensive piece of equipment."
"Your friends at MIRACLE will no doubt reimburse you. It was a necessary loss; our little business arrangement must be kept secret."
"Not that it matters." Hollander said. "We will no doubt be at war very soon anyway."
XxXxX
The Blackbird descended through the cavern beneath the institute grounds, The high pitched roar of the engines as they hovered the plane onto the landing strip woke Jake from his sleep. As soon as they were away the effects of his exertions and stresses took hold, and he fell asleep.
He blinked the tiredness out of eyes and looked around. Mark seemed to be doing the same thing, he yawned and turned to face Jake before giving him sleepy smile, Jake gave one back happily. The Blackbird hit the landing pad with a bump and the two boys reluctantly got up. Behind them Quinn and Caim were already getting ready to disembark, whilst the stranger and beast were carrying Jubilee in a stretcher, with Cyclops overseeing everything.
Jake saw in the corner in the corner of his eye Hack appear to stumble. He leapt to help her, and was almost immediately joined by Mark. She stood firm but Jake could feel she was shaking, he took her hand and helped her down the walk way.
"Thank you boys." She said softly. "Today's activities have left me a little drained, I'll be fine in an couple of minutes, though I think I'm in for one hell of a headache."
They slowly walked down the ramp onto the runway whilst a group led by Xavier was hurriedly coming to meet them. A medic quickly rushed to Hack and took over from the two boys, leading her away with the other adults. Jake moved to join Caim and Quinn as Cyclops met Xavier.
"Professor, we underestimated how dangerous the mission was." Cyclops said. "Somebody didn't want us to get Jubilee back here alive, they very nearly succeeded."
A pang of guilt hit Jake in the stomach. Xavier barely looked at Cyclops, instead he focused on the four battered looking teens.
"Fortunately they didn't, Jubilee is alive, Logan was found and brought back safely, and our young X-Men performed admirably." Xavier said with a slight smile as he rolled to address them. "I read your mission report Cyclops. Despite being divided and alone, everyone kept a cool head and act in the highest standard. The doctors would like to take a look at you all, it would be wise to head to the infirmary, you all look like you have just gone ten rounds with Colossus."
XxXxX
Jake sat on a a soft infirmary bed as a doctor prodded him, lifting his arms and tapping his knee with a tiny hammer. Jake waited nervously as she checked his mouth and teeth, he hadn't brushed in several days. Finally she shone a small torch in his eyes before she ended her inspection, stepping back to look him over.
"Your fine, a little muscle fatigue but apart from that there is nothing wrong with you." She said, her voice was deep for a woman, matching her slightly masculine frame.
"To be honest Jake you look fitter than when you left." Mark said on the bed next to him. "More healthy I mean, and those clothes look good on you too."
Jake blushed and looked away. He didn't see the slight smile from Mark.
"Ca-Can I go?" Jake asked, finding his mouth suddenly unresponsive. The Doctor paused and for some, strange reason glanced to Mark before turning back.
"Yes, there's no reason for you to be here." She replied. Jake and Mark jump off their beds in unison and began to walk to the door. Suddenly the Doctor stopped Mark and promptly showed him back to his bed, Jake stopped confused.
"Not you young man, you need to stay for further tests." She said rather forcefully. "Somebody does not fall from a thirty storey building and walk away without problems. You have suffered massive internal bleeding, ruptured organs, damage to your spinal column and neck, not to mention the brain damage that was undoubtedly caused. Your healing factor may have repair the most serious but you are certainly not fully healed. You will need to remain behind for further testing."
"But I'm fine." He protested.
"You will not argue." She ordered before signaling to Caim and Quinn on the other side of the room. "Your friends require medical attention also, a broken wing and dislocated shoulder, as well as a bullet wound. Honestly, you kids are lucky to be alive."
Mark rolled his eyes and sat back to make himself more comfortable. He suddenly saw the horror and shock on Jake's face, with tears swelling in his eyes. Mark could do nothing but try to calm him with a smile. Jake was frozen to the spot, too shocked to breathe. His friends were all injured, nearly killed. He felt like he wanted to be sick and his muscles were suddenly limp. Mark's weak smile merely made him feel worse. He found he could at last move and stepped backwards before turning around and bolting out of the door. Mark leapt up and attempted to go after him but was caught by the doctor and shoved to his bed.
