X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 4; Endgames
Chapter 27: Split Timelines and Jason Vorhees Arrival
…
The mutants of the past were preparing for their journey back to Krakoa of their own time. Derreck and the present Logan had decided to accompany them. After a brief deliberation, and with the help of Lego Batman, they concluded that the timeline had split into two. It was likely that whatever events happened and would happen when they went back would essentially create another universe that wouldn't affect their own.
In the control room, Derreck stood staring intently at the breach, his eyes glowing black as if he were looking for something or watching something unfold.
Destiny, curious and slightly concerned, approached him. "What are you seeing, Derreck?" she asked softly.
Derreck didn't take his eyes off the breach. "I'm getting bad vibes on the other end," he replied cryptically. "Based on what I'm seeing and how they'll take the news, it won't be good."
He then pulled Destiny off to the side and whispered quietly, "The version of me in that timeline is non-existent. It's like I was never born there to begin with. Guess that means I really can't exist in any other timelines. Sad, isn't it?" He shrugged and walked back to the others, helping them prepare, seemingly unfazed by the disturbing revelation.
Destiny watched him with a mixture of concern and intrigue, pondering the implications of his words.
The mutants gathered their belongings and readied themselves for the journey. Colossus double-checked their equipment, ensuring they had everything they needed. Storm stood with Emma Frost, discussing the best strategies for confronting Sinister. Rogue and Kitty Pryde reviewed their plan of action, their determination unwavering.
Derreck and the present Logan stood by, ready to provide support and guidance. The breach shimmered before them, a portal to their past and a chance to set things right.
As they approached the breach, Logan turned to the group, his expression serious but supportive. "Remember, we'll be right behind you. This is your chance to fix what went wrong and bring justice to those who suffered."
Xavier nodded. "We understand, Logan. Thank you for your support."
One by one, the mutants stepped through the breach. As they passed through, time seemed to hold its breath, waiting for their return.
On the other side, they found themselves back in the familiar surroundings of Krakoa, but it felt different, almost surreal with the mutants going to and from their areas. They took a moment to gather their bearings and adjust to the shift.
It didn't take long for them to attract attention. The sight of two Logans and the presence of a strange young man with shark-like teeth, who none of them had seen before, quickly drew curious glances.
This time's Nightcrawler and Pixie approached the group, their expressions a mix of confusion and curiosity. "Logan?" Nightcrawler asked, his voice hesitant as he looked between the two Logans. "What's going on? Why are there two of you?"
Pixie, her wings fluttering nervously, added, "And who's the new guy?"
The present Logan stepped forward; his face grim. "We need to talk. There are things you all need to know."
He handed Nightcrawler a large file folder bearing Sinister's symbol. As Nightcrawler and Pixie began to go through the details, a small crowd started to gather around them, drawn by the unusual sight and tension in the air.
Nightcrawler's eyes widened as he read through the files. "This... this says that the resurrection protocols were a lie? That the mothers who were resurrected never got their unborn children back, and worse, we've just been creating clones this whole time!?"
Pixie's face grew pale as she read over Nightcrawler's shoulder. "This can't be true... can it? We've been living a lie?"
Logan nodded, his expression hard. "It's true. Sinister knew all along and kept quiet about it. We need to talk to the rest of the council members. There are things they need to know, and it relates to future events."
The shock on Nightcrawler and Pixie's faces deepened with each revelation. The crowd around them murmured in disbelief and confusion, the implications of the truth starting to sink in.
"We'll gather the council," Nightcrawler said, his voice steady despite the turmoil within him. "This needs to be addressed immediately."
Pixie nodded, her eyes still wide with shock. "Yes, we'll make sure everyone knows. This is too important to ignore."
Logan, along with the mutants from the future and the past, followed Nightcrawler and Pixie as they made their way to the council chambers. The weight of the truth hung heavily over them, but they were determined to bring justice and clarity to their fellow mutants.
…
An hour and a half later, the council members of Krakoa gathered in the chamber, their expressions a mix of shock, disbelief, and contemplation as they processed the multitudes of information shared with them. They had heard tales of other multiverses: Looney Tunes, Lord of the Rings, the Lego universe, fighting space invaders like an old arcade game, and meeting Rambo among others—each more unbelievable than the last.
Some council members sat with their jaws practically on the ground. Others, like Exodus, looked at the future Logan and past mutants with skepticism.
"This... this is beyond anything we've ever imagined," Mystique murmured, her voice filled with awe and disbelief.
Magneto, standing tall and imposing, had a dark look on his face. His eyes narrowed as he stared at the council members. The weight of the revelations hung heavily in the air. Finally, he broached the big question that everyone had been avoiding.
"Where's Hope Summers?" he demanded, his tone cold and piercing.
