Please enjoy

Chapter Six of

Taunting Repartee- RM'd

Now I'm Here

As Rogue entered the 'Karma Kafe', she was disquieted at how unprepared she felt. She stared blankly at the wall behind the counter which listed the various options available for purchase without taking a word in. She was a nervous wreck, her stomach in knots, and on reflection, her attire was entirely inappropriate. And there was absolutely nothing she could do about any of it now. Once she went in the back, down the hallway, and into the library, she would be willingly isolating herself with him. With Magneto.

'I must be going out of my mind.' she thought to herself as she started to walk again. One of the young baristas looked up at her as she walked toward the back.

"Hey," she called out, attempting to stop Rogue.

An older Asian woman, with shoulder-length black hair, noticing the exchange, placed her hand on the girl's shoulder putting a stop to the interruption. Rogue recognized her from Magneto's memories: Xuân Cao Manh. She was entrusted to run this shop, which was only one of many. Rogue had never invested the time to view the specifics of how vast Magneto's resources were, but she knew they were substantial. She's almost made a point of avoiding Magneto's more recent memories. Something Erik had suggested since the beginning which she took to heart. She knew Xuân Cao Manh's name and was fairly certain she was a mutant, doubting Magneto would trust a human to secure such a personal business venture, but she didn't know what her powers were.

She was tempted to ask Erik, considering the woman was in front of her- it might be better to know- but as soon as she felt the urge, she recalled that he wouldn't respond even if she did.

"You can head to the back, Miss Creed," Xuân Cao Manh said, her French accent coming through. She felt herself swallowing nervously. She was expected, this shouldn't surprise or rattle her- yet it was doing both.

"Thank you," Rogue said, thinking better of admitting she knew the woman's name.

"Mr. Lehnsherr will join you shortly for your interview," she added. Rogue did her best to smile, nodding courteously before she turned her back on the counter, toward the back entrance-

Rogue blinked, a gasp escaping her, as one of the patrons bumped into her and hissed as an iced coffee hit her sheer shirt, crop top, and pants. She glanced up to see a taller bespectacled black woman. She was wearing a crisp- spotless -buttercream business suit and holding a now empty cup with a look of horror and regret on her face.

"Gracious! I am so sorry, sweetie," she said, her voice having a hint of a southern accent to it. Rogue felt a shiver run through her entire body. Not only was she inappropriately dressed, but now she was half-doused in coffee.

Rogue looked around, and located the restroom off to one side. Maybe, she could go to the bathroom and try to dry herself off. Maybe she could slip out the back…

No. She wasn't a coward. She marched into the bathroom, as her breaths came fast and she felt overwhelmed all over again. She felt the urge to cry as she grabbed a handful of paper towels but pushed the feeling down. It wouldn't help her here- she had to keep herself composed. Instantly her stress morphed into anger as she rushed into the first vacant stall, slamming the door behind her. She turned the lock before angrily patting herself with the bunch of paper towels.

"I'm really sorry, darlin'. I can be so clumsy. Are you alright?" a voice asked. She hadn't even heard the woman enter the restroom. Patting herself was barely doing anything- this wasn't going to work.

"No, I know it ain't your fault, I'm jus' having a really bad day," Rogue answered as she angrily threw the damp paper towels in the small wastebasket near the toilet seat.

"You're here for an interview, right?" she asked.

"Yeah," she said bitterly, her sour mood keeping her from questioning how this woman knew.

"Well, isn't that a coincidence? I just happened to go shopping for my daughter today. Here," she said.

Rogue blinked. Had she heard that right? She turned and saw a long-sleeve green turtleneck shirt hanging over the top of the bathroom stall. She took hold of the shirt. It actually looked like it would fit her.

"Really?" Rogue asked in disbelief, her anger diminishing. This was better than either of the shirts she had on.

"I made a mess of you," she said, her southern accent becoming more pronounced. "Least I can do," she said.

"Thank- thank you," she said as she hung the shirt back over the side of the stall. Okay, she needed-

"Do you need a bag for your wet clothes, sweetie?" she asked.

"Yes, ma'am," Rogue responded politely, feeling that old accent of hers return and honey her voice just as the other woman's was. Perhaps that was just the way of things; when two southerners in Yankee country were together they felt safe enough to let some of their guard down.

"Take this," the other woman urged Rogue said as she saw a paper bag held up over the stall's door.

"Thank you, ma'am," Rogue said as she took hold of the proffered bag, and placed it on the floor. She quickly stripped out of her wet shirt and deposited them. Next, she grabbed the crisp clean shirt and-

Well, she wasn't going to be able to wear any of her accessories with it, she realized. She hung the shirt back over the door and shucked her bracelets and choker off, dropping them into the bag. She pulled the green shirt over her head. The material was really nice, actually. Very comfortable.

"Did your pants get wet too, darlin'?" she asked.

"A little, ma'am, but it's ain't-" she said, cut off when she saw a pair of black slacks hanging over the top of the stall.

"Try these on," she said. She reached down and untied her combat boots, before slipping them and her wet pants off. She discarded her wet pants with her other items, figuring she'd run it through the wash. She grabbed the pants and put them on, astonished at how well they fit her.

Rogue returned her boots to her feet, lacing them and knotting them quickly before she grabbed her things and exited the stall.

"Are you alright, sweetie?" she asked as she exited the stall and walked up to the mirror.

"Yes, ma'am, I am now," she said, checking out her reflection in the mirror. She didn't look half bad. Her hair looked a little frazzled but her appearance otherwise was actually presentable- more than presentable. She twitched an errant lock out of the way and wondered if wetting any of it down might work.

