Post by Professor X on Jun 5, 2016 9:58:47 GMT -5
OOC Summary:
Mutant-kind is now placed in the public eye for scrutiny, the X-Men are warned that their actions may provoke unintended consequences if they continue to operate in American territory. Cyclops and Marvel Girl clash with Storm and Rogue as to the future of the X-Men. Afraid that the X-Men's actions will be judged as terrorism, the leadership decides to gambit on a publicity stunt that would hopefully make the X-Men and mutants seem less like terrorists and more like people.
Roleplayer's Writing
"Superheroes or terrorists? Since their recent appearance among the population everyone is asking whether these 'X-Men' are the next step in political activism and the freedom movement." Started out the news anchor as he switched to his guest stars. "Brian, what do you make of this?"
"Well, like all new things they sure are flashy! I mean, look at their outfits. Are they a SEAL team, an astronaut team, or are they emergency response? I think it's a cool group and definitely worth watching how events unfold.
"What about their coordination? This wasn't no freak accident that happened at the conference center. These people knew what was going to happen, is there a possibility this is what conspiracy theorists would call a 'fake moon landing' event or is this something else, Cassandra?"
"What's interesting is to see their mannerisms, they don't act like people but they act like a military unit. Their equipment - optic laser beams, lightning beams, power to fly? I would note that the Government has denounced any connection to the X-Men and have stated they do not condone ordinary citizens operating outside the law."
"Andrew, the problem these people face is whether or not they're sanctioned by the Government. If I decided to equip a rocket launcher and fight crime, I will be accountable in the court of law for the destruction of public property. If I were to do the SAME thing and call it political activism, I would be branded a terrorist. These people aren't held accountable to anyone, at this moment, but the authorities are looking to find them. For christ sakes, how hard is it to find a man who's blue skinned and furry?"
Professor X
Charles presented the television panel to the X-Men. "Alright, so we now have the public looking to us as either Superheroes or terrorists. This is expected, but we now need to practice that discipline we've been training for. Having given everyone time to think about what to do with Dr. Hertz research...I'd like to hear anyone's final conclusions on the topic. Do we destroy it or place it into the public domain? Scott...What are your thoughts on the subject?" Charles started with Scott, inevitably Rogue would be next following Scott's opinion, followed by Jean's, then Shadowcat's, with Hank for a final tie breaker should there be one.
Kitty was privileged to the meeting due to interest from Charles seeing the young girl having potential and seeing her as the future of the X-Men's support, Scott could use someone like Kitty to remind him of situations like this; where tough decisions would have to be made during emotional and stressful times. These seeds wouldn't bare to fruit for years to come, but Charles cared about everyone's development and this was apart of her's just as much as it was for everyone else. In the absence of Ororo, Shadowcat was taking up a 'seniors' position at the table giving her room to weigh in on the topic of the week.
Cyclops
Scott listened to the television, his eyes narrowing behind his sunglasses as he watched the screen and listened. It chilled his blood and left him cold in the heart. When he was brought up to speak, Scott let out a sigh, "I believe that calling us terrorists, if it gets to that point, is too strong of a word. At most, what we are facing is being accused of being vigilantes and they do have a point. We are operating without sanction from anyone and we didn't start by stopping purse snatchers and convenience store robberies. We implanted ourselves into a conference, acted like a private security group, and then did open battle with another military grade equipped group of strangers that we still know very little about. I can't blame them for being worried about us. He paused for a moment, arms crossing over his chest, "As for the research, I understand why someone would develope it, but at the same time I... can't help but feel a bit offended by it. I know we're called mutants-c-
because of what happens to us at puberty; the differences in our make up that give us our powers, but I don't agree that we need to be cured. We're different, we can do things that others cannot, but that we're the ones who need to be saved while others with abilities beyond human are praised... Sir that is not right. And I don't think we should apologize for being who we are." His voice remained calm and even as he spoke, but he did speak honestly. They were different than normal humans, but as with any child being born, they did not have a choice in that. Their parents brought them into the world and it was their parents who, for whatever reason, allowed them to have their special abilities. Why was it viewed that they needed to be fixed? Because they were different? The world was filled with different people, all with their own characteristics that made them unique.
"While I understand that there is fear of what we can do and the powers that we have, we didn't choose to have them. We were born with them and we will have to live with it. There are those of us who could live a normal life and no one ever know, but then there are those that will never be able to because of what their mutations are. We cannot predict what we have until we develop our abilities. This research, while I see why it has begun, is too dangerous. The effects it could have on people and the innocents that could be made to suffer in the name of science, genetic exploration, or out of an individuals need for power, greed, or any other countless motivations that would allow them to subject themselves to these experiments are too threatening to be allowed to exist."
Rogue
Rogue was sitting down on a chair with her legs crossed over the knee and her arms behind her back, hand together looking pretty comfortable and relaxed, she had listened to everything though! “Ah gave it some thought and while I don’t wish to anyone my powers… the thin’ is… we will be seen badly regardless of what we do I think becaauseee…. Just think about it, if we destroy it they will say OH they! How they dare do what THEY think is best for US, us meaning non mutants you know” she said with a slight roll of her eyes “An’ if we announce it they will say something like OH they want to turn US into THEM! Or like, it’s a trap! Or… Ah don’t know somethin’ along those lines it doesn’t matter, the point is I don’t think there is a win situation here unless… we let one of them choose, that one being the creator of the formula for example, you know, the doctor, at least that way we will have an easier way and we can say that we never influenced her in any way, you know? If then they say
‘whatever’ then at least our consciousness are like clean you know? It’s not like a cop out, it’s just what feels right, you know? We take a step back, we let her choose with total freedom and we just keep an eye on how the situation evolves”
The Phoenix
Jean was far from the type to assume the worse, sure the situation was bad and made them look kinda of bad but there was always hope! They couldn't be so negative, Charles was right on some things as was scott. Yet, she didn't agree she seen hope in the situation. To understand what was the difference of being born into it and being created. Wouldn't they all want to get along? It was one of those things where Jean just seen the light in everything. Biting into her lower lip she'd not be standing far from Scott. Right next to him actually placed at her proper spot, her arms crossed over one another as her eyes scanned over the screen. "As trying as it may be, they want more people to be like this. Although, unnatural, should we have a right to say what they do with their bodies? Or how they do it?" She said, her eyes glancing to everyone. "I believe... this is something that will get into the wrong hands.. I believe humanity can do something amazing by gaining our abilities but they--
won't know how to use it.. or to cultivate." Jean's voice was educated, prime, hopeful but she was realistic despite her hopeful views. "Therefore, I believe we should keep the drug away from human hands. As hopeful as i would be to see humanity.. go forward with it. I don't think there's enough people who can comprehend that chaos could cause." Jean's green eyes glancing over to Scott. "We shouldn't have to apologize for what we are but we should show them we aren't something to fear. That like every bad human there is a bad mutant. They need to realize not that we are vigilante's or.. terrorists. I'd rather be called a super hero, give them the lighter philosophy. Why not put light into the eyes of the kids? Make a better name for some of our kind." She said, her eyes staring over to Charles. "I agree to putting an end to the testing but I believe we should do it in an approach that will not be noticed. An unfortunate series of events."
xShadowcatx
Kitty's hand bounced the end of her mechanical pencil on the table's surface before her. With each moment increasing the stress and concern, that pencil bounced faster and harder until she it sounded like a jackhammer in her mind and she consciously stopped and set it down flat. Her notebook held indents in the paper where the pencil had given it a good beating and she sighed, chewing her lip and shoving a hand through her chestnut hair. It fell back in soft grace along her shoulders once more and she shook her head gently.
