Summary: On Buffy Summers 15th birthday she is called as a Slayer. Before Merrick can find her she is found by, Charles Xavier. He and Buffy's cousin Scott bring her to Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters where they begin training her to control her powers, both mutant and Slayer.

A/U: Starts Pre-Season 1 of BTVS.

Pairing: Buffy/Rogue

Disclaimer: Disney owns both X-Men and Buffy

Author's Note: The first thirty or so chapters take place in the original X-Men trilogy, even the hated X3. Then I will take the story into BTVS to see what changes Buffy would make there. And then finally I will conclude the story with Day's of Future's Past, comic version as it will be easier to adapt than the movie version.


Prologue

July 15, 1989 – Saturday

Elks Lodge, Los Angeles, California

Scott Summers stood with his cousin, Buffy, as she entertained his friends. He had been asked by his aunt and uncle to watch her that evening, so they could go out. So, he had brought her along to his friend's party. The atmosphere was lively, filled with chatter and laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the distant sound of music.

As the night wore on, the two cousins found themselves walking down the hall of the Elks lodge, where the party was in full swing, heading towards the front door. But suddenly, as if a storm had erupted within his head, a searing pain jabbed through the back of Scott's skull and into his eyes. The intensity was staggering, causing him to cry out involuntarily. His hands instinctively shot to his eyes, as if to shield them from the pain that seemed to pierce through his very being.

Buffy's concern for her cousin surged forth. The recent loss of Celia, Scott's sister, still cast a long shadow in their hearts, making Buffy's worry even more poignant. She couldn't bear the thought of losing Scott too, and thus, his anguished scream resonated deeply within her.

"You all right, Scotty?" Buffy's voice trembled with genuine concern, her eyes reflecting the worry etched on her face.

Despite the overwhelming pain, Scott managed to nod, his face contorted in agony. The pain was so overpowering that he stumbled, his body colliding with the cool, rough texture of the wall. It felt as though the very fabric of his reality was unraveling, the torment echoing and reverberating within the confines of his skull.

Buffy's voice quivered as she pressed on, her love and concern for her cousin evident. "Scotty, are you sure?"

Scott's voice, strained and shaky, broke through the haze of torment. "My eyes… my eyes are killing me."

Buffy's heart ached at his suffering, her protective instincts kicking in. She leaned in, trying to catch a glimpse of his eyes, her worry deepening as she saw tears streaming down his face, mingling with his pain. "Let me see, Scotty."

Scott's groans resonated with the raw anguish he felt. His words were a desperate attempt to convey his torment. "My… eyes… they're burning…"

Amidst the agony, a shift occurred. The pain seemed to coalesce, forming a focal point above the bridge of Scott's nose. And then, in an instant as abrupt as the onset of pain, it was gone. In its place, a surge of energy coursed through him, like a river rushing through his mind. It was an electrifying sensation, one that momentarily overshadowed the earlier torment.

"Scott, should I get someone?" Buffy's voice quivered with heightened worry as she watched Scott in distress. His hands trembled as he slowly uncovered his eyes, revealing a startling sight – his eyes had transformed into bright red embers, devoid of their usual features except for the intense color. Her heart raced, fear gripping her as she realized the seriousness of the situation. "I'm getting help, Scotty. Stay here. Hold on," she assured him urgently, determination overcoming her concern as she turned to bolt towards the party, desperate to find assistance.

But as she began to sprint away, a sudden and immense surge of energy erupted behind her. The force of it crashed into the wall with a deafening roar, causing a violent explosion that shattered the once-solid barrier. Startled, Buffy whirled around, her eyes widening as she took in the gaping hole that now marred the lodge's ceiling.

Gritting her teeth, her resolve unwavering, she turned back to Scott one last time. "I'm getting help, Scotty," she declared firmly, her voice carrying a mix of determination and anxiety. Without further hesitation, she pivoted on her heels and raced back towards the party, her heart pounding in her chest as she urgently sought out anyone who could aid her cousin in his mysterious and distressing predicament.

May 20, 1995 – Saturday

D'Ancanto Residence, Meridian, Mississippi

"I want to spend time in New York City," Marie said, her smile directed at David, who was perched on the edge of her bed.

