Rogue sat in Moira's Lab rubbing her temples rigorously. This was a disaster.
Now that her relationship with Erik was officially the worst kept secret thorough the X-Men and S.H.E.L.I.D Rogue was getting all sorts of looks. More so than usual. The professor was furious, no surprise there. Jubilee was grinning and boasting about "I Told You So," that wasn't helping, and frankly got irritating pretty quick. The rest of the New Mutants were in disbelief. Moira was thoroughly embarrassed. Fury didn't care. Rogue had no idea to Kurt's reaction, she hadn't seen him yet. Last but certainly not least, her best friend felt betrayed.
Rogue and Magneto were officially the talk of the Nest.
Worst, due to the disruptive drama negotiations with the advanced yet stupid Shi'ar where put on hold, not that it really mattered, Rogue's answer toward the clone of Apocalypse wasn't going to change. Genesis would remain under her protection. She was certain Erik would back her up, not only as a supportive lover, but a protector of mutant-kind as well.
Now Professor X was on the phone with Storm and Jean. Because of the situation regarding the clone boy Jean, Scott, and Storm would be called in later tonight, they would know about her relationship before morning at this rate.
Once Professor Xavier got off the phone there would undoubtedly be a confrontation between him and his oldest friend. Rogue didn't need her adoptive mother's mutation to see the outcome of that. Professor would chastise and or yell at Erik, who wouldn't care. Their talk wasn't going to go over well.
Rogue furiously shook her head and tried to concentrate on the problem at hand. The boy. Genesis. Rogue pulled up his file on the computer.
Name: Evan Smith (Genesis)
Age: 10
Description: Abnormal Blue markings that run through his body, dark black hair.
Notes: Was found wondering the streets a year ago with no memory of his past. The boy was put into foster care and later adopted by the Smith family. He now resides in New Orleans on the family farm. Does well in school. Never shown any indication of violent behavior, even when threatened and intimidated. Confirmed mutated cells, mutation unknown, has not reached puberty yet.
"Hell." Rogue whispered aloud. The Shi'ar had cloned the boy over a year ago and they were just now telling the people of Earth?
Speaking of those fools, the ambassador was on the line now with his Empress, Lilandra. Rogue was informed by Magneto's fragment of her existence as the head of the Shi'ar empire. Chances where she was going to stand her ground. Though advanced in technology that won't stop the Shi'ar from fearing Genesis. 'Maybe they should have thought of that before they cloned him.' Rogue thought angrily.
"Rogue?" Moira asked tentatively.
Rogue looked up from the computer. "Hhmmm?"
Moira approached her carefully pulling up a seat next to the computer.
"Ah, your looking at the boys file." She commented as she scanned over it.
Rogue nodded. "Yeah. Can you believe they waited all this time to tell us?" She asked. "By now he's already adjusted to his life on his loving family's farm and is doing well. He doesn't have any of Apocalypse's memories and doesn't show any signs of violent behavior. They can't just eighty-six this boy because of the man he's cloned from."
Moira sighed and continued reading the file. "It doesn't seem right, I know. But you can't blame them for being afraid Rogue, he will have great power one day."
"We don't know that." Rogue pointed out. "He hasn't reached puberty yet. For all we know those idiot Shi'ar could have screwed up the cloning process."
Moira raised her eyebrow sceptically. "You knew that chances of that happening are significantly small. They are advanced people that have been practicing the art cloning for hundreds of years."
Rogue nodded. "Yes I know that, but that doesn't change the fact that we don't know. What will this world come to if we let the Shi'ar go killing a boy out of fear? Killing a child based off of the actions of the man he was cloned from. Genesis has done nothing wrong." Rogue stressed the last words.
Moira was silent for a while while she contemplated what Rogue said. "You are skilled at arguing." She said when Moira finally spoke. "Normally I don't pick sides. I don't enjoy doing so, it only adds to conflict. Though in this case I may make an exception. You have my support."
Rogue smiled. "Thank you, Doctor."
Moira shook her head. "Don't mention it, I was against the idea of killing a child from the start. Besides I owe you after spilling your secret earlier."
Rogue gulped as the tension suddenly got much more tense. The awkward meter had just doubled. But in any case she decided to let her Doctor off easy. "Yes, well, the Prof. was bound to find out anyway. Don't beat yourself up over it."