It seemed like everyone was rather engaged in this issue, deeply so. And rightfully so. This issue was promised to become much grander as time went on and she was sure it would become epic one way another. Eyes seemed to fix toward her as if they'd notice her growing fidgety. "I'm sorry, but it sort of feels like a particular quote is perfect for this. We've all been so preoccupied with the thought that we can do something, that we aren't thinking about if we should." She took a breath,
"This doctor has spent her life working hard to achieve something. She's like you and me. She's a human being. Forget mutant, forget, genes. She's a person. She has a family and goals and hopes and dreams. She's put a lot of effort and time and money and research into reaching this amazing acheivemet. And that is what it is, it's an achievement. Now, she is facing a whole lot of scrutiny over what is right and what is wrong and how it should be handled or dealt with.
And in our position, you're right, its' dangerous, it means a lot for us. It can change everything. But then again, Jean is right. If we step in and try to take it away because it's dangerous, we not only robbed this person of their life's hard work, but we are putting ourselves in the place of a government. We are no better than those politicians and lobbyists and men in suits trying to decide if we are terrorists or not.
You want them to think we're terrorists? Sure, take away that research. They'll be sure that it was some terrorist move. If we don't? Maybe it's our terrorist plot to have that research made. We lose either way. On one hand, who cares what they think, if we do good and play as just as possible, that's our mission, right? To use our abilities for good. But deciding what is good and what isn't is the politicians job. So it's a war with the politicians and the government. While the civilians are in the crossfire watching it all about to blow."
Kitty took a steadying breath and stared at the indents on her paper. "The more this thing fuels itself the more ability it has to cause damage. I propose we handle it as politicians and as civilians. We go before the press, hold a press conference to show we aren't afraid of the public, but rather, want to be friendly with them. We state that we were no part of this research, but respect its acheivments and that it is no one's place to either take it or choose how it is used.
We are merely civilians who will do what we think is right and that we are here in the event that something requires our help. We will help damage control." She took a moment to nod, sure of her statement. "We can't control the sandbox or we're just like the corrupted government we already have. And taking steps premptively is the same thing. Scott's right, we didn't start with taking care of petty crimes. We skipped the basics and went for something big. Now we have their attention. So let's show them we are helpful and wise and prudent. Not politicians."
Professor X & Beast(NPC)
Hank would adjust his shirt collar and presented his opinion. "It's to my understanding...Dr. Hertz has given charge of the formula to *us* to decide what fate it deserves. Originally, our job for obtaining it was to convince the Doctor into choosing her decision wisely. As you so pointedly quoted Jurassic Park, Ian Malcolm...That applies to this situation precisely. And to further point out from that movie, Ian further states the difference between Condors and the dinosaurs - *nature* selected the dinosaurs to be extinct." Hank paused to let everyone take in that point. "Nature has selected us to have these gifts. Could they have saved JFK from being assassinated? Could they have stopped Doctor Martin Luther King from the same fate? Possibly. But if the shoe is on the other foot...What if we create another Vladimir Lenin or Francisco Franco? Tyrannical people won't ever stop existing.
It's only a matter of time until someone decides these gifts are a calling that make them a 'God' and deserving of power. You, Charles, have the ability to change free will. Scott, as far as abilities go - your optic blast can do more damage than any missile. Storm can harness 'the power of the God's' and has been revered as such already. I think the natural course of evolution would be best. You could argue that by discovering this knowledge that evolution has already arrived. But like the development of the atomic bomb, perhaps now is not the time to drop that weapon. I think if the Doctor trusts it in our hands, we're better off destroying it."
Charles was proud of their observations and conclusions. Scott, Jean, and Hank were realistic and saw that with devices whether they were iphones or ballistic missile, they were prone to error in judgment and that mutant powers were higher stakes than one missile or a viral internet video...One person could change the life of every mutant ever to exist present and future. Rogue and Kitty saw that there was no winning from this, that it should be given to the population for the decision, they felt that it wasn't their job to make a decision for an entire race of people or either sub races; homosuperior and homosapian, and that all people are equal.
Charles would begin to speak. "I'm sure you all remember my history class regarding World War II, the magnificent man that Albert Einstein was. He was extremely conflicted with his project on working with the atomic bomb. The scientific breakthrough was a proud moment, but given the opportunity to take it away he believed he would've undone that decision. Gambit was brought into this situation by an outside source seeking to steal this information, this would make two separate organizations and attempts at gaining control of this researches power. Dr. Hertz will burden the responsibility of destroying it, we need never be involved in that process.
She is looking to us for our opinion and how this would affect our kind. We'll pass the word for her to destroy it." Turning his attention to the television in the room. "In terms of the publicity, Scott touched on a very good point, people need to see you all in a better light. And as Jean elegantly stated - people need to be inspired by you. To see you as superheroes. I think it's time for the world to see the good men and women that I know you are - my X-Men. I'd like to hear ideas for how we can do that."
Cyclops
There is much that he wanted to say. There was a difference between choosing to get a tattoo and getting a piercing ... even using a drug over choosing to get powers like there. They could tear the body up, leaving it a rack of mush if that is how the mutation took. The lives that could be ruined were incalculable. And as for saying that this was this woman's achievement... The hydrogen bomb, the atomic and nuclear bombs,fuel-air bombs... moabs... they are all people's achievements that they put so much time and energy into, but look at what they were. There was no denying that those achievements were the birth of terrible things. The scars of what those discoveries could and, in some cases, have left on the world could almsot be called vile and haunted the places they marked for years. Each of them created a more violent world... And what "gifts" could each of them have? His own was a terrible power, kept in check by nothing more than thin lenses made of ruby quartz and his -c-
own eyelids. If he ever lost the glasses and was not able to shut his eyes, the devastation that his blasts could cause made his stomach twist into knots. He felt somewhat vindicated in what he had said when Hank and even the Professor spoke about the atomic bomb. It was almost like he was reading his mind. Then, came the talk of politics and public perception. That was an area he was not very skilled in. "I think... that maybe we should introduce ourselves. Not who we are behind our uniforms, but give a little something. Aid more where we can and it is required, even it is just a building evacuation due to a terrible fire, than waiting for a terrorist attack or bomber."
Rogue
Rogue started to shake her head as the opinions started to fly by, seeing that for now Kitty was the only one that was more or less close to her own opinion on the matter, and eventually, like a good warm blooded southern belle… “No!” She said a little loud for a polite conversation “Ah mean, sorry but no, don’t you see it? You’re bein’ short-sighted! That’s exactly what they would want, what the people against mutants would want us to do, doin’ anythin’ at all, but if we do nothin’ and we let them choose, let her choose, we have the chance to make things right, you know? If all goes wrong and they fuck it up only theeen we can be superheroes and save the day, but by doin’ –anythin’- now we are simply givin’ them what they want, ammunition against us, because we are, in their words, above them, unrestrained at the moment, we should just keep an eye out, keep savin’ the day little by little… geee” she said with a roll of her eyes.