David's curiosity sparked. "Are you planning to live there?" he inquired, intrigued by her statement.

Marie shook her head, her expression full of excitement. "No, not exactly. I'm thinking of going to Niagara Falls, then venturing into Canada. From Toronto, I'll head west to Calgary and eventually make my way up to Anchorage."

David's eyes widened, clearly impressed by the scope of her adventure. "That sounds incredible. But won't it be freezing cold?"

Marie chuckled, her laughter carrying a sense of daring. "Absolutely freezing. But that's the point, isn't it? It wouldn't be much of an adventure without a little discomfort."

Curiosity still burning, David pressed on. "When are you thinking of doing this?"

Marie's shrug was casual, a sign of her free spirit. "I'm not entirely sure. Sometime after finishing school, but before starting college," she replied, feeling a reassuring touch as David's hand settled on her shoulder. The warmth of his presence was comforting as she looked at him. "So, what's on your mind now?"

David's uncertainty mirrored her own. "I'm not sure," he admitted, leaning in a bit closer. "What about you? What do you feel like doing?"

Marie's response was as uncertain as his. "I'm not sure," she managed, her thoughts momentarily scattered.

Their gazes locked, and David gently turned her so they were facing each other. With a deliberate slowness, he closed the distance between them, his lips meeting hers in a soft, tender kiss.

In that moment, an electric surge seemed to course through every nerve in her body, igniting her senses and leaving her breathless.

Abruptly, David's eyes snapped open, his hands tightening around her with a sudden and alarming strength. Panic set in as Marie struggled to pull away, the connection between them feeling overwhelming. It was as though he was pouring his very thoughts, desires, and dreams directly into her mind.

The air crackled with an otherworldly energy, enveloping them in an unsettling embrace. Just as the intensity reached its peak, Marie managed to break free from his grip, stumbling back. David collapsed to the floor, his eyes wide open and filled with an almost trance-like quality.

Fear surged within her, the adrenaline rush urging her into action. The next moment was a blur – a piercing scream erupted from Marie's lips, a raw expression of her terror and confusion.

January 20, 1996 – Monday

Summers Residence, Los Angeles, California

Buffy's eyes snapped open, her breath catching as she jolted upright in her bed. Her surroundings slowly came into focus, and she scanned her room with a mix of confusion and disorientation. The remnants of the dream she had just experienced lingered in her mind, leaving her with a sense of unease. "What a weird dream," she mumbled to herself, her voice carrying a mixture of relief and bewilderment.

Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, Westchester, New York

Charles Xavier, seated in his wheelchair, emerged from Cerebro's chamber, his thoughts consumed by the latest discovery he had made. A young mutant had been detected, someone who was only beginning to grasp and control their newfound abilities. The weight of this responsibility rested heavily on his shoulders as he considered the task of informing the individual who would be most affected by this revelation.

Moving down the corridor towards the elevator, Xavier's brows furrowed with a hint of concern. Telling Scott that his 15-year-old cousin was now a mutant wasn't a simple matter. The intricacies and potential challenges of such a revelation played through his mind.

Despite his uncertainties, Xavier was determined to handle this situation delicately. Scott, someone he regarded as a son more than a student, was deeply intertwined with his cousin's life. The bond they shared was strong, and he hoped that Scott would understand the importance of the matter.

While his wheelchair glided towards the elevator, Xavier used his telepathic abilities to reach out to Scott. 'Scott, I need to see you in my office,' he projected his message directly into Scott's mind, the words carrying a mix of urgency and paternal concern. The coming conversation wouldn't be easy, but Xavier knew that facing it was crucial for the sake of the young mutant and their family.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Ten minutes later, Xavier found himself in his office, a mixture of anticipation and concern swirling within him. As he waited, his gaze settled on the door, knowing that Scott would soon arrive. True to his expectations, the door swung open, and Scott entered, taking a seat across from Xavier. Despite the telepathic summons, Scott politely inquired, "You wanted to see me, Professor?"

