New Blood II: Growing Ranks

New Blood
Chapter 23: Moving Ahead

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Hellfire Torture Chamber – 6 Years Ago

Everything was hurting. The world was nothing but one big load of agony. From head to toe, the once mighty Sebastian Shaw had been bloodied, beaten, burned, bruised, and cut. He had been inflicted with every possible wound a human being could have, mutant or not. Every part of his body had been a target. Not one speck of his flesh was spared. He wasn’t sure how long it had been going on. It felt like it had been a lifetime. But how ever long this had been going on, the damage was done. He was defeated, impotent, and weak now. It was a far cry from the man who once called himself Black King.

“Hnn…” he groaned as he coughed up a load of blood.

“Still conscious, are you? That’s a shame. Those wounds like downright nasty.”

The snide, taunting voice of Charles Xavier barely registered. He didn’t even look up at him. He couldn’t stand the sight of that man anymore. It was he who was responsible for his current predicament. It was he who led him down this path that would surely end here in these god-forsaken walls. He just hung there in defeat, his arms shackled over his head from a chain hanging down from the center of the room. He no longer cared that he had been stripped of his powers. He no longer cared he was hanging by his arms, stripped naked and defeated in front of his once best ally turned greatest enemy. He didn’t even cared he had been tortured to the point where he was useless to a woman. All he cared about not giving this man the satisfaction that he bested him.

Standing off to the side was the chief inflictor of his torment, Selene. The Black Queen, who had also once been an ally, wouldn’t stop smiling. She relished in his defeat. She always got off torturing people, but torturing him got her especially excited. She smiled most of the time as he beat, cut, burned, and broke him. And Xavier just stood there watching, occasionally commenting on him and not the slightest bit adverse to what he was doing to him. It showed just how hardened a man he was. It also showed how driven he was for having teamed up with Selene to oppose him. And as much as he hated to admit it, they won.

“Don’t try and play dead on me, Sebastian. I know you’re still conscious,” taunted Xavier.

“Fuck…you,” he choked out.

“A little inappropriate, don’t you think? Considering its coming from a man recently castrated,” grinned his former ally.

“Shut up!” yelled Shaw in a raspy voice, “You…you conniving scum! You…you tricked me! You…tricked everybody!”

“Of course I did. What did you think I was going to do? Try and stand against the entire Inner Circle on my own?” laughed Xavier, “I’m a confident man, Sebastian, but not that confident. I prefer to work smarter instead of foolishly. Unfortunately, you never got that. You just had to be the Black Tyrant instead of the Black King. And look where it lead to.”

Shaw hung his head low. The once proud Black King had fallen so hard, but it was a fall made possible by Charles Xavier. He was the one who pitted him and the rest of the Inner Circle against one another. He was the one who played both sides, encouraging and aiding him in taking down the others. He and his lackeys like that Sage woman tricked him with phony spy reports, fake emails, and edited security videos to make him believe that everyone was plotting to overthrow him. Xavier set him up to attack both his enemies and his allies. Now there was no one left. And the man responsible would now take his position in the Inner Circle.

Charles Xavier pulled up a chair and sat in it so he was looking right up at the defeated man before him. He grabbed his face and forced him to look him in the eye. His face was a swollen mess and one of his eyes had been gouged out by Selene. But he made sure he could still see him so he could bear witness to his ultimate defeat.

“Remember those early years, Shaw? The ones where I had just entered and you took me under your wing because you believed I could be a good ally?” said Xavier in a deep, serious tone, “I know the lights are starting to dim, but I want you to remember because that was where this all began.”

Shaw’s memory was fuzzy and his mind was in so much pain he could barely recall anything. But Xavier wouldn’t let him forget. He used his telepathy to force into his mind the images of the past he wanted.

“I fought my way into this organization because I believed it had the necessary resources to bring order to this world,” he said as he showed images of his younger self meeting the Inner Circle, “The Hellfire Club is unique in that it has so much power concentrated in the hands of so few. And not only is it concentrated, it is controlled to such a degree that there is a genuine capacity for global control. Yet so much of this power goes unrealized because you and your cronies are too busy bickering over who controls what and who has to kill who.”

“You’re…no different!” Shaw choked out.

“Ah, but that’s where you’re wrong,” said Xavier, now firmly cupping his bloodied chin, “Because I seem to remember bringing this up shortly after I arrived. I looked you in the eye just as I am looking at you now and asked plainly ‘couldn’t the Hellfire Club do so much more if we just did away with these useless traditions of backstabbing and deceit?’ And your response was always the same. ‘This is just how it is. And if you ever want to get ahead here you had best go along.’ Now aren’t you glad you gave me that advice?”

Xavier let Shaw’s face go and rose up. Now he stood over his former boss and mentor. There was no trace of the respect he once had for him. Now there was only resentment and pity.

“You were right about one thing though. To get ahead I did have to go along, but I just took it a step further. I didn’t oppose you. I just made it so you and the rest of the Inner Circle would self-destruct. And now there’s a power vacuum. But you need not worry. I’ve already taken steps to gain control. Your reign as Black King is officially over and mine is just beginning. And ironically enough, I have you to thank for that because it was your irrational anger that made it possible.”

It was a harsh, bitter reminder to Shaw. He should have seen this coming. He should have listened to his brain instead of his instinct. Xavier played him like a pawn. All the power, wealth, and connections he and generations of Hellfire Club members had built were now in control of this man who overthrew him. It was a defeat of the worst kind.

Shaw grit his teeth and looked up at the man who had taken so much from him. He was on his last breath. He could feel death’s cold grip taking hold of him. But he wasn’t going to go quietly. He couldn’t give Charles the satisfaction.

“You’ll fail…” he said in a ragged tone.

“So says the man who failed himself,” taunted Xavier, “I’ve already shown that I can do many things that the old order can’t. I have principles. I’m willing to be reasonable. And most of all I do not let my ego overrule my judgment.”

“You’re…weak. You stand by…letting others…do the dirty work. You say…it’s smart. But in reality…it just shows…that you don’t have the guts…to be Black King! You’re…soft!”

“You think just because I have the capacity to form reasonable connections that I’m soft?” laughed Xavier, “Face it Shaw, everybody likes me better than you. I don’t take my allies for granted. You’re the one who alienated everybody by being so unreasonable. I think you’re son will attest to that.”

“Shut up!” yelled Shaw through the pain, enraged at the mention of his son, “You say…you’re so smart. But in the Hellfire Club…smart isn’t enough! You have to…be willing to…get your hands dirty! And you can’t do that! You make others…do it for you! You’re a coward!”

“Do you think insulting me will spur me enough to put you out of your misery?” scoffed Xavier, “I assure you it won’t work.”

“I don’t care! Just look…at what you’ve done! You…killed us all! You allied yourself…with Selene! You had her…do your dirty work! Mark my words…it’ll come back…to haunt you! You…will destroy everything! You…will…fail!”

Shaw erupted into another coughing fit. Blood and gore spewed from his insides. His face contorted in agony. He was in so much pain yet he was still able to defy him. But Xavier didn’t falter for a second. He just watched as the once mighty Sebastian Shaw squirmed before him. He had already endured more torture than any of his other victims. It appeared he was on his last gasp.

Xavier walked up to him again, grasping his bloodied head and looking him in the eye. From the side Selene watched impatiently. As much as she enjoyed torturing this man, she was getting tired of his continued existence. She had already bruised his flesh beyond recognition. There wasn’t much else she could do besides end him. His continued existence was not only irritating, it was an insult. This man should have died long ago. His one-way ticket to Hell was long overdue.

“Will you let me kill him already, Charles?” the Black Queen complained, “Just hearing his voice makes me sick!”

Xavier was silent for a moment. He never looked away from Shaw, who just kept looking right back at him with a weak yet defiant gaze.

“Go on…do it. Let her…finish the job. You’ll only…prove me…right.”

Xavier shook his head and scoffed. Then he turned back towards Selene and smiled.

“You’ve done enough, Selene. I’ll take it from here.”

“By all means, Charles,” grinned the Black King.

Charles Xavier then grasped Shaw’s mangled temples and looked at him with a mix of intent and resolve. The former Black King looked up at him with a mix of fear and resentment. It was the first time any man had truly struck fear into him, but Charles Xavier was more than just a man.

“You’re right, Sebastian. If I’m to be the Black King, I should show to you just how far I’m willing to go,” he told him, “So consider this, my final gesture onto you, assurance that the role of Black King is in good hands.”

“Go to…Hell!”

“You first, old friend,” grinned Charles.