“Besides, ok, say we destroy it, what’s next? Then those groups might kidnap the doctor so that she can recreate the formula so… what do we do? We jail the doctor? So that she cannot recreate it? We kill her? An’ then what do we do? The same to those groups so that they cannot try it again? That makes no sense!” she said before folding her arms around her stomach, she did not like any of this, it reminded her of Mystique, she felt frustrated.
The Phoenix
Jean wasn't even thinking about the ..current situation, she was positive but she wanted to achieve ALL angles from the point of people thinking of as heroes, stopping the drug, but also somehow making it seem like they weren't involved. Jean was amazing at lying, performing trickery, it was the horrible aspect of it all was she hated lying. Standing there with her arms crossed she listened back and forth to the group the discussions how they were thinking to go about how to do it. Everything had it's own way of ..folding out, it was here it was going to be one of those things that break the meta. "She has the power to open our genetics and create more of us. When people want to become something more than human they can ask for it. I believe in choice.. I believe those people who want to go through testing will make that choice. No one will unwillingly do this. She doesn't seem like the woman to take people by will. It comes from good people that are evil things sometimes... Not that -
I say the drug itself is evil but the fact that the drug falling into the other mutants hands. The one's who don't mean so well could be terrible. Consider those options. Appearing before the people could help.." Her voice was educated refined on Rogue's terms. "But I believe the drug does need to be stopped. Ruined somehow. Not by our own hands but by something that could get on the inside and quickly. I hate to say it but I believe we have to figure out some way to make it not happen without being noticed." Her eyes glancing away, "I hate putting the woman's work to ..nothing but, what doesn't get into the hands of people who would pay the most for it to make a super army. Seems to be the better op--" Suddenly, she felt the tug.. the urge to just seek the woman.. destroy her completely. "E-Excuse me.." She said softly, she'd rush out of the room to take herself downstairs.. it was there in the Danger room she would be locked away where Phoenix would utterly destroy the walls but it was set up so no escape could happen.
xShadowcatx
Kitty nodded softly as she took in the opinions and rebuttals of the others. Everyone had excellent points. Nonetheless, the Professor seemed sure, they were to show the world to be the X-Men. The superheroes he was training and raising them to be. So, the decision was made then, the Doctor would be asked to destroy her work. [delete]
"Not to bring up more problems, but Rogue is right." she glanced at the southern girl and gave an upnod. "The doctor is a target, as much as her work. If not more. While the work can be destroyed, her mind cannot and she's the one who can figure it out again if needed. If we really decided to wipe it all away, it would need to be wiped from her mind as well. But then again, are we planning to do that for every time this comes up? Wipe the work and possibly mind away for everyone's safety?" [delete]
She took a breath, lofting a brow. "That aside, it could be said that someone would be excellent to be kept near her at all times. If someone were to make a move for her, she can't fall into the wrong hands. Perhaps for an amount of time, we can provide protection for her? Nothing devastating incase something were to happen, but, not to push myself forward here, perhaps I can look after her? If something were to go awry, we literally can't be touched. I can walk her right out of any danger and just keep us from every being snagged. No danger can be caused much, no holes in buildings or crossfire except by those creating the danger. That way it keeps us looking like a neutral protection and less like a side to a battle started using our own powers to fight it. A neutral side, I feel that's prudent for such the occasion."[delete]
"When it comes to the public eye and superheroes…ground control I think is best to start with. Work alongside the police, not in their way. Wrangle up the thieves and leave them to be collected or better, brought into the station. Kittens in trees, that kid stole my bike…earn the people's respect and liking. Besides, I hear that's what is being done in New York so say the papers." Her mention on the webslinger was purposeful. She'd been reading up on the Spiderman himself and found his methods to work. "I feel like he's got the right idea. And while we are a team, that doesn't put us above the smaller things that need attention." -e-
Professor X
Charles attention went to Rogue's outburst and clear passion on the subject, she wasn't refined and holding of proper mannerisms like Jean or Hank and she wasn't disciplined like Scott. Rogue had a strange story and origin that many could understand, if she'd let them in. No one on the X-Men respected individuality and freedom more than Rogue, perhaps that was a given due to her alias. Hank was a library of knowledge and made decisions based on educated guesses. Scott and Jean were two sides of the same coin - forced to carry themselves with rules and discipline less someone else gets critically injured. Kitty was young and still lacked the burden of real responsibility, her powers barely manifested into anything dangerous, from this point Rogue was extraordinarily unique. Burdening responsibility and valuing independence from subjugation. It was at points like this that the burden of mentor fell upon Charles.
"Rogue, sometimes as a leader we have to look over the larger scale of things. Evaluate based on past experience, Doctor Hertz life will be in jeopardy regardless of our decisions, but she is not the sole creator of the research, it required a team of scientists to which she was the leader. Like Einstein, she too is having a moment of consideration to her life's work. Gambit has objected to giving her back the research notes - he believes she is too irresponsible, and she agrees. She is looking to us for our opinion, from one analytical panel to another human tasked with making an important decision. Ultimately it is her choice to listen to our council or reject it. As a team, the X-Men most look at what is for the greater good of humanity."
"While you are right, standing by and waiting to rescue the innocent is what we will do, here we have a rare opportunity to mitigate more lives from being placed further in harms way. A government ruled by the internet, we can all agree would be a bad thing. Announcing that we're involved in this decision could only further perpetuate a worse outcome than simply taking action with the best intentions." He turned his attention to Kitty for a moment. "I will arrange for Doctor Hertz to be protected by my contacts in the Government, I'm sure Moira would have no objections to helping her with a recommendation from me." Xavier's attention then went to Scott, shifting from Mentor to adviser. "Kitty has some good ideas, perhaps Cerebro can monitor the news for breaking crisis and Hank can look into local fundraisers and civic events looking for volunteers."
"Is there anything else anyone would like to discuss before we forget? I will deal with Jean in a moment, I don't want her to feel pressure from her sudden exit, so when you see her try not mentioning her impromptu exit from the meeting."
Cyclops
Scott fell silent and remained so after everyone had finished speaking. In the end, he would support whatever decisions the Professor made. He was the oldest, wisest, and most experienced out of all of them so he felt that they could only question him so much. He had his own ideas, certainly, about how things should be handled and to a point they lined up with what was being said by the Professor either way. When the offer came to bring any final issues up, Scott gave a slight shake of his head before waiting to be dismissed.
Gambit
Gambit rolled down the lane into the the grounds of Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters and parked his bike in it’s usual place. He was dressed casually, a black t-shirt over fitting blue jeans with leather boots and his coat over his shoulders. He carried a small duffle bag in his hand, making his way from the parking area to the doors of the Mansion. His sunglasses had been removed, hanging from the collar of his shirt as he took a look around for Scott or any of the X-men. He’d been given a job, trying to track down the men the group had encountered when they rescued the good doctor and he’d made a bit of headway. Having not asked for a fee in return, it wasn’t a personal objective that drove him, but his way of saying thanks to the men and women who’d let him bunk safely within their walls. Finding none of the older members in sight, Gambit turned and began searching the less crowded areas for his quarry. -e-
Rogue
She did listen to the others, the professor included obviously, but she was just shaking her head, rarely, but it did happen a few times. Seeing as the others just were never really going to agree with her point of view she just rolled her eyes in her most annoying and annoyed way after a “Fine, whateva”. “Ah hope you’re right, because if whatever backfires Ah’m gonna say ‘Ah told you so’” she said while dismissively turning her head to a side, arms still folded around her stomach, yep, she was a bit annoyed. To the professor’s question, she said “nothin’ here Ah guess” there was something but the professor was already aware of it and he had not brought it up so, she figured it was silly to mention it at this moment, maybe on another meeting.