"Your in no fit state to be running around, you can find your friend after you have been given the all clear." She said forcefully, and after briefly attempting to protest, Mark relented.
XxXxX
Hack sat quietly on a small cushion, her legs crossed and hands clasp together on her lap. She was focusing on her deep breathes, listening closely to the small noise as it broke the silence surrounding her. She could smell the sweet sent of caramel and thyme from her scented candles, it was one of her favorite scents, given to her by Hank. A sudden rap at the door broke her perfect calm and the stabbing pain in her head seemed to flood back to her as soon as she opened her eyes.
"Come in." She shouted angrily, rubbing her temples. The door creaked open agonizingly; send the daggers in her head shooting down her back. She didn't need to turn to see who it was the distinctive smell of musk and cinnamon instantly told her who it was.
"Hank, I was relaxing, my head feels like it has a thousand nails hammered into it." She said petulantly. "Unless you have the world's strongest aspirin, go away."
"Something better, herbal tea, your favorite blend." He replied, she didn't need to see his face to know he was smiling. A cup of sweet smelling tea was placed next to her by a big blue hand. "You deserve it after what you did today. You were absolutely amazing Natasha."
"When am I not" She replied sarcastically as she put the cup to her lips and sipped the hot liquid. It tasted of apples, and honey, with a hint of lemon and mint. She couldn't help the slight moan of pleasure slipping from her lips. Hank knelt next to her, clasping his own cup of darker tea.
"You were pretty good too." She conceded, allowing a small smile to spread across her own lips. "I wouldn't have made it out of there alive without you."
"We make a good team." He said softly. "Its one of the reasons I love you so much."
"Hank, I know I didn't say back in Vegas. I should have, seeing Jubilee made me realize how dangerous the whole thing really was." Hank gently gripped her arm and stared into her eyes, his were a powerful dark blue, almost black. "But, I love you too."
Hank pulled her softly into his embrace and they kissed softly, to lost in the moment to notice they had spilt their tea.
XxXxX
Jake sat on his bed, his back leant against the wall with his eyes closed and arms folded. Mark frowned slightly before quietly pushing open the door. Mark quickly saw his friends tear soaked red cheeks and his heart sank. He resisted the urge to disturb him, instead he sat on the end of his own bed, unsure of what to do. He looked out of the window, the grey sky made grounds of the manor as bleak and dull as his mood. He scanned the familiar room, feeling as though something was odd about it. Their clothes littered the floor, Mark's books were spread out across his bed and things were hanging out of their drawers and cupboards. The room was untidy, which was very unusual since both he and Jake would spend a great deal of time making sure everything was in it's correct place. But neither had had the time to clean since the previous day.
Mark turned to his friend, his neutral expression unsettled Mark who was used to Jake's cheesy grin. That grin was the first thing Mark saw when he first met him. Mark had only been at the institute for a few hours, having walked for nearly a month through sleet and snow to get there. He'd met Xavier and was shown a room, his room, where he fell asleep on one of the beds. He awoke to find Jake hovering over him, his face was lit up with the huge, happy grin stretching from ear to ear. He skinny boy shook Mark's hand and happily introduced himself. The two had just jelled ever since, becoming close friends. Mark was comfortable around Jake, he trusted him, which is not something he did easily. That grin had slowly become one of his favorite sights, every time he was down or unhappy he would see Jake and suddenly things got brighter. Mark hated his friend's unhappiness and wanted to be able to do something so much, but had no idea what. He sighed heavily, Jake's eyes opened and he looked around alarmed until seeing Mark. He relaxed instantly but didn't smile, instead looking down at his lap.
"I'm sorry, I thought you were asleep." Mark said softly. Jake only shook his head slightly whilst still looking down. Mark sighed again before getting up and walking over to the small desk next to Jake's bed and inspected Jake's beloved fish. He had three altogether, his goldfish Mystery and Hunter and a colorful one called Stormy.
"I need to feed them, I haven't done it in a few days." Jake said, little more than an emotionless whisper. Mark turned to his friend, who was staring back at him with sore, bloodshot eye's. Mark stopped for a moment to compose himself before pulling out one of the desk drawers.
"I'll do it." Mark assured as he took out a small box full of tiny multi-colored flakes. Jake sat up and leant closer and watched as Mark sprinkled a pinch of the flakes into the bowl. "Is that enough?" He asked. Jake nodded and leant onto his hands as he watch his fish whilst Mark's attention remained on him. Time seemed to stretch out as they stayed that way for several minutes.