The powerful psychic then used his telepathy to unleash a massive psychic attack on Sebastian Shaw’s mind. His shields had been destroyed as a result of the torture, leaving him utterly defenseless against a psychic onslaught. He was already so close to death and in so much pain. But despite this, Charles showed no mercy. He tore into his mind, attacking every single aspect of it from his memories to his pain receptors. He left nothing untouched. Shaw didn’t believe he was tough enough to be Black King so he was showing him just how tough he could be if he had to. The result was a cruel, painful death the likes of which words could never describe.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

For five minutes of terror, Xavier ripped apart Shaw’s mind. Blood seeped out of his ears, mouth, and eyes as his face contorted with pain of the highest degree. His whole body arched and tensed, tearing numerous wounds and causing more blood to flow down his beaten body. He didn’t thrash or resist. The attack was so strong it took away the capabilities to even form thoughts to contemplate doing so. Even after he was past the point of certain death, Xavier kept attacking. He left no brain cell untouched. Every part of his mind was forcefully shattered. Even when it got to the point where he could feel no more pain, he used his powers to make it so he could. It was truly a complete and utter destruction of his mind and body.

The whole time Selene watched with a smile. As much as she would have liked to deliver the death blow, Xavier added a unique touch. He could be so collected at one moment and so unrelentingly cruel the next. He had subtly and she respected that much more than Shaw’s egotistical ruthlessness. If this is what he did to his victims then his enemies were in for it. Because of this there was no doubt that he would make a fine Black King. But at the same time he would also be a much more formidable rival.

After the final part of Shaw’s mind was deconstructed, Xavier let go of his head. The body then went limp with a pained expression permanently etched on his face, leaving no doubt that he was dead. It was a cruel but fitting way for Sebastian Shaw to meet his end. It signaled the end of his reign and the beginning of another.

“Not bad, Charles,” said Selene, admiring his work, “Guess you do have the balls for torture after all.”

“Only when it is necessary, my dear,” said Xavier as he casually wiped the blood off his hands with a handkerchief, “I plan on being a much more orderly and reasonable Black King than this fool. I assure you the Hellfire Club will undergo many changes.”

“I’m sure it will,” said Selene, grinning ominously at Shaw’s dead body, “With the rest of the Inner Circle out of our way, we can do things we could never have done before.”

“Indeed,” said Charles in a serious tone, “Just remember we still have a doctrine to uphold. You helped me and I helped you. It would be wise to remember that if we are to continue working together.”

“Oh don’t worry, Charles. I haven’t forgotten,” said the Black Queen, “I’ll continue to do my part. But don’t expect to be able to control me like you control others so well.”

“I understand, Selene. Sometimes there are things beyond even the Hellfire Club’s control.”

Despite this admission, Xavier cast Selene a look of warning. But that ominous smile of hers didn’t fade. He knew from the beginning that he would be working with some dangerous people. But few were as dark and cunning as this woman. She made no secret of her power. She would be difficult to deal with. It was a major concern of his and would be a high priority under his new reign of Black King. But this was the price he had to pay for the power he gained. For now, it was worth it.

Xavier’s Office – Present Time

“Sir? Lord Xavier?”

The Black King stirred from a light sleep at the sound of a familiar voice. Groaning slightly he rose up from the couch he had been lying on and opened his eyes to see Scott Summers standing before him. He looked around the area and remembered what happened. He and Moria were going over details of the plan they were coordinating with Ororo and Remy on. It was slow going at times and there were many things they had to work out. Eventually Moria fell asleep and so did he. He looked over on the chair adjacent to the couch he had been sitting on and saw that Moria was fast asleep.

“Are you okay, sir?” asked Scott as he helped him up a bit.

“I’m fine, Scott,” he said, “Moria and I were going over a few important issues and we just nodded off, that’s all.”

“Are you sure that’s it?” said Scott skeptically, “You and Miss Moria seem to have been going over a lot of important issues lately. You’ve been coming out of your office less and less these past few weeks. And people are starting to worry.”

“Are they now?” said Xavier, “Well a little worry in a place like this is healthy. I wouldn’t think too much of it.”

“Normally I would agree, but there’s a fine line between worry and concern. And it’s been troubling me a lately.”

Xavier sighed, but smiled none-the-less at the young man before him. Scott, more than any other pawn, took his lessons to heart and had employed them well in the time he had been here. He developed a keen sense of his surroundings. It stemmed from his analytical mind, which he so often used to break down situations and understand them. It was part of what made him such an effective leader and tactician with the Hellfire Club’s mercenary army. It also helped him pick up on things that others did not.

“Lord Xavier, I apologize if I’m speaking out of line here, but I get the feeling there is something going on and you’re keeping us out of the loop,” said Scott, trying to maintain a respectful tone.

“Are you referring to the behavior of certain pawns?” Xavier surmised.

“I take it you read my training reports then. And it’s worth adding that it seems to be getting worse. Tabitha isn’t pulling pranks anymore, but she’s been a lot rougher during training and she went a little overboard on her last mission. The same thing goes for Roberto.”

“Yes, I know which mission you’re referring to. And I will talk to them about it. I will not tolerate such behavior, especially on missions.”

“It’s not just their behavior I’m worried about. It’s their demeanor,” Scott went on, “I see it in others as well. Like with Monet last week when she visited with that ambassador from Latveria? She was just supposed to make a deal with him and she ended up killing the guy. And she wasn’t subtle about it either. She poisoned him, beat him, and gut him in ways I would expect from Selene, but not another pawn!”

Xavier groaned at the mention of that mission. He remembered talking to Monet about it and she didn’t make a big deal of it. He found it disturbing because at her old position she never would have resorted to such extreme measures. This was a very dark turn for her and he sensed Selene’s hand in it. But Scott wasn’t done yet.

“Then there’s Alex,” said Scott, his tone shifting once more.

“Yes, I’ve heard about his exploits as well,” said Xavier.

“Then you know why I’m so concerned. It’s like something in him just changed overnight! He’s still confrontation, hot headed, and what not, but now he’s so…dark. I can’t put my finger on it, but I know it’s there!”

“How so?” asked Xavier curiously, who didn’t keep up with Alex as much as Scott.

“It’s little things, mostly,” sighed Scott, “The way he carries himself and executes tasks are just different. He’s taken a renewed interest in torture. Just this past week Lorna saw him practicing torture techniques with Kurt and Wanda! But these weren’t exactly the kind of techniques you approved of. They were very…Selene-esque. Now granted, those two have always been a little off, but I don’t want my brother going down that path!”

Scott was getting pretty worked up, especially when it came to his brother. Xavier was well-aware of Scott’s struggles with Alex. He too was also concerned with his apparent lack of progress and attitude issues. And this sudden change was even more concerning. He had his suspicions as to what (or who) was behind it and so did Scott.

“I know you’ve never given us a reason to be concerned before, but something tells me there’s more to this than just business as usual.”

“Your instincts serve you will, Scott. They always have,” said the Black King, “But if you’re worried about me plotting against you or your fellow pawns, you can stop right now. I assure you I have no intention on going back on the promise I made you.”

“I don’t doubt that, sir. But I understand there are some things you cannot tell us. I never questioned that policy before, but all these extra hours you’re putting in leads me to believe there’s something else going on.”

“There’s nothing going on that I cannot handle, that you can be sure of.”

“Even so, if there is something going on that may affect me or the other pawns, shouldn’t we know something about it? There may be something we could do to help.”

Xavier hesitated to answer for a moment. Scott was a loyal, upstanding pawn of the Hellfire Club and he always thought rationally. He didn’t like lying to him because he had proven time and again how dedicated and trustworthy he was. He could easily see him as a high ranking member of the Inner Circle one day. But there were just some things he couldn’t let him in on.

“I’m sorry, my boy,” said Xavier as he reached forth and placed a hand on his shoulders, “But as much as I trust and respect you, there are just some things I cannot tell you. But just know there are very good reasons for this…reasons that will eventually become clearer down the line.”

“I understand that, sir. But what if it’s too late?” asked Scott intently, “What if something happens and the rest of us are caught off guard?”

“Then you’ll just have to trust in your training as a follower of Hellfire to get you through it,” said the Black King intently, “You and your fellow pawns are strong. You’ve always been strong in your own right. That’s why I selected you to join us.”

“Thank you, sir. And I appreciate that. Really, I can’t tell you what a difference you’ve made in my life. But still, what if that isn’t enough?”

Xavier looked back over at Moria and the stack of papers detailing their plan and then back at Scott. Certain aspects of their plan would not be easy, especially for some of the pawns. But in the end it would hopefully work out for the better. For that, he gave his young associate a reassuring smile.

“Then just trust that I will not leave you or any of the others behind,” he said strongly, “You have all served me very well in your time here and I will not forget that. Just understand that you will all face challenges as our organization undergoes more change. And even when it seems as though you cannot overcome them, know I will be there to help. You have my unconditional word.”

Scott was silent for a moment. He didn’t get the answers he wanted, but he got the next best thing. Charles Xavier may be a complicated man, but he kept his word to those who served him well. That was all the reassurance he needed.

“Okay,” he said with a nod, “I’ll take your word over the truth for now.”

“I appreciate that, Scott. And if anyone else has the same suspicions, just tell them what I told you. I will not let those who serve me suffer. All will be rewarded in due time for their loyalties.”

“Of course, my Lord. I’ll tell them. Thank you.”

“Anytime, my boy,” smiled the Black King.

