X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 3 Omniversal Breach
Chapter 28: Return to Universe Three, and The Breaking Point
The air on the island was thick with anticipation. In the grand hall, where heroes and legends often gathered, an unusual sense of excitement bubbled among the assembly. The reason? Two significant announcements were about to be made.
First, Maggie and Negan stepped forward. The crowd hushed, sensing the gravity of the moment. Maggie, with a newfound softness in her eyes, glanced at Negan. He nodded, a mix of nervousness and resolution on his face.
"We... Negan and I have decided to give our relationship a chance," Maggie declared, her voice echoing in the hall. Murmurs of surprise and whispers of encouragement rippled through the crowd. Negan's hand found Maggie's, their fingers intertwining - a symbol of their newfound bond, a sign of forgiveness and new beginnings.
Before the assembly could settle, Laura and Derreck stepped up. Laura's radiant smile was enough to hint at the joyous news she was about to share. "We're expecting again," she announced, her hand resting on her belly. The room erupted in cheers and congratulations, as Derreck beamed proudly beside her.
During this celebratory atmosphere, a new couple emerged into the spotlight. Luminous Frost, the son of Derreck's relative Tenebrous, and Thrudd, the mighty daughter of Thor, stood together, an unlikely pair united by a deep connection.
Their story unfolded like a modern tale of romance and adventure. Luminous, with his mysterious icy-dark powers, and Thrudd, with her strength and valor, had found in each other a kindred spirit.
…
Luminous Frost and Thrudd…
Their first date was a walk through the mystical gardens of Asgard, where the stars shone brighter, and the flowers glowed with an ethereal light. Their conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and shared stories of their respective legacies.
But it was their night out in New York City that truly brought them closer. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the human world, they found solace in each other's company. They marveled at the simple joys of Earth, from the taste of street food to the melody of street performers.
As the night grew deeper, they found themselves atop the Empire State Building, looking out over the city's glittering expanse. Thrudd, ever so bold, took Luminous' hand, her eyes reflecting the city lights. "In this vast universe, finding someone who understands you... it's rarer than the rarest of gems," she whispered.
Luminous, moved by her words, pulled her close. "And yet, here we are," he replied, his voice filled with wonder. They stood there, two beings from extraordinary worlds, finding ordinary love in each other's arms.
Maggie and Negans P.O.V.
The grand hall of the mansion, illuminated by the soft glow of chandeliers, hummed with the quiet chatter and laughter of its extraordinary inhabitants. At the center of it all, Maggie and Negan found themselves on the dance floor, their hands tentatively finding each other's as the music began to play a slow, melodic tune.
As they started to move to the rhythm, there was an initial awkwardness, a hesitancy born from their complex past. Yet, as they looked into each other's eyes, there was an unspoken understanding, a shared journey of pain, loss, and ultimately, healing. Slowly, their movements began to synchronize, and the dance became less about the steps and more about the connection they were rediscovering.
Maggie, in Negan's arms, felt a surprising sense of comfort and safety. It was a feeling she hadn't associated with him before, a testament to how much had changed. She could sense the remorse in his every gesture, the desire to make amends not just in words, but in actions. As they danced, she allowed herself to enjoy the moment, to enjoy the feeling of being led by someone who, against all odds, had become an important part of her life.
Negan, for his part, was acutely aware of the trust Maggie was placing in him. With every step, every turn, he felt the weight of their history and the lightness of their potential future. Dancing with her, he felt something he hadn't felt in a long time – hope. Hope that despite the darkness of their past, there was a possibility for something good, something pure.
Around them, the rest of the attendees continued their celebrations, but for Maggie and Negan, it was as if they were alone in the room. The music swelled, filling the space with its haunting melody, mirroring the emotional journey both of them were on.
As the song neared its end, they found themselves drawn closer, their dance becoming more intimate. Negan's hand rested gently on the small of Maggie's back, pulling her closer, and she rested her head against his shoulder, closing her eyes to savor the warmth of the moment.
The final notes of the music lingered in the air, and as they stopped dancing, they remained in each other's arms for a moment longer, reluctant to let go. Maggie looked up at Negan, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions – hope, fear, and a budding affection.
Neither of them knew what the future held, but in that moment, on the dance floor, they knew they had taken a significant step forward. They had found a semblance of peace in each other's embrace, a promise that maybe, just maybe, they could find a way to leave the shadows of their past behind and step into a new light together.
…
Hours later…
In the heart of Krakoa, the bustling command center was alive with a flurry of activity. Reports were coming in, each more bewildering than the last. The operators, usually composed in the face of the extraordinary, were abuzz with a mixture of confusion and disbelief. At the center of it all, a large holographic display showed a live feed of the latest and most bizarre event yet: a conjunction, but not like any they had witnessed before.
On the screen, Tetris blocks, those iconic pixelated shapes familiar to almost everyone, were descending from the sky. But this was no game. These blocks were attaching themselves to buildings in various cities, interlocking perfectly as they did in the classic game. Once a line was formed, the building segments would vanish into thin air, leaving gaping holes in the cityscape.
In the meeting room adjacent to the command center, some of the most seasoned warriors and heroes had gathered to discuss the unfolding situation. As the report was relayed, reactions varied wildly.
Dante, Sonic, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles burst into laughter, finding the absurdity of the situation almost too much to handle. Their amusement was contagious, spreading quickly through the room.
Rick, Daryl, and even Logan, who had been taking a swig of their drinks now at the announcement, nearly choked in surprise. Coughing and spluttering, they stared at the screen, their expressions a mix of incredulity and amusement.
"Are you telling me our next big threat is a bunch of pixelated video game blocks?" Logan finally managed to say, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.
Rick shook his head in disbelief, "I've seen a lot, but this? This is… I have utterly no words?"
Daryl, always the man of few words, simply raised an eyebrow and muttered, "What's next, Pac-Man eating up the streets? Oh…. Right… we already have pack-man…."
The room filled with a mixture of chuckles and bewildered shakes of the head as everyone tried to process the absurdity of the situation. But before they could fully come to grips with the Tetris-block dilemma, the command center's alarms blared again, signaling another unexpected development in this already bizarre day.
As the heroes turned their attention back to the holographic display, what they saw next rendered the room dead silent. On the screen, a new figure had appeared amidst the chaos of the falling Tetris blocks — a character instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with modern video games: Steve from Minecraft.
He was there in his iconic pixelated form, wielding a diamond pickaxe, and to the amazement of everyone watching, he was effortlessly building blocks in midair and demolishing the Tetris blocks with precise swings of his pickaxe. Each swing chipped away at the descending shapes, neutralizing the threat they posed to the buildings below.