The past Logan took a deep breath, his face reflecting the burden of the truth he was about to deliver. "She's not returning," he said bluntly. "She chose to break off all contact after she learned that Krakoa banished all of us in the future. She decided to remain in that timeline, which has now become a distinct universe. She has no intention of ever returning."
A heavy silence fell over the room. The words hung in the air, each syllable a weight pressing down on them.
"She chose to stay?" Jean Grey whispered, her eyes wide with shock.
Logan nodded. "Yeah, she couldn't bear the guilt of her part in the false resurrections. She's working with SHIELD now, trying to make amends in her own way."
Exodus scoffed, disbelief still etched on his face. "And we're just supposed to accept all of this? Different universes in different multiverses, cartoon characters, and Hope Summers choosing to stay behind? It sounds like a child's fairy tale."
Magneto's gaze shifted to Exodus, his expression unreadable. "The multiverse is vast and unpredictable. Who's to say there's not more than one."
Pixie, trying to process the loss of Hope, looked at Logan. "And what about the rest of us? What do we do now?"
Exodus shook his head, still struggling to believe it. "And we're just supposed to accept all of this?
Exodus wasn't alone in his disbelief. Several other early mutant council members also voiced their doubts, their expressions ranging from incredulous to concerned.
As the council members debated the implications, Maria, one of the council members from this time, tried to sneak away quietly. She moved towards the exit, hoping to avoid any confrontation.
Suddenly, Derreck appeared in front of her, seemingly out of nowhere. His eyes glowed with a disconcerting intensity, and his expression was beyond eerie. "Maria, Maria, Maria... I'm very disappointed in you," he said in a creepy, sing-song voice. "Trying to go for the mutant cure again? The kind that sterilizes the X-gene and the individuals? Did you really think I'd fall for that again?"
Maria froze, her eyes wide with fear. She tried to play dumb, but the words died in her throat as she turned to find the path blocked by the mutants who had returned from the future, including future Logan.
"I-I don't know what you're talking about," she stammered, but the conviction in her voice was weak.
Derreck pulled out a vial of a strange liquid from his pocket, the very substance he was referring to. He popped it into his mouth and chewed on the glass, the shards crunching audibly. He then spat out the glass shards like used gum and grinned at her with a sinister leer.
Maria's face drained of color, her bravado crumbling under the weight of the evidence and the menacing presence of Derreck and the others.
"You've been caught, Maria," future Logan said, his tone icy. "There's no escaping this."
The council members who had been voicing their disbelief turned their attention to the unfolding scene. The sight of Maria being confronted, and the vial of sterilizing liquid sent a ripple of shock and anger through the room.
Magneto stepped forward, his expression hardening. "This betrayal will not go unpunished. This council must address this immediately."
Storm, her eyes flashing with anger, added, "We must ensure that such treachery is never allowed to endanger our people again."
As the council members moved to deal with Maria's betrayal, the gravity of their situation became clear. They were not only fighting to uncover the truth but also to protect their future from those who would harm them from within.
Derreck suddenly turned deadly serious, his eyes narrowing as he noticed something just beyond the perception of everyone else. Within the mind of Magneto, who had his back to the group and seemed deep in discussion with Krakoa itself, a realization with a hint of understanding was taking shape. Logan followed Derreck's line of sight and noticed the intense look on Derreck's face, a look that suggested he knew what was coming next.
Magneto turned and glared at Xavier and the others, locking eyes with each one of them one by one. The room grew tense, the air thick with anticipation and fear. When his gaze landed on Xavier, it was filled with a glaring intensity that made everyone but Derreck nervous.
"You knew, Charles," Magneto began, his voice low but filled with barely contained fury. He took a step forward, his eyes never leaving Xavier's. "You knew all along, didn't you? That we're not who we think we are."
Xavier tried to speak, but Magneto continued, his voice rising with each step he took. "We're just clones," he spat, the word dripping with venom. "Clones! You, me, my daughters, my son, all of us! CLONES!" The word echoed through the chamber, filled with accusation and pain.
Magneto stopped directly in front of Xavier, his presence looming large and menacing. He slowly put on his helmet, the finality of the gesture clear to everyone in the room. "You all WILL answer for this," he said, his voice trembling with righteous anger. "I swear it!"
With that, he turned on his heel and began to walk out of the chamber. "I'm leaving," he called back over his shoulder, his voice cold and resolute. "Leaving the island forever!"
The room erupted into chaos as council members and other mutants tried to process the implications of Magneto's revelation and departure. The past mutants, and Logan stood in stunned silence, knowing that the fracture in their community had just deepened in a way that would not be easily healed.
Xavier, feeling the weight of Magneto's words, could only watch as his old friend and adversary walked away. The dream of unity seemed further away than ever, and the reality of their situation settled heavily on the minds of everyone present.
Wanda and Polaris, shocked and dismayed by their father's revelation, rushed after him as he made his way toward the Krakoan gate.