Scott turned around and made his leave while Xavier returned to his plan. After he was gone, he let out a deep sigh. Even for him, a man who had so much power over the affairs of the world, it was overwhelming at times. But compared to plan around Selene, ruling the world was child’s play. But at the same time he could not forget the promises he made to his pawns.

Over the past four years, he had grown close to many of them. There were some bad apples here and there, but for the most part they grew to respect him as a mentor, authority, and even father figure. While kings of the past would not have hesitated to leave their followers behind, he wanted to make good on his promises. It all went back to what Shaw told him in those last few moments of his life. He claimed he was no different than him. But he was wrong. And he was going to do everything in his power to prove it, even if it meant taking a few chances.

Then as he looked over the papers detailing his elaborate plan, Moria stirred from her rest as well. Like him, she was a light sleeper and she heard what he said to Scott.

“I hope ye can’t keep that promise, Charles,” she told him.

“As do I, Moria,” sighed the Black King, “But given the tenacity of our adversaries that may prove difficult.”

“But you’re going to do it anyways, aren’t ye?” she said with a coy grin.

“Would you expect anything less from me?”

Moria smiled. Charles Xavier was an amazing man. For all his ruthlessness and cruelty, he still had enough humanity in him to keep his promise. There was much to admire about that. Hopefully it would prove more beneficial than detrimental when the time came to make their move.

“We should probably give this a rest for now,” said Xavier as he gathered up the files, “If memory serves me right, we have a busy night tonight.”

“That we do,” grinned Moria, “The customary Hellfire Ball is already set up downtown. And Rahne and I picked out a special dress for just such an occasion.”

“I’m already looking forward to it.”

Xavier and Moria exchanged smiles as they stashed away their plans. As dedicated as they were to countering threats from Selene, they also understood they had to maintain the façade that everything was business as usual in the Hellfire Club. And tonight they would have their chance at a special gathering for the Hellfire Club and their associates.

Ritz Carlton – Later That Night

The Hellfire Club was among the most secretive organizations on the face of the planet. Yet it still had a public face. It had to if it was to do business with so many large, publicly known entities. So every now and then Xavier and Selene would organize a special gathering of Hellfire associates from around the world and put in an elaborate party to celebrate their success and demonstrate the Hellfire Club’s ever-growing power. They were always lavish affairs, full of food, wine, and elaborate entertainment. It wasn’t unusual for them to buy up an entire hotel to make room for their associates. They also brought in the best sex workers, male and female, from all their clubs, including Club Hellfire. It was all put together not only to celebrate what the Hellfire Club had accomplished, but to reinforce the idea that they were in charge and they wielded the power.

All the pawns played a part as well. The men were relieved from training and missions and the women were relieved from their work in the clubs for the night so they could entertain their guests. They were expected to dress up elaborately and show off their power and prestige. The older pawns like James, Piotr, and Warren took active roles in talking to associates while younger, less experienced pawns were expected to just make themselves presentable and show to their associates that they belonged. For the older pawns, it was nothing new. For some of the younger pawns, this was the first time they participated in a gathering such as this. And for Xavier and Selene, it was one of the few times when they had to be friendly with each other to give the illusion of stability.

In addition to the pawns, there were many other familiar faces. Some high ranking mutant executives from X-Industrial were present. A few major partners like Norman Osborn were also present. There were also representatives from Pierce Robotics, Leland Enterprise, and other old companies once owned by the previous Inner Circle. There were even some enemies in the bunch like representatives from Stark Industries and the Baxter Building. But they were here because they had to be and to maintain face. And that was okay with Xavier because it meant they still recognized the status quo.

Xavier caught a number of dirty looks from some of Stark’s allies, namely Pepper Pots. He also got a number from Johnny Storm, who was the only one here representing the Baxter Building. But he shrugged them off and spent much of his time socializing with his many partners, including Norman Osborn.

“I see Stark couldn’t make it again,” said Norman as he poured himself another glass of wine.

“Don’t tell me you’re surprised, Norman,” laughed Xavier, “Tony still hates my guts, but even he understands the rules of business. It is necessary to present yourself to both enemies and friends.”

“Guess that makes him a coward,” smirked Norman, “He’s not man enough to come here and face you, even with that Iron Man body guard of his.”

“He has his own concerns I suppose,” said Charles as he casually swirled his glass, “Things must be busy with the Avengers, although why a man like him insists on playing hero is beyond me.”

“Heroes are overrated,” scoffed Norman, “They’re all deluded fools with no idea how the world truly works.”

“Sad, but true,” sighed Xavier, “But let’s not worry about that tonight. This is a time for celebration.”

“It most certainly is,” smiled Norman, “I take it you’ve heard that Oscorp recently acquired government approval to start our own superhuman team.”

“Ah yes, the Thunderbolts,” said Charles, “Congratulations on that accomplishment. I take it those pesky bureaucrats came around.”

“Indeed they did, which I suppose I have you to thank for.”

“Well I wasn’t going to say anything, but it’s only fair given all the generous discounts you’ve given my organization for your company resources,” said Charles, “Expect plenty more orders in the coming days.”

“Why? Are you planning something big?” asked Norman curiously.

“Not quite, but let’s just say I’m looking to stockpile certain assets…you know, in case of a rainy day.”

Norman picked up the subtext to his words and didn’t say anything else. He understood there were certain aspects of his operations that he could not reveal. And so long as his name and company weren’t attached to it, he didn’t care. Charles Xavier had made good on all his promises thus far. It was only fair that he do the same on his end. That’s what he liked about doing business with this man. He was a ruthless, manipulative man who never let anything stand in his way and yet he was still a man of his word.

“I understand,” said Norman as he raised his glass, “So then, shall we tip our glasses to another successful year?”

“Why not?” smiled Xavier, “I consider any year our power grows as a success.”

The two men tipped their glasses and took a drink. Then Moria came in and joined them, wearing a stunning black, backless dress that was elaborately decorated in true Hellfire fashion. She looked every bit as alluring as a woman of power should. She definitely got a smile from Norman, but her eyes were on Charles like always.

“Don’t tell me I missed the toast,” said Moria.

“I’m afraid you did,” said Norman, “It’s a pleasure to see you again, Moria. You look divine.”

Norman Osborn then politely took her hand and kissed it, earning him a smile from the powerful Hellfire woman.

“Thank ye, Norman. Glad ye could make it,” she said, “But I hope you weren’t planning on occupying Charles all night. He still owes me a dance.”

“Oh I assure you, I wouldn’t dare keep him from that,” said Norman.

“I appreciate that,” smiled Charles, “So unless there is anything else you wish to inquire about, I’d like to make good on my word.”

“By all means, Charles. Enjoy yourself,” said Norman, “I know how serious you are about keeping your word.”

“That he is,” said Moria as she affectionately slipped her arms around the Black King, “It’s what part of what makes him such a great man.”

Xavier smiled at her seductive gestures and followed her out to the dance floor. Norman smiled and watched, content to leave his discussion with the Black King there for now. It was good to have an ally like him. It had done a lot of good things for Oscorp. He hoped it would continue. Xavier seemed to have a firm hold on power for the moment. Hopefully it stayed that way.

While Xavier and Moria went off to dance and make their presence felt, some of the elder pawns stood nearby among a few prestigious associates. Scott, Warpath, Rogue, and Sage were on the front lines so to speak, shaking hands and presenting the right image for the Hellfire Club. These parties were never the most exciting affairs in the world, but they were part of their duties and they had some benefits. It gave them the chance to meet some of the influential people they had such a firm hold of.

“That Pepper Pots is a real bitch,” muttered Rogue, “Explain to meh why she got invited again?”

“She’s Tony Stark’s personal secretary,” Sage answered in her usual stoic tone, “He can’t stand being around Xavier so he sends his closest associates to take his place.”

“What a piece of work,” Warpath scorned, “From what I’ve heard that man is no Captain America when it comes to playing hero. He drinks, he parties, and he fucks everything that moves.”

“Heck, sounds like he should fit right in with us!” laughed Rogue.

“You would think so, but Stark is too weak to stomach our ways,” said Scott, shooting Pots and her Stark cronies a harsh glare, “He has so many personal flaws he tries to make up for them by playing hero. It’s really pathetic when you think about it.”

“Well at least he’s not as bad as Nick Fury,” said James, a touch of hatred seeping into his tone as he said that name, “It’s a good thing he didn’t show up either. Otherwise I would have snapped his neck.”

“Take it easy, James,” coaxed Scott, “We all know how tough a subject that is. But you can take comfort in the fact Fury hates our guts and we can only manage him by filling his entire organization with moles. It makes our lives easier and his life more miserable.”

“Still not the same as being able to wring his neck!” grunted James.

“Now you’re just being negative, sugah,” laughed Rogue.

“She’s right,” said Sage, who handed him another drink, “Here, drink up. You need to relax a little. We’re trying to put on a good show.”

“Yeah, I know,” he muttered as he gulped the drink down, “Doesn’t make it any easier though. Not everybody can turn off their emotions like you.”