…
Some time later…
In the wake of the chaotic Tetris block invasion, Krakoa's inhabitants gathered once again in the command center. The room was heavy with a stunned silence, everyone still processing the surreal events they had just witnessed. On the large holographic display, the scene had finally calmed, thanks to the intervention of an unexpected savior.
"Steve... from Minecraft?" Laura from the dark multiverse uttered in disbelief, her eyes fixed on the screen where the pixelated figure of Steve stood. He was unmistakable in his blocky, classic form, and as he turned to look at each of them, his movements were just like they were in the game - abrupt and digital yet imbued with an odd sense of life.
The heroes of Krakoa watched in a mixture of utter confusion as Steve placed his diamond pickaxe over his back where it dissapered, his blocky arms resting at his sides. It was hard to believe that a character from a video game like Minecraft had just saved cities from an inexplicable phenomenon.
Dante leaned forward, a smirk playing on his lips. "Well, this isn't something you see every day. Minecraft characters saving the real world."
Sonic, folding his arms, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and he did it in style. I mean, who knew Minecraft could be so... impactful?"
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles exchanged glances, each one trying to make sense of the situation. "Dude, this is like something straight out of a comic book," Michelangelo commented, his voice tinged with wonder.
Logan, who had witnessed more than his fair share of strange occurrences, grunted. "At this point, nothing surprises me anymore. But a pixelated hero from a kid's game? That's a new one."
Rick, standing beside Daryl, shook his head slowly. "The world's changing. Things we thought were just games, just stories... they're becoming real."
Daryl, his eyes still fixed on Steve, added, "Yeah, and what does that mean for us? What's next in this crazy world?"
As the discussions continued, The Laura from the dark multiverse approached Steve and the character, in response, presented her with a pixelated apple that was completely flat, as if understanding the gravity of the situation. In that moment, the lines between reality and fiction blurred further.
…
Sometime later, the scene on the mainland shifted from the command center to the New Horizons School, a place of learning and integration for beings from diverse universes. Laura and Logan made their way to the school, where Principal Jean Grey, a beacon of wisdom and leadership in Xavier's absence, was eagerly waiting for them.
As they walked through the corridors, New Horizons school was bustling with activity, The walls echoed with the sounds of laughter and learning, a testament to the successful integration of students from various worlds. Mutants, aliens races of various kinds, Nirn citizens, Atlanteans, Inhumans, humans, and even individuals from Westeros, Faerûn, Hercules world and Eren's world mingled in the hallways, each bringing their unique perspectives and talents to the fore.
Jean greeted them with a warm smile. "Laura, Logan, I'm glad you could make it. I have some exciting updates about our students," she said, her eyes sparkling with pride.
They settled in her office, a cozy space filled with books and artifacts from different worlds. Jean shared the latest achievements of the school. "Many of our graduates have found remarkable opportunities. Some have joined S.H.I.E.L.D., others the Future Foundation and some are even working in the government working their way up. And it's not just the mutants; we're seeing incredible integration across all our students."
Logan nodded, visibly impressed. "That's good to hear, Jean. After everything these worlds have been through, it's important they find their place here."
Laura's thoughts drifted to the survivors from Maggie and Negan's world. "It's incredible, isn't it? Those who once faced a world ravaged by a virus now have hope. Their children are growing up in a universe filled with possibilities."
Jean leaned back in her chair, her expression thoughtful. "It's all about hope, isn't it? That's what Derreck brought into our lives. A vision that these different worlds, these different beings, can coexist and thrive."
After the meeting, Laura and Logan embarked on a tour of the New Horizons School campus, guided by Jean. The school was a vibrant hub of learning and integration, a place where beings from across universes and dimensions came together to gain knowledge and skills for a new life in this amalgamated reality.
Their first stop was a classroom filled with orphaned children from Maggie and Negan's world. The kids, who had known nothing but survival in a walker-infested apocalypse, were now students of the Mandalorian way. The Armorer and Paz Vizsla were leading the class, teaching them not just combat skills but also the values and customs of Mandalorian culture. It was clear that a new generation of Mandalorians was rising, not bound by the traditional ways of their galaxy but adapting to the needs of this new universe.
Laura watched with a mix of awe and admiration. "They've found a new purpose here," she remarked, observing a young girl practicing with a training blaster.
Jean nodded. "It's more than just training. It's about giving them a sense of belonging, a family they've lost or never had."
In another room, they found Ahsoka Tano leading a class of Force-sensitive students from Eren's world and the survivors of the walker outbreak. Despite their low Midi-Chlorian counts, these students showed a remarkable aptitude for the Force. Under Ahsoka's guidance, they were learning to harness their powers, focusing on emotional control and decision-making.
"Ahsoka has been incredible with them," Jean said as they watched a young boy successfully levitate a series of objects. "She understands what it's like to face difficult choices, to walk a path that isn't black or white."
Laura nodded, her eyes reflecting the determination of the young students. "Their experiences in their own worlds have prepared them for this. It's amazing to see them channel it into something so powerful."
As they continued their tour, the diversity of the student body was evident. In one corridor, a group of Atlanteans discussed aquatic engineering with students from Nirn. Elsewhere, a young Jedi Padawan from the Star Wars galaxy shared insights into lightsaber combat with a fascinated group of Westerosi and Faerûn natives.
Reaching the outdoor training grounds, they observed a practical session in progress. Here, students from various worlds engaged in a controlled combat exercise, showcasing an impressive array of skills and abilities.
Jean beamed with pride. "Look at them, learning from each other, growing stronger together. This is what New Horizons is all about. Creating a place where everyone, no matter where they come from, can find their path."
Logan, watching a sparring match between a human and an alien student, nodded in agreement. "It's more than just a school, Jean. You've built a bridge between worlds here. A place where hope isn't just a word, but something real and tangible."
As the tour concluded, Laura, Logan, and Jean stood overlooking the campus. Students of all races and species mingled, laughed, and learned together, a living testament to the potential to do better.
"This is Derreck's legacy," Laura said softly, her eyes scanning the bustling campus. "A world where hope unites us all, where our differences are not barriers but bridges to a better future."
Jean placed a hand on Laura's shoulder. "And it's just the beginning. There's so much more we can achieve, so much more we can become."
As they walked back to the main building the students continued in their studies. In that golden light, the school stood not just as a place of learning, but as a beacon of hope for all worlds.
As Laura and Logan prepared to leave Jean's office, the calm of the moment was abruptly shattered by the ringing of Jean's phone. She excused herself to answer, her expression turning from one of contentment to concern as she listened intently. Laura and Logan exchanged a glance, sensing that something was amiss.