Professor X
"Very well, Scott...I hear a motorcycle outside, if you could check to see if Logan or Gambit has returned?" No doubt Rogue knew the Professor didn't discuss what she brought to his attention, this was an opportunity, but for his own reasons he didn't discuss Jean's condition as that seemed to be his next objective after leaving the conference room now. "Rogue, I want to speak with you, after I'm done talking to Jean." The Professor was also careful not to discuss Cyclops' plans leaving the leader of the X-Men to determine his own course of action. Charles would slip out of the room and roll into an elevator in his wheelchair to go into the danger room to confront Jean.
Charles knew her Phoenix power was becoming more and more out of control, the potential of it bleeding through and worrying the team was Charles and Jean's concern more than anyone else could imagine.
Cyclops
Rising from his chair, Scott reached back and pulled his jacket from around the back of the chair, slipping it on as he checked the inside pocket where he had stashed his visor. He had prepared himself for the moment's departure that may or may not be required when Gambit gave the go for the mission that had been discussed privately between them. With approval from the Professor, it had turned into a waiting game and one that he performed well. Despite wanting to find out about the group has fast as possible, he understood that proper intelligence often took time to gather and it was as much of a waiting game as it was anything else. It was in one of the halls that he encountered Remy, giving the man a nod as his way of greeting him before he got right to it, "Has everything been set up?" Although there was a forwardness to his tone, that came with Scott just being who he was. He never intended to be rude or confrontational, but his up front, stern demeanor did get taken that quite often.
Gambit
As Scott nodded to Gambit, Gambit returned the gesture, raising the bag in answer before opening one of the many doors to find an empty class room. “Dis will do.” It wasn’t a matter of Gambit trusting Scott, or the Professor, or anyone. His situation required that he trust them for the moment regardless. However, certain people had put their trust in Gambit and it was that trust he was protecting. “I can’t give you names, homme’, jus so you know, nature of de business. I open my mouth dey close deres from now on. Gambit put de word out to a few people he trust, dey came through okay.” Opening the bag, he began pulling out a small stack of files, including the blueprints Scott had commissioned for shoppin’ around. “Only two people dey know wid de skill to do dis kind of work in de timeframe you mentioned and one of dem is upstate for five to ten. Dis udda guy, he’s de real deal. -c-
Arms dealer from Syria or Lebanon or somet’in’ got a few safehouses jus about everywhere an mo’ security den I’m use to. All signs point to him for de work. If anyone know de guys you say jumped you, it’ll be him. I can set up a meet, it’ll be quiet an long as we watch our tone business will stay business, but I neva worked wid him, so Gambit don’ know how...forthcomin’ he gone be, no?” -e-
Rogue
“Fine, whateva” another one! They were so lucky to hear two in a row from her today! This one was to the professor though as she was assuming that he was going to give her the bad girl kind of speech or something of the sort. “Ah’m gonna take some fresh air meanwhile, see ya later” she said before unfolding arms, waving a hand and walking gracefully outside of the meeting room. She basically made a beeline, sort of, to the main door and in no time she was outside, in the ample gardens of the mansion. She found herself a nice spot and then just pretty much laid on the grass. She figured that twenty minutes? Or so? Would be enough, maybe half an hour. Eventually, somewhere in between that period of time she started to move to the danger room, where she hoped she would cross paths with the Professor, and hopefully too already done talking with Jean.
It was on the plantation in upper state New Jersey that he arrived to the door step of a white door and a beautiful porch. Dressed in an elegant tuxedo with a dracula-esque cape wrapped around his straight shoulders. He entered the main hall where his 'family' chattered politely in the nearby living room. Once he entered, however; absolute silence took over. His calculated gaze scanned the room. "Clint. Step forward..." Clint would fidget before standing up. "Clint, it is to my understanding that your contact did not come through. I'm sorry to hear this, I'm sure he was dealt with..." Clint shook his head to the Count which prompted Clint to anticipate some kind of backlash from the man. "Is he being kept alive for some reason?" "N-no...We don't know where he is. I lost him in the crowd of people. That man is slippery." The Count would smile and then gesture to one of the men that were just now entering the room. "Slippery has a whole other meaning, Mr. Eel will demonstrate it for you."
Eel would approach Clint and grab the man by the throat - the two-toned patterned man wearing sky blue and amethyst purple would appear silly but, but the colors were intentional as he grabbed everyone's attention upon entry of the room forgoing the entrance of his companions. Eel's hand would wrap around Clint's throat as he began to choke the man, Clint's hand would reach to grab Eel's wrist only to keep slipping as if it were running on thick ice. "P-p-please..." Eel would stare for a moment longer before a blinding flash of light hit everyone in the room and Clint would be burned alive.
Count Nefaria would turn to look among his family from Clint's sizzling body. "I want Gambit found. He is a known criminal, outcast of the Thieves Guild. He has no where to go and no where to be." A man would stand up and speak. "We have searched everywhere for him, he cannot be found." Nefaria took in this information and stroked his goatee slightly. "Scarecrow, take Eel, and the others to New York City...Pick a police station, any, and demand to the media that Gambit surrender to you or you will destroy the entire building. Once they do not comply, move to the next police station, and so on." Eel would attempt to object. "What about the Devil?" Nefaria waved his hand. "I will handle the other 'heroes' of New York. Just do what I told you."
Charles finished speaking with Jean and came to meet Rogue at the entrance from the garden to the door as Rogue went to look for the Professor. Charles began making his way towards the maze on the South lawn. "Come with me, Rogue..." Charles started and no doubt the woman knew what Charles was going to talk about. "Tell me what's bothering you? You seem to be quite passionate about this whole situation. I can't help but think, maybe you're taking this too personally. No one blames you for the gifts you have, Rogue...They can only hold you accountable to how you use them."
Rogue
“Sure” she said as she walked with him, she did not push the wheelchair for she knew he did not like it, he could move it himself. She listened to him “Ah’m not specially passionate about this, Ah’m passionate in general Professor, when Ah think that you’re all makin' a mistake then Ah say it because, well, you wanted to know what we all thought that’s all” she said, creating an awkward silence “There is nothin’ botherin’ me in particular, it’s just that we should let the woman do whateva she wants without givin' advice, you know? Otherwise it just feels wrong” she said, although was she talking? Because that kind of felt like a Carol-morals vibe perhaps, or maybe it was just Rogue’s real point of view after all. “Besides if others want to be like us, why wouldn’t we let them, you’all speak about this might happen this will be bad oooh chaos apocalypses, but we don’t know, we’re not gods, gee”
Charles listened to her words and nodded understanding. "Yes, part of being a team is disagreeing and moving forward together. I'm proud of all of you for handling your disagreements like grown men and women. Part of my job as your friend is to mediate your discussions, allow everyone to express themselves and equally balance the conversation so that everyone has an opportunity to convey how they really feel. If we don't ever speak our minds, then we will never know how to compromise and come to any kind of agreement. And make no mistake, Scott, Jean, and Hank know they don't have the answer...They must make an educated guess to what could go wrong and what could turn to be the best possible scenario."