“I know,” she said stoically, “Here, why don’t we dance a bit? That may help calm you down.”

“Whatever,” sighed James.

Sage slipped in closer, allowing his imposing body to cover hers. She was in a tight, revealing dress so the extra feel of her body helped get his mind off things a little. The relationship between the two of them had always been tenuous since Sage was a former SHIELD agent, but they had worked it out over the years. They weren’t afraid to call each other friends. It was just a different kind of friendships. Sage had a knack for handling him and once she started dancing with him, he settled down a bit.

“Hope that mellows him out,” said Rogue.

“We’ll see,” sighed Scott, “You never know with him.”

“You could use some mellowing yourself, sugah,” said Rogue flirtatiously, “Care to give a gal a dance?”

“Sure, why not?” said Scott with a half smile.

Going along with their lead, Rogue slipped in closer to Scott and they started dancing as well. They had shaken enough hands for the last couple of hours and a little dancing usually helped lighten the mood. Rogue was never fond of these affairs, even if she did get to meet some big names. She didn’t approach them as seriously as Scott did, who took these parties on as if they were missions. But it helped pick up the slack. She was glad he could do it because there weren’t many others that could.

“So where’s Jean tonight?” asked Rogue as she danced with him, her arms sensually secure around his neck.

“Out for ‘special’ training,” Scott answered, holding onto her hips as they moved across the dance floor.

“Ah, the ‘special’ training. Ah get ya,” she said knowingly, “You ever wonder just what it is she does at this special training?”

“Not really,” he shrugged, “I don’t have to because I already know, at least to some extent.”

“Just to an extent?” said Rogue curiously.

“As much as I have to,” he assured her, “Even in a relationship like ours, there are some secrets we have to keep from each other. It’s not because we want to. It’s because we have to. It’s for the good of the Hellfire Club. I’m sure you’ve noticed how it’s been a little…hostel lately.”

Rogue looked away for a moment. Her expression shifted as her thoughts quickly shifted to Kurt. There had been a growing feeling of suspicion and hostility among certain parts of the Inner Circle lately. Everybody felt it, but she felt it most because it involved her brother.

“No need to convince meh there. Ah know how tough it’s been. Heck, a lot of that hostility is comin’ from Kurt. Ah get the feelin’ he’s pushin’ meh and mah mama away with one hand while clinging to us with the other.”

“I know how you feel,” said Scott in a sympathetic tone, “I get the same sense from Alex, only he doesn’t try to cling. Lately he’s just shutting me out, not caring anymore about being a brother let alone a good pawn.”

“At least he still listens to you. Kurt’s too busy shackin’ up with Wanda to give meh the time of day.”

“I wouldn’t say he listens as much as he gives me the silent treatment. And in a ways that’s even worse. I get the feeling he doesn’t care what I’m trying to do for him. He just wants to do his own thing.”

“Yeah, so much for family bonds,” Rogue muttered, “Think they’ll ever come around?”

“I hope they do,” said Scott, “We can pick our battles, but we can’t pick our family.”

“Well said, sugah,” smiled Rogue, “Ah just hope they come around before it’s too late.”

“Me too.”

Scott and Rogue kept dancing, occasionally looking over towards the area where Kurt and Alex were hanging out with Monet, Tabitha, Warren, Wanda, and Roberto. Lorna occasionally dropped by, but she kept her distance from them. They all seemed to be carrying on in their own way, sticking together as if to set them apart from the others. It was a little disconcerting since these were all pawns that had encountered some disciplinary problems recently. If they were coordinating or something, that could mean trouble, but this was no setting to call them out on it. So Scott and Rogue kept dancing, keeping their suspicions to themselves.

But Scott and Rogue weren’t the only ones that noticed. Mystique was also watching from across the room, casually sampling the buffet. She was not in her normal blue form. She had shape shifted into a normal looking variation of her natural self, wearing an elegant black dress and bearing the poise of a sophisticated, attractive, middle-aged business woman. She had been to countless balls like this before and usually she knew how to have a good time. She would entice powerful men (and sometimes women) into precarious positions or spy on the conversations of others. But tonight she wasn’t in the mood for such mischief. Her focus was largely on Kurt.

She was so focused on Kurt that she didn’t notice Lorna walking up to her.

“Madam Darkholme, are you done with the shrimp?” she asked.

“What? Oh, of course,” she said in a monotone voice, “Here, help your self.”

“Thanks,” said Lorna, who used her powers to float the tray over towards her, “Are you okay? You seem a little on edge tonight.”

“It’s nothing you should concern yourself with, Lorna,” said Mystique, not paying much credence to this teenage girl.

“Why not? Does it involve Kurt?”

Mystique cast the green haired girl a harsh scorn, one that would usually send the other younger pawns running. But to her credit, Lorna didn’t run. She barely flinched. Given who her father was, the shape shifter shouldn’t have been surprised.

“You’re not a mother whose son has been caught up in somewhat questionable pastimes,” she told her, “Don’t claim to be sympathetic when you can’t even begin to understand.”

Lorna just stared at the older woman with an annoyed look.

“Not to be disrespectful, you could just have easily said you don’t want to talk about it and I would have left it there.”

“No you wouldn’t,” scoffed Mystique.

“What makes you so sure about that?” she scoffed.

“Because you’re Magneto’s daughter and you’ve been spending a lot of your time with Pietro Maximoff and Alex Summers. And we both know their stubborn tendencies. What’s so unreasonable about me assuming you’ve picked up on them?”

Lorna was silenced for a moment. Mystique may have been harsh and a little bitchy at times, but she always had her reasons. And for better or worse, they were usually pretty good.

“Okay, I’ll give you that,” she said, “But that doesn’t mean I don’t understand. Wanda is my half-sister, you know? And Alex and I are sort of…close.”

“I’m sure,” said Mystique, rolling her eyes, “Maybe on some levels, but you’re still new here, Lorna. You haven’t seen nearly as much as I have in my time here at the Hellfire Club. I’ve witnessed first hand how this place changes people. For many, it makes them stronger. Just look at Scott or Piotr or my own daughter, Rogue. But for others, it doesn’t just make them stronger…it makes them darker.”

Lorna looked over at Alex and Kurt, who were still lingering with the others, not really looking to enthused about the event. She could see it in their eyes, the darkness Mystique was referring to. It hadn’t always been there for Alex, but now it was so strong it was hard to get around sometimes. She could only imagine what Kurt must have been like since she never met him before he came here.

“That kind of darkness is nothing to belittle,” Mystique went on, “Few can understand its power. I’ve been around plenty of men who were greedy, corrupt, and narcissistic. Your father was one of them, no offense.”

“None taken,” muttered Lorna.

“But true darkness, the kind that really turns people into monsters, is something else altogether,” she said in a grim tone, “It goes further than simply having no limits or morals. It causes otherwise reasonable people to reject everything and take pleasure in hurting others, even the ones they care about. Only a select few get to that point, but I’m sure you know a few prime examples dwelling within our walls.”

Lorna knew who she was referring to. Mistress Selene had always given off a very dark and cold presence. She remembered feeling it the first day she laid eyes on her. But she always tried to keep it in perspective. She was still Black Queen and she was to respect her even if she didn’t like her. But Mystique had no such respect. She wished she could have such a luxury. Maybe then she could fight whatever was corrupting Alex.

“So what do we do about it?” she asked her, “Is there any way to bring someone back from true darkness?”

Mystique shook her head and sighed.

“That’s something I’ve been trying to figure out these past few years. I’ll let you know if I think of something. But for now, the best we can do is stay vigilant. Darkness is a complicated thing, but one thing it definitely isn’t is predictable.”

Lorna didn’t doubt that. There were a lot of forces in this world she didn’t understand before she arrived at the Hellfire Club. She was still learning about them, but darkness was one that was especially powerful. It was hard to wrap her head around, but it had already affected her life with how it affected Wanda. And lately it seemed as though Alex may be affected as well. Whatever the case, it was something she was going to have to deal with.

“Lorna!” Pietro called out from the other end of the table, “Hurry up and finish that shrimp! There are some people here I want you to meet!”

“I’m coming Pietro,” said Lorna as she floated the tray down, “Sorry if I bothered you, Miss Darkhome.”

“Think nothing of it, Lorna. Just remember what I said.”

“I will,” she assured her.

The shape shifter watched the young mutant run off towards Pietro, who had been showing her the tricks of the trade for parties like this. She hoped she took her words seriously. She appeared to have just as much interest as she did in this matter. She had her half-sister constantly flaunting he dark persona like a badge of honor and that boyfriend of hers taking on the same traits. Lorna didn’t understand the forces at work, but she sure did. Selene had gotten to them. She wasn’t sure how and she couldn’t prove it, but she had done something to them. And she swore long ago that she would not allow her to corrupt her children. Even now as it seemed there was no turning back, she refused to give up. At least she wasn’t alone in her struggles. Lorna was still young and ignorant, but she did understand to some extent. Maybe some day she could help her. For now, she had enough concerns on her mind.