"Father, please," Wanda implored, her voice trembling with emotion. "You can't just leave us like this. We need you. We can figure this out together."
Polaris, equally desperate, reached out to him. "Dad, wait! We can fix this. We can make it right. Don't go!"
Magneto stopped and turned to face them, his eyes filled with disillusionment and a bitterness that cut them to the core. "You think this can be fixed?" he spat. "This lie? This betrayal? We are not who we think we are. Everything we've believed in, everything we've fought for, it's all built on a lie."
Wanda and Polaris were taken aback by the intensity of his glare, the raw pain and anger in his eyes. They had never seen him like this, so utterly devastated and resolute.
"Father, please," Wanda said softly, tears welling in her eyes. "We can't lose you. Not like this."
But Magneto's gaze did not soften. He looked at them with a mix of sorrow and resignation. "I cannot stay here," he said, his voice cold and final. "Not after this. Not with this lie hanging over us."
He turned and walked past the trees of Krakoa, each step heavy with the weight of his decision. Wanda and Polaris watched helplessly as he approached the Krakoan gate. He didn't look back. He didn't waver.
Magneto disappeared through the gate, vanishing from sight. The finality of his departure hit them like a blow, leaving a void that seemed impossible to fill. Wanda and Polaris stood there, their hearts breaking, knowing that this time, the wound might never heal.
The silence that followed was profound, echoing the loss and the fracture that had just been revealed.
…
In light of recent developments, the council had no choice but to shut down the resurrection process. The weight of the truth about the cloning and the inherent deception it carried was too great to ignore. Just as in the future Logan's timeline, the fallout was swift and devastating.
Many mutants decided to leave Krakoa, disillusioned and heartbroken. Some chose to keep their cloned children, while others, unable to bear the thought, gave up their children into the care of the remaining mutants. This left a significant number of children orphaned, adding to the chaos and sorrow that engulfed the island.
Future Logan was doing damage control as more and more mutants went through the Krakoan gate, leaving behind a community in turmoil. The dream of a mutant utopia had shattered, and it would take years to rebuild the trust and unity that once existed.
The mutants informed this timeline's Nick Fury of the situation as well as the state of the interconnected universe they came from. They were brutally honest about everything, including the fact that the Krakoan flowers were making some humans sterile, causing others to have mutant children, and being addictive and slightly poisonous with a berserker signal that Orchis had tapped into.
Nick Fury, though furious at Xavier, appreciated the transparency. He immediately began recalling the flowers, understanding the gravity of the situation. Despite his anger, he knew that this information could prevent further harm.
Past Logan found a quiet moment to speak with Laura. She was visibly shaken by everything that had happened, and Logan knew she needed some reassurance.
"Laura," Logan began, his voice soft but steady. "I need to tell you about the future. About you and Derreck. In that timeline, you two got together and had three kids. Really, overly cosmic powerful kids."
Laura's eyes widened in surprise. "Kids? Me and Derreck?"
Logan nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah. And there's more. You got to see your mother. Due to some events, she's no longer in Limbo. She's in a place where she's safe and always will be."
Laura's expression softened, a mix of relief and hope. "She's safe?"
Before Logan could respond, he received a nod from future Logan, who had been watching from a distance. Past Logan took a deep breath, showing a rare moment of vulnerability, something Laura had never seen from him in such a manner.
"My future counterpart dealt with a dark multiverse a while ago," Logan continued, his voice tinged with sadness. "A place where everything that could go wrong has gone wrong, made of the fears, madness, and nightmares that can possibly exist. One version of my mother found sanctuary on Krakoa. An alternate version of me killed her needlessly. And despite that, she bears nothing but love for us. She acknowledges that I'm not him, and she's been nothing but kind to us since we were displaced in that timeline."
Laura stepped closer, placing a hand on Logan's arm. "That means a lot, Logan. Thank you for telling me."
Logan nodded, his eyes reflecting the weight of their shared past and the hope for their future. "We've been through a lot, Laura. But we'll get through this too.
Laura absorbed the weight of Logan's words, processing the hope and relief they brought. But there was still a burning question in her mind, one that she needed to ask to fully understand her connection to Derreck.
"Logan," Laura began, her voice steady but filled with curiosity and determination. "Do you know where our version of Derreck is? I'd like to meet him sometime."
Logan's expression grew serious, his eyes reflecting the complexity of the situation. "Laura, Derreck is... unique, even among beings of our caliber. He can't have any alternate versions."
Laura frowned, not quite understanding. "What do you mean? This is the past, isn't it? Shouldn't there be a version of him here?"
Logan shook his head, his voice patient and clear, "When we came back, the timeline splintered off and became its own universe. Derreck doesn't exist in any alternate universes, including timelines. He's confirmed it himself. Due to the way he operates, there's no alternate versions of him."
Laura's face fell slightly, a mix of disappointment and understanding. "So, we can't find him here. He's truly one of a kind."