Mutant-kind is now placed in the public eye for scrutiny, the X-Men are warned that their actions may provoke unintended consequences if they continue to operate in American territory. Cyclops and Marvel Girl clash with Storm and Rogue as to the future of the X-Men. Afraid that the X-Men's actions will be judged as terrorism, the leadership decides to gambit on a publicity stunt that would hopefully make the X-Men and mutants seem less like terrorists and more like people.
Roleplayer's Writing
"Superheroes or terrorists? Since their recent appearance among the population everyone is asking whether these 'X-Men' are the next step in political activism and the freedom movement." Started out the news anchor as he switched to his guest stars. "Brian, what do you make of this?"
"Well, like all new things they sure are flashy! I mean, look at their outfits. Are they a SEAL team, an astronaut team, or are they emergency response? I think it's a cool group and definitely worth watching how events unfold.
"What about their coordination? This wasn't no freak accident that happened at the conference center. These people knew what was going to happen, is there a possibility this is what conspiracy theorists would call a 'fake moon landing' event or is this something else, Cassandra?"
"What's interesting is to see their mannerisms, they don't act like people but they act like a military unit. Their equipment - optic laser beams, lightning beams, power to fly? I would note that the Government has denounced any connection to the X-Men and have stated they do not condone ordinary citizens operating outside the law."
"Andrew, the problem these people face is whether or not they're sanctioned by the Government. If I decided to equip a rocket launcher and fight crime, I will be accountable in the court of law for the destruction of public property. If I were to do the SAME thing and call it political activism, I would be branded a terrorist. These people aren't held accountable to anyone, at this moment, but the authorities are looking to find them. For christ sakes, how hard is it to find a man who's blue skinned and furry?"
Professor X
Charles presented the television panel to the X-Men. "Alright, so we now have the public looking to us as either Superheroes or terrorists. This is expected, but we now need to practice that discipline we've been training for. Having given everyone time to think about what to do with Dr. Hertz research...I'd like to hear anyone's final conclusions on the topic. Do we destroy it or place it into the public domain? Scott...What are your thoughts on the subject?" Charles started with Scott, inevitably Rogue would be next following Scott's opinion, followed by Jean's, then Shadowcat's, with Hank for a final tie breaker should there be one.
Kitty was privileged to the meeting due to interest from Charles seeing the young girl having potential and seeing her as the future of the X-Men's support, Scott could use someone like Kitty to remind him of situations like this; where tough decisions would have to be made during emotional and stressful times. These seeds wouldn't bare to fruit for years to come, but Charles cared about everyone's development and this was apart of her's just as much as it was for everyone else. In the absence of Ororo, Shadowcat was taking up a 'seniors' position at the table giving her room to weigh in on the topic of the week.
Cyclops
Scott listened to the television, his eyes narrowing behind his sunglasses as he watched the screen and listened. It chilled his blood and left him cold in the heart. When he was brought up to speak, Scott let out a sigh, "I believe that calling us terrorists, if it gets to that point, is too strong of a word. At most, what we are facing is being accused of being vigilantes and they do have a point. We are operating without sanction from anyone and we didn't start by stopping purse snatchers and convenience store robberies. We implanted ourselves into a conference, acted like a private security group, and then did open battle with another military grade equipped group of strangers that we still know very little about. I can't blame them for being worried about us. He paused for a moment, arms crossing over his chest, "As for the research, I understand why someone would develope it, but at the same time I... can't help but feel a bit offended by it. I know we're called mutants-c-
because of what happens to us at puberty; the differences in our make up that give us our powers, but I don't agree that we need to be cured. We're different, we can do things that others cannot, but that we're the ones who need to be saved while others with abilities beyond human are praised... Sir that is not right. And I don't think we should apologize for being who we are." His voice remained calm and even as he spoke, but he did speak honestly. They were different than normal humans, but as with any child being born, they did not have a choice in that. Their parents brought them into the world and it was their parents who, for whatever reason, allowed them to have their special abilities. Why was it viewed that they needed to be fixed? Because they were different? The world was filled with different people, all with their own characteristics that made them unique.
"While I understand that there is fear of what we can do and the powers that we have, we didn't choose to have them. We were born with them and we will have to live with it. There are those of us who could live a normal life and no one ever know, but then there are those that will never be able to because of what their mutations are. We cannot predict what we have until we develop our abilities. This research, while I see why it has begun, is too dangerous. The effects it could have on people and the innocents that could be made to suffer in the name of science, genetic exploration, or out of an individuals need for power, greed, or any other countless motivations that would allow them to subject themselves to these experiments are too threatening to be allowed to exist."
Rogue
Rogue was sitting down on a chair with her legs crossed over the knee and her arms behind her back, hand together looking pretty comfortable and relaxed, she had listened to everything though! “Ah gave it some thought and while I don’t wish to anyone my powers… the thin’ is… we will be seen badly regardless of what we do I think becaauseee…. Just think about it, if we destroy it they will say OH they! How they dare do what THEY think is best for US, us meaning non mutants you know” she said with a slight roll of her eyes “An’ if we announce it they will say something like OH they want to turn US into THEM! Or like, it’s a trap! Or… Ah don’t know somethin’ along those lines it doesn’t matter, the point is I don’t think there is a win situation here unless… we let one of them choose, that one being the creator of the formula for example, you know, the doctor, at least that way we will have an easier way and we can say that we never influenced her in any way, you know? If then they say
‘whatever’ then at least our consciousness are like clean you know? It’s not like a cop out, it’s just what feels right, you know? We take a step back, we let her choose with total freedom and we just keep an eye on how the situation evolves”
The Phoenix
Jean was far from the type to assume the worse, sure the situation was bad and made them look kinda of bad but there was always hope! They couldn't be so negative, Charles was right on some things as was scott. Yet, she didn't agree she seen hope in the situation. To understand what was the difference of being born into it and being created. Wouldn't they all want to get along? It was one of those things where Jean just seen the light in everything. Biting into her lower lip she'd not be standing far from Scott. Right next to him actually placed at her proper spot, her arms crossed over one another as her eyes scanned over the screen. "As trying as it may be, they want more people to be like this. Although, unnatural, should we have a right to say what they do with their bodies? Or how they do it?" She said, her eyes glancing to everyone. "I believe... this is something that will get into the wrong hands.. I believe humanity can do something amazing by gaining our abilities but they--
won't know how to use it.. or to cultivate." Jean's voice was educated, prime, hopeful but she was realistic despite her hopeful views. "Therefore, I believe we should keep the drug away from human hands. As hopeful as i would be to see humanity.. go forward with it. I don't think there's enough people who can comprehend that chaos could cause." Jean's green eyes glancing over to Scott. "We shouldn't have to apologize for what we are but we should show them we aren't something to fear. That like every bad human there is a bad mutant. They need to realize not that we are vigilante's or.. terrorists. I'd rather be called a super hero, give them the lighter philosophy. Why not put light into the eyes of the kids? Make a better name for some of our kind." She said, her eyes staring over to Charles. "I agree to putting an end to the testing but I believe we should do it in an approach that will not be noticed. An unfortunate series of events."
xShadowcatx
Kitty's hand bounced the end of her mechanical pencil on the table's surface before her. With each moment increasing the stress and concern, that pencil bounced faster and harder until she it sounded like a jackhammer in her mind and she consciously stopped and set it down flat. Her notebook held indents in the paper where the pencil had given it a good beating and she sighed, chewing her lip and shoving a hand through her chestnut hair. It fell back in soft grace along her shoulders once more and she shook her head gently.