While Mystique slipped into the background of the party again, some of the other young pawns trying to find their place in a party like this. Bobby, Sam, Kitty, Jubilee, and Danielle had never been among such a ritzy crowd. It was a bit overwhelming to know that they were in the same room as so many powerful individuals and yet they technically had power over them as well. Seeing men like Norman Osborn and Jonny Storm was a bit nerve racking at times, but they were helped along by Piotr and Rahne, who was still in her wolf-human form, but seemed to think too much of it. There was sort of this unspoken rule that nobody was to look down on the Inner Circle. Even for them, who were officially labeled as ‘up and coming officials,’ they were looked upon with great respect.

“Man, I’ll never get over these monkey suits,” said Bobby, who was still adjusting to the fancy formal suit he was in.

“They’re not monkey suits, Bobby,” said Rahne, rolling their eyes, “Have some respect for imported Italian garments.”

“Like I know anything about fashion,” he muttered, “The biggest party I ever went to was my sixteenth birthday party and that barely had a dozen people. How does Lord Xavier expect us to fit in with people like this?”

“Ah know,” mused Sam, “Ah just shook hands with a guy who owns half the banks in Africa. As soon as he heard Ah’m a pawn he tried to invite me to his palace in Nigeria.”

“That’s nothing. I just got a look from Johnny Storm!” said Jubilee, who was more excited than overwhelmed.

“You sure he wasn’t just wondering whether you were too young for this crowd?” commented Kitty.

“Oh ye of little faith,” she mocked, “Crowd or no crowd, I could get used to parties like this! When else will we get to rub shoulders with the rich and powerful?”

“It’s not just about rubbing shoulders, Jubilee. This is celebrating our power and reminding our associates that we’re in charge,” said Piotr, who stood around them like an imposing chaperone.

“Well I get the feeling they already know that,” said Danielle.

“Guess it couldn’t hurt to remind them,” shrugged Bobby, “Plus, it’s nice to have people like this suck up to you!”

“I don’t know if sucking up is the right word, Bobby,” snickered Danielle, “Lord Xavier says these people are associates, not slaves.”

“Who cares? We still have the power last I checked,” said Jubilee, who was eyeing Johnny Storm again, “Why not flaunt it a bit?”

“Couldn’t hurt,” shrugged Bobby, “Come on, let’s see how much ‘sucking up’ these rich snobs will do in the span of a night!”

“I’m game!” said Jubilee, who followed Bobby back into the crowds.

Sam, Kitty, and Danielle watched as the two of them went to work, forgetting for a moment that they had no idea what they were doing. It was humorous in many ways. But at least they were getting into it.

“Guess we should make our presences known too,” said Sam.

“I guess so,” sighed Danielle, “Any idea how?”

“Not a clue,” said Sam, “But since when has that stopped us before?”

Sam and Danielle grabbed some drinks and went back to their duties. Piotr and Rahne exchanged glances. These pawns may have a lot of potential, but they were still young and had a lot to learn. They watched as Bobby and Jubilee met with some officials from Pierce Robotics, shaking their hands and cracking a few jokes that weren’t exactly appropriate. Sam and Danielle were a bit more civil, just shaking hands and asking about the weather and such. But they didn’t project the aura of confidence an experienced pawn should.

Kitty saw this too, which was why she stayed behind. That and she preferred being near Piotr. He wouldn’t let her get overwhelmed by any of this. She acted sort of like his date to this whole affair, lingering affectionately near his broad frame and giving guests that tough yet seductive look that had become so distinctive for her. She didn’t say much, but she didn’t have to.

“At least they’re trying,” Kitty commented.

“Looks like something else we’ll have to train them in,” sighed Rahne, “A little class might do them all some good.”

“It takes time,” said Piotr, “I remember how nervous I was when I first attended one of these events. I could barely carry on a conversation.”

“Well it’s easier for you, Petey. You’ve got size and imposing muscles on everybody so they don’t care what you say. You still get the message across,” said Kitty as she affectionately clung to his arm, “The others will just have to find a different way of presenting themselves.”

“I hope they do,” said Piotr, smiling at her gesture.

Kitty moved in closer, enjoying the warmth of his imposing frame. And in her revealing purple dress it carried a little extra meaning. She knew she garnered some looks from it, but she didn’t care as much about what they thought as Piotr. So long as he approved that was all that mattered.

“Now what do you say you quit babying the others and dance with me?” she said, “This is a party. You should enjoy yourself a bit.”

“I suppose I could try, just so long as we stay close to the others,” said Piotr.

“Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye on them,” assured Rahne, “Go out and have some fun, ye two.”

“Thanks Rahne! You’re alright!” chirped Kitty, excited to have the imposing Russian to herself for a while.

Rahne smiled as she watched Kitty drag Piotr out on the dance floor. It was amazing how quickly Piotr fell for that girl. She didn’t know him as well as the other pawns, but she had noticed he was very much the quiet type. Even when he hooked up with the girls, he was not a conversationalist. But his strength was in the way he carried himself. And it was something many respected. But Kitty helped open him up a bit. And she thought it was good for him. She used to think relationships in the Inner Circle were always trouble, but seeing others like Scott and Jean make it work gave her some hope. And they weren’t the only ones getting closer.

As Piotr and Kitty made their way onto the dance floor, they passed Julian and Laura. Laura didn’t originally want to go to this event, but Lord Xavier said she needed to get familiar with this sort of thing. And for the most part she just hung back, watching everybody else talk and chat amongst themselves. She wasn’t much for conversation so she just hung around Logan for the most part. But Julian somehow got her to get out there and participate a little. But it wasn’t as easy as he hoped.

“I don’t think I’m very good at this,” groaned Laura.

“You’re giving up too easy!” said Julian, “Just follow the steps I showed you and follow my lead.”

“It still doesn’t make sense.”

“It’s dancing, Laura. It’s not supposed to make sense,” Julian snickered.

It was a situation worthy of comedy. Laura could kill dozens of heavily armed men with her bear hands and survive and onslaught of attacks from Weapon X. But when it came to dancing she was as clueless as could be. Julian thought he could get a little closer with her by showing her how to dance, but it was proving to be more frustrating than anything else. As a boy growing up with rich parents, he had to know a thing or two about etiquette and dancing. So a party like this was nothing new for him. But for Laura it was something else.

He did a few steps with her, keeping his hand around her waist while she held onto his arms. She looked at her feet most of the time, trying to make sure she was doing it correctly. Dancing was an alien, if not irrational, concept to her. The only experience she ever had was stripping and that was hardly appropriate for this sort of thing. She tried to do everything right like a machine, but it sort of took the enjoyment out of it. But Julian didn’t hold it against her. At least he got to be close to her.

“Ow! That’s my foot,” said Julian as Laura mis-stepped a bit.

“Sorry,” she said, “I guess I’m not cut out for this.”

“It’s your first try. Give it time. You’ll get it,” assured Julian, “Just remind me to wear stronger shoes next time.”

“I still don’t see the point to all this. I understand the idea of socializing with allies and associates, but why does dancing have to be a part of it?”

“It doesn’t,” shrugged Julian, “It’s just something people do to entertain themselves and get a little closer to certain people.”

“Closer how?” she asked curiously.

“You know…just closer,” he said, leaning in to her and being a little playful.

His gesture got a slight smile from Laura, even though she still didn’t quite get it. She continued to attempt these strange movements with him, trying hard not to step on his foot anymore. But it was easier said than done. It didn’t bother her too much though. Being around Julian like this was good enough. In the past month she came to enjoy his company. She liked being around him more than the other men. She got this feeling around him that she didn’t get with anybody else. She felt it in moments like this and during the many times they had sex. She didn’t know what to make of it. It was just one of many aspects of life around here she was trying to adjust to.

While she went about her dance lesson with Julian, Logan watched from the bar. He didn’t want to come to this party either, but again Lord Xavier insisted he attend. Not only did he have to come he had to dress up too, which he never liked. Fancy clothes just never worked for him. But that was nothing he couldn’t drown out with a little alcohol. He had been working on martinis and hard liquor for most of the night. And as he watched Laura and Julian, he had even more reason to drink.

“Give me another,” he told the bartender.

“Are you sure, sir? You’ve had quite a bit?”

“Does it look like I give a damn?” said Logan with a threatening glance, “Just give me another. I’ll tell you when I’m done.”

The bartender wisely did as Logan requested and got him another drink. Logan wasted no time in slamming it back as he kept watching Laura dance with Julian. As much as he didn’t want to get involved with Laura’s personal life, it was a bit hard to miss sometimes. He knew Julian had an eye for her. He could smell it on him whenever he looked at her. And he didn’t like it. He felt Laura deserved better than that little punk, who was still immature, hot headed, and downright annoying at times. But somehow he lured her in. He may have to sit down and have a little ‘chat’ with that kid at some point, but then again who was he to judge attraction? He still had his problems with Jean and Mystique was making things all the more complicated.