Jean's hand trembled slightly as she held the phone. Her voice, when she spoke, was barely a whisper. "You're sure about this, Nick?" There was a pause, a heavy silence that seemed to fill the room. Jean's face drained of color as she listened to the voice on the other end.
As she hung up the phone, her hand was shaking. Jean turned to Laura and Logan, her eyes wide with shock. "That was Nick Fury. He's just received word from Universe Three," she began, her voice unsteady.
Laura and Logan waited, a sense of foreboding growing within them.
Jean continued, struggling to maintain her composure. "In that universe... Xavier has... he's allied himself with Sinister. They've... they've cloned all the X-Men from Krakoa. And he's acting as if... as if it's all normal."
Logan's expression hardened, a mix of righteous anger and disbelief in his eyes. "What the hell is wrong with that Xavier? Cloning his own people, working with Sinister? That's not the Xavier we knew."
Laura's mind raced, trying to process the implications of such an alliance. "Clones of all the X-Men... Does that mean they have versions of us there as well?"
Jean nodded grimly. "Yes. It appears so. Fury's report suggests that this Xavier and Sinister are creating an entire army of X-Men clones. And the worst part is, they're continuing as if nothing's wrong, as if these clones are the actual X-Men."
Logan clenched his fists, his frustration evident. "We've seen Xavier make questionable decisions, but this... this is a whole new level of betrayal. He's playing god, and Sinister... that's a partnership that can only lead to disaster."
Jean paced the room, her mind racing with the potential consequences of this revelation. "We need to inform the others. This could be a threat not just to Universe Three but to all of us. If Xavier and Sinister are working together, who knows what their endgame is."
Laura looked out the window, her gaze distant. "It's like a nightmare version of what we strived for on Krakoa before most of us lost our way, how do we even begin to confront something like this?"
Logan put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We'll figure it out, Laura. We always do. But first, we need to understand the full extent of what we're dealing with."
Jean picked up the phone again, determination setting into her features. "I'll set up a meeting with Fury. We need to get as much information as we can. And we need to be ready for whatever comes next."
As they left Jean's office, the weight of the news hung heavily in the air.
And for once they didn't have a clear answer.
…
Some time later…
Laura, Logan, and Derreck stepped through the portal engineered by the combined genius of Doc Brown, Iron Man, and Reed Richards. The swirling gateway dissipated behind them, revealing the starkly different reality of Universe Three. A world still grappling with the fallout of the Fall of X, it was a place where the mutants' sanctuary had crumbled, and their unity had fractured under the weight of their own actions.
Kitty Pryde awaited them in the new X-Men headquarters of this universe, a bastion amidst a world that had grown increasingly hostile towards mutants. The atmosphere was heavy with a sense of loss and uncertainty. As they entered, Kitty's gaze met theirs, reflecting a turmoil that went deeper than just the battles they had fought.
She led them through the headquarters, her steps echoing in the quiet corridors. "I'm glad you're here," Kitty began, her voice carrying a mix of weariness and resolve. "This world... it's not like yours. After the Fall of X, we've been struggling to find our place again."
The group paused in a meeting room, where Kitty shared the grim reality they were facing. "Mutants are still hated here. The world sees us as a threat, not as heroes or saviors. And after everything that's happened... can we really blame them?" Her question hung in the air, a poignant reflection of the internal conflict many mutants were grappling with.
Laura listened intently, her expression one of empathy. "It's a tough realization to come to terms with," she said softly. "But acknowledging it is the first step towards change."
Kitty continued, "We're doing our best to rebuild, to show that we can be more than what the world fears. But it's an uphill battle. Trust has been broken, and it's hard to rebuild what's been lost."
Logan, leaning against a wall, added gruffly, "It's never easy, Kitty. But you've got to keep fighting, for yourselves and for those who still believe in what the X-Men stand for."
Derreck spoke up, his voice steady, "You've been through a lot, but you're not alone. We're here to help, to stand with you. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make a difference."
Kitty nodded, a faint smile crossing her lips. "Thank you. It means a lot to have allies, especially now. We need to find a way to move forward, to regain the trust of the world and show that we can be a force for good."
As they discussed potential strategies and shared insights from their experiences in Krakoa, it became clear that the challenges ahead were daunting. The mutants of Universe Three were at a crossroads, facing the consequences of their past actions and the skepticism of a world that had turned its back on them.
The meeting room in the new X-Men headquarters of Universe Three was filled with a tense air as Laura, Logan, Derreck, and Kitty Pryde joined forces with some of the key mutants of this reality. Among them were Emma Frost and Ms. Marvel, the latter having been resurrected before the collapse of Krakoa in this universe. Their expressions were grave as they gathered around a large table, strewn with reports and digital screens displaying strategic data.
Emma Frost, her usual poise edged with a hint of urgency, was the first to speak. "The situation is more volatile than ever," she began, her voice carrying the weight of her words. "Reports suggest that some mutants in Krakoa are discovering the truth about Xavier and Sinister's machinations. The realization that they are clones has led to... unpredictable consequences."
Ms. Marvel, her youthful face marked with seriousness, added, "It's causing a rift, fear and confusion among our ranks. Just recently, the clone of Logan discovered the truth about his origin. He went on a rampage... it was bloody and horrific."
Kitty Pryde leaned forward, her eyes scanning the reports. "They put a collar on him, one that turned him feral, more animal than man. It's a temporary solution to a problem that's growing more complex by the day."
Logan, listening intently, clenched his fists. "That's no way to treat anyone, clone or not. They're still sentient beings, with thoughts and emotions. What Xavier and Sinister are doing... it's unforgivable."
Laura interjected, "We need a plan to address this at its root. These clones are being manipulated, used as pawns in a game they don't even know they're playing."
The discussion in the meeting room was abruptly cut off by a chilling scream over the comms. It was Iceman, his voice laced with terror. "The resurrected Logan from Krakoa! He's here, in our headquarters, tearing through us! He's... AAAHHHHGGHHGH!"
A snarl, followed by a shattering noise and screams of agony, echoed through the speakers, painting a scene of sheer carnage on the other end. The meeting room plunged into a stunned silence, the gravity of the situation setting in rapidly.
Emma Frost sprang into action, her face set in a determined frown. "We need to mobilize now. He's lost control, and he's a danger to everyone in that building."
Logan's expression turned grim, a mix of anger and sorrow. "That's not the Logan I know. This clone... he's a victim in all this, twisted and turned into a weapon."
Kitty Pryde, rising from her seat, addressed the group. "We can't let this situation escalate further. We need to subdue him, quickly and with minimal harm. He's still one of us, in a way."