Xavier's expression was a blend of seriousness and empathy as he began to broach the delicate topic. "What I have to tell you is... difficult," he stated, his tone heavy with the weight of the impending conversation.

Scott's concern was evident as he leaned slightly forward. "What is it, Professor?" he asked, his gaze fixed on Xavier.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Xavier let out a sigh before continuing. "How much contact do you have with your cousin, Buffy?" he inquired, knowing that he was about to unveil something that would undoubtedly impact Scott's world.

A fond smile tugged at the corners of Scott's lips at the mention of his cousin. "We've been corresponding since I came here," he answered. "I've visited her a few times over the past 7 years."

Xavier pressed on, his voice measured. "Does she know that you're a…?" he asked, already possessing an inkling of the answer.

Scott's sigh spoke volumes as he replied, "Yes, she's aware that I'm a mutant. She was actually there when my powers first emerged. Professor, what's all this about?"

Leaning forward, Xavier continued, his gaze steady on Scott. "I was just in Cerebro," he began, "and I detected a mutant in California who is just now coming into her powers. Scott, it's Buffy."

The revelation struck Scott like a bolt of lightning. His jaw dropped in shock, his mind racing to process the information. His cousin, Buffy, was a mutant – something he hadn't anticipated in the least.

Xavier's tone carried a mix of empathy and purpose as he spoke again. "With your consent, I would like to offer her a scholarship to attend. It might be beneficial for her parents if you were to join me in discussing this matter with her."

Scott's response was swift, a mixture of surprise and determination in his eyes. "Of course, Professor. I'd be more than willing to accompany you and see her," he affirmed, his thoughts already turning to how he would broach this topic with his aunt and uncle. The uncertainty of their reaction lingered in his mind, but he was resolute in his support for Buffy, his cousin and now fellow mutant.

May 23, 1996 – Thursday

Summers Residence, Los Angeles, California

Scott carefully maneuvered the rental car to a stop in front of his cousin's house. With a sense of responsibility and determination, he retrieved Xavier's wheelchair from the back of the car and assisted the Professor into it. His gaze nervously shifted toward the house, a mixture of emotions churning within him as he prepared to face the daunting conversation ahead.

Walking alongside Xavier, Scott felt a swirl of apprehension as they approached the front door. The weight of the impending discussion pressed upon him, and he couldn't help but wonder how his family would react to the news about Buffy's mutant abilities. Each step felt heavier than the last as he grappled with his thoughts.

"It will be alright Scott," Xavier's reassuring words were a balm to Scott's unease.

Scott glanced toward the Professor, grateful for the comfort he offered. "I know, Professor. But even with that knowledge, it's hard not to feel nervous and anxious," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "I never wanted Buffy to have to face something like this."

As Scott and Xavier stood before the Summers' front door, the tension in the air was palpable, a reflection of the significant conversation that was about to unfold. Just as Scott was bracing himself for what lay ahead, the door suddenly swung open, and Buffy burst out with an exuberance that caught him off guard. She collided with him in an exuberant hug, her arms wrapping around him tightly.

"Scotty, this is a wonderful surprise," Buffy exclaimed, her smile radiant as she held onto him with surprising strength.

Scott winced slightly, his eyes briefly meeting Xavier's as he struggled to endure the enthusiastic embrace. "Buffy, can't breathe," he managed to gasp out, his curiosity about her mutation growing as the hug continued. It seemed he had forgotten to ask Xavier for those details.

Buffy's smile turned sheepish as she quickly released Scott. "Oops, sorry about that," she chuckled, the genuine warmth of her laughter filling the air. "I guess all those cheerleading practices really improved my strength."

Her gaze shifted between Scott and the wheelchair-bound Xavier, curiosity shining in her eyes. "Who's your friend, Scotty?" she inquired, a mix of interest and friendliness evident in her tone.

Xavier extended his hand toward Buffy, a welcoming smile on his lips. "Charles Xavier," he introduced himself with a calm and composed demeanor.

Recognition flickered across Buffy's features as she processed the name. She had heard of Charles Xavier through the letters Scott had sent over the years. "You run the school that Scotty went to after..." she began, the realization dawning upon her.