Logan nodded. "Exactly. We can still look, but he's all but confirmed it. Due to the way that the timeline settles when it splinters off Derreck is singular, a unique presence that doesn't replicate across the multiverse. But that doesn't change the connection you had with him in the future. That bond is real, and it matters."
Laura sighed, the reality of the situation settling in. "I understand. Thank you for being honest with me, Logan."
Logan gave her a reassuring smile. "We're family, Laura. We stick together and face whatever comes our way. Derreck or no Derreck, we've got each other."
…
As Logan and Laura finished their conversation, Derreck stood off to the side, engaged in a quiet discussion with Darwin. Darwin, who had always harbored feelings for Laura, seemed anxious and uncertain.
"She's been through a lot," Darwin said, his voice tinged with concern. "I want to be there for her, but I don't know if it's the right time."
Derreck, sensing an opportunity, gave Darwin a supportive nudge. "Laura's strong, but even the strongest among us need someone to lean on. If you care about her, let her know. Just be honest and genuine."
Darwin looked at Derreck, taking his words to heart. Gathering his courage, he approached Laura, who was still standing with Logan.
"Laura," Darwin began, a bit hesitant but determined, "I know things are really complicated right now, but if you'd like some extra company, I'd be happy to stay with you."
Laura looked at Darwin, her expression softening. She thought for a moment before smiling. "I'd like that, Darwin. Thank you."
Future Logan and past Logan exchanged grateful looks, their expressions reflecting their appreciation for Derreck's subtle intervention. They knew Laura needed the support, and it seemed like Darwin might be just the person to provide it.
Four hours later, the atmosphere in Krakoa was still tense, but there were signs of a path forward. Krakoa had shared some crucial details with the council and the broader mutant community. One significant development was this timeline's Xavier agreeing to step down from the council permanently.
Xavier stood before the assembled mutants, his expression solemn and reflective. "Destiny was right," he began, his voice carrying the weight of his decision. "The only way I can have a future is if I own up to this travesty and relinquish my power... for good."
There was a murmur of mixed emotions among the mutants, but the dominant feeling was one of respect for Xavier's difficult but necessary decision. He stepped down, acknowledging his mistakes and the need for new leadership to guide Krakoa forward.
As Xavier left the council chamber, he paused to look back at his fellow mutants. "I am deeply sorry for the pain and betrayal you have all felt. I hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me, and that together, we can make amends."
…
Elsewhere deep within Krakoa, a specially designed prison held Sinister captive. It was deemed too dangerous to kill him, as he likely had secret clones ready to activate upon his death. The chamber was fortified, ensuring he couldn't escape or communicate with any outside forces.
Logan, Future Logan, and Derreck stood before the containment unit. Sinister glared at them from behind the reinforced glass, his eyes filled with hatred and fear. Derreck focused intently, reading Sinister's mind for any last-minute cloning attempts that they might not know about. After a tense minute, Derreck gave a nod, signaling that there were no other clones they weren't aware of.
Jean, who had been anxiously waiting for confirmation, breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness," she whispered, the weight of the situation finally lifting.
Sinister, realizing his defeat, began to scream and shout at them. "You can't do this to me! You'll be sorry for this! You won't get away with this!" His voice was a mixture of rage and desperation, echoing through the chamber.
Logan, Future Logan, and Derreck turned their backs on him, ignoring his outbursts as they prepared to leave. Sinister's voice grew more frantic and shrill. "You'll regret this! I am Mr. Sinister! You can't just lock me away!"
As they exited the chamber, Derreck glanced back one last time, a look of disdain on his face. "He was never worth it anyway," he said coldly.
Sinister roared in frustration, his screams fading as the heavy door closed behind them. The mutants walked away, their steps firm with the knowledge that they didn't want to hear his ramblings.
As they walked outside the cells, Derreck began speaking to both Logans. "No matter what you see, no matter what happens... just let them say their piece. No matter how uncomfortable it is. This is going to get worse before it gets better."
Before either Logan could ask what he meant, a group of mutants, former friends of Rachel Summers who had fully embraced the resurrection facade, approached and confronted Derreck.
One of them, a tall mutant with fiery red hair, got up in Derreck's face. "You destroyed our utopia!" she yelled, her voice shaking with anger and grief. "We had everything! And you ruined it!"
Derreck stood there, calm and composed, taking the verbal abuse without flinching. His unyielding calmness was unnerving, as if he was waiting for something.
Another mutant, more unhinged, attempted to punch Derreck. His fist collided with Derreck's invulnerable form, creating a small shockwave. The sound of bones snapping filled the air as his arm broke in three places, the bones visibly protruding under his skin.
Derreck merely asked, "Are you done now?"
The injured mutant fell back, cradling his broken arm, while another hurled insults at Derreck. "You're a monster! You don't belong here!"