Derreck nodded in agreement, "We'll need to be strategic. He's a skilled fighter, and in this state, he's even more dangerous."
Laura added, "I'll go with you. Together, we can bring him down without causing more harm."
Derreck, now at the forefront of the situation due to his immense power and unkillability, took the lead alongside Laura, who shared similar invulnerability. Logan accompanied them, his experience invaluable in this dire scenario. Kitty Pryde, Ms. Marvel, and Emma Frost focused on evacuating the mutants to safety, their priority clear amidst the chaos.
As Derreck, Laura, and Logan entered the room where the feral Logan clone was last seen, they were met with a scene of pure horror. The clone had not just killed; he was in a state of primal frenzy, feasting on the bodies of the fallen mutants. The sight made Laura and Logan freeze, a mix of horror and disbelief washing over them.
The clone's eyes were wild, his actions those of a beast rather than a man. The collar, which had turned him into this monstrous version of himself, was fused into his adamantium skeleton, making it impossible to remove.
Derreck, undeterred by the gruesome scene, attempted to use his powers to reach through to the clone's mind, to lift the fog of rage and bloodlust. But what happened next was unthinkable. The clone looked at them with clarity in his eyes and snarled, "I hate all of you."
In a swift, vicious attack, the clone lunged at Laura, aiming for her stomach. The realization that he was attacking Laura, who carried Derrecks unborn child, struck them with chilling clarity. He was beyond reason, beyond saving.
Derreck, witnessing the clone's attempt to harm Laura and her child, felt something inside him snap. The gravity of the situation, the lives lost, and now this unforgivable act pushed him over the edge.
Logan, in a frenzy, continued his assault on Derreck, but his efforts were futile against Derreck's regenerative abilities. With each attack, Derreck's wounds sealed up with black, worm-like tendrils. Logan's hatred and curses filled the air, but they were no match for Derreck's newfound resolve.
As the clone lunged again, Derreck whispered, "I'm sorry," before taking decisive action. In one swift, brutal movement, he tore the clone in half, his power overwhelming. He then proceeded to melt the bones and set the body ablaze, reducing it to a puddle of adamantium on the ground.
Logan watched in stunned silence, the reality of what could have been his own fate hitting him hard. He saw the destructive path of unchecked rage and vengeance, a path that led only to ruin and sorrow.
The room fell silent, the only sound being the crackling of flames consuming what was left of the clone. Laura, Logan, and Derreck stood amidst the aftermath, each processing the event in their own way.
Laura, her hand instinctively resting on her belly, felt a mix of relief and sorrow. She had been spared, her child had been spared, but at what cost?
Logan's eyes were filled with a deep sadness, a reflection of the pain and loss that had unfolded before them. He realized the importance of keeping one's humanity, even in the face of the darkest challenges.
The room was still reeling from Derreck's brutal but necessary actions when suddenly, another Logan fell from the ceiling, attacking with ferocity. The heavy debris from his entrance crashed down, pinning Derreck momentarily. It was a startling revelation — there was more than one cloned Logan!
As Derreck struggled free from the debris, Laura faced off against a clone of herself from this universe. At the same time, Logan confronted a clone of Scott Summers. The intensity of the battle escalated rapidly, with each of them fighting their own counterparts.
In the midst of the chaos and the harsh curses from the logan that was bashing Derricks face into the floor, Derreck's demeanor began to shift. The continuous onslaught and the relentless aggression of the clones were pushing him to the edge. His voice, when it broke through the noise of battle, sent a chill down Laura and Logan's spines. "I'm starting to hate wolverines that give into their rage and the needless death they cause..."
With a swift transformation, Derreck turned his arm into a blade, dismembering the cloned Logan in front of him in a swift, ruthless motion. He then turned to the cloned Scott, catching his fist and countering with a deadly precision. A focused beam of energy shot from his eyes and slowly melting through the clone's head in a gruesome display.
The final confrontation was with the cloned Laura. Derreck stared at her with an eerie calmness for a moment before she exploded in a burst of energy, leaving nothing but ashes in her wake.
As Derreck walked through the aftermath, stepping over the gore and remains, his expression was one of cold determination. "When I find Xavier... I'm going to rip his brain out," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.
Laura and Logan watched in shock and horror. This was not the path they wanted for derreck. The violence and rage that had consumed him were alarming. Laura's heart ached as she realized the toll this battle was taking on him, the transformation from protector to avenger.
In the aftermath of the brutal encounter, the mood in the headquarters of Universe Three's X-Men was somber and tense. Laura, Logan, and Derreck regrouped with Emma Frost, Kitty Pryde, and Ms. Marvel to brief them on the harrowing events that had unfolded.
As they recounted the details, Derreck sat apart from the group, his gaze fixed on a distant point, lost in his thoughts. The others exchanged worried glances, sensing the turmoil brewing within him.
Kitty Pryde, ever the brave soul, approached Derreck to reach out to him. However, her efforts were met with a sudden outburst. Derreck's fist collided with the metal wall, leaving a deep dent as a manifestation of his inner turmoil.
Then, he exploded in a long, scathing tirade. His words were sharp and unyielding, cutting through the room like a knife. He condemned their complacency, their inability to see the depth of the corruption that had seeped into their world. "You're all idiots for letting this happen," he shouted, his voice echoing off the walls. "Now, thirty mutants, including this worlds Bobby, are dead because of it!"
His anger subsided as quickly as it had erupted, leaving a chilling calmness in its wake. "I need to get some air," he said quietly, his tone now eerily composed. "Maybe destroy a few Sentinels, go for a walk... I'll be back in a few minutes."
With that, Derreck walked out of the doorway and teleported away, his powers allowing him to disappear in an instant. The group was left in stunned silence, unable to process the raw intensity of his emotions. His departure was a stark reminder of the heavy burden they all bore, the cost of the war they were fighting.
Kitty Pryde broke the silence, her voice tinged with concern. "He's right. We've been reactive for too long. It's time we take proactive steps to prevent such tragedies."
Emma Frost nodded in agreement. "Derreck's outburst, while extreme, has merit. We've been too passive, and it's cost lives. We need a strategy, one that anticipates and counters Xavier and Sinister's moves."
Logan, still grappling with the horror of what he had witnessed, added grimly, "And we need to be prepared for the consequences. This battle is taking a toll on all of us, in more ways than one."
Laura, her thoughts with Derreck, knew that his actions reflected the frustration and helplessness they all felt. "Let's regroup and plan our next move. We can't let despair and anger dictate our actions."
As the meeting continued, the group focused on formulating a strategy to combat the growing threat. They knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but the resolve to fight was stronger than ever.