"Yes," Xavier confirmed with a nod. "After his mutation first revealed itself. But I'm here to talk to you and your parents. Scott has convinced me to offer you a full scholarship to attend my school."

Buffy's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and excitement, the implications of Xavier's words sinking in. She turned her gaze toward Scott who she looked up to with fondness. "You did?" she asked, a thrilled grin lighting up her face. The prospect of attending the same school Scott had gone to filled her with a sense of adventure.

Scott met Xavier's gaze, a silent acknowledgment passing between them. It had been a strategic decision for Scott to present the opportunity to Buffy, and he was relieved to see her positive reaction. "Yeah, Squirt," he replied affectionately. "Why don't you run inside and let Aunt Joyce and Uncle Hank know that we're here?"

Buffy nodded eagerly and darted back into the house, leaving Scott and Xavier standing at the threshold.

Scott's thoughts were a whirlwind of curiosity and concern regarding Buffy's mutation. Knowing that Xavier had the ability to read his mind, Scott projected his thoughts towards the Professor, seeking the answers he hadn't thought to ask earlier. 'Professor, what is her mutation? You didn't say and I never thought to ask.'

Xavier's telepathic response was swift, providing the information Scott sought. 'She is cognitive. She possesses the ability to perceive the past and the future.'

Scott absorbed the revelation, surprised by Buffy's unique mutation. He considered the incredible implications of her power, especially in relation to her recent display of strength and speed. 'So the strength and speed she demonstrated was definitely not her mutation?'

Xavier's response was tinged with uncertainty. 'No. Her strength and speed are unrelated to her mutation. It's quite perplexing, as mutants typically do not manifest multiple abilities simultaneously. Usually, if they possess more than one gift, they develop them over time. She's just now coming into her powers, so having a second ability develop so quickly is unusual. I intend to run some tests to gain a better understanding of her mutation. It's possible she may fall into the class five category.'

The concept of Buffy potentially being classified as a class five mutant shocked Scott. 'Class five? One of the most powerful mutants on the planet?'

Xavier's response was measured. 'It's a possibility we have to consider. Let's not jump to conclusions, but it's clear that her abilities are extraordinary.'

As their telepathic conversation concluded, Scott and Xavier moved inside the house, finding Joyce, Hank, and Buffy waiting for them. The weight of the conversation they were about to have lingered in the air, but Scott was prepared to face it head-on, guided by his determination to support his cousin and family through whatever lay ahead.

The atmosphere in the Summers' living room was a blend of warmth and anticipation as Scott and Xavier were greeted by Hank and Joyce. Hank extended his hand, and Scott grasped it firmly, returning the greeting with a hearty handshake. "Hello, Uncle Hank," Scott greeted warmly.

Turning his attention to Joyce, Scott's demeanor softened, and he pulled her into a warm and inviting hug. "Hello, Aunt Joyce," he greeted, his embrace conveying a sense of genuine affection.

Joyce returned the hug with a smile, her voice filled with warmth. "How have you been, Scott?"

Scott's smile was genuine as he replied, "I've been good," the sincerity of his words evident in his gaze. The familiarity and warmth between Scott and his aunt and uncle were clear indications of their strong bond.

Taking the initiative, Scott introduced Xavier to his family, paving the way for the important discussion ahead. Xavier extended his hand to Hank, then to Joyce, a polite and welcoming smile on his lips. "It's a pleasure to meet you both. Scott has spoken highly of you."

Joyce's smile remained warm as she responded, "All good things, I hope."

Xavier's nod was accompanied by a reassuring smile. "Indeed, all good."

As the conversation progressed, Hank inquired about Xavier's presence. "So what brings you here with my nephew?"

Xavier glanced at Scott, who gave a subtle nod of confirmation. "Uncle, I've spoken with Professor Xavier about extending a personal favor. I've convinced him to offer Buffy a full scholarship to attend his school."

Hank and Joyce exchanged astonished glances, their surprise evident. Their desire to provide Buffy with a private education had been hampered by financial constraints, and the offer of a scholarship was a revelation they hadn't anticipated.