When the third mutant stepped too far, he shouted, "I'm going to make you pay for this! Both you and your freak family! That's right, your Laura and your three spawn we've heard so much about!"
Derreck visibly stiffened, and both Logans narrowed their eyes. Future Logan, knowing what would come next, braced himself, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead. He knew how much Derreck loved his family above all else and how unpredictable he could become when they were insulted.
Derreck stared at the mutant, who continued his tirade, drawing a crowd. In a chillingly calm voice, he said, "Did you know that I erased the X-gene in what we call Universe-3 back home? Their children are still born, but they're born as humans. And believe me, I can think of far worse fates. So should you so much as utter one more syllable or call me a name one more time, you won't like the outcomes."
The mutant glared back, a grin forming on his face, sending a chill down both Logans' spines. "Fuck-You-!"
Immediately as he said that Derreck delivered a powerful uppercut, launching the mutant into the ceiling where he hung limply, knocked out cold.
Derreck looked at the other mutants with disdain and a wild glint in his eyes. "Anyone else wish to test my patience?"
The crowd around them fell silent, the tension immediate. The other mutants, seeing the fate of their comrade, backed away slowly, fear evident in their eyes. Both Logans exchanged a glance, understanding the depth of Derreck's resolve and the lengths he would go to protect his family.
As the crowd dispersed, Derreck took a deep breath, his demeanor shifting back to calm. "Let's move on," he said, turning to the Logans. "We have more important things to deal with."
…
Sebastian Shaw sat in his dimly lit office, surrounded by files and documents. He had always skirted the fine line between what was best for Krakoa and his own interests, and the recent upheaval had left him unsettled. The files shared by future Logan and his new allies were scattered across his desk—files on Robocop, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dungeons and Dragons, and even Shin Godzilla. Each document seemed more absurd than the last, but Shaw knew better than to dismiss them outright.
He put the files down, rubbing his temples in frustration. The world had become far more complex than he had ever anticipated. His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Exodus, who walked in with a drink in hand, his expression dark and brooding.
"Enjoying your drink, Exodus?" Shaw asked, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Exodus scowled. "Trying to drink away my sorrows. This whole situation is a nightmare. Our utopia is crumbling, and we have these... outsiders dictating our actions."
Shaw leaned back in his chair, studying Exodus. "I agree. We've lost control. Our vision for Krakoa is being dismantled piece by piece."
As they spoke, the door opened again, and the Shadow King entered, his mood foul. "The Quiet Council is allowing this splintered timeline to dictate their actions. It's disgraceful."
The three men stood in silence for a moment, each contemplating their next move. The weight of their shared frustrations and ambitions hung heavy in the room.
"We cannot let Derreck destroy everything we've built," Shaw said, his voice firm. "We've worked too hard and sacrificed too much to see it all undone."
Exodus nodded, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Agreed. We need to take action. We need to reclaim control, by any means necessary."
Shadow King, his expression dark and malevolent, added, "If we're going out, we go out with a bang."
The three men came to a silent consensus. They knew the risks, but they were united in their resolve. They would not relinquish the power they had gathered so easily. They would strike back against Derreck and anyone who stood in their way.
As they sat in Shaw's office, a plan began to take shape. Shaw, Exodus, and the Shadow King knew they needed to act quickly and decisively. Their strategy would require careful planning and ruthless execution. They could not afford any mistakes.
"We need to gather our resources and allies," Shaw said. "We must be prepared for any eventuality."
Exodus took a long sip from his drink, his eyes narrowing. "We have to move quietly. We cannot afford to tip our hand too soon."
Shadow King grinned, a sinister light in his eyes. "Leave the subtlety to me. I have ways of ensuring our actions go unnoticed until it's too late."
As they solidified their plans, the sense of purpose in the room grew stronger. They were united by their desire to preserve their vision of Krakoa, no matter the cost. The stakes were high, but they were willing to risk everything to protect their power and their ideals.
Shaw leaned forward, his voice low and deadly serious. "We will not let anyone, not even Derreck, take Krakoa from us.
…
Exodus stood before a gathered crowd, his voice rising as he sowed seeds of discord against Derreck and the others. His followers and many disillusioned mutants hung on his every word.
"Derreck is nothing more than a false prophet," Exodus declared. "A wolf in sheep's clothing here to devour our dream. He speaks of justice, but he brings only chaos and destruction to our utopia."
This continued for a while…
Until derreck caught wind of it…
Derreck materialized behind him, his presence sending a ripple of shock through the crowd. "Talking about me behind my back, are you?" he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Why am I not surprised?"
Exodus turned, his eyes blazing with indignation. "You are the devil of this utopia! A false prophet! You will destroy everything we've built!"
Derreck narrowed his eyes, his patience wearing thin. "Is that so?" he asked, his voice dangerously calm.
The tension in the air was only growing as the crowd, stirred by Exodus's words, began chanting, "GO HOME FREAK! GO HOME FREAK!"