Outside, in the twilight of Universe Three, Derreck roamed, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The burden of the battle, the lives lost, and the path he had chosen weighed heavily on him. In the solitude of his walk, he grappled with the darkness that threatened to consume him, fighting to hold onto the light within.
…
A about 25 minutes later…
The meeting room was shaken to its core when Derreck returned, his appearance a stark testament to the violent actions he had taken. Covered in blood, he dragged three individuals behind him. The first was Xavier, bound with cables, his legs broken and useless. Next to him was this universe's Sinister, similarly incapacitated with both legs severed, and finally, Beast, struggling against his restraints.
Derreck threw them unceremoniously into the room and took a seat, his demeanor one of cold fury. The group looked on in shock, struggling to comprehend the scene before them.
"You don't have to worry about that Krakoa anymore," Derreck announced, his voice heavy with a chilling finality. "I blasted it away. No one there wished to listen..." His statement left a heavy silence in the room, the implications of his actions sinking in.
He then turned his attention to the struggling Beast. "As for why Beast is here... he wasn't as dead as you all thought," he said, his gaze fixing on Emma and Kitty Pryde, who were visibly shaken.
His eyes then shifted to a figure standing apart from the group, a younger version of Magneto, who looked downcast and out of place. "Oh, and the only one who wished to listen is standing over there," Derreck said sarcastically, nodding towards the 'resurrected' Magneto, who took a long, contemplative drink of a beer.
Derreck's presence in the room was like a storm, both in his physical state and in the revelations he brought. He looked at the shocked faces around him, each grappling with the aftermath of his actions. "I gave them multiple chances to stop," he began, his voice a mix of anger and sorrow. "But they kept trying to erase me from time. I had to say enough was enough."
The group listened, the room heavy with the weight of his words. The idea that Krakoa had been a breeding ground for Sinister's clones was difficult enough to digest, but the knowledge that these clones were actively working to erase timelines was horrifying.
"The worst part," Derreck continued, his gaze piercing through each person in the room, "is that I could see all the futures they created. Futures where each of you..." he gestured to Emma, Kitty, and Ms. Marvel, "became Sinister's in your own right, erasing timelines, manipulating lives as if they were nothing."
Emma Frost's face turned pale, the idea of her alternate self-becoming what she abhorred was a chilling thought. Kitty Pryde's expression hardened, a mix of disbelief and anger in her eyes.
Ms. Marvel, the youngest of the group, looked visibly shaken. "How could we... How could any version of us do something so monstrous?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Derreck sighed, a look of exhaustion crossing his face. "Power, fear, desperation... they can lead even the best of us down dark paths. Sinister's influence was far-reaching, more than we ever anticipated."
Logan, processing the information, spoke up, "So, when you destroyed Krakoa, you weren't just stopping clones. You were stopping a cycle of destruction, a cycle that could've consumed countless realities."
Derreck paused, a heavy sorrow etching his features as he prepared to reveal a truth that would change everything. The room fell into a deeper silence, everyone bracing for what was to come.
"They did something unforgivable," Derreck said, his voice breaking slightly. "In one of the futures, just a few minutes ago before I intervened, they managed to kill Laura and our unborn child. They sank into oblivion, and that version of me... he completely gave up hope."
Everyone who was listening froze in the room. The impact of his words was like a physical blow, hitting each person with the stark reality of the horrors that had been narrowly averted.
"And the best part?" Derreck continued; his tone laced with a bitter irony. "They gloated about it in front of that version of me. That's when he became truly unhinged."
Laura, hearing this, felt a chill run down her spine. The thought of her and her unborn child being killed in another timeline that was avoided was horrifying. The room seemed to spin around her as she processed the enormity of what Derreck had just revealed.
Logan looked at Derreck, his expression one of understanding and sympathy. "That's why you acted. You were fighting not just for this reality, but for all of them. For Laura, for your child, for all of us."
Emma Frost, her usual composure shattered, spoke softly, "We had no idea... the depth of what was at stake. This goes beyond anything we could have imagined."
Kitty Pryde, her anger dissolving into a profound sadness, added, "We were so focused on our own battles, our own world, that we failed to see the bigger picture. The danger of losing ourselves, our loved ones, in the pursuit of power and control."
Derreck looked around the room, his gaze lingering on each face. "I did what I had to do. Not just for you, but for all the versions of you out there, fighting their own battles against darkness and despair."
The revelation shifted the mood in the room from one of judgment to one of understanding. The choices Derreck made, though extreme, were now seen in a different light – as actions taken to protect not just their universe but countless others from a fate too terrible to comprehend.
In the tense atmosphere of the meeting room, the question of what to do with Xavier, Sinister, and Beast weighed heavily on everyone's minds. The revelation of their actions had left a bitter taste, a sense of betrayal that was hard to swallow.
Emma Frost, her voice steely with anger, was the first to speak. "They've manipulated realities, played with lives as if they were mere pieces on a chessboard. They deserve to be punished, and severely."
Kitty Pryde, her sense of justice burning bright, added, "We can't just let them go. They need to answer for their crimes, for the pain and suffering they've caused across timelines."
Magneto, his expression grim, nodded in agreement. "Their actions have consequences. They've brought untold suffering to countless individuals. Justice must be served."
The room erupted into a discussion of possible punishments, each suggestion reflecting the depth of anger and betrayal they felt. The options ranged from imprisonment to more permanent solutions, each proposal a reflection of the pain Xavier, Sinister, and Beast had inflicted.
Derreck, who had been silent, finally spoke up, his voice cutting through the cacophony. "At this point, they're going to hell. Do whatever you want with them. I don't care." His words were cold, devoid of any emotion, a stark contrast to the fiery discussion around him.
Laura, sensing the turmoil within him, gently wrapped her arms around him. "Let's go," she whispered, her presence a comforting solace to his troubled mind.
Together, they walked out of the room, leaving the presence of those three behind. Their exit was a silent statement of their disgust and unwillingness to be part of any further discussion about the fate of Xavier, Sinister, and Beast.
The group left in the room continued their deliberation, each member acutely aware of the responsibility they held. The decision they were about to make would set a precedent, not just for their universe but for the integrity of their cause.
A short while later, after much contemplation and discussion, the decision was made to involve this universe's Nick Fury, to bring transparency and broader judgment to the situation. The group reached out to him, disclosing every detail, every dark revelation that had come to light. They laid bare the actions of Xavier, Sinister, and Beast, exposing the extent of their manipulation and betrayal.
Nick Fury, after absorbing the weight of the information, proposed a course of action that was unprecedented, but fitting given the circumstances. "Let the people decide," he suggested, his voice resolute. "Let the citizens of this world cast their votes on the fate of these three. It's only right that those most affected by their actions have a say in their punishment."