"Here," the woman said as she pulled out another article of clothing, this time a blazer that matched the pant's shade of black perfectly.

"Ma'am, I don't know what to say," Rogue commented, beyond grateful as the woman held the blazer open, Rogue slipped her arms into it and lifted it over her shoulders, another perfect fit. Maybe she should button it? Would that look more professional? Rogue reached for the buttons on the front.

"It'll look better open," the woman advised and Rogue nodded agreeing with the assessment.

"This is gonna sound strange," she said, turning to look at the woman, rather than her reflection. "But bumping inta ya might be the best thing that happened to me all day," she said happily. "I don't even know your name," she said.

"It's Carol," she said, as she extended her hand. "Carol Higgins," she said as Rogue took hold and shook the older woman's hand. Something about that name sounded so familiar. Where had she heard it before?


Rogue felt her eyes closed as she was unfittingly putting into her own mind and into a memory not her own.

Rogue glanced up as she saw her mother, Mystique, staring at her reflection in the mirror. Rogue was along for the ride inside the memory, and she instantly recognized the room from her own memories. From the green and blue floral rug and the green-checkered bedspread to a brassy lamp with a white shade by the bedside. It was Irene's bedroom in Mississippi. Their bedroom in Mississippi.

"Must you go, Raven?" Irene asked. Raven turned her head to see Irene standing behind her.

"Yes, Irene, Victor, and Graydon are expecting me," she answered.


Rogue blinked multiple times as felt a hand on her shoulder, shaking her slightly.

"Are you alright?" Carol asked, her tone concerned. Why had she pulled up a memory of Mystique? It had nothing to do with the nice woman in front of her. Unless this was Mystique?

"Yes ma'am," she said, as she shook off the memory.

"Your momma must be proud to have such a polite daughter. I haven't heard this many 'yes ma'am's outside my own home since I came north of Alabama," she said with a smile. "I'm happy to help you, young lady," she said warmly, placing her hand on her arm. "Really," she added while giving it a squeeze.

Rogue shook her head, dismissing her suspicions. Honestly, she didn't have time. And if this was Mystique it wouldn't be the worst thing, not right now. She'd get to keep the clothes. Then again if it wasn't-

"Ma'am, I ain't sure how long my interview's gonna be. How do I get all this back to you?" she asked.

"Tell ya what, sweetie. How about I take your wet things and your backpack? I'll go order myself another coffee and I'll see ya when ya come out," she offered.

"Are ya sure? It might be a while," Rogue told her.

"I don't mind," Carol said before cocking her head slightly, eyeing her.

"Ma'am?" Rogue asked before Carol reached into her purse and retrieved a brush.

"Your hair needs to go up," Carol told her plainly before she motioned with the brush, telling her to turn around. Rogue did as she bided, looking at the older woman through the mirror's reflection as she stuck her hand back in her bag and pulled out a can of mousse.

Rogue felt a smile come to her face.

Okay, this had to be Mystique. Who just walked around with a full bottle of mousse in their purse? Before she could help it a short laugh escaped her.

"Something funny about being prepared?" she asked as she shook the can.

"No, I just can't believe my luck is all," she said with a bit too much mirth.

"Are you sassing me, young lady?" she asked as she turned the can over and deposited a handful of the product into her palm.

"No, ma'am," she said quickly, wiping the smile off her face. Carol hummed ambivalently in response.

"Hold your bangs for me," she ordered.

"Yes, ma'am," Rogue said as she did so.

"Ya ever met this Mr. Lehnsherr before?" she asked as she ran the mousse through her hair.

"A few times. My parents work for him," she answered as Carol brushed her hair back and up.

"He is from the south?" she asked, pulling her hair up into a ponytail.

"No, ma'am," she answered, wondering why she asked that.

"Then don't you go calling him 'sir'," she advised, pointing the brush at her, as they looked at each other's reflections. "It'll go to his head," she said as she resumed brushing her hair, flattening it against her scalp. "Always does with these Yankees. Mr. Lehnsherr's more than good enough for him," she said as she took the hair tie and finished putting her hair up.

"Yeah, you're probably right 'bout that," Rogue agreed as she let go of her bangs. Carol handed her the brush and Rogue gave her bangs a once over, styling them to frame her face. "Thank you so much," she said, handing the brush back to her.

"You're welcome, sweetie," Carol said with a smile. "Ya don't wanna be late," she said gesturing towards the door.

"I just need ta grab something outta my bag," she said before she bent down and went into her front pocket. She pulled out her wallet and slipped it into the blazer's inner pocket. Next, she pulled out her communicator. She was about to slip it into the same pocket when she noticed it was switched off. She hadn't done that- just like how she hadn't pulled the string on the bus- Had he- did he follow her here? She left it switched off, for the moment, slipping it into the pocket. "Thank you again, ma'am," she said as she zipped the front closed and stood.

"Now go on and good luck," Carol said with a smile. Rogue gave her a nod before she exited the room. She took a deep breath as she delved further into the back of the cafe and entered a room Magneto referred to as the Library because of the vast stretch of bookshelves that lined the room's wall.

There was also a wide lavender velvet symmetrical curved-shaped sectional couch in the shape of a crescent moon. It curved around the metal coffee table. An excellent space to relax an afternoon away with a good book, as she was certain Magneto had done countless times. With a deep breath, she sat in the middle of the piece of furniture and waited.

She was still early, she knew that, even with the coffee mishap. She couldn't help but look around the room taking in the rich decor. It was surreal being in a space she knew existed, and had memories of, but hadn't stepped foot in until this day. She supposed she may have felt the same in Magneto's base in the Sahara, had she'd a moment to consider it. And she certainly had a moment now. Several of them.