Logan, Emma Frost, and Kitty Pryde arrived at the scene, drawn by the commotion. They watched as Derreck remained unreadable, his expression stoic. But when a piece of trash was thrown at him, his demeanor shifted. A dark look crossed his face.
Derreck let out a sigh, his voice tinged with exasperation. "Seriously? Again with this? How many times do we have to go through this?"
Suddenly, there was a series of snaps, cracks, and pops. Exodus screamed in agony as his legs twisted into grotesque swirls, causing him to collapse to the ground.
Derreck's voice turned maniacal, filled with cold fury. "You mutants never think you can lose. Winning too much makes you arrogant, and in that arrogance, you lose everything."
He looked at the crowd, his eyes filled with contempt. "I warned all of you what would happen should you test my patience. Now, here it is."
He snapped his fingers, visible sparks flying from his right hand leaving everyone confused as to what that did, before he explained. "Those of you who were just chanting, I just ensured that your children will have more humility than you've shown. Your children will still be born but like in universe-3 they will be born without the extravagant powers that you all have, they'll be human, unless you adopt. Period."
The crowd fell silent, the weight of his words sinking in. Derreck's punishment was severe and final, a reminder of the consequences of their actions.
Derreck turned his back on them, his voice filled with finality. "You can do what you want from here on out. I'm done playing nice with mutants who push my buttons from different universes."
As Derreck walked away, Logan, Emma Frost, and Kitty Pryde could only stare in shock at what had just happened. The severity of Derreck's actions and the silence that followed left the crowd in stunned disbelief.
Exodus lay on the ground, writhing in pain, while the crowd, now paralyzed by fear, was too afraid to move or speak. Logan, his face etched with fury, stepped forward, glaring at the assembled mutants.
"You drove him to this!" Logan shouted, his voice echoing through the stunned silence. "You pushed and pushed until he had no choice but to show you what he's capable of. So if you want to blame anyone for your new state, BLAME YOURSELVES!"
The crowd winced at his words, the reality of their actions sinking in. Logan continued, his voice filled with righteous anger. "You all acted like spoiled children, thinking you could bully your way to getting what you want. Well, look where that got you. You wanted a villain, you made one. Now deal with the consequences!"
Emma Frost, still processing the gravity of the situation, added her voice to Logan's reprimand. "We were supposed to be better than this. We were supposed to build a future together, not tear it apart with petty squabbles and arrogance."
Kitty Pryde, her eyes wide with disbelief, looked at the crowd. "You've seen what happens when we turn against each other. This isn't how we build a utopia. This isn't how we move forward."
Logan took a step back, his expression one of deep disappointment. "You drove him to this point. Now you have to live with the reality you've created. We all do."
The weight of Logan's words hung heavily in the air as the mutants began to realize the full extent of their actions. The utopia they had believed in was crumbling, and the cost of their arrogance was now painfully clear. Logan, Emma, and Kitty could only hope that this harsh lesson would lead to them not making the same mistake again.
As Logan held Exodus, he noticed Future Logan standing nearby, having witnessed the entire confrontation. Future Logan's face was etched with sorrow, a rare emotion that the past Logan had come to associate with his counterpart's change of character. There was no rage in his eyes, only profound pity.
This sight struck past Logan deeply. He realized that Future Logan had made a commitment to do better, to be better, and it made the difference between them all the more apparent.
Logan's grip on Exodus loosened, and he gently set him down, stepping back slowly. The crowd watched in tense silence.
"I shouldn't have done that," Logan said, his voice filled with regret. "I'm sorry."
He turned and walked away, feeling the weight of his actions. He needed to be the better man, for his children's sake, and for the future he hoped to build. Emma and Kitty exchanged a relieved glance, understanding the significance of Logan's restraint.
As Logan walked away, Future Logan approached him, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You did the right thing," Future Logan said softly. "We have to be better, for their sake."
Logan nodded, he was determined to face it with the strength and integrity that his future counterpart had shown him.
"We have to better, for our children's sake." Past Logan whispered.
"We have to be…"
…
Later, as they stabilized the breach in the Krakoan gate, ensuring that travel was now stable between the two universes, the atmosphere around Krakoa shifted. The process had been difficult and painstaking, but it was finally done. The gate now shimmered with a stable energy, a bridge between worlds.
Derreck's Laura emerged from the gate, holding her infant son Damion, while their two children, Orion and Aurora, walked beside her. Their unique pink and blue eyes took in their surroundings with curiosity and awe. The toddler siblings, dressed in simple but colorful clothes, looked around Krakoa, absorbing the unfamiliar sights.
This time's Laura stood with Draken, waiting to meet their counterparts. Draken's face was a mixture of curiosity and apprehension as he observed the arriving family. When they saw the infant in future Laura's arms, their eyes widened in shock. The child's translucent form displayed swirling galaxies, planets, and even retro space-ships and UFOs zipping across his body.