The proposal was met with a somber agreement from the group. The decision was too significant, too charged with emotion and consequence to be made by a handful of individuals. It needed a broader, more democratic approach.
The world was informed, and the citizens were given the opportunity to cast their votes on the fate of the three former Krakoan leaders. The voting was conducted with solemnity and seriousness, each person understanding the gravity of their choice.
As the votes were tallied, a heavy silence fell over the world. The final verdict, delivered to the masses, was one that reflected the pain and betrayal felt by the people: death. The citizens had chosen a sad but fitting end for Xavier, Sinister, and Beast.
The announcement of the verdict sent ripples of emotion across the globe. Some felt a sense of justice, a closure to the chapter of treachery and manipulation. Others felt the weight of the decision, the finality of death as a punishment, and what it signified about the world they lived in.
For Laura, Logan, Derreck, and the rest of the group, the decision brought a complex mix of relief and sorrow. Relief that justice had been served, but sorrow for the path that had led to such an end.
As they processed the outcome, Derreck looked out into the horizon, a thoughtful expression on his face. "This is the end of a dark chapter," he said quietly. "But it's also a reminder. A reminder of the cost of power, the fragility of trust, and the importance of staying true to our ideals."
As the world prepared for the somber proceedings of the verdict's execution, Laura and Derreck chose not to stay. The weight of what had transpired was too heavy, and they sought solace in each other's company, away from the grim finality of death.
They found a quiet spot, away from the hustle and the burdens of their responsibilities. There, under the vast expanse of the sky, Laura reached out to Derreck, offering him comfort. She could feel the turmoil within him, the conflict between his actions and his inherent nature.
Derreck welcomed her embrace, his body tensing at first but gradually relaxing as he felt the warmth and understanding she offered. He rested his hand gently on her stomach, a silent acknowledgment of the new life they had created together, a symbol of hope amidst the chaos.
In that moment of closeness, they shared a silent prayer to the Core, the god of the original universe from which all the multiverses branch off from, that had been a guiding force in their lives. They prayed for this world, for healing and peace to find its way through the pain and suffering it had endured.
They prayed to God, seeking guidance and strength. They prayed for the wisdom to navigate the challenges ahead, for the ability to be the force of good their world needed.
As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, there was a sense of unity, a shared strength that came from their bond. The world around them was still grappling with the aftermath of the events that had unfolded, but in each other, they found a sanctuary, a reminder of the love and life that endured even in the darkest of times.
Derreck whispered a vow, not just to Laura but to himself and to the world they were a part of. "We'll make it through this. We'll find a way to bring peace, not just to this world but to all the worlds that suffer."
Laura nodded, her resolve matching his. "Together," she affirmed, her voice steady and full of conviction.
As they stood there, holding each other close, a sense of calm enveloped them. It was a moment of peace, a fleeting respite from the trials they faced. But it was also a moment of renewal, a reaffirmation of their commitment to each other and to the cause they fought for.
…
Suddenly, their moment of tranquility was shattered by the urgent arrival of one of their allies. Breathless, the figure hurried towards them, urgency etched in every feature. "Derreck, Laura, we've got a situation," they announced, their voice strained with tension. "Sinister... he's cloned himself. Again. We've just apprehended a new clone, but we need you both immediately."
The news struck them like a physical blow, a stark reminder of the unending battle they were entwined in. Laura's face hardened, the reality of their enemies' relentless pursuits casting a shadow over her features. She exchanged a knowing look with Derreck, the weight of their responsibilities rushing back to them.
Derreck's eyes darkened, his jaw set in a grim line. "Let's deal with this," he said, his voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of frustration. Together, they made their way towards the confrontation, ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Upon reaching the containment area, they were confronted with the sight of Sinister's clone, his presence a mocking testament to their foe's tenacity. The clone, with an air of arrogance, locked eyes with Derreck. "Ah, Derreck, my eternal adversary. You can never truly get rid of me, can you?"
Derreck's response was chillingly calm, a stark contrast to the heated emotions churning within him. "Do what you will, Sinister. Continue your twisted games across timelines. I'm beyond caring." His words, heavy with a mix of resignation and underlying rage, hung in the air.
Laura observed the exchange, her expression unreadable but her eyes betraying a storm of emotions. She remained silent, her presence a steady support for Derreck.
Turning away from the clone, Derreck's demeanor shifted. The mask of indifference cracked, revealing the depth of his turmoil. "I need some time," he murmured, more to himself than to anyone else. "I'll meet up with you later... after I've had a chance to think."
With that, he walked away, his strides purposeful yet heavy with an unspoken burden. Laura watched him go, her heart aching for the pain he was enduring. She knew this battle was far from over, and the road ahead was fraught with challenges they would face together.
As Derreck departed to seek solace in solitude, Logan, standing at a distance, observed the scene. For once, the typically fiery Wolverine was not consumed by his usual livid rage or savage instinct. Instead, a complex array of emotions clouded his features, a testament to the profound effect of Sinister's relentless malevolence.
Logan's thoughts drifted, reflecting on the insidious nature of Sinister, a being he now considered the epitome of the worst aspects of mutantkind. "Sinister destroys everything he touches," Logan muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with a mixture of regret and insight. He pondered how their own version of Krakoa had been blind to the dangers posed by Sinister, a blindness that had cost them dearly.
In a rare moment of introspection, Logan turned his thoughts inward, seeking a connection with a higher power. He sent a silent prayer to the Core, to the God of the original universe from which all multiverses branched. His request was simple yet profound – restraint and guidance. Not just for himself, but for Derreck as well. "The kid's been through enough," he whispered, his voice barely audible, carrying the weight of his concern and empathy for Derreck's plight.
As Logan stood there, his silent prayer lingering in the charged atmosphere, an extraordinary phenomenon unfolded. The room, previously filled with the tension and turmoil of their grim reality, began to resonate with an ethereal presence. It was as if the very air vibrated with a profound energy, emanating from all around yet originating from nowhere.
Then, a voice, both omnipresent and compelling, filled the space. It was the Core, the God of the original universe, responding in a way that was both unexpected and awe-inspiring. The voice spoke with an authority that was absolute, its words resonating with the power of creation itself.
"From this moment onwards, no more Sinisters will be allowed to be cloned in this universe. Should this decree be defied, they shall become dust," the Core proclaimed, its directive unequivocal and final.
In the containment area, the arrogant smirk on the face of Sinister's clone vanished instantaneously. Panic and disbelief marred his features as he began to struggle frantically, trying to break free from his restraints. The realization that God Himself was rebuking him struck a chord of fear that Sinister had never known before.