Of all the places he could have asked her to meet him, she wondered why he had chosen here.

"It's the atmosphere. I quite enjoy it."

She blinked as it took a moment to register that the answer hadn't come from her own mind. As soon as she realized that she heard it, her head snapped toward the entrance with such force that for a moment she feared she gave herself whiplash. But any thought of that was banished because there Magneto was; standing there in the doorway, filling the room with his presence. He was wearing a large gray trench coat, despite obscuring his face, the trenchcoat mimicked his cape. It ensured his presence took up ample space, leading all that laid eyes upon him to take notice. There was a concealing hat, its nondescript design, just like the coat, meant to avoid notice while making a statement. His piercing blue eyes met hers as a smile, she was all too familiar with, greeting her warmly.

"And how are you, my dear?" he asked as he walked into the room.

"I'm fine," she said as politely as she could, while she watched him take off his trenchcoat. Underneath, he was wearing a white button-down shirt and black slacks. The same outfit, his Fragment, always elected to wear in her dreams. The similarities were-

Magneto's raised eyebrow caught her eye and broke her train of thought. She sucked in a breath as she stamped down on her thoughts- she was going to need to keep her mind focused and clear. This was no time to be caught in errant thoughts. She wished she had prepared more instead of dithering over her choices prior to entering the cafe. How was she supposed to do that and respond thoughtfully to him?

"Thank you," she added as he closed the door and ventured further into the room. He draped the garment over the side of the couch on the furthest right-hand side. Dismayed, and fighting to show it on her face, she couldn't help it that her eyes lingered over his hands for a long moment when she saw he was wearing black gloves. "How are you?" she asked, looking up at his eyes and realizing he was taking in her attire. She watched his eyes flare with emotion, he seemed pleased with her outfit, surprised but pleased all the same.

"I couldn't be better," he said in a jovial tone as he removed the hat from his head. "I'd like to start this conversation," he said as he rounded the couch, "with an expression of my gratitude," he said as he placed his hat on the coffee table before he sat down next to her, though there was a good six inches between them. His entire body was turned towards her on the large chaise.

"For what?" she asked.

"Your discretion," he answered.

She blinked, there were a couple of ways she could interrupt his comment.

"I figured you wouldn't want me bringing anyone else to this meeting," she said.

"Indeed," he said as she leaned back, making himself comfortable while resting his arm on the back of the couch. His actions seemed casual and confident, but his hand was now only an inch away from her shoulder. She was trying her best to keep her eyes on his, but he seemed to fill her entire vision. She was starting to feel that caged-in feeling she often got just before she ran away from her many homes.

"And should it need to be stated, I don't fault you for the rebirth machine's destruction," he added. "Quite the opposite, surprisingly," he said as he leaned in closer to her. "It seems you and I outthought each other that day," he said mildly amused.

"I am sorry-" she responded immediately but stopped as he held up his hand.

"One apology was sufficient. I don't require another," he waved his hand in dismissal as he assured her, leaning back again. "Despite our attempts to avoid one another, we managed to do the exact opposite. And yet, you were as concerned for my machine, my goals, as you were for your teammates. That intrigued me."

"You could probably rebuild it if you really needed to," she pointed out, still unwilling to leave the topic. It did keep them from speaking about the actual reason they were here, after all. But if he picked up on her deep commitment to the X-Men, to Kurt in particular, he might understand he could ransom her family's safety. It was better to make it seem like she was interested in keeping both sides safe.

"Most likely," he agreed. "Though, I've had other priorities of late," he said as she felt his eyes boring into hers. He hadn't looked away from her throughout the entire exchange. She felt her face getting hot and took a breath, praying it didn't show. "I'm sure you realize the beauty of our situation. We've never had a private conversation with each other. Not a single word has passed between us aloud. Yet, due to your extraordinary powers, you know everything about me. And because of my resources, Anna-Marie, I now know everything about you," he said. She swallowed apprehensively. She was certain he noticed it, even if he made no actual reaction.

"Care to define everything?" she asked cheekily.

"You first, my dear," he replied, a slow smile spreading at her temerity.

She felt a smile forming on her lips as a soft laugh escaped her. His grin grew as he joined her for a short laugh. She felt her face flush further, knowing there was no chance it wasn't notable. Hoping that he thought she was merely embarrassed and not-

"Not, what?" he asked curiously. She took a deep breath, trying to regain control, which wasn't easy. How was she supposed to think if he was privy to her every thought? Acting on instinct wasn't an option- not after all-

She took a breath, stopping her train of thought. God, she wished he would get out of her head.

"If memory serves, Rogue, I'm already in your head," he commented immediately.

"Magneto," she said, holding his gaze.

"Please, call me by my given name," he said. She blinked, knowing it was a trap.

"With all due respect, Mr. Lensherr," she prefaced her statement, taking Carol's advice to heart. His eyes flared at how she addressed him, but he made no move to interrupt her. "Would you kindly stop using your mediocre telepathy on me?" she asked.

"Mediocre," he repeated while letting out a loud chuckle. "I take umbrage with that statement," he said.

"'Course, ya do," she huffed, rolling her eyes, as she sat back against the couch. How funny that the master of magnetism could have his ego bruised so easily?

"Then tell me, girl, why shouldn't I?" he asked, keeping eye contact with her. She took a breath before deciding to answer him. She knew he knew she knew this- no harm done.