It seemed like everyone was rather engaged in this issue, deeply so. And rightfully so. This issue was promised to become much grander as time went on and she was sure it would become epic one way another. Eyes seemed to fix toward her as if they'd notice her growing fidgety. "I'm sorry, but it sort of feels like a particular quote is perfect for this. We've all been so preoccupied with the thought that we can do something, that we aren't thinking about if we should." She took a breath,
"This doctor has spent her life working hard to achieve something. She's like you and me. She's a human being. Forget mutant, forget, genes. She's a person. She has a family and goals and hopes and dreams. She's put a lot of effort and time and money and research into reaching this amazing acheivemet. And that is what it is, it's an achievement. Now, she is facing a whole lot of scrutiny over what is right and what is wrong and how it should be handled or dealt with.
And in our position, you're right, its' dangerous, it means a lot for us. It can change everything. But then again, Jean is right. If we step in and try to take it away because it's dangerous, we not only robbed this person of their life's hard work, but we are putting ourselves in the place of a government. We are no better than those politicians and lobbyists and men in suits trying to decide if we are terrorists or not.
You want them to think we're terrorists? Sure, take away that research. They'll be sure that it was some terrorist move. If we don't? Maybe it's our terrorist plot to have that research made. We lose either way. On one hand, who cares what they think, if we do good and play as just as possible, that's our mission, right? To use our abilities for good. But deciding what is good and what isn't is the politicians job. So it's a war with the politicians and the government. While the civilians are in the crossfire watching it all about to blow."
Kitty took a steadying breath and stared at the indents on her paper. "The more this thing fuels itself the more ability it has to cause damage. I propose we handle it as politicians and as civilians. We go before the press, hold a press conference to show we aren't afraid of the public, but rather, want to be friendly with them. We state that we were no part of this research, but respect its acheivments and that it is no one's place to either take it or choose how it is used.
We are merely civilians who will do what we think is right and that we are here in the event that something requires our help. We will help damage control." She took a moment to nod, sure of her statement. "We can't control the sandbox or we're just like the corrupted government we already have. And taking steps premptively is the same thing. Scott's right, we didn't start with taking care of petty crimes. We skipped the basics and went for something big. Now we have their attention. So let's show them we are helpful and wise and prudent. Not politicians."
Professor X & Beast(NPC)
Hank would adjust his shirt collar and presented his opinion. "It's to my understanding...Dr. Hertz has given charge of the formula to *us* to decide what fate it deserves. Originally, our job for obtaining it was to convince the Doctor into choosing her decision wisely. As you so pointedly quoted Jurassic Park, Ian Malcolm...That applies to this situation precisely. And to further point out from that movie, Ian further states the difference between Condors and the dinosaurs - *nature* selected the dinosaurs to be extinct." Hank paused to let everyone take in that point. "Nature has selected us to have these gifts. Could they have saved JFK from being assassinated? Could they have stopped Doctor Martin Luther King from the same fate? Possibly. But if the shoe is on the other foot...What if we create another Vladimir Lenin or Francisco Franco? Tyrannical people won't ever stop existing.
It's only a matter of time until someone decides these gifts are a calling that make them a 'God' and deserving of power. You, Charles, have the ability to change free will. Scott, as far as abilities go - your optic blast can do more damage than any missile. Storm can harness 'the power of the God's' and has been revered as such already. I think the natural course of evolution would be best. You could argue that by discovering this knowledge that evolution has already arrived. But like the development of the atomic bomb, perhaps now is not the time to drop that weapon. I think if the Doctor trusts it in our hands, we're better off destroying it."
Charles was proud of their observations and conclusions. Scott, Jean, and Hank were realistic and saw that with devices whether they were iphones or ballistic missile, they were prone to error in judgment and that mutant powers were higher stakes than one missile or a viral internet video...One person could change the life of every mutant ever to exist present and future. Rogue and Kitty saw that there was no winning from this, that it should be given to the population for the decision, they felt that it wasn't their job to make a decision for an entire race of people or either sub races; homosuperior and homosapian, and that all people are equal.
Charles would begin to speak. "I'm sure you all remember my history class regarding World War II, the magnificent man that Albert Einstein was. He was extremely conflicted with his project on working with the atomic bomb. The scientific breakthrough was a proud moment, but given the opportunity to take it away he believed he would've undone that decision. Gambit was brought into this situation by an outside source seeking to steal this information, this would make two separate organizations and attempts at gaining control of this researches power. Dr. Hertz will burden the responsibility of destroying it, we need never be involved in that process.
She is looking to us for our opinion and how this would affect our kind. We'll pass the word for her to destroy it." Turning his attention to the television in the room. "In terms of the publicity, Scott touched on a very good point, people need to see you all in a better light. And as Jean elegantly stated - people need to be inspired by you. To see you as superheroes. I think it's time for the world to see the good men and women that I know you are - my X-Men. I'd like to hear ideas for how we can do that."
Cyclops
There is much that he wanted to say. There was a difference between choosing to get a tattoo and getting a piercing ... even using a drug over choosing to get powers like there. They could tear the body up, leaving it a rack of mush if that is how the mutation took. The lives that could be ruined were incalculable. And as for saying that this was this woman's achievement... The hydrogen bomb, the atomic and nuclear bombs,fuel-air bombs... moabs... they are all people's achievements that they put so much time and energy into, but look at what they were. There was no denying that those achievements were the birth of terrible things. The scars of what those discoveries could and, in some cases, have left on the world could almsot be called vile and haunted the places they marked for years. Each of them created a more violent world... And what "gifts" could each of them have? His own was a terrible power, kept in check by nothing more than thin lenses made of ruby quartz and his -c-
own eyelids. If he ever lost the glasses and was not able to shut his eyes, the devastation that his blasts could cause made his stomach twist into knots. He felt somewhat vindicated in what he had said when Hank and even the Professor spoke about the atomic bomb. It was almost like he was reading his mind. Then, came the talk of politics and public perception. That was an area he was not very skilled in. "I think... that maybe we should introduce ourselves. Not who we are behind our uniforms, but give a little something. Aid more where we can and it is required, even it is just a building evacuation due to a terrible fire, than waiting for a terrorist attack or bomber."
Rogue
Rogue started to shake her head as the opinions started to fly by, seeing that for now Kitty was the only one that was more or less close to her own opinion on the matter, and eventually, like a good warm blooded southern belle… “No!” She said a little loud for a polite conversation “Ah mean, sorry but no, don’t you see it? You’re bein’ short-sighted! That’s exactly what they would want, what the people against mutants would want us to do, doin’ anythin’ at all, but if we do nothin’ and we let them choose, let her choose, we have the chance to make things right, you know? If all goes wrong and they fuck it up only theeen we can be superheroes and save the day, but by doin’ –anythin’- now we are simply givin’ them what they want, ammunition against us, because we are, in their words, above them, unrestrained at the moment, we should just keep an eye out, keep savin’ the day little by little… geee” she said with a roll of her eyes.