Moira breathed a sigh of relief. "Rogue, I don't mean to get personal, or to offend you, but I have to ask. Your not being hurt are you?"
Rogue looked alarmed and slightly offended. That was an absurd notion, was that really what she was thinking? Was that what everyone was thinking? That Erik was hurting her into sex?
Moira must have seen the look on Rogue's face. "I know it's unlikely given how happy you've been, but I do have to ask." She explained.
Rogue shook her head. "I'm sore after his training session's, but that's all. He's never purposely hurt me, physical or otherwise."
Moira breathed a sigh of relief. "Yes. Good. Well, as long as he's not hurting you, and you are of legal age, it is your business."
Rogue was grateful that someone understood boundaries of what was their business and not. Even if she disapproved, and Rogue could tell she did, Moira didn't voice her unwanted opinion. Rogue appreciated that. She got up and headed for the door. "I'm going to get some rest, see you in the morning."
"Rogue." Doctor MacTaggart called after her. "Bear in mind, if this boy causes destruction or death, it will be on you. Ask yourself whether or not you're prepared to take responsibility for that."
Rogue didn't answer her as she made her way to the barracks.
Ignoring Jubilee's stare Rogue grabbed pajamas's that had been provided by S.H.E.L.I.D. They were made of cheap cotton, but comfortable anyway. Rogue brushed her teeth and washed her face quickly. She just wanted to collapse into bed. Rogue encountered a surprise when she walked out of the bathroom.
"Jean."
Rogue blinked. She and the others weren't scheduled to arrive for a few more hours. Unless it was later than she thought. Great. It probobly was. She had spent more time than intended in the lab.
"Rogue." Jean greeted her.
Jubilee watched with glittering eyes as the tension between to the formal rivals rises.
"Good, Rogue, your here. Jean and I where just looking for you." Storm said as she walked in and took a seat on one of the beds.
Rogue sighed as she put her toothbrush away and rubbed her eyes again. "The Prof. sent you didn't he?" She asked, already knowing the answer.
Storm nodded. "Yes. We where briefed over the telephone about the Genesis debate, However that's not why we are here. Upon our arrival we heard several rumors that the Professor was able to confirm for us, before asking that we, as two females, speak to you."
"About what exactly?" Rogue snapped. "Are you here to ask me what in the hell I was thinking? Or are going to try and convince me that my relationship is sordid and to end it with him?"
"No one is trying to influence you to end it with Magneto." Storm argued.
"Really?" Rogue scoffed. "Let's not play stupid Ororo, we both know that's what Professor Xavier would be doing right now if he wasn't arguing with Erik."
Storm's mouth was pressed together in a thin line.
Jubilee snickered. "This is so much better than Netflix."
The three adults in the room turned to glare at the teenager. "You know, Jubilation Lee, I'm pretty sure there's some water...or something in the kitchen." Jean said.
Storm nodded. "Yes. Jubilee, give us a minute alone."
She was annoyed, but obeyed all the same as she left the adults alone.
"Rogue, were here because we are concerned for you." Storm said. "Yes, we would like you to end it with Magneto, but-
"But it's none of your business." Rogue finished for her.
Jean sighed angrily. "Rogue you where technically a minor when your relationship began. I'm actually interested in hearing your opinion of this. My guess is that your going to claim this relationship of yours is misunderstood."
Rogue anger sparked as she glared at the girl she has never gotten along with. Rogue didn't like that word at all. Misunderstood. That was how child molesters described their relationships with eight year old children. That was disgusting, that was not how she wanted her relationship with Erik described. Her relationship was nothing like that. She was not a child, she hadn't been for years now.
"Maybe people would understand if they sat down and listened to me for two minutes!" Rogue shouted, her anger getting the better of her.
Both Storm and Jean blinked at each other as if they where actually considering it. Jean sighed and sat down across from Rogue, next to Storm.
"Two minutes." Jean said.
"Good. Now listen carefully and do not twist my words, because I am only going to say this once." Rogue started. "Number one, I am not a child. You all know that. Quit claiming that I am, when we all know well your just looking for a reason to to object to my relationship. I haven't been a child in years. Jean you've been in my mind, you know better than most." Rogue paused to study the look on Jean's face. The one that said she didn't want to admit Rogue was right.
"Number two, it is nobody's business but mine."
Rogue paused one more time.