"You can only read people's thoughts. Ya can't go into their minds or even send them a message. You're no match for the Professor," she said matter-of-factly and watched as his eyes narrowed for the briefest moment. "Ya can't go near him without your bucket," she answered, a bit of the cheek from before remaining. It was a gambit, to see if she could continue to keep him reacting instead of acting. He chuckled at her choice of words, but there was a flare of irritation briefly in his eyes at the mention of the Professor.

"What else can I do?" he asked, evidently willing to engage this topic.

"You can project your mind out of your body," she answered, wondering if she was so right about the Professor's vaunted abilities.

"Yes, I can," he said, staring at her. He seemed to have recovered his equanimity and was looking to see what answers she would provide. Rogue realized her mistake and closed her mouth, looking down at her hands briefly before back up to his eyes. She should remain quiet and see what happened.

Magneto smiled at her, willing to wait her out. She let out a sigh as they stared at each other while seconds stretched into minutes. It became a war of attrition. He who sat there pleasantly waiting for her to offer some piece of information, all the while his eyes were diligently studying her for any clue as to what she might know. While she was doing her best to keep her mind clear to not give anything away. Neither took their eyes off of the other. Time passed slowly.

"This isn't very productive," she commented finally, quoting from his note, as she crossed her arms over her chest.

"No, I suppose it isn't," he agreed as he raked a hand through his hair. He returned the hand to the back of the couch, still ever so close to touching her.

"It could be if you'd consider my request and stop reading my mind," she pointed out.

"You're asking me to forsake an advantage?" he asked.

"Consider it a strategic advantage by sacrificing a pawn as an opening gambit," she grinned, cocking her head slightly. He let out a chuckle at that.

"I'm afraid I can't, my dear," he said with a smile.

"Then, I guess ya ain't serious about recruiting me," she sighed as she crossed one leg over her other. His congenial expression dropped.

"I'd like to help you, Anna-Marie. For a price, obviously. However, I meant what I wrote in my note," he said, his tone serious.

"If I can't think freely then I can't have a conversation. And I may as well leave now," she threatened, her shoulder shrugging slightly in a show of confidence that she didn't entirely feel, putting the ball entirely in his court. What would he decide? And if he did decide that the interview was over…would he let her go?

"I'd say you're doing rather well for yourself given the detriment," he commented.

"I can do better," she told him, a hint of promise in her voice. She watched his eye flare once again, she knew that intrigued him.

"A compromise, perhaps?" he asked.

"Either you will or you won't. What's there to compromise on?" she asked.

"I could offer you a moment to collect your thoughts before we continue. Perhaps more than one, if necessary," he said.

"How will I know when those are and that you're keeping ta your end?" she asked.

"I'll leave the room, and close the door behind me, simple as that," he said, offering nothing more. Another trap, but this one she had no choice but to spring.

"How soon till-"

"I promised you light refreshments, did I not?" he said as he stood. "What would you like?" he asked as he rounded the couch as if to leave. She stopped herself at the last second from following him. If she stood there, watching him like a rabbit waiting on the hound to pounce, he most certainly would.

"Water's fine," she said to the empty air before her.

"Just water?" he asked and she nearly gasped as she felt his hands on her shoulders, one hand draping across before he curled his fingers. He was standing directly above and behind the couch, his thumbs rubbing against the blazer, but she picked up on the difference immediately. It wasn't affecting her, as it normally would, not through three layers of clothes, his gloves, the blazer, and the turtleneck. But it was jarring enough. No one went out of their way to touch her. She kept her composure. Barely.

That was until he grabbed the neckline of the blazer and opened it. He started to push it off of her shoulders and down her arms.

"Your face is looking rather flush, my dear," he commented. "If you feel overheated, perhaps, you should discard a layer," he suggested as his hand slid the fabric further off her arms. She hadn't noticed that he was also descending until his lips were near her ear.

"Or," she interrupted as she hiked the blazer back into place, his hands forced away from her. He straightened up as she readjusted the blazer by its lapels. "Maybe you could get us a couple of glasses of water," she said. "I think both of us could stand cooling off a little," she said, a necessary admission. She turned to look up at him and saw the same intensity she found in his eyes in the Sahara. It thrilled her now even as it thrilled her then. "Please, Mr. Lehnsherr," she added, giving him a half smile.

"I'll return momentarily," he said as he took a step backward. "Anna-Marie," he added before he turned and left the room.

As soon as the door closed behind him, she let out a sigh of relief.

'I don't gotta a lotta time,' she thought. The first fully conscious thought she allowed herself to have since Magneto had stepped into the room. She pulled out her communicator and switched it on, glad for the swift powering-up sequence. "Hello, Professor?" she asked into the device. "Scott? Jean? Logan? Can anyone hear me?" she asked.

She waited- nothing.

'They must not be in range yet,' she thought, disappointed. What should she have expected? She didn't tell anyone about this meeting. But they had to know she was missing by now.

She could almost see them in the War Room, pulling up a map of Bayville- calculating how far she could have gotten between school letting out and now. Her mind painted a picture of the Professor ordering Wolverine to Bayville High to secure a scent trail while he, Ororo, and some of the others pulled up a list of all cafes within a reasonable radius. If they found the note, of course. She could have made their life's a lot easier if she had just written the name of the cafe on the back of the note- but Erik had- he had scared her too much last night with all that talk about what Magneto would do if she insulted him.

'Another manipulation,' she sighed. But Erik also wasn't wrong either. She did have to leave the door open, appear as if she may one day seriously consider his offer or else-

She shook her head- she didn't have time for what if's. She switched the communicator off and stored it back in her pocket. She'd try again during her next break.