“Besides, ok, say we destroy it, what’s next? Then those groups might kidnap the doctor so that she can recreate the formula so… what do we do? We jail the doctor? So that she cannot recreate it? We kill her? An’ then what do we do? The same to those groups so that they cannot try it again? That makes no sense!” she said before folding her arms around her stomach, she did not like any of this, it reminded her of Mystique, she felt frustrated.
The Phoenix
Jean wasn't even thinking about the ..current situation, she was positive but she wanted to achieve ALL angles from the point of people thinking of as heroes, stopping the drug, but also somehow making it seem like they weren't involved. Jean was amazing at lying, performing trickery, it was the horrible aspect of it all was she hated lying. Standing there with her arms crossed she listened back and forth to the group the discussions how they were thinking to go about how to do it. Everything had it's own way of ..folding out, it was here it was going to be one of those things that break the meta. "She has the power to open our genetics and create more of us. When people want to become something more than human they can ask for it. I believe in choice.. I believe those people who want to go through testing will make that choice. No one will unwillingly do this. She doesn't seem like the woman to take people by will. It comes from good people that are evil things sometimes... Not that -
I say the drug itself is evil but the fact that the drug falling into the other mutants hands. The one's who don't mean so well could be terrible. Consider those options. Appearing before the people could help.." Her voice was educated refined on Rogue's terms. "But I believe the drug does need to be stopped. Ruined somehow. Not by our own hands but by something that could get on the inside and quickly. I hate to say it but I believe we have to figure out some way to make it not happen without being noticed." Her eyes glancing away, "I hate putting the woman's work to ..nothing but, what doesn't get into the hands of people who would pay the most for it to make a super army. Seems to be the better op--" Suddenly, she felt the tug.. the urge to just seek the woman.. destroy her completely. "E-Excuse me.." She said softly, she'd rush out of the room to take herself downstairs.. it was there in the Danger room she would be locked away where Phoenix would utterly destroy the walls but it was set up so no escape could happen.
xShadowcatx
Kitty nodded softly as she took in the opinions and rebuttals of the others. Everyone had excellent points. Nonetheless, the Professor seemed sure, they were to show the world to be the X-Men. The superheroes he was training and raising them to be. So, the decision was made then, the Doctor would be asked to destroy her work. [delete]
"Not to bring up more problems, but Rogue is right." she glanced at the southern girl and gave an upnod. "The doctor is a target, as much as her work. If not more. While the work can be destroyed, her mind cannot and she's the one who can figure it out again if needed. If we really decided to wipe it all away, it would need to be wiped from her mind as well. But then again, are we planning to do that for every time this comes up? Wipe the work and possibly mind away for everyone's safety?" [delete]
She took a breath, lofting a brow. "That aside, it could be said that someone would be excellent to be kept near her at all times. If someone were to make a move for her, she can't fall into the wrong hands. Perhaps for an amount of time, we can provide protection for her? Nothing devastating incase something were to happen, but, not to push myself forward here, perhaps I can look after her? If something were to go awry, we literally can't be touched. I can walk her right out of any danger and just keep us from every being snagged. No danger can be caused much, no holes in buildings or crossfire except by those creating the danger. That way it keeps us looking like a neutral protection and less like a side to a battle started using our own powers to fight it. A neutral side, I feel that's prudent for such the occasion."[delete]
"When it comes to the public eye and superheroes…ground control I think is best to start with. Work alongside the police, not in their way. Wrangle up the thieves and leave them to be collected or better, brought into the station. Kittens in trees, that kid stole my bike…earn the people's respect and liking. Besides, I hear that's what is being done in New York so say the papers." Her mention on the webslinger was purposeful. She'd been reading up on the Spiderman himself and found his methods to work. "I feel like he's got the right idea. And while we are a team, that doesn't put us above the smaller things that need attention." -e-
Professor X
Charles attention went to Rogue's outburst and clear passion on the subject, she wasn't refined and holding of proper mannerisms like Jean or Hank and she wasn't disciplined like Scott. Rogue had a strange story and origin that many could understand, if she'd let them in. No one on the X-Men respected individuality and freedom more than Rogue, perhaps that was a given due to her alias. Hank was a library of knowledge and made decisions based on educated guesses. Scott and Jean were two sides of the same coin - forced to carry themselves with rules and discipline less someone else gets critically injured. Kitty was young and still lacked the burden of real responsibility, her powers barely manifested into anything dangerous, from this point Rogue was extraordinarily unique. Burdening responsibility and valuing independence from subjugation. It was at points like this that the burden of mentor fell upon Charles.
"Rogue, sometimes as a leader we have to look over the larger scale of things. Evaluate based on past experience, Doctor Hertz life will be in jeopardy regardless of our decisions, but she is not the sole creator of the research, it required a team of scientists to which she was the leader. Like Einstein, she too is having a moment of consideration to her life's work. Gambit has objected to giving her back the research notes - he believes she is too irresponsible, and she agrees. She is looking to us for our opinion, from one analytical panel to another human tasked with making an important decision. Ultimately it is her choice to listen to our council or reject it. As a team, the X-Men most look at what is for the greater good of humanity."
"While you are right, standing by and waiting to rescue the innocent is what we will do, here we have a rare opportunity to mitigate more lives from being placed further in harms way. A government ruled by the internet, we can all agree would be a bad thing. Announcing that we're involved in this decision could only further perpetuate a worse outcome than simply taking action with the best intentions." He turned his attention to Kitty for a moment. "I will arrange for Doctor Hertz to be protected by my contacts in the Government, I'm sure Moira would have no objections to helping her with a recommendation from me." Xavier's attention then went to Scott, shifting from Mentor to adviser. "Kitty has some good ideas, perhaps Cerebro can monitor the news for breaking crisis and Hank can look into local fundraisers and civic events looking for volunteers."
"Is there anything else anyone would like to discuss before we forget? I will deal with Jean in a moment, I don't want her to feel pressure from her sudden exit, so when you see her try not mentioning her impromptu exit from the meeting."
Cyclops
Scott fell silent and remained so after everyone had finished speaking. In the end, he would support whatever decisions the Professor made. He was the oldest, wisest, and most experienced out of all of them so he felt that they could only question him so much. He had his own ideas, certainly, about how things should be handled and to a point they lined up with what was being said by the Professor either way. When the offer came to bring any final issues up, Scott gave a slight shake of his head before waiting to be dismissed.
Gambit
Gambit rolled down the lane into the the grounds of Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters and parked his bike in it’s usual place. He was dressed casually, a black t-shirt over fitting blue jeans with leather boots and his coat over his shoulders. He carried a small duffle bag in his hand, making his way from the parking area to the doors of the Mansion. His sunglasses had been removed, hanging from the collar of his shirt as he took a look around for Scott or any of the X-men. He’d been given a job, trying to track down the men the group had encountered when they rescued the good doctor and he’d made a bit of headway. Having not asked for a fee in return, it wasn’t a personal objective that drove him, but his way of saying thanks to the men and women who’d let him bunk safely within their walls. Finding none of the older members in sight, Gambit turned and began searching the less crowded areas for his quarry. -e-
Rogue
She did listen to the others, the professor included obviously, but she was just shaking her head, rarely, but it did happen a few times. Seeing as the others just were never really going to agree with her point of view she just rolled her eyes in her most annoying and annoyed way after a “Fine, whateva”. “Ah hope you’re right, because if whatever backfires Ah’m gonna say ‘Ah told you so’” she said while dismissively turning her head to a side, arms still folded around her stomach, yep, she was a bit annoyed. To the professor’s question, she said “nothin’ here Ah guess” there was something but the professor was already aware of it and he had not brought it up so, she figured it was silly to mention it at this moment, maybe on another meeting.