"Now, your probably wondering why. It's not your business and you have no right to ask, but I'm going to tell you so that their is no confusion. Even since I came to the Xavier Institute I have been limited in ways others weren't. I couldn't use my powers in the Danger Room, despite the fact that everyone else around me could. Then the Prof. wanted me to stop using mu mutation in battle altogether. After that came the rule that I had to wear gloves at all times, except in my room, so the New Mutants wouldn't get too scared. Lastly came Xavier's request that I not go out and about in Bayville without Wolverine with me, due to Mystique's frequent scheming. All these years I obeyed Xavier, I did as he wanted, and it was killing me on the inside. There was only so long I could take being deprived of everything. One night in Canada I decided to act on my feelings. I said "screw it, I'm doing what makes me happy for once." Just once, and I didn't care what the Professor thought, I was thinking of my self, and not trying to do what made others happy. And I have been happy. I've haven't been happier in years."
Rogue stared deeply into Jean's eyes searching for some sign that she understood, though Rogue didn't expect her to.
"That may sound selfish." Rogue continued as she stared down into her lap. "But I was miserable at the time, with my powers developing, discovering the Professor was "wary" of me, and all these damn restrictions. I just wanted...
"Rogue." Storm interrupted. Rogue looked up and was shocked to find a tear forming in Storm's left eye. "You don't have to explain yourself. You've said more than enough."
Storm gently dabbed at the speckle of liquid and sighed. "You're correct. You shouldn't have to explain yourself, and your explanation is sufficient."
Even Jean looked slightly guilty. "I am sorry, Rogue. If we had any idea how you felt, how miserable you were, we would have reached out."
Rogue shook her head. "Don't apologize, you didn't know. Even if you had know I wouldn't have wanted you to try. I'm glad you didn't, Erik and I probobly wouldn't have gotten together as quickly as we had."
Jean looked surprised. "But if we had been better friends, you would have started this with him in the first place." She said.
Rogue grinned. "Not true. My relationship isn't completely based on comfort and the freedom he gives me. Sure I appreciate that, but the lust and tension has been going on between us long before Canada and the Sinister Incident."
Rogue enjoyed the shocked look on their faces. "Just because I can't touch, doesn't mean I don't feel the same emotions you two do." She explained. "Contrary to popular belief, I do feel. Even if I don't show it."
Silence fell between the three as Rogue's words sunk in. Jean seemed to be slightly less judgmental and Storm looked kinder. Or maybe it was just the fact that it was late and everyone was tired.
"I-I, don't know what to say." Storm spoke.
Rogue smiled. Now she knew she was getting through to them. "You don't have to say anything." She said. 'No way in hell you're about to admit out-loud that your not nearly as opposed to my relationship anymore.' Rogue thought. 'I've obviously given them a lot to think about.'
"Well if you will excuse me, I actually have something to do. Can either of you tell me where I can find Kitty?"
Upon finding her best friend, Rogue discovered Kitty was being consoled by Scott. Perfect, just the person to drip poison in her ears. Scott looked pretty ticked off when he saw her. When he demanded an explanation, Rogue gave him the shortest answer she could think of.
"Fuck off, it's none of your business." Then she ordered him to leave, which he did, after Kitty assured him it would be alright.
Rogue sat down next to Kitty and waited until her friend looked at her. "So?" Kitty asked.
"So what?" Rogue asked.
"Did you really want to tell me?" Kitty whispered.
Rogue nodded. "Absolutely, of course I did. Don't get me wrong I like my secrets, but your my friend I never wanted to keep this from you. I just didn't know how to tell you."
"I thought we were best friends." Kitty whined.
Rogue sighed for the millionth time that evening. "Kitty we are."
Kitty snorted.
"It's true." Rogue insisted. "You know all day, I've been telling people it's none of their business, but I can't do that with you. Your my best friend, we're each others business. Kit, I am sorry for hurting you, and I'm sorry for keeping this from you."
"But your not sorry for getting together with him." Kitty stated.
"No. God no. I can never be sorry for that, and I can't apologize for that. But I am sorry for your pain, I never meant to dish it out to anyone, least of all you."
Kitty reached over and took Rogue's gloved hand in her own. "You guy's like each other." She said. "You guys really like each other, don't you? You have to be if you can't apologize to your bestie for the act itself."
Rogue suddenly felt her stomach lurch. Butterflies where flying through her. "Yeah." She admitted.
Kitty grinned. "Apology accepted."
Rogue grinned back. "Bestie's again?"