Buffy's enthusiasm remained undiminished as she addressed her parents, her excitement palpable. "Mom, Dad, can I go?" she pleaded, the prospect of attending the same school her cousin Scott had gone to filling her with an eager anticipation that was hard to contain.

Hank and Joyce exchanged a glance before politely excusing themselves, leaving Buffy, Scott, and Xavier alone to discuss the potential opportunity. Once alone, Buffy turned her attention to Scott with a mixture of curiosity and eagerness. "So, Scotty," she began, "tell me, did you like the school when you went there?"

Scott's smile was reassuring as he met Buffy's gaze. "Yes, Squirt, I did," he affirmed, his tone carrying a sense of encouragement. "And I believe you'll like it too."

Xavier's input added to the reassurance. "Indeed. You have the potential to be an excellent student, and I can also assist you in learning to control your mutation," he offered, his calm and measured presence guiding the conversation.

Buffy blinked in surprise at the mention of a mutation. The realization hit her like a sudden revelation. "Mutation? Wait, you mean I'm like Scotty?" she asked, a mix of shock and intrigue in her voice.

Xavier's nod was gentle as he rolled his wheelchair closer to her. "Yes, Buffy, you are a mutant," he confirmed with a serene demeanor. "Have you been experiencing visions of events before they occur?"

Buffy's eyes widened in astonishment, her realization deepening. "Yes," she admitted, her gaze shifting between Xavier and Scott. "There have been times when I've seen things happen before they actually did. Like the other day, I saw a kid about to get hit by a car, and then I saw the same kid safely walking down the sidewalk. I managed to prevent the accident from happening. It's been happening more frequently lately."

Xavier's understanding gaze met hers. "Your ability to perceive the future is a remarkable manifestation of your mutation," he explained. "I can help you learn to control it, eventually enabling you to utilize it at will."

Buffy absorbed the information, a mix of awe and uncertainty in her expression. The prospect of understanding and mastering her abilities intrigued her, even as the realization of being a mutant settled in.

As Joyce and Hank returned to the living room, their expressions serious, a wave of apprehension swept over Buffy. Her hope for attending the school Scott had spoken so highly of seemed to hang in the balance. Her worry mounted, fearing that they might deny her the opportunity she was so excited about.

"We've discussed it," Joyce began, her tone measured. "If Buffy wants to go, we'll support her decision. For us, this is like a dream come true. We've always wished we could afford to send her to a private school, and now this opportunity has come."

Buffy's eyes widened in astonishment and relief as her parents' words sank in. She looked at them with a mixture of gratitude and excitement, her heart filled with warmth. Joyce's next words resonated deeply with her. "But, Buffy, the decision is ultimately yours. If you don't want to go, we won't force you."

With a beaming smile, Buffy embraced her mother tightly, then turned to Hank, hugging him just as warmly. "I want to go," she said with genuine excitement. "Thank you, Mom, Dad."

Xavier's composed demeanor remained unwavering as he addressed the family. "In that case, I will return to the school to make preparations for Buffy's arrival."

Turning his attention to Scott, Xavier continued, "Scott, I suggest you stay and help Buffy with the transition. Give her a week to say goodbye to her friends and settle any remaining details with your Aunt and Uncle."

Scott nodded in agreement, his gaze shifting from Xavier to Buffy and then to Hank and Joyce. "Of course, Professor," he affirmed, his commitment to supporting Buffy evident. As the room buzzed with a mixture of emotions, the path forward seemed clear – Buffy's journey to Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters was on the horizon, ready to begin a new chapter in her life.

January 25, 1996 – Thursday

Hemery High School, Los Angeles, California

Merrick's arrival at the school marked the beginning of a new mission – to locate and train a Slayer who had somehow eluded the traditional path of training. As he stepped into the school's office, he was met by the school secretary, who inquired about his purpose.

"I am looking for Buffy Summers," Merrick explained, his tone composed as he maintained the facade he had assumed. The description and name of the Slayer had been provided to him through the Devon Coven, a connection to the Watcher's Council. Merrick's true intention was to initiate her training and guide her as the Chosen One.