The Core's voice continued, its tone imbued with a righteous indignation, "For the pain and suffering you have caused, Sinister, I take from you your sight forever more, and no amount of augmentation will allow you to see again. For dust is what you are, and to the dust, you shall return."
As these words echoed through the room, an intense light enveloped Sinister's clone. When it faded, the once arrogant being was left cowering, his eyes now sightless, a symbol of divine judgment for his heinous deeds.
The presence of the Core then receded, leaving behind a sense of awe and reverence. The room, once filled with tension, was now suffused with a profound silence, the occupants processing the magnitude of what had just transpired.
Logan, deeply moved by the encounter, felt a sense of validation. He had always held a belief, a faith in the Core, and this direct intervention was a testament to that faith. The intervention was not just a response to his prayer but a powerful statement against the evils perpetrated by Sinister.
As the group absorbed the gravity of the Core's judgment, they realized that a significant turning point had been reached. The threat of Sinister, a plague that had haunted their reality for so long, had finally been addressed by a power far greater than any of them.
This moment marked a new beginning, a sign that while their struggles were far from over, they were not alone in their fight. The Core, the God of their universe, had shown that justice, though sometimes delayed, was inevitable. For Logan, and for all who witnessed this divine act, it was a moment of profound realization and renewed hope.
…
In this universe, where tensions against mutants ran high, Derreck found himself amidst New York City alive with unrest. Protesters filled the streets, their cries for harsher actions against mutants echoing off the skyscrapers. Amidst the crowd, there were those who celebrated the destruction of Krakoa, viewing it as a triumph over a perceived threat.
As Derreck walked through the throngs, he quietly observed the timelines of each individual he passed. The breadth of their prejudices and conspiracies weighed heavily on him, a stark reminder of the deeply ingrained fear and hatred that plagued this world.
Suddenly, a figure approached him, her presence cutting through the chaos of the crowd. It was Rogue, but not the Rogue he knew from his universe. This Rogue had never met Derreck, yet her expression was one of unmistakable fury directed at him.
"You!" she exclaimed, pointing an accusing finger at him. "You're the one who destroyed Krakoa, aren't you? How could you obliterate our last sanctuary?" Her voice was charged with a mix of anger and betrayal, echoing the sentiments of many mutants who had viewed Krakoa as their final refuge.
As Rogue confronted Derreck with heated accusations, a subtle change began to manifest in his demeanor. The initial shock of her approach gave way to a growing sense of agitation. His eyes, once a window to his thoughts and feelings, gradually dulled, adopting an emotionless, dead look. It was a defense mechanism, a way to shield himself from the barrage of insults and the weight of the situation.
"You have no idea what you're talking about," Derreck replied, his voice low and controlled, yet there was an undercurrent of rising anger. "Krakoa was not what it seemed. It was a hub of manipulation and danger."
But Rogue was relentless. "How dare you justify your actions? You've made us targets, destroyed our safety!" Her words were like daggers, each one aimed to wound, to provoke.
With each accusation, Derreck felt himself being pushed closer to the edge. The complexity of his decisions, the burden of his actions, all seemed to be lost in this single moment of confrontation. He was a man who had faced unimaginable challenges, made choices that few could comprehend, and now he stood accused, misunderstood by a version of Rogue who had no knowledge of his journey.
As Rogue's tirade intensified, Derreck's grip on his composure began to falter. The anger that he had been holding at bay was threatening to surface. His sharp teeth clenched tightly, a physical manifestation of his struggle to maintain control.
"You think you're suffering because of me?" Derreck's voice grew colder, his patience wearing thin. "You know nothing of the sacrifices that were necessary, the battles fought to protect not just this world, but all realities."
The tension between them was immense, a volatile mix of misunderstanding, anger, and pain. Rogue, fueled by her perception of betrayal, and Derreck, burdened by the complexity of his actions, found themselves locked in a confrontation that was teetering on the brink.
The air around them seemed to crackle with the intensity of their exchange. Derreck's eyes, once dead and emotionless, now flickered with a dangerous light. It was clear that he was being pushed to his limits, and if Rogue continued to push him, he was at risk of snapping, unleashing the pent-up fury of a man who had walked through fire and emerged forever changed.
In this moment, the tumultuous streets of New York City faded into the background, as the confrontation between Rogue and Derreck became the focal point, a microcosm of the broader struggle and turmoil that defined their world.
As Rogue's anger continued to boil over, her words became more vitriolic and personal, escalating the confrontation to a new level of intensity. "And what about Laura?!" she spat out, her voice dripping with contempt. "That harlot, partnering with you, siring your spawn. She's just as monstrous as you are!"
At the mention of Laura and their unborn child, something shifted in Derreck. His response to the continuous barrage of insults was to retreat into a chilling silence. The previous emotionless look in his eyes was replaced by a dangerous calm, a stillness that was more foreboding than any display of anger. It was as if Rogue's words had pierced through his last vestige of restraint, reaching a part of him that was untouchable by reason or understanding.
Back in their bunker, Laura sat quietly, her hands gently cradling her stomach, a protective gesture for the new life growing inside her. The room was calm, a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding outside. Suddenly, a glass of water on the table beside her cracked, the sound sharp and unexpected in the stillness of the room.
Laura's heart skipped a beat. Her instincts, honed through years of battles and crises, immediately sensed that something was amiss. The cracked glass, seemingly innocuous, felt like an omen, a prelude to something shifting in the universe.
"Derreck," she whispered, her voice laced with worry. The connection she shared with him went beyond the physical; it was a bond forged in the fires of shared experiences and struggles. She could feel a disturbance, a ripple in the fabric of their connection, and it filled her with a sense of foreboding.
Her mind raced with possibilities, concern for Derreck consuming her thoughts. She knew the kind of pressure he was under, the weight of the decisions he had to make, and the toll it took on him. The thought of him facing Rogue's unbridled anger and accusations, especially about their unborn child, sent a wave of anxiety through her.
Laura rose from her seat, a determined look on her face. She knew she needed to find Derreck, to be there for him in whatever way she could. Their bond was more than just love; it was a partnership forged in the understanding that they were each other's anchor in a tumultuous world.
As Laura prepared to leave the bunker, her thoughts were with Derreck, hoping that he could withstand the storm of emotions he was facing. She knew the strength that lay within him, but she also knew the vulnerabilities that he seldom showed to the world. In this moment, more than ever, she felt the urgency to be by his side, to face whatever challenges lay ahead together.