Ever since Mystique helped him bring Laura in, he had been balancing his time between Jean and her. At times he felt as though he could have with Mystique what he couldn’t have with Jean. But he didn’t know if what he felt with her was as real as what he felt with Jean. He was still utterly infatuated with Jean. He was also convinced that her relationship with Scott was wrong. But the more he struggled between her and Raven, the more uncertain he was about it. He still hadn’t worked it out and at the rate he was going, he would drink all the liquor in New York before he could figure it out.

He was so focused on Laura and his drinking, he didn’t notice Emma sit down next to him. And given the revealing white V-neck dress she was wearing, that was no small feat.

“Don’t you look like you’re having a good time,” she commented in a snide tone, “Have you even left the bar yet?”

“Why do you care?” Logan replied, not taking his eyes off her liquor, “Should you be out there making men drool over that dress of yours?”

“It’s not the dress they care for,” she grinned, proudly displaying her barely covered breasts, “But that’s besides the point. You’re just spending the night getting soused because Jean isn’t here.”

“Does Jeannie always have to be a reason for me to get drunk?”

“No, but you do a pitiful job of finding other reasons,” said the blonde telepath snidely.

Logan grunted menacingly towards the attractive blonde. She always had to push his buttons, especially when it came to Jean. He knew she did it just to annoy him and yet it still got to him. It showed just how messed up he was about her.

Watching as he gulped down more liquor, Emma Frost sighed. Aside from turning the head of every man in the room, the night was painfully ordinary for her. She danced, socialized, and occasionally manipulated some naïve rich man into divulging his secrets. It wasn’t like she was on assignment. Sometimes she just did it because she could. But aside from being beautiful and superior, she did have other reasons for being here. One of which was Scott, who she had danced with already, but now he was busy with Rogue. That didn’t bother her since she knew he had no feelings for Rogue. But it didn’t make her feel any better about her current predicament with him.

“So have you given any more thought to that ‘offer’ I made you a while back?” she asked him.

“Which one? You make people a lot of offers to do any number of things to you,” said Logan in a slurred tone.

“You know which one I’m referring to,” she said, directing his attention towards Scott, “Just because Jean isn’t here doesn’t mean she isn’t on your mind. And I get the sense you’ve been a lot more torn around her lately. Care to explain why?”

“None of your business, Frost,” he said in an annoyed tone.

“Fine, be like that,” Emma scoffed, “But remember Logan, if you do not accept my offer then I will act without you. And when I do you’ll receive no help from me in getting what you want from Jean. And let’s face it. You know you’ll need it.”

Logan looked back towards Scott bitterly before slamming back the rest of his drink. As much as he hated to admit it, Emma was right on some levels. Even if she did manage to tear Scott and Jean apart, that didn’t mean he could make a move on her. And even if he did, she could easily reject him. Emma might give him an edge. He never asked how she would do it, but he had no reason to doubt her. She was capable of many things, no matter how cruel or manipulative they may seem. Even he couldn’t manage some of the things she did, which was why he was still torn on her offer.

“So are you going to decide or what?” Emma pushed, “How much more alcohol do you need to consume before you realize that I’m your best chance at having Jean to yourself? Do you want me to list everything you cannot do for her?”

“Don’t push me, Frost,” warned Logan, “I still ain’t decided.”

“Well decide quickly. Because the longer you wait, the harder it will be. And if you won’t listen to me, then maybe…”

Then Emma was suddenly cut off by Mystique, who walked up to the bar and literally shoved herself right between them.

“There you are,” she said, “Sorry to interrupt, Emma, but I need to speak to Logan.”

“Well do it later! I was in the middle of something,” said Emma in an annoyed tone.

“You’ll have plenty of time to finish it later. Go on and amuse yourself with all the gawking men. I’m sure they want your attention more anyways,” said Mystique snidely.

“Are you trying to pick a fight with me, Raven?” said Emma menacingly.

“Even if I was, would you want to do it here in that nice, expensive dress of yours?”

Emma muttered a curse under her breath. She never liked Raven all that much. She was too cunning for her tastes. She could play off her vanity and personality and use it to her advantage. Most people weren’t smart enough to do that and as much as she resented being bested, she could not respond in a setting like this.

“Fine,” she said bitterly, “But Logan, remember what I told you. Sooner or later you’ll have to decide.”

“Sure I will,” muttered Logan as he grabbed another drink.

Taking his arm, Mystique dragged the visibly drunk Logan across the ballroom. His mood was clearly dampened. Emma had that kind of effect on people. But the alcohol helped minimize the damage. As soon as they were clear of her, Mystique grabbed the drink from him and slammed some back herself.

“Hey! I was gonna finish that!” he said.

“I’m not as drunk as you. I need it more,” she quipped.

“Sure ya do,” Logan muttered, “So what was so important you had to butt in front of Frost?”

“Nothing, I just thought it would be best if you got away from her.”

“I ain’t gonna argue that, but that can’t be the only reason.”

Even when he was drunk, Logan could make a point. It hastened the need for her to get drunk as well. He wasn’t the only one with problems, but they didn’t need someone like Emma making it worse.

“It isn’t,” she conceded, “I just want to remind you to be careful with her. I know what she offers is tempting. But don’t give into it. Emma will screw you over the first chance she gets. And not in a good way.”

“You think I need to be reminded of that?” laughed Logan.

“Look me in the eye and tell me you haven’t at least considered it.”

Logan was silent. He couldn’t even do that sober, let alone drunk. He let out a defeated groan. It seemed like everywhere he turned tonight there was somebody out to confront him. Luckily, Mystique wasn’t nearly as snide about it as Emma.

“I thought so,” she said, “I know it’s hard to understand when you’re drunk, but you just can’t give some people chances. You have to choose who you trust wisely or you will get hurt in ways you can’t heal from.”

“I got ya, Raven,” said Logan in a slurred tone, “I’ll remember. But so long as we’re both getting drunk, want to give me back that bottle? I wasn’t finished with it.”

Raven side and gave it back to him. She then followed him back to the bar where more liquored awaited them. Mystique made her point and now she was free to get as drunk as him. And she needed it on a night like this. There was only so many times she could keep trying to look in on Kurt and worry. She needed and escape and drinking with Logan was one of the best ways she knew to get away from it all.

But for Logan, it was back to his stupor. At least Raven was good company and a halfway decent drinker. She also kept him from giving Emma Frost too much time, which he knew by now was rarely a good thing. It was still hard not to consider her offer to help him with Jean, but Mystique kept reminding him just how bad an idea it was. It was a good thing she was around. If it weren’t for her he would have been driven crazy by his feelings for Jeannie long ago. He still needed to find a way to get past them. At least with Raven he could set that aside even if it was just for a moment.

The dancing, drinking, and socializing continued. There was laugher, music, and everything else the Hellfire Club could offer their esteemed yet submissive colleagues. To Xavier it was just another way to maintain their image. To others it was a pathetic show for mindless followers with nothing better to do. Wanda was one of them. She, Kurt, Monet, Tabitha, Roberto, Alex, and Warren kept to their own little corner in the ballroom. They didn’t socialize as much as the others and didn’t partake in the activities. Normally they would at least put on some smiles, but tonight they just weren’t feeling it. Maybe it was because Mistress Selene was not attending tonight. But whatever the reason, this party was still a drag.

“Shouldn’t you be out there, Warren?” said Wanda as she leaned against a wall with Kurt, “I thought you were supposed to be handling all our Worthington Industry guests.”

“I’ve already shaken their hands and smiled for them,” said Warren in a flat tone as he sipped on a martini, “They can take care of themselves.”

“Careful Warren, you know how impressionable the rich and powerful can be, even when they’re under our thumb,” smirked Monet.

“So says the ambassador’s daughter,” said Alex, rolling his eyes, “Shouldn’t you be out there anyways? I thought you were supposed to be our pretty public face.”

“Oh? And I’m not pretty enough?” scoffed Tabitha, who was casually leaning over a buffet table.

“I said pretty, not skanky,” smirked Alex, earning him a harsh look from Tabitha.

“While I appreciate the comment, Alex, I’ve spent the better part of my life mindlessly catering to other dignitaries. I’m hoping to end that trend while I’m here.”

“Same here,” said Roberto strongly, “I’ve had enough giving face time to friends of my father. They’re all just parasites looking to get to him through me.”

“Does it work?” questioned Tabitha.

“They wish,” scoffed Roberto, “I used to not mind it. But now it just doesn’t seem relevant anymore. Ever since…you know.”

“Yes, I understand completely,” said Monet as she swirled a glass of wine, “I for one hope to minimize such affairs for as long as we have to put up with them.”

“Won’t Lord Xavier notice that you’re not being your usual sociable self?” Alex questioned.

“I don’t think he’ll notice. As you can see, he’s a little preoccupied.”

The young pawns looked over and watched him dancing with Moria, smiling and enjoying himself without a care in the world. And why should he care? He was the Black King. But the more they all grew to embrace Selene, the more they grew to resent Charles Xavier. Seeing him so high and mighty like this was just annoying.