"I am with the University of California, Berkeley. I was sent to see about offering her a scholarship to attend after she graduates," Merrick continued, presenting an ID that supported his claim.

The secretary verified Buffy's file and shook her head apologetically. "I'm sorry, Mr. Merrick. Miss Summers has been removed from our enrollment."

Merrick nodded, acknowledging the information, and thanked the secretary before taking his leave. Drawing upon his connections, he delved further into the Summers family situation, learning that Hank and Joyce Summers were going through a divorce. Additionally, he discovered that Joyce was planning to relocate to Sunnydale, California, to establish her own art gallery.

Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, Westchester, New York

The car's engine hummed as Scott navigated the road, their destination drawing nearer with each passing moment. The weight of the impending transition weighed on Buffy's mind, prompting Scott to engage her in conversation. "So, Squirt, are you nervous?" he asked, his gaze briefly flickering towards her.

Buffy admitted, "A little. Will there be others there with the same kind of mutation as mine?"

Scott considered her question, his focus on the road steady. "There are other mutants at the school, yes," he explained. "But your specific mutation, being cognitive, is unique. There might be other cognitives in the world, but none quite like you."

Curiosity danced in Buffy's eyes as she absorbed this information. "How will Professor Xavier help me control my power?" she inquired, intrigued by the process that lay ahead.

"He's telepathic," Scott revealed, his tone carrying a mix of admiration and reassurance. "He can guide you in building mental barriers to prevent your power from overwhelming you. It's a process, but he's skilled at teaching mutants how to harness their abilities."

As they continued to approach their destination, Buffy's gaze was drawn to the impressive mansion that served as Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Her astonishment was palpable as she took in the sight. "Wow," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with awe. "That place is huge."

Scott offered a brief explanation of the building's layout. "There are five floors," he informed her. "Three are above ground, where the classrooms and living quarters are located. The other two are underground, mainly used for specialized facilities like the medical center. But you probably won't need to visit the sublevels often, unless you get sick."

Buffy's expression turned serious as she shared her aversion to hospitals, stemming from the painful memory of her cousin Celia's passing. Scott's understanding was evident as he spoke, acknowledging her feelings. "You still miss her," he said softly, recognizing the depth of Buffy's grief.

Buffy nodded, her gaze shifting to Scott. "I do. Just as I know you miss her too."

Scott's response was gentle, his gaze meeting hers. "I do. But at least we still have each other."

"Yeah," Buffy agreed.

As Scott parked the car in front of the mansion's entrance, the realization that they had arrived at their destination settled in. With a warm smile, he stepped out and retrieved Buffy's luggage from the car. "Here we are," he announced, a sense of anticipation underlying his words. "Come on, Squirt."

Entering the mansion, Scott and Buffy were greeted by the welcoming figures of Ororo Munroe and Jean Grey, who awaited them in the foyer. Scott introduced them with an easy familiarity. "Buffy, this is Ororo Munroe and Jean Grey," he said, his tone warm and inviting. "They're both professors here and good friends."

Buffy's smile was genuine as she acknowledged them. "Hi," she greeted, her curiosity about the school's staff evident in her gaze. She remembered from Scott's letters that Jean was his girlfriend, and the familiarity was a comfort to her. "It's nice to meet you both, especially you, Jean. Scott has mentioned you in his letters."

Jean's smile matched Buffy's warmth. "All good things, I hope," she replied, her tone light and friendly.

Buffy's response was quick and affirmative. "All good," she assured Jean.

Ororo's introduction led to an unexpected request. "Hi, Buffy. Would you like to come with Scott and me on a little trip?" she inquired, her expression curious and inviting.

Scott's brows furrowed slightly in response to the sudden proposal. "A trip?" he echoed, a hint of uncertainty in his tone. The timing seemed a bit unexpected, considering they had just arrived.

Jean chimed in to provide context. "Yes, the Professor believes that Buffy's abilities could be helpful in tracking a mutant," she explained. "He sees potential in Buffy's unique mutation."

Scott's sigh conveyed a mixture of resignation and understanding. He nodded in agreement. "Okay," he conceded, his willingness to cooperate evident in his response.