'If he lets me…'

She needed to focus on this room and what she was going to do in here today with him. Her face flushed furiously.

'Focus,' she reprimanded. 'Not that. That is a bad idea. You can't. Girl, ya can't,' she told herself.

Not that they even could. He was wearing gloves for a reason; this was reality. Before the Professor interfered, she found herself enjoying her dreams with Erik. But this was real and he was real and there were consequences to taking action here. Her powers, his ambitions, the strings that any type of real physical contact would allow him to pull, indebting herself to him. It wouldn't work, she couldn't engage.

'Just keep calling him Mr. Lehnsherr,' she told herself. 'Ignore the rest.'

But, the question was, would he let her?

She blinked as she heard the door opening. Guess her time was up. She took a breath as she locked down her train of thought, resuming her efforts to keep her mind clear.

She turned to see him entering the room, in his hands he held two glasses of ice water, one for him, one for her. She had to stop herself from grinning, it was gratifying that he had listened to her.

"I was thirsty, girl," he chided as he rounded the couch and the door swung shut behind him by an invisible hand.

"I didn't mean to imply anything, Mr. Lehnsherr," she said as he walked up to her.

"Of course, you didn't," he said, handing her the glass.

"Thank you," she said before taking a sip as he sat down next to her. A little closer than last time, the tops of their knees were now touching as he used the shape of the couch to his advantage.

"You're welcome," he said before he took a sip himself.

"Can we talk about why you invited me here?" she asked as she reached forward to place her drink on the coffee table. The entire table was made of gleaming metal, and she watched in fascination at his casual display of powers as a coaster formed beneath her glass just as she placed it down.

"With pleasure," he said, before he placed his glass on the table, a coaster forming beneath his as well. He sat back fully on the couch, giving her his full attention. "I'd like you to join me, Rogue," he said. She felt her breath catch in her throat, it was the first time he used her mutant name and the meaning wasn't lost on her.

"I'm happy with the X-Men," she said, deciding to cut to the chase.

"Then why did you accept my invitation?" he asked, seeming to meet her brusque statements with his own.

"Your note said you could help with my powers," she said.

"It did indeed, my girl. But not for free," he said.

"I understand that, you ain't telling me something I didn't expect," she said.

"And yet you're here," he pointed out.

"I- I guess I just wanted to hear you out?" she said, not intending it to be a question, but asking one regardless.

"Then, I'll elaborate," he said as she sat back to listen to him. "I understand the Brotherhood Manor was not the right fit for you, nor was working with the Brotherhood boys. You found their crudeness unsettling their motivations and commitments to one another lacking. Even when you were still a member of the Brotherhood, you either abstained from fighting or assisted the X-Men against them. It's no wonder you left that team in favor of Charles'. Had the decision been mine to make, I would have found other accommodations for you," he explained.

"Why wasn't it- Oh, my mother?" she asked. He nodded.

"Given your age, I was forced to defer to Mystique," he confirmed. "Since she is no longer in my employ, that curiosity is null and void," he explained.

Mystique wasn't working for Magneto anymore? That could be good information. As with all other thoughts in her mind, she tucked it away. She could review it in-depth later.

"Where would you have placed me?" she asked.

"That would require a lengthy discussion regarding your options, which I will not initiate unless you intend to accept," he said.

"How could I wanna join ya if I don't know what I'm signing up for?" she asked.

"You did with the Brotherhood," he pointed out.

"Yeah, and look how that turned out. I ain't making that mistake again," she said.

"So, you're utterly content with the X-Men? No grievances whatsoever?" he asked.

"I didn't say that," she said. "I said I was happy and I am," she said.

"I think you could be happier," he inferred.

"Maybe, but I ain't prepared to make that kinda life-altering choice in an afternoon," she said as he tossed his head back and laughed.

"And I'm not prepared to let a liability, such as yourself, out of my sight again, without your allegiance," he said and she felt her eyes widen. She took a breath, composing herself.

"If I ain't saying yes and you're not letting me go, what do we do now?" she asked.

"We talk until one of us changes the other's mind," he said, leaning forward just a little.

"Oh," she said, disheartened as she sank back against the couch. "Could I have something to drink besides water?" she asked, looking for another moment of privacy.

"Of course. What would you like?" he asked. Something in Rogue shrieked that his pleasant compliance with most all of her requests was dangerous, that she should go on the attack, but she stamped it out quickly. If she wanted to get out of here, she'd need to play his game.

Right?

"Of all the drinks y'all offer, which takes the longest to make?" she asked and she felt a smile come to her face as she watched him let out a long laugh in response.

"A glass of water, obviously," he said and she found herself laughing with him. "I can procure a menu for you if you'd like," he said. Her laughter died down as she thought back to entering the cafe, staring at the wall behind the counter. She didn't notice Magneto's eyes studying her as she reflected on her recollections of the shop, rebuilding the menu in her mind. It took mere moments.

"No, that's alright," she muttered. "Is the Hibiscus Berry Tea served hot or," she asked as she pushed back the image and refocused on him, his expression was one of astonishment- "cold?" she asked, her voice trailing off.

"You have an eidetic memory," he said. She swallowed nervously realizing her mistake. She shouldn't have used her mental abilities so openly, especially not in front of him, particularly when he was in her mind. "No, you shouldn't have. But it's done, my dear, this knowledge is now in my possession," he said before glancing away from her.

She recognized the look on his face, she knew he was reassessing the situation given her skill set. And she, motionless, tried to keep her mind clear of any further revelations.

"It's a rare ability," Magneto said after some time. "Were you to say yes, I'd send you to Washington D.C. to live with your brother. Your focus would be education," he said.