“He looks happy. Zhey all look so happy,” Kurt commented distantly.

“I know they do, love,” said Wanda as she affectionately caressed her lover’s face, “But soon none of that will matter. Soon Mistress Selene will have her way and there will be no need for bland parties such as this to remind everybody of our power.”

“Amen to that,” said Tabitha with a dark look in her eyes, “I don’t know how many of these I can take.”

“But when do you think she’ll make her move?” Alex wondered, “She never tells us anything.”

“Oh trust me, we’ll know,” assured Wanda ominously, “Everybody will know.”

Kurt, Alex, Monet, and Tabitha took her word for it. Wanda didn’t know much more than they did even as Mistress Selene’s secret apprentice. But they all knew enough to know how grand the Black Queen’s ambitions were. She gave them all a taste of darkness and they had come to embrace it. But eventually everybody would feel it as well. They had no doubts, cares, or concerns. All their old ambitions left them the second the darkness filled them. All that mattered was following Mistress Selene’s will. Her will was the will of darkness and while they may have to contend with unpleasant formalities for now, eventually all would know the power of darkness.

Greenwich Village – Enchantress’s Lair

Magic had always been an obsession with Jean Grey. Ever since she saw Selene first wield it she was intent on learning about it. Then when she started taking lessons from Enchantress she was intent on developing her talents. Over time she had learned a lot and could now wield power on the scale of many mid-level and advanced mystics. She was no Dr. Strange or the Ancient One, but she was working her way up. And lately as she had been stepping up her training, she felt she was almost ready for the next level.

At the moment she was in a silent, meditative state in the center of Enchantress’s ritual area. She was hovering just a few inches off the floor, her legs crossed and her eyes closed as she chanted softly in a mix of ancient and medieval tongues. Swirling around her were a few trails of glowing mystical energy. Streams of orange and red lights bathed the area in a soft glow. It was sort of like fire, but without the heat and chaos. It wasn’t the most brilliant display, but it was good for someone of her level.

“Keep going, Jean. Remember, focus and flow,” said Enchantress, her long time teacher, “Let the power consume you, but don’t let it overpower you.”

Jean’s breathing deepened as she continued to chant. As she meditated Enchantress sat casually across the room, her legs folded as she scrutinized every move of her pupil. She was never impressed by much, but even she had to admit Jean Grey’s progress these past four years had been impressive. Especially lately since she revealed her connection to an ancient hidden power, she had taken her abilities to a new level. She was still limited in many ways, but she could sense that she was on the cusp of tapping something truly powerful.

“I can feel it,” said Jean, clutching her fists as she guided the streams of energy to her will, “I can almost…”

“Enough Jean,” Enchantress commanded, “Do not take it too far.”

“But I…”

“That’s not friendly advice, Jean. That’s an order. And I strongly advise you heed it.”

Jean was never one to disobey her mentor. She had come to see that whenever Enchantress gave her an order it was a good idea to heed it. So she opened her eyes and lowered back to the floor. The streams of energy ceased and she rose up to her feet, collecting herself after another trying lesson.

“Good girl,” grinned the Asgardian as she sat vainly observing her pupil, “You’re an obedient pupil, but you would be wise to know your limits. I will not always be there to tell you what to do.”

“I understand, madam Enchantress,” said Jean respectfully, “But ever since you told me about this hidden power I might be connected to, I’ve been eager to explore it. I’ve read that book you’ve given me cover-to-cover and I really think I’m ready for it!”

“You think you are, but that doesn’t mean you are,” Enchantress reminded, “The forces described in that book are not to be taken lightly, even by a god. And you, a mere mortal, can’t expect to just grasp it like you would any other power. You have to be in the right mindset.”

“And what kind of mindset is that? How do I train for it?” asked Jean intently.

Enchantress rolled her eyes and got up from her seat. As good a pupil as Jean Grey was, she was still naïve at times. She believed she could handle power that she was not ready for. It was typical mortal hubris and she had seen time and again how much damage it could do.

“This isn’t necessarily something you can train for, my dear student,” said Enchantress, “The power of the gods is something no mortal can adequately prepare for.”

“So then what should I do?” asked Jean, a hint of frustration in her tone, “You told me I’m connected to this power. You told me I’ll have to deal with it sooner or later. So how am I supposed to prepare for it?”

Enchantress approached her young pupil and affectionately caressed her chin. For someone so young and naïve, she had guts. It was admirable, but it may not be enough.

“In that book I gave you, do you recall the tale it told of a young sorceress who tried to oppose the Asgardian gods because she blamed them for the death of her family?”

Jean thought about it for a moment and was soon able to recall it.

“I think so. Wasn’t it some sort of fable?”

“Hardly,” scoffed Enchantress, “It really did happen, you know? A young woman whose parents were lost at sea had the gall to oppose the gods because she saw them as unfit for their power. So she trained and she trained, hoping to gain enough mystical prowess to oppose the Asgardians. But she realized her mortal limits would never grant her the kind of abilities she wanted. So she turned to forces beyond her understanding in hopes of gaining an edge. She tried to steal the hammer of my dear Thor, using a spell that she hoped would help her wield it. But that proved to be her undoing.”

“What happened to her?” asked Jean, “The story didn’t go into a lot of detail, but it said she was corrupted somehow.”

“Oh she was,” said Enchantress, “The power of the gods overwhelmed her. She was not in the right state of mind and lacked focus and control. She managed to wield it briefly, putting up quite a fight against us for a while. But we knew she was doomed. The power overwhelmed her so much it fried the flesh off her bones and her soul was forever twisted by the awesome power of the gods. To add insult to injury, Odin had her disembodied spirit imprisoned in a state of limbo. Now all she can do is wail woefully in the spirit realm, occasionally making an appearance in a ceremony to act as a warning to all those who dare to attempt to take on the power of the gods.”

It was a cruel fate and one that resonated strongly with Jean. She wasn’t opposing any gods, but the power the book spoke of was on a divine level. She had been working so hard to understand it and even tap it so she could use it, but now she wasn’t so sure.

“But that does not have to be your fate,” said Enchantress strongly, “You can succeed where others have failed.”

“And how do I do that?” asked Jean.

“By remembering that even with such power you are still human,” she said, “And as such, you must remember that you are in control. It is not in control of you. All the anger, joy, sorrow, passion, love, and many other emotions you use in the mystic arts have to be maintained. Because as soon as you forget who you are, then you no longer control such power…it controls you.”

“Sounds easier said than done,” Jean commented.

“Oh it is,” the Asgardian woman assured her, “But I think you’ll be able to handle it. You’ve seen what happens to those who misuse it. And honestly, do you want to end up like Selene?”

“Hell no!” said Jean strongly.

“Then keep studying and training. Then when the moment is right, you’ll be able to seize this power. And when you do, you may just have a chance against the likes of that bitch.”

“But when will I know the moment is right?”

“Oh you’ll know. Trust me, you’ll know,” said Enchantress ominously.

Jean wasn’t entirely sure what the subtext of her words meant. She clearly knew more than she let on. As much as she respected her as a pupil, she still looked down on her for being a mortal woman. And as such she was not privy to certain knowledge. But as frustrating as that was, Jean accepted it. Whatever the unknowns were with this power, she would have to deal with them as they came.

“Thank you, Madam Enchantress. I promise you I’ll be ready,” said Jean in a determined tone.

“You better be,” she said strongly, “Because if you’re to even think about going up against Selene, you better know this power and know yourself. Mark my words, that woman is always up to no good. And if you are unable to oppose her than she will be the end of us all.”

“I hope it does not come to that with Mistress Selene. But if it does, I won’t let that happen.”

“You better,” said Enchantress intently, “Now get along. I have a busy day of pampering, shopping, and grooming ahead of me.”

Jean obediently nodded, left to change out of her clothes and back into her Hellfire uniform. Enchantress was not the most caring or compassionate teacher to say the very least, but she knew her stuff. She had taught her so much and there was still plenty she had yet to learn. But her message was clear. She had to be ready to push her limits if she was to handle this power inside her. She didn’t know what that entailed, but magic was anything if not unpredictable. Whatever this power was, she would learn to grasp it in due time.

As Enchantress watched Jean leave, she shook her head and sighed. She still wasn’t convinced that this girl had what it took to oppose someone like Selene. She would love to be wrong, but Jean couldn’t escape her mortal limits and Selene was still many levels above her in terms of raw power and ability. She was determined, that much was clear. But determination and drive may not be enough in dealing with this power she had inside her or Selene for that matter. Sooner or later she would be tested and she would be in for a rude awakening if she faltered.

‘Such a strong, but naïve young woman. How she came to be connected with the power of the Phoenix is beyond me. But it’s too late now. The power inside her is ready to manifest. She just better be ready when the time comes or else things in Midgard are going to get VERY messy.’