"Laura," this time's Laura said softly, stepping forward. "I heard about what happened. I knew I needed to check on you and the others."
Future Laura nodded, her expression weary but determined. "It's never easy," she replied. "Especially after what happened with the crowd showing their contempt and the mutants leaving. Not that we can blame them though."
Present Laura crouched down to meet Orion and Aurora at eye level. "Hello," she said gently. "I'm Laura, and this is Draken. We're really happy to meet you."
Orion, the older of the two, tilted his head curiously. "You look like Mom," he said, his voice full of wonder.
"And you look like me," Aurora added, her pink eyes wide with fascination.
Draken smiled, reaching out a hand to the toddlers. "It's nice to meet you both. And who is this little one?" he asked, nodding towards the baby.
"This is Damion," future Laura said, a hint of pride in her voice. "He's our youngest."
Present Laura looked at Damion with awe. "He's... incredible," she said, watching the tiny galaxies and spaceships move across his form.
As the children were introduced, future Laura turned her attention to Derreck, who stood a little apart, observing the interaction with a protective gaze.
"Derreck," she called softly, walking towards him. "Are you alright?"
Derreck's eyes softened as he looked at her. "It's been a rough day," he admitted. "But seeing you and the kids... it helps."
Laura reached out, taking his hand. "We're here for you. No matter what happens, we face it together."
Derreck nodded, squeezing her hand gently. "Thank you, Laura. I needed that."
As the families lingered for a little while longer, ensuring that the mutants of this Krakoa would be alright, the atmosphere grew more relaxed. There was an air of tentative hope as they interacted, exchanging stories and experiences.
Eventually, it was time for future Laura, Derreck, and their children to head back through the gate. As they approached the shimmering portal, Derreck paused, feeling the weight of a warning he needed to share.
"Logan," Derreck called, turning to face the past version of the mutant. "Before we go, there's something you need to know."
Past Logan stepped forward, his eyes narrowing with concern. "What is it?"
"Shadow King and Sebastian Shaw," Derreck said, his tone serious. "They won't give up the power they've accumulated so easily. They're working with the now crippled Exodus to turn public opinion against my Krakoa and me as well. Just something to think about."
Logan's expression darkened. "You're saying they're plotting something?"
Derreck nodded. "Exactly. You all should deal with it sooner rather than later. Don't let it fester. These guys are dangerous, and they won't hesitate to use any means necessary to get what they want."
Logan took a deep breath, nodding slowly. "Thanks for the heads up. We'll handle it."
Derreck gave a brief, acknowledging smile before turning back to his family. He took Laura's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze, then looked down at their children, Orion, Aurora, and the infant Damion, who was still mesmerized by the swirling galaxies and spaceships within his own form.
As the portal shimmered and closed behind them, the remaining mutants of Krakoa exchanged determined looks. They had much to do, but with the warning from Derreck and the lessons learned from their counterparts they were better equipped to handle them.
Past Logan, Emma Frost, Kitty Pryde, and the other key figures of Krakoa began to strategize their next steps. They knew they needed to address the threats posed by Shadow King, Sebastian Shaw, and Exodus swiftly and decisively to ensure the stability and future of their home.
It was in their hands now….
…
As Derreck, Laura, and their family returned to their Krakoa, accompanied by future Logan, they instantly knew something was wrong. Nightcrawler met them at the gate, his usually cheerful demeanor replaced by a serious, almost anxious expression.
"Something's happened while you were away. We think you should come and see this." Nightcrawler said, his voice tinged with unease.
Derreck's eyes narrowed. "What happened?"
Nightcrawler held his cross close, his faith a source of strength in the face of the unknown. "Someone showed up, and we had to restrain him. You aren't going to believe who arrived here."
Derreck glanced at Laura and Logan, ensuring their family was safe. "Stay here with the kids," he instructed Laura gently. "I'll be back soon."
Derreck, Laura, and Logan followed Nightcrawler to the holding area. As they approached, the air grew thicker with a sense of foreboding. They found a group gathered there: Dante, Lady, both Robocops, Injustice and Lego Batman, Avallac'h, and a few High Elves from Nirn, all looking tense and alert.
"What's going on?" Logan asked, his voice low and cautious.
Nightcrawler gestured towards the center of the room. "You'll soon understand."
Standing there, wrapped in chains and being treated with the utmost caution, was a tall, eerie figure. He wore a hockey mask and was visibly restrained, thankfully he didn't have his machete with him, his presence exuding an aura of malevolence.
"Jason Voorhees," Derreck muttered, recognizing the infamous killer from Crystal Lake in Jason's world.
Logan and Laura instinctively took in the scent of their surroundings. They smelled rot and murder, a familiar stench, but there was something else. An almost demonic essence clung to Jason, making their hairs stand on end.