"What?" she asked, confused. That was the last thing she could have- "You recruited Graydon?" she asked.

"Your father introduced us," he said.

"But he's-"

"Human?" he asked with a satisfied look.

"Yeah," she huffed, sitting back.

"The X-Gene may be dormant, but his parents are mutants, her partner is a mutant, his siblings are mutants, his child will be mutants. He's utterly invested in our cause. Of course, I recruited him," he explained.

"He's still with Emma?" she asked.

"He is," he answered with a smile.

"I like Emma," Rogue commented neutrally.

"So, I take it you wouldn't mind living with her?" he asked.

"No, I- …I think I'd be okay with that," Rogue said surprisingly. She sucked in a breath as she realized she was actually considering this. Magneto sat patiently, waiting for her to speak, though his posture relaxed slightly, as he leaned back more fully on the couch. He was getting closer to a yes and they both knew it. "My focus would be education," she quoted. "What does that mean?" she asked.

"Finishing high school, going to college, and obtaining a degree. During that five-and-a-half-year period, Emma would take charge of helping you fine-tune, and perhaps discover new aspects of your mental powers. Her telepathy will prove useful in that endeavor," he explained.

"What about my physical powers?" she asked.

"I know the difficulties, the lack of control, you've had with your those is what prompted you to come here today," he said.

"And?" she asked, her tone hopeful, as she unconsciously leaned toward him.

"Those concerns would be addressed," he promised vaguely. She sat back again as a sigh escaped her. She wanted to think, to consider all he'd told her but- "Hibiscus Berry Tea, was it?" he asked.

"Yes," she said.

"To answer your prior question, it's served both ways," he said. "And don't fret over which will take longer. I'll provide you with an ample break this time," he said. She found herself smiling at that.

"Cold, please," she said.

"Certainly," he said warmly as he stood.

"Thank you, Mr. Lehnsherr," she said as he rounded the couches once more.

"Anna-Marie, please, call me Erik," he requested. She took a deep breath as she turned back to look up at him. He was standing just behind her again, she had to pull her head back just to make eye contact.

"Thank you, Erik," she relented and she watched a smile come to his face as he placed a heavy hand on her shoulder. "You've given me a lot to think about," she admitted.

"Likewise, my dear," he said, squeezing her shoulder. "Likewise," he said before he removed his hand and exited the room.

She let out another sigh as the door closed behind him.

She hadn't lived with Graydon since she was a kid, since she was nine- was it? Yes, since she was nine. She didn't hate the idea. She loved her brother, after all. All she would have to do was go to school and work on her powers? That's all she wanted to do. No more Danger Room, no more fights with the Brotherhood. Emma would serve the same function the Professor had wanted to. Had tried to? Except since Emma was on Magneto's side there was no conflict of interest. She could freely allow Emma to read her mind and assist her. All of that sounded-

But that would mean leaving the X-Men. Which wasn't something she actually wanted to do. She liked the Professor and Logan and Kitty and- She was already living with one of her brothers. Not that she had told Kurt that. Sure, she treated him like a little brother, but he still didn't understand that Mystique was her mother too. She hadn't volunteered that information. She probably should if she planned to stay with the X-Men.

She blinked as a gasp escaped her- when had that turned into an 'if.'

Oh god, they must be so worried about her. And here she was actually truly considering betraying them all. She pulled out her communicator and switched it back on.

"Hello? Professor? Can anyone hear me?" she asked into the device.

She waited- still nothing- just dead air.

She signed as she switched it off and slipped it back into her pocket.

'Okay, okay,' she thought as she fought to regain her composure. 'I ain't rushing to make such a big decision,' she said, shaking her head. 'That ain't happening. So, how do I get him to let me go?' she asked herself.

Rogue let out a short laugh as an idea finally came to mind.

'Okay. Okay, girl. Just don't think about it,' she told herself, now that she had a plan. 'No one knows where you are. All you can do is try ta talk him into letting you go home. That's all you can do right now.'

She took a long deep breath as she sat and waited for Magneto to return. A few minutes later he did, the door swinging open as he returned with her drink.

'I hope I'm right about this,' she thought as she turned to look at him.

"Right about what, my dear?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. She laughed nervously. "Oh, I wasn't supposed to hear that, was I?" he asked amused.

She replied with a sigh as he walked around to join her.

"I would like to ask you for something," she said.

"Go on," he said as he deposited the new drink to the table, a coaster forming beneath it.

"So, about your offer," she said as he sat next to her. "It's generous and I- I didn't think I would, but I really am considering it. But, like I said, I don't wanna rush such an important decision. That's how I joined the Brotherhood. And if I'm being honest with myself, it's how I joined the X-Men too," she admitted. He glanced away from her a moment, before nodding thoughtfully. "I don't wanna keep making the same mistakes over and over again," she said as he met her gaze again. "And I ain't saying that I regret joining the X-Men. Far from it. I've made friends there. I have family there. It- just- I see the appeal of what you're offering. But I need time to consider it. And I also understand you ain't comfortable letting me go; cause I know too much about you. I get that," she said.

"But?" he asked.

"No, but, I just want more time to think, is all," she said as he held her gaze. "I mean how long can ya really keep me here?" she asked, testing the waters, sacrificing a pawn.

"As long as it takes, I'd imagine," he replied easily.

"Okay, but-"

"Ah, so there is a caveat?" he asked amused.

"No, it ain't what ya think," she said.

"Then tell me," he said.