Sinister’s Secret Lab

Nature was a marvelous, fascinating phenomenon. Mr. Sinister always had a deep appreciation of it. All throughout his very long life, he respected it and sought to control it. But as amazing and beautiful it was, it was agonizingly slow at times. Evolution, mutations, natural selection, and development were all hindered by the constraints of time and it always tested his patience. Even for him, a man who was practically immortal, it was agonizing at times. But given enough time and patience, nature had its rewards.

“Well done, Hank. It appears we’re on track for the next step.”

“Thank you sir. I do hope that catalyst I synthesized will help. But I might be able to refine it even more if you told me what exactly you were using it for.”

“Sorry Hank, but you know the rules,” said Sinister, “There are some details of my work that I just can’t tell you about. You know the reasons so I won’t repeat them.”

“I understand.”

Hank’s voice was calm and collected as always, even over a secure, encrypted communication link. He monitored this situation here and at his lab in X-Industrial using the command console. Hank was chatting with him using the communication software he installed in his lap top and he could see in the background of the video feed how busy Hank had been. Even by his standards, he appeared to be going a bit overboard. But he wasn’t complaining.

“Now then, how long will it be before you can synthesize the trans-neural interface for me?”

“At my current rate, two weeks at best, a month at worse.”

“You best make it two. I cannot take any chances at this phase,” said Sinister sternly.

“That may be asking a bit much, sir. The kinds of processes you are asking are delicate and require a great deal of care and scrutiny.”

“Then you best spend more time developing it and less time fraternizing with that pet of yours.”

Over the line, Hank’s demeanor and poise shifted.

“With all due respect, sir. Rahne isn’t just a pet. She’s been the reason why I’ve been so motivated lately. So please, do not make light of her. She’s doing more than you think.”

“I’m sure she is,” said Sinister, rolling his eyes.

Even for a man as brilliant as him, Sinister didn’t understand this strange relationship Hank had with Rahne Sinclair. Ever since her powers permanently altered her appearance, she had developed a bond with Hank that wasn’t quite romantic in nature but still quite deeper than normal friendship. He suspected it had something to do with how he helped her accept her appearance. It wasn’t unusual for people to get close to those that heal them, but regardless of how deep it was there was a potential for danger. Rahne was Moria MacTaggart’s daughter and if she got too intimately involved, then his whole operation may be in jeopardy. He would have to come up with some sort of contingency plan so that she and Hank wouldn’t be a liability.

“Just make sure you remember your duties,” said Sinister sternly, “I want that interface within two weeks. Is that clear?”

Hank appeared to set aside his earlier comments and remain steadfast as the good assistant he was.

“Yes sir. I’ll get right on it.”

“See that you do. I’ll be back at the lab in two hours. I just need to take care of a few personal matters.”

“Of course, sir. Over and out.”

The link went down and Sinister got up from his seat at the console. He then walked towards the center of his secret lab where the bio tanks were and admired his progress. Nearly every tank was occupied at the moment. Only a few more embryos were needed and his collection of advanced mutant offspring would be complete. But for a few specimens, he could already see sings of development. The gestation period was slow, but at last his creations were taking a tangible form.

So far his secret medical operations had been going off without a hitch. When the women came in for their routine checkup, he gave them what they thought was a treatment meant to prevent STDs. But in reality it was a nanotechnology package that implanted the fertilized embryos into their wombs. From there, nature did the rest. And after the specimen had developed enough to be grown in a tank, he went in and removed it on their next checkup.

The women never knew they had been carrying the children that would lead mankind into the next stage of evolution. They did have some symptoms. Most of it was nausea and irregular menstrual cycles. But he and Hank always assured them that it was just a bug they caught or something they ate. Selene also did her part to suppress any further symptoms with magic so they wouldn’t find out. They never questioned him further. They just went back to their lives of power hungry decadence. And that was just fine with him. They could never appreciate the majesty of what they were a part of anyways.

Selene also continued to aid him by using her mystical talents to deceive Xavier and the rest of the Inner Circle. She frequently checked in, always wanting a status report and an update on his time tables. So far they hadn’t changed, but she was still very pushy at times. She wasn’t used to waiting on nature. That’s why she used magic. But despite her impatience, the woman proved useful. He wasn’t so naïve to think she didn’t have her own agenda. He knew she was planning something, but she kept it a closely guarded secret. But whatever it was, he wasn’t going to let her agenda spoil his. He had already made sure of it.

As he gazed into the tubes, taking in the sight of the small yet growing fetus, he smiled. It wouldn’t be long now. Soon he would have his advanced mutant offspring. And from them he would have all the pieces he needed to create the perfect species. It may mean having to go through the painful wait of human gestation, but it would be worth it. He was so close to his goal.

“Soon, my children…soon, your time will come,” he said to the figures in the tube, “It won’t be long now. Your birth and the birth of a new era in the evolution of life lies ahead. And all will bear witness.”

Selene’s Room

The times had been good to the Black Queen. Her spirits were higher than they had been in a long while. Her plans were moving forward, she had gained new supporters, and Xavier and Moria were none the wiser. It was all going perfectly so far and she had every intention of keeping it that way. The only hard part for her was waiting. In order to carry out the next phase of her plan, she needed to wait for the right time. And based on the time tables given to her by Sinister, it would be a few months before it all came together.

She had just come back from a private meeting between her and her followers. Alex, Tabitha, and Roberto were learning fast. That taste of darkness they got from the Ring of Virgil had quite an effect. They were already submitting themselves blindly to her will. It was like the darkness inside them craved her presence, overriding all sense of rationality, commitment, and personal preference. The idea of embracing her ways excited them just as it had with Monet and Warren. Monet was still a work-in-progress, but after successfully luring Roberto in she was hooked on their ways. Her perfectionism still showed in how she wanted to get every dark deed right down to the last detail. As annoying as it was at times, it was still a good quality to have in their line of work.

Warren and Kurt remained as loyal as ever. Warren’s increasing distance from his father and growing distance with the others only reinforced the dark persona she instilled on him that fateful first day. The darkness within him had grown and matured a great deal over the years. He applied many of her principles to his business practices, much to the chagrin of Xavier. And he even got off on it. He was completely willing to put someone in their place even if it was painful and humiliating. That should come in handy if everything went according to plan. The same went for Kurt, but his case was still tenuous. Even though he took to her philosophies, he didn’t take them to the extremes he would have liked. He only followed whatever Wanda told him. That was troubling at times because it meant he may be vulnerable to the influence of others, namely his mother and foster sister. But so long as Wanda kept a hold on him he shouldn’t be a problem.

Then there was Wanda herself. She had grown into quite the apprentice. Selene smiled at how much she had grown in the past few years. Especially lately, as she took on some leadership roles with her new followers, the young woman was a example of refined talents in the black arts. She was a far cry from the nervous, reserved woman who first arrived. By unleashing her dark side, she took on a persona that was somewhat reminiscent of her father. Of course she denied that vehemently, but it didn’t matter to Selene. So long as she remembered her place and did as she taught her, she would serve a vital role in what she had planned.

The Black Queen opened her large, walk-in closet that carried a massive assortment of custom made clothes and lingerie. She then made her way to the back where there was an old picture of her that she had commissioned over 500 years ago. It was a flattering piece that was worth a lot of money. For that reason nobody dared touched it. And that was a good thing too because behind the painting was her personal safe.

Upon lifting off the painting, she opened the small yet advanced safe using a magic spell. Once it was opened she reached in and pulled out a very old book she had kept over the centuries. She smiled as she opened it to the last page where she kept an old map of a very familiar place.

“Nova Roma, my kingdom and haven,” she said as she traced her fingers over the map, “Oh it’s been too long since I’ve graced you with my presence. But no matter. I’ll be back soon enough.”

With the book still in hand she reached back into the safe and pulled out a small, ceremonial dagger. It was highly decorated, bearing a striking resemblance to the one she used in the initiation rituals of the new members. But this one was different. Its purpose was much darker and would be instrumental in carrying out the most important part of her plan.

“Just a little bit longer,” she said as she traced tip over her wrist, breaking the skin so that a small bit of blood came out, “Blackheart says great power requires great sacrifice. And there’s no sacrifice I am not willing to make for this power. Soon it will be mine. And nothing shall stand in my way.”

Using the blood that gathered on her wrist, she rubbed her finger over it and made several marks on the map. The bloody stains formed five points over the area detailing the kingdom of Nova Roma. And as soon as they dried they glowed softly in a hue of mystic energy. The energy then coalesced on a single spot on the map in the center of the five points. Upon seeing this, Selene smiled ominously. She made another note in the book, tracing on an empty page a series of symbols Blackheart told her to use. Once it was marked down she closed the book and sealed the safe.

It was all part of a grand and elaborate ploy that would grant her ultimate power. Nobody, not even her apprentice Wanda, could understand what it was like. But she would have it very soon. And nobody, not Sinister and especially not Xavier, was going to stop her.

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Up next: Time passes and agendas are furthered, but they all take a sudden turn.

AN: This marks the end of Part 2. The next (and final) part will take place about nine months after the events of this chapter.