"You know it. But it comes with a price, you have to tell me all about your dates with a former supervillan."
The next morning Rogue got up early and headed to the workout room, where she landed a solid kick to the punching bag. It jerked, Rogeu landed another solid kick, imagining the Shi'ar ambassador's face. There was going to be another conference this morning and Rogue thought it best to get what rage she had out now, although she was probobly still going to be enraged by the end of the conference. She knew despite the Professor's anger with her at the moment, he was likely to agree with her about Genesis. That was a comforting thought.
The gym was completely empty, save for herself.
Rogue continued to kick and punch the bag. Letting all of her frustration out, slowly feel it dying down. Today she was going to have to face Kurt, and most likely deal with Xavier one more time at least. Whatever. Rogue had a feeling the hard part was done with.
"It seems to me you need some tension released." A voice said from behind her. Rogue smiled as she recognized it.
"Erik." She turned around and greeted him. "I wondered when the arrogant bastard would come and find me." Rogue said playfully.
Magneto chuckled and shook his head at her as he circled around her. "I almost thought you were avoiding me out of embarrassment." Magneto confessed as Rogue continued to punch the bag.
"Hardly." Rogue said. "I've just been busy fighting off pissed of X-Men who butt their big noses into places they're not wanted." She stopped moving, now slightly offended.
"Embarrassed? Really? God Erik I thought you knew me better than that."
Magneto smirked. "Apologies, Anna. I do know you better, unfortunately paranoia got the best of me for once."
"Really? You paranoid?" She asked.
"Anna, if you haven't noticed you tend to confuse my world beyond belief, pushing me, Magneto, to paranoia is just one of your crimes."
Rogue giggled. "Wait, you didn't just apologize did you? Since when does the master of magnetism apologize? You must be in a damn good mood. Oh, good grief you didn't throw somebody out of a window did you?"
His eyebrows crinkled together as Magneto's annoyance became clear. "As I said you confuse me greatly, and bring out emotions in me that cause me to do abnormal things."
"Shame on me." Rogue chastised herself, only half joking.
"You had better feel shame manipulative enchantress." He said sarcastically. Joining in her semi-joking. At least Rogue thought he was joking, he was rusty at these skills and most of his jokes where sarcastic. He may very well be serious.
"I'm in a pretty good mode myself, Kitty's not mad anymore, I told Scott to fuck off, and I've made peace with Jean and Storm."
Rogue jumped over to where he was standing and ran her bare fingers across his cheek, taking in small bits of his power. "But your right I do need tension removed. Been a while since I had a good sparring partner. You game?"
"I won't hold back." Magneto warned her as he removed his cape.
Rogue was still smiling. "Wouldn't ever ask you to, sugar."
So tell me what you thought, I really wanna hear your opinions!
RR:
Angelpaint07: Hope you enjoyed this chapter!
darksaber92: Glad you liked the last, hope this one was satisfactory!
wolfcloak19989: Hope I updated soon enough for you, thanks for your support.
MakingT'ingsGoBoom: Thanks for your support! Allow me to explain what all the fuss regarding these characters relationship. Main problem: Most people want Rogue with somebody else(we won't say names but if you type in "X-Men love triangle Rogue and Magneto" you will get some pretty good insight.) Really small problem: he's a bad guy(in everyone else's eyes) she's an X-Man. Even smaller problem: He's fifty something years older than her. Meh, not real pressing issues, but personally I think this ship just needs more time and good writers.(Less objective comic fans wouldn't be bad either) But hey your awesome, glad I go you hooked!
Marigab: Hey, how's it going? Your review's always brighten up my day. Thanks for your continuous support. You'll find out how Xavier's talk went with Magneto in the next chapter!
Ophelia193: Thanks for all your support, it's helped! Glad you enjoyed it!
VERY IMPORTANT! I just posted this new "Rogneto" story called "Chronicles". Please check it out!
It's sort of a Rogneto story, with a twist, or two, okay more like three.
It's set in the comic-verse. Starring the Clone of Magneto Joseph(who existed in the 90's for those of you that read comics) and my own character, a child clone of Rogue created by Joseph's villainous Brotherhood to kick the Avenger's asses! Though created for that purpose alone the girl will prove herself to be an essential factor in history and Joseph's life. (Best part: You get to see Rogue as a bad ass villain again!) Please note: warned me it may take a few hours to upload.