"When I first got here, I was wearing something completely different, but this woman spilled coffee all over me and she lent me these," she said gesturing to her clothes. She watched a look of recognition pass his features as if he had been given a piece of a puzzle he had previously lacked. "If I ain't going anywhere for a while I wanna return 'em," she said.

"And where are the clothes you were wearing prior?" he asked.

"With her," she answered. "I left my backpack with her too. Black woman, wearing a suit, kinda similar to this. Did you see her out there?" she asked.

"Not that I recall, though I was not paying much attention to such details," he said before he stood once again. "Excuse me a moment," he said before he headed to the exit once again as she picked up the drink he had brought her. She took a sip as he got to the door. The Hibiscus was mixed with something else- strawberry, maybe?

"This is really good," Rogue exclaimed.

"Pleased to hear you're enjoying it," he said over his shoulder as he exited the room.

She noticed he left the door open this time and took another sip of her drink. Was it Blueberry? No, no, that wasn't it. There was something else in the drink besides Hibiscus, but she couldn't put her finger on it. This was going to bother her until she figured it out. She guessed the only thing she could do was keep tasting and focus all of her attention on identifying the mystery favor. This had been the first thing that had unsettled him, perhaps she could use it to her advantage.

He returned a few moments later, she watched him ranking a hand through his hair as he was deep in thought.

"She ain't out there?" she guessed.

"No," he answered.

"Oh, I s'pose that was Mystique," she said casually as his eyes darted to her. "Nevermind, then," she said nonchalantly with a shrug before she took another sip. Was it orange peel?

"For the love of Heaven, Anna-Marie, its rosehip and elderberry," Magneto supplied impatiently.

"Thanks," she said with a smile as she held his gaze. Okay, he was actually getting a bit angry, she'd prodded enough. "So, now what?" she asked as she placed her half-finished drink back on the table.

"I don't know," he said frustrated. "I wasn't anticipating your mother's interference," he said honestly. That made two of them. "When did you suspect the generous woman was Mystique in disguise?" he asked.

"She said her name was Carol Higgins. Something 'bout that name sounded familiar like I'd heard it before," she said.

"If you hadn't, I certainly have," he said and Rogue found herself unable to hold back her grin. Magneto let out an exasperated grunt.

"She has your clothes and thus your scent," he deduced with an irritated tone to his voice. "The question is how long will it take for Wolverine to find the trail she laid since leaving here. It could be hours, if no one realized you're missing," he thought aloud.

"I was supposed to have a meeting with Prof today at three. They definitely know I'm missing," she said. Rogue's eyes widened as he reached a hand out toward her, as though he was going to use his abilities on her- and she gasped as the communicator flew out of the blazer and into his hand. She swallowed as she watched him switch it on.

"Charles?" he asked into it, putting the device near his mouth. "It's Magnus, I have your student. If you can hear me, do speak up," he commanded, before he held back- waiting for a response.

Still dead-air.

Suddenly, his eyes were on her before he asked, "Has he responded to you at all?"

"No," she said immediately. He held her gaze for a moment, giving her a look, which she knew implied there would be consequences for lying to him. "Really, Erik. I tried twice. Nothin' both times," she said. He eyed her another moment.

"Alright," he said, before looking away from her. "These communicators have a ten-mile radius the last I checked," he said as he walked around the couch and toward her. "Is that still accurate?" he asked, his eyes boring down into hers.

"Ah-huh," she answered quickly, nodding.

"Then we still have time," he said as he sat down next to her. He opened his hand and the communicator floated onto the coffee table. She noticed he left it switched on.

"Not enough for me to say yes," she pointed out. "I told you, I don't wanna be rushed inta this," she said.

"But you are interested?" he asked.

"A little, yeah," she admitted.

"I suppose, I've no choice but to let you go," he said, as she saw the door to the room swing open. She slowly stood up from her seat, looking back down at him. He made no move to stop her and so she walked along the front of the couch toward the door. "Then again," he said as she felt the top of her steel-toe way down on her foot, stopping her midstep. She tried to move her feet, but they were firmly planted on the ground. "I could," he said as she heard him stand, "simply take you to another location," he said as she felt his hands on her shoulders.

"Magneto, please," she said, her breaths coming fast. She knew she wasn't going anywhere unless he let her.

"Somewhere unknown to Mystique as well as Charles," he said, lips by her ear. "You'd have plenty of time to think," he said, his breath hot on her neck.

"Can't I just go home?" she pleaded, terrified.

She felt so scared and hot- her face was heating up again and she didn't understand why. She felt his hand slip off her shoulders as he circled her. She kept her eyes on the ground, not sure if she could handle looking directly at him. She gasped as she felt his gloved fingers take hold of her chin and force her gaze to his. His other hand went to rest on her hip, as he took a step forward, closing all distance between them. She could feel his entire body pressed up against hers. She didn't- yes she was covered up- but still, he held no fear of her or her powers. That alone was unsettling beyond belief.

He chuckled before he said, "My dear, Anna-Marie, do you know why I'm unconcerned for my safety?" he asked, his eyes boring into hers.

"N- no," she said meekly.

"Allow me to show you," he said before he leaned down and pressed his lips to hers.

Her eyes stayed open in utter shock. This wasn't a dream, this was real and he was- he was really kissing her. He was really wrapping his hand along the small of her back as he pushed her up against him. He was really tilting her chin to the side as he angled his head kissing her from another angle. Her arms really were on his chest, without anywhere else to go, as her eyes fluttered close. His tongue edged at her teeth, seeking permission to enter and she in utter shock parted her lips allowing him to.