Rogue, fueled by her rage and frustration, finally attempted to physically confront Derreck. With a swift, powerful movement, she aimed a punch directly at him. However, her fist met nothing but air, having no effect on Derreck whatsoever. It was as if she had tried to strike a force of nature, an entity beyond the physical realm.
Derreck, unshaken by her attempt, looked at Rogue with a gaze that was both haunting and resigned. His voice, when he spoke, was laced with a profound sense of regret. "In one day's time," he began, his words heavy with the burden of what he was about to do, "mutants in this universe will still be born. But they will be born as humans. From then on, and forever more."
As he spoke, Derreck slowly lifted his fingers. With a deliberate and measured movement, he snapped them. The sound of the snap echoed through the air, resonating with a strange, almost cosmic intensity. It was reminiscent of the legendary Infinity Gauntlet, carrying a sense of universal alteration.
In the distance, lightning flashed, synchronizing with the sound of his snap, as if the universe itself was responding to his action. The atmosphere was charged with an energy, a sense of monumental change that was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
Rogue, witnessing this, felt a deep, unsettling realization that something fundamental had shifted on a universal level. Although there was no immediate visible effect, the air felt different, as if a significant decree had been passed, altering the very fabric of their reality.
The implications of Derreck's words and actions hung heavily in the air. The future of mutants in this universe had been irrevocably changed. Born as humans, they would no longer face the same struggles and fears that had defined their existence. It was a solution that was both merciful and tragic, a way to protect them from the hatred and persecution they faced, yet at the cost of their unique identities and abilities.
Rogue, still reeling from the enormity of what had transpired, stared at Derreck in disbelief. Her anger had been replaced by a profound sense of uncertainty about the future of their kind. She realized that the world as they knew it was about to change in a way that was beyond her comprehension.
Derreck, having made a decision that would alter the course of an entire universe, stood amidst the chaos of the city, a solitary figure burdened with the knowledge of what he had done. His action, born out of a desire to protect, was also a testament to the immense power he wielded – power that could shape realities and redefine the fate of countless lives.
…
One day after Derreck's momentous decision, the fallout began to unfold in real time. Reports started coming in from various sources – Emma Frost, Ms. Marvel, Kitty Pryde, and their allies. The news was consistent and irrefutable: all mutant children being born were coming into the world as humans. S.H.I.E.L.D. confirmed it, as did numerous other agencies and individuals across the globe. The change was universal and undeniable.
In a somber gathering, Laura stood alongside Logan, both of them absorbing the gravity of the situation. The air was thick with a mix of shock, disbelief, and a deep sense of loss. The reality of a world without new mutants was settling in, a profound change to the very nature of their existence.
As they processed this information, the topic of Rogue's confrontation with Derreck inevitably came up. Everyone had heard about the intense exchange and how Rogue's harsh words had pushed Derreck to take such a drastic measure.
Logan, ever the voice of blunt truth, addressed Rogue directly. His tone was stern, yet carried an underlying layer of sadness. "He didn't do this out of malice," Logan said, looking squarely at Rogue. "If you're looking for someone to blame, maybe start with the person in the mirror."
He let out a heavy sigh, his gaze shifting to the others in the room. "Can we really blame him, though?" he asked, his voice resonating with a mix of frustration and understanding. "Look at how mutants were acting. Look at what this world had become."
The room fell silent, each person grappling with their own thoughts and emotions. Logan's words had struck a chord, igniting a difficult yet necessary introspection. The treatment of mutants in this universe had been fraught with fear, hatred, and violence. The actions and decisions of many had contributed to an atmosphere where being a mutant was more a curse than a blessing.
Logan's question lingered in the air, an unspoken challenge to everyone present. It was a call to reflect on the broader context of Derreck's decision – a context marked by constant strife, persecution, and the ever-looming threat of annihilation.
As they all contemplated this new reality, a reality where the birth of mutant children had ceased, there was a sense of mourning for what had been lost. But there was also an undercurrent of understanding, perhaps even a reluctant acceptance, that Derreck's choice, while extreme, was not borne of a desire to harm, but rather a desperate attempt to protect a persecuted people in the only way he saw possible.
In the wake of this monumental change, the future of mutants – both those existing and those who would now never be born with abilities – hung in the balance, a future now irrevocably altered by the actions of one man and the complex, turbulent world that had driven him to such lengths.
…
In the aftermath of Derreck's universe-altering decision, he, Laura, and Logan remained in the tumultuous world for a brief period to ensure that things settled down. The streets of New York, once teeming with protesters calling for harsh measures against mutants, gradually grew quieter. It took about three days for the demonstrations to dissipate, as the realization sank in among the populace that they had, in a twisted way, achieved what they had been demanding. The birth of mutants had ceased, and with it, the primary source of their fear and hatred had been effectively neutralized without the bloodshed that would have followed any other scenario.
Once the situation had calmed and the protesters had retreated, Derreck, Laura, and Logan prepared to return to their original universe. They left behind a world fundamentally changed, a world where the future of mutantkind had been rewritten in a most unexpected and profound way.
Upon their return to their Krakoa, they were greeted by the familiar and comforting sight of their two toddler children, who had been under the caring supervision of Geralt, Yennefer, Regis, and Triss. The children ran to their parents, unaware of the heavy events that had transpired, their innocence a stark contrast to the weight of the decisions and actions that had been taken.
The news of what had happened in the alternate universe had already spread among their allies and friends. As they welcomed Derreck, Laura, and Logan back, it was evident that everyone understood the toll the events had taken on Derreck. His actions, though extreme, were recognized as a necessary intervention to break the cycle of violence and persecution that had plagued mutants in that world.
There was a sense of somber acknowledgement among the group. They realized that Derreck had been faced with an impossible choice and had made a decision that, while painful, had ultimately served its purpose. The cycle of violence against mutants in that universe had been stopped, not through further conflict or retaliation, but through a radical and irreversible change.
As they gathered together, the atmosphere was one of quiet reflection. They recognized that what Derreck had done was not just a sacrifice for the mutants of that world but a poignant statement on the recurring tragedies that mutants faced across universes. In a way, his action was a grim reminder of the ongoing struggles they all faced, the never-ending fight for acceptance, understanding, and the right to exist.
In the days that followed, as life on their Krakoa resumed its usual rhythm, there was a new sense of perspective among them. They were more aware than ever of the delicate balance they walked, the fine line between protecting themselves and changing the very nature of their existence.
For Derreck, the return to Krakoa and the embrace of his family and friends provided a much-needed respite, a chance to heal and reflect. The joy and innocence of his children served as a reminder of the future they were all fighting for – a future where mutants and other misunderstood beings could live in peace, free from fear and persecution.