"I wouldn't think you would find watching them interesting." Mark finally said. "You don't like things like TV."
"TV's different, it's lifeless and scripted." Jake replied. "My fish are full of life, you can't predict what they're going to do next. I don't know, there's just something rewarding about watching them after I put in so much work."
"I never thought of it like that. Have you ever thought about getting something, I don't know, bigger?"
"You mean like a cat or dog?" Jake said, finally perking up. "I'd love to, but I had a dog once before, before I went to the orphanage." Jake seemed to wither and return to how he was before. Mark cursed silently at coming so close to bringing Jake out of his shell. Finally he gave into the urge to do something, and crouched down in front of Jake and grabbed his hand suddenly. His friend looked visibly shocked as he stared wide eyed at Mark.
"Listen Jake, I don't like to see you like this." He pleaded. "Seeing you hurt so badly, it's painful, I want you to be happy. Please, tell me what's wrong."
Jake sat motionless for a brief second before tears began to fall from his cheeks. Mark reached up and pull his head to wrest onto his should, feeling the urge to cry as well. He began to comfort him, quietly soothing him as he wept into his shoulder.
"Wh-why do you c-care." Jake stutted through his tears. "I abandoned y-you in that alley, y-you near-nearly died."
"Don't be ridiculous, I don't blame you." Mark assured. "I was glad when you got to safety, you did what you had to do."
"But I failed, Jubilee nearly died because I wasn't strong enough."
Mark tightened his grip as he shook his head. "Oh Jake, it was not your fault." He said. "You were amazing, I've never seen you like that, why are you blaming yourself?"
"Because it is my fault, everything is." Jake replied. "If I weren't a mutant everything would be perfect, I would have a family that loves me, lot's of friends, I wouldn't act weird."
"Don't say that, it's not true, you have me and Quinn and Caim, we love you just the way you are."
"Why? How can you stand me?" He asked painfully.
"Because your a good person."
"Then why do I feel so wrong, why was I treated like a monster at the orphanage?" Mark pulled Jake back and locked his eyes with his friend.
"You aren't wrong, the people who made you feel that way are." He said. Jake pushed himself away and turned his gaze to the window, tears still flowing down his cheeks.
"But these feelings I have, they're so painful." He said whilst pointing to his chest. "I feel things that are not natural, I feel things for you and Caim and Lars that I don't feel for girls. I'm wrong, I'm evil, I'm like the man who came into my room in the orphanage at night."
Mark sat back shocked, and felt his grip on his friends hand loosen. He couldn't take in what he had just heard, the pain in his voice combined with the admittance of, of having feelings for other guys. But the true extent of what Jake had admitted hadn't properly sunk in until he had properly thought it over in his head. '-The man who came into my room in the orphanage at night'. Mark realized what that meant, and suddenly things became clearer, though he wished they hadn't.
Marked fixed his gaze back onto his friend and looked determinedly into his dark hazelnut eyes. He didn't know why, but at that moment he lost all thought and reason, he want so much to rid Jake of all the pain and hurt. As he stared into those eyes, full of agony and misery, he found something grip his heart and send slight shiver down his spine. He had to do something.
He hadn't realized how close he had got until he felt Jake breath on his cheek, and found the other boy staring at him startled, yet he didn't move away. Mark felt his lips touch Jake's, only slightly, but that touch was enough to send his head spinning. Their lips pressed against one another as undiscovered urges took hold briefly, he felt Jake react, kissing back for a moment. Suddenly they were shattered as s pair of hands pushes his shoulders and forced him away.
Mark came to his senses to find Jake staring at him with a expression mixed with shock and confusion. Before Mark could say or do anything Jake got up and ran out, leaving Mark feeling confused and dejected. He rushed after Jake but found the corridor outside deserted with no signs of where he went.
XxXxX
A/N Awww, is all I can say. Will they get together? We'll have to find out. If your reading this yaoiboy (Mark's creator), review pleeeeaaassseee! I warned that this would have some adult themes, but things do get better for poor old Jake. I'll be sending all new chapters to my beta again from now on, I just couldn't wait to post this.
What did you think of Hollander, and his mysterious accomplice. And of course the other (more successful) romance between Hank and Natasha. Please R&R, please. New readers who review will have their name placed in the story at some point, Kstar and Yaoiboy will be in it soon.