Dante stepped forward, his usual bravado tempered by caution. "We found him wandering near the old ruins. Took all of us to bring him down and restrain him."
Lady nodded, her weapons at the ready. "He didn't go down easy. There's something... off about him."
Robocop scanned Jason, his mechanical voice reporting, "Life signs detected, but anomalous. High probability of supernatural influence."
Avallac'h, the elven sage, added, "I've sensed something similar before. It's like he's been touched by a demonic force, but it's not quite the same. More... corrupted."
Jason stood silently, his eerie presence unnerving even the seasoned warriors gathered around. His eyes, visible through the mask's holes, were empty, devoid of humanity.
Logan, his instincts honed over years of battle, stepped closer to Jason, his claws at the ready. "What do you want, Voorhees?"
Jason remained silent, his stillness more terrifying than any words he could have spoken. Laura, her senses sharp, caught a flicker of something in his gaze—an almost imperceptible warning to back off, even though he was chained up and unarmed.
Jason's gaze locked onto Logan, and despite the chains binding him, the aura of menace that radiated from him was overwhelming . Logan's instincts screamed at him, a primal warning that sent a chill down his spine.
As Logan held Jason's gaze, he felt an overwhelming sense of danger, a silent but clear message: Back, the, Fuck, Off... Now!
The feeling was so intense that Logan instinctively took a step back, his claws retracting slightly. He had faced countless threats in his time, but this was different. Jason Voorhees, even restrained and unarmed, exuded an aura of pure, unbridled danger.
The room fell silent as everyone sensed the shift in Logan's demeanor. The seasoned warrior, known for his fearlessness, had been shaken. Jason's presence was more than just physically imposing; it was a force of malevolence that reached deep into the souls of those around him.
Laura, picking up on Logan's reaction, moved closer to him, her eyes never leaving Jason. "Logan, what's wrong?" she whispered.
Logan shook his head slightly, his gaze still locked on Jason. "He's... different. There's something about him. We need to be very careful."
Avallac'h, sensing the gravity of the situation, stepped forward. "We need to understand what we're dealing with. Jason Voorhees is not just a physical threat. There's something more at play here, something that transcends the ordinary."
Dante, Lady, and the others remained on high alert, their weapons ready but their movements cautious. The High Elves, sensing the supernatural elements at work, exchanged worried glances.
Derreck, regaining his composure, addressed the group. "We need to figure out what brought him here and what kind of corruption we're dealing with. Avallac'h, see if you can discern anything more specific. The rest of us will stay on guard."
Injustice Batman and Lego Batman quickly began pulling up information on Jason Voorhees based on the movies. As they sifted through the data, their expressions grew increasingly disturbed.
"According to the records, Jason Voorhees has an extremely high kill count," Injustice Batman reported grimly. "He's a relentless killer with a near-supernatural ability to track and murder his victims."
Lego Batman, tapping on his holographic console, added, "If we're looking at the timeline up to Freddy vs. Jason, his kill count stands at 146 people."
The number sent a shiver through the group. Despite their varied experiences and battles, facing a single entity responsible for such a high death toll was daunting.
As the group processed the grim information provided by the Batmen, Avallac'h stepped forward to conduct a deeper analysis of Jason Voorhees. He closed his eyes and extended his senses, murmuring incantations as his hands glowed with a faint, ethereal light.
As Avallac'h's magical senses probed Jason's essence, his expression grew increasingly disturbed. His face paled, and he visibly shuddered. "This... this isn't just dark magic," he said, his voice trembling. "Jason Voorhees is not human. Not really. He's just a meat suit. There's no human soul in him."
The group looked at him in shock as he continued, trying to maintain his composure. "He's a demon... a demon that has possessed a large man's corpse. It's... it's so twisted and vile."
Avallac'h paused, clutching his stomach as a wave of nausea washed over him. He took a deep breath, struggling to keep himself from throwing up on the spot. "The corruption is profound. The demonic presence inside him is powerful and deeply entrenched. It uses the corpse to carry out its malevolent will."
Derreck's expression hardened as he absorbed Avallac'h's analysis. "So we're dealing with a demonic entity using a human corpse as a vessel. This complicates things even further."
Logan's eyes narrowed, his claws still ready. "Makes sense why he feels so off. This isn't just a killing machine—it's pure evil wearing a man's body."
Lady, her grip tightening on her weapons, added, "We need to figure out how to exorcise or destroy the demon. Just taking down the body won't be enough."
Derreck turned to the group, his resolve firm. "We'll need to isolate him and study the nature of this demonic possession. Avallac'h, work with our magic users to find a way to neutralize the demon and free the corpse."
Avallac'h nodded, still looking pale but determined. "I'll do everything I can. We need to understand the demonic forces at play and find a way to banish them."
Jason remained silent, his eerie presence casting a long shadow over the group. Despite the chains and restraints, his aura of malevolence was unmistakable.