She melted against him, taking in a fistful of his shirt as he deepened the kiss. She felt his hold on her boots loosen before he tugged her back toward the couch. His hand took hold of her cheek as he sat, pulling her with him until she straddled his lap. He used his hand on her hip to pull her hips against his and she felt- oh god, she felt his hardened member pressing up against her.

He pulled back from the kiss and her eyes opened to stare down at him. His eyes were heavy with lust, the same look she had seen on the fragment's face, with none of his restraint. She knew that was true as he pushed at her hips, grinding her against him. God, she wanted to do this for so long.

"Then what's stopping you, Anna-Marie?" he asked before capturing her lips again. She whimpered against him as the heat between her legs grew and she- he didn't need to pull her against him any further, she was willingly grinding her hips against him and he was meeting her thrusts.

"Rogue," a panicked voice called out from behind her. He broke the kiss, pulling her head slightly. She stared down at him dumbfounded. "Can you hear-?" he asked as Rogue felt a flick of Magneto's finger against her hip and the communicator was switched off.

"Damn it, Charles," Magneto exclaimed as he held her gaze. Her breathing was heavy and she could barely think. "Ten miles is not a long distance and I do not want Charles finding this establishment," he said firmly. "So, you'd better run," he said as he released his hold of her hip.

"I- I can go?" she asked.

"Assuming you still want to?" he chuckled. She closed her eyes for a moment, needing to focus.

"Thank you for your generosity," she said as she forced herself to stand up and off of him. Her legs felt a little uneasy and she nearly fell back, had his hand not reached out taking hold of hers, keeping her upright. "Thank you," she said again. "I promise, I'll consider your offer," she said as she tried to pull her hand back. However, he tightened his grip.

"And I am still grateful for your discretion," he said warningly. "Which I can only assume is a trait you will strive to adhere to on my behalf," he said as she felt the tops of her boots weighted down again.

"Yes, I promise," she answered quickly, relieved when the tension let up.

"Then go," he said, as he realized her hand and sat back against the couch. "Preferably before I change my mind," he added with a smirk.

With that, she made a run towards the door, down the hall, and into the front. She nearly bumped into someone herself as she fled from the building. She ran down the block, dodging pedestrians as she ran towards the institute.

She felt the urge to call out the Professor but kept herself from doing so. She had to put some distance between her and Karma Kafe before she could call for them- before they could know where she was. So, she ran down one block and then across another and onward, zigzagging away from the Cafe in an effort to make retracting her steps difficult, even for Logan.


After putting roughly forty-five blocks and what Rogue guessed was about two, maybe two and a half miles between her and Magneto she let herself stop and take a breath. Her heart was racing, her lungs were on fire from all the running and she was drenched in sweat.

'Professor,' she called out in her mind.

No answer. She wasn't really expecting one, not on her first attempt. It was fine, she'd keep running, keep getting closer to the institute. She took a breath before she resumed running.


An added ten blocks were between her and Karma Kafe as she let herself take another break.

'Professor,' she called out yet again.

'Rogue,' she heard the Professor's voice in her mind. 'Where are you?' he asked as she let out a sigh of relief. It was in between the pants for breath.

'I'm on the corner of Clarkson and Fifth,' she told him.

'Are you being followed?' he asked.

'No, Magneto let me go,' she told him.

'… Wait there. We're coming to get you,' he told her as an image of Storm passing under a green light. She was within range, a Rogue could see, it wouldn't be too much longer before they both got to her.

'Okay, thank you,' she said as she leaned up against a lamp post.


Fifteen minutes passed before a car pulled up to the curb. She let out a groan for her aching legs as she stood up straight and walked toward the car. She pulled open the door and got into the back seat. In the front, Ororo and the Professor both turned to greet her.

"Rogue, are you alright?" the Professor asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine," she said.

"What happened?" he asked.

"Can we talk about it tomorrow?" she asked. She watched him give her a look, one that said, he wanted nothing more than for her to explain herself. "Please," she added before she watched him let out a sigh as a look of empathy crossed his face.

"Did Magneto hurt you in any way?" he asked.

"No, we just talked," she said.

"We'll discuss the rest tomorrow then," he said. "Three o'clock and I expect you to keep the appointment this time," he said firmly.

"I'm real sorry, Professor," she said earnestly. "I didn't find the note until after I went upstairs yesterday afternoon and then Erik explained some stuff to me and I was just so scared and I panicked. I'm really sorry," she said.

"You were calm enough to pack a change of clothes," Storm pointed out.

"My mom gave me these," Rogue said, quietly as the Professor's eyes widened.

"You saw Mystique today?" he asked, alarmed.

"Ah-huh," she nodded. "Didn't know it was her at first. But if she hadn't taken my clothes to leave a trail for Logan to follow, Magneto wouldn't've let me go," she explained.

"I can't understand what made you think this was a good idea in the first place. And to not tell anyone where you were going," Storm said.

"What's important is you're safe," the Professor interrupted. Storm gave the Professor an incredulous look. She watched him hold his hand up, a gesture to imply he understood her reaction but wanted to put it aside for the moment. "We'll discuss the rest tomorrow," he said.

"Thank you," Rogue said, her tone apologetic. The Professor nodded at her, his grave expression not leaving his face. He nodded at Storm and she almost sneered as she turned forward. Rogue's eyes widened at the speed in which Storm pulled away from the curb.

Rogue briefly considered asking about her belongings, if her mother had dropped any of her belongings where Logan could find them. But then decided against it. She hadn't taken any textbooks with her and she could recreate any notes she needed out of her notebook, word for word. Either way, if she engaged them she would have to answer questions tonight, rather than after school tomorrow. She had her wallet. And the backpack itself was replaceable.

She'd deal.