Professor X
"Very well, Scott...I hear a motorcycle outside, if you could check to see if Logan or Gambit has returned?" No doubt Rogue knew the Professor didn't discuss what she brought to his attention, this was an opportunity, but for his own reasons he didn't discuss Jean's condition as that seemed to be his next objective after leaving the conference room now. "Rogue, I want to speak with you, after I'm done talking to Jean." The Professor was also careful not to discuss Cyclops' plans leaving the leader of the X-Men to determine his own course of action. Charles would slip out of the room and roll into an elevator in his wheelchair to go into the danger room to confront Jean.
Charles knew her Phoenix power was becoming more and more out of control, the potential of it bleeding through and worrying the team was Charles and Jean's concern more than anyone else could imagine.
Cyclops
Rising from his chair, Scott reached back and pulled his jacket from around the back of the chair, slipping it on as he checked the inside pocket where he had stashed his visor. He had prepared himself for the moment's departure that may or may not be required when Gambit gave the go for the mission that had been discussed privately between them. With approval from the Professor, it had turned into a waiting game and one that he performed well. Despite wanting to find out about the group has fast as possible, he understood that proper intelligence often took time to gather and it was as much of a waiting game as it was anything else. It was in one of the halls that he encountered Remy, giving the man a nod as his way of greeting him before he got right to it, "Has everything been set up?" Although there was a forwardness to his tone, that came with Scott just being who he was. He never intended to be rude or confrontational, but his up front, stern demeanor did get taken that quite often.
Gambit
As Scott nodded to Gambit, Gambit returned the gesture, raising the bag in answer before opening one of the many doors to find an empty class room. “Dis will do.” It wasn’t a matter of Gambit trusting Scott, or the Professor, or anyone. His situation required that he trust them for the moment regardless. However, certain people had put their trust in Gambit and it was that trust he was protecting. “I can’t give you names, homme’, jus so you know, nature of de business. I open my mouth dey close deres from now on. Gambit put de word out to a few people he trust, dey came through okay.” Opening the bag, he began pulling out a small stack of files, including the blueprints Scott had commissioned for shoppin’ around. “Only two people dey know wid de skill to do dis kind of work in de timeframe you mentioned and one of dem is upstate for five to ten. Dis udda guy, he’s de real deal. -c-
Arms dealer from Syria or Lebanon or somet’in’ got a few safehouses jus about everywhere an mo’ security den I’m use to. All signs point to him for de work. If anyone know de guys you say jumped you, it’ll be him. I can set up a meet, it’ll be quiet an long as we watch our tone business will stay business, but I neva worked wid him, so Gambit don’ know how...forthcomin’ he gone be, no?” -e-
Rogue
“Fine, whateva” another one! They were so lucky to hear two in a row from her today! This one was to the professor though as she was assuming that he was going to give her the bad girl kind of speech or something of the sort. “Ah’m gonna take some fresh air meanwhile, see ya later” she said before unfolding arms, waving a hand and walking gracefully outside of the meeting room. She basically made a beeline, sort of, to the main door and in no time she was outside, in the ample gardens of the mansion. She found herself a nice spot and then just pretty much laid on the grass. She figured that twenty minutes? Or so? Would be enough, maybe half an hour. Eventually, somewhere in between that period of time she started to move to the danger room, where she hoped she would cross paths with the Professor, and hopefully too already done talking with Jean.
It was on the plantation in upper state New Jersey that he arrived to the door step of a white door and a beautiful porch. Dressed in an elegant tuxedo with a dracula-esque cape wrapped around his straight shoulders. He entered the main hall where his 'family' chattered politely in the nearby living room. Once he entered, however; absolute silence took over. His calculated gaze scanned the room. "Clint. Step forward..." Clint would fidget before standing up. "Clint, it is to my understanding that your contact did not come through. I'm sorry to hear this, I'm sure he was dealt with..." Clint shook his head to the Count which prompted Clint to anticipate some kind of backlash from the man. "Is he being kept alive for some reason?" "N-no...We don't know where he is. I lost him in the crowd of people. That man is slippery." The Count would smile and then gesture to one of the men that were just now entering the room. "Slippery has a whole other meaning, Mr. Eel will demonstrate it for you."
Eel would approach Clint and grab the man by the throat - the two-toned patterned man wearing sky blue and amethyst purple would appear silly but, but the colors were intentional as he grabbed everyone's attention upon entry of the room forgoing the entrance of his companions. Eel's hand would wrap around Clint's throat as he began to choke the man, Clint's hand would reach to grab Eel's wrist only to keep slipping as if it were running on thick ice. "P-p-please..." Eel would stare for a moment longer before a blinding flash of light hit everyone in the room and Clint would be burned alive.
Count Nefaria would turn to look among his family from Clint's sizzling body. "I want Gambit found. He is a known criminal, outcast of the Thieves Guild. He has no where to go and no where to be." A man would stand up and speak. "We have searched everywhere for him, he cannot be found." Nefaria took in this information and stroked his goatee slightly. "Scarecrow, take Eel, and the others to New York City...Pick a police station, any, and demand to the media that Gambit surrender to you or you will destroy the entire building. Once they do not comply, move to the next police station, and so on." Eel would attempt to object. "What about the Devil?" Nefaria waved his hand. "I will handle the other 'heroes' of New York. Just do what I told you."
Charles finished speaking with Jean and came to meet Rogue at the entrance from the garden to the door as Rogue went to look for the Professor. Charles began making his way towards the maze on the South lawn. "Come with me, Rogue..." Charles started and no doubt the woman knew what Charles was going to talk about. "Tell me what's bothering you? You seem to be quite passionate about this whole situation. I can't help but think, maybe you're taking this too personally. No one blames you for the gifts you have, Rogue...They can only hold you accountable to how you use them."
Rogue
“Sure” she said as she walked with him, she did not push the wheelchair for she knew he did not like it, he could move it himself. She listened to him “Ah’m not specially passionate about this, Ah’m passionate in general Professor, when Ah think that you’re all makin' a mistake then Ah say it because, well, you wanted to know what we all thought that’s all” she said, creating an awkward silence “There is nothin’ botherin’ me in particular, it’s just that we should let the woman do whateva she wants without givin' advice, you know? Otherwise it just feels wrong” she said, although was she talking? Because that kind of felt like a Carol-morals vibe perhaps, or maybe it was just Rogue’s real point of view after all. “Besides if others want to be like us, why wouldn’t we let them, you’all speak about this might happen this will be bad oooh chaos apocalypses, but we don’t know, we’re not gods, gee”
Charles listened to her words and nodded understanding. "Yes, part of being a team is disagreeing and moving forward together. I'm proud of all of you for handling your disagreements like grown men and women. Part of my job as your friend is to mediate your discussions, allow everyone to express themselves and equally balance the conversation so that everyone has an opportunity to convey how they really feel. If we don't ever speak our minds, then we will never know how to compromise and come to any kind of agreement. And make no mistake, Scott, Jean, and Hank know they don't have the answer...They must make an educated guess to what could go wrong and what could turn to be the best possible scenario."