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Krakoa is a beautiful place. It is even more so from Rogue and Gambit’s view; whipping through the air, several hundred feet above it. Luckily, for the one being carried by his armpits, their trip wasn’t a long one. He and all the other non-flying X-Men got used to being flown around this way a long time ago. It just so happened that most of their teammates that possessed the ability of flight happened to be female. Even the manliest men of the bunch put away any sense of emasculation and accepted it for it was – convenient.
“I thought we agreed t’let dis go?”
Despite the speediness of it all – Gambit wasn’t particularly excited about this tryst. At least not anymore. His wife had insinuated it was going to be a short hop to the Green Lagoon for libations of higher quality than lite beer, or Remy’s snooty room-temperature wine. He assumed it’d be followed by a redux of what they missed out on this morning. Nevertheless, Rogue didn’t reveal her true purpose until they were well beyond survivable fall heights.
“We agreed to stop talking ‘bout you and my momma sleepin’ together. Not confrontin’ her about whatever she was up to this mornin’.”
“Mystique probably didn’t have nothin’ else t’do, and got curious, chere…”
“Hun. They live on the other side of the island. Why would she be randomly watching our house before sun-up?”
Gambit had no rebuttal.
“There’s a chance that this is all happenstance and she did have some reason to be on our end, but… shugah, there’s also a fair chance she was fixin’ to kill you.”
“Ha! Better den’ d’likes of her have tried! As you can see, I’m still here.”
“Remy, I know better than anyone that you can handle yourself… but even the best of us can’t stop something we don’t know is comin’.”
“You don’ think murder might be a bit dramatic, though? As much as I don’t want any part of those protocols – what would be d’point? I wouldn’t be gone for long, chere.”
“True… but you’d still be gone.”
Rogue checked her position and banked away from the sun. Finally, their destination had come into a view. The home of Mystique & Destiny was built into the side of a cliff face overlooking an especially angry, active section of the Krakoan sea. A hundred or so feet below lay an uninviting rocky shore littered with sharp sea stacks that jutted out of the violently stirring waters like giant spikes.
On the Eastern side were two grand white doors decorated by carvings laced with gold and silver. It was the only visible way inside… unless you can fly. Instead of politely knocking and undoubtedly not getting an answer – Rogue flew out toward the seaside. There, three levels of accommodations were visible through a pristine wall of glass. All of which were currently lined with heavy black curtains. The sun was on the opposite side, so there wasn’t much light to be had.
On the lowest level was a large open white marble balcony. Borrowing design notes from the front door, the railing and balusters were also etched with silver and gold lines. In the center of the outdoor space was a large live wood dining table. Accompanying it were six equally rustic chairs, the two most majestic ones placed together at the center, while the others were situated side by side on the opposite end.
If it all wasn’t so foreboding, it’d be breathtaking.
“Dis’ place almost fancier den’ the Grand Cardinal Hall of the Stolen Isle, chere…” Gambit looked over the extravagant home as they came in for a landing. “An’ we steal all d’best stuff.”
“Yeah. Forgot you’ve never been. Goin’ down.” Softly, Rogue set her husband down first before bringing her feet in below her and landing in the same manner. Ahead of them were open balcony doors. They could see that the inside was pitch black. “I’m sure someone knows we’re here…”
“Outside of scenery and d’wicked sunsets, this place must get, I’m positive it’s why they got so many windows.” Gambit looked down at the shore below. “Security.”
“How nice. It appears you’re not a complete moron.” Destiny’s unnerving voice echoed from within the darkness of the home followed by the click of her heels. Her golden mask was the first thing that stood out from obscurity. “When my Raven requisitioned its construction, it was partially to ensure only a few would have access, while the unwanted felt… unwanted. Would you like to take a dip, thief?”
Gambit looked surprised. “How d’you even know what I’m looking at?”
“What I know would pop that diminutive mind of yours.”
“Diminutive? That’s rich coming from someone who doesn’t seem to have a wardrobe past stalkings and a cape.”
Rogue lightly touched her husband’s hip.
“Stop it, Irene,” Rogue interjected before it turned into a snark-off. “We didn’t come here for this…”
“And why did you come here, daughter?”
“Don’t play dumb… It doesn’t suit you.”
Destiny stepped out onto the balcony but only went as far as the table. She pulled out one of the two larger chairs and sat crossing her legs. She then clasped her fingers together and rested her hands over her knee. Destiny was so old at the time of her death she couldn’t recall feeling so limber. When Mystique made arrangements to resurrect her, she did so with the body Destiny possessed in her twenties. Though it was disorientating at first, she’d come to appreciate her reclaimed youth.
“I suppose it does not. I assume you are here because of the interaction between her and our lovely son-in-law this morning?”
“You assume right. Did Mystique tell you, or did you know already...?”
“I believe you have the answer to that, dear… however, I am not my wife’s keeper. Your mother comes and goes as she pleases, but I’m certain she’s close by and will join us momentarily.”
This was only the second or third-time Gambit had met his mother-in-law since she had been resurrected. Destiny was killed by Legion, just as Gambit had entered the X-Men’s insane world – so he didn’t quite manage to make her acquaintance the first time around. He doubted he would have liked her much then either. She was far too enigmatic for his taste. Besides, it was obvious she was just as much, if not more, averse to his marriage to Rogue as her wife. Gambit may not have met Destiny until recently, but thanks to her powers of precognition, she saw him coming for years.
“Ya’ know what? You’re about as direct as Mystique.” Gambit huffed and rolled his eyes. “The two of you are perfect for each other. A real match made in… Krakoa.”
“I’m so glad to hear you say that, son.” Mystique’s voice danced from within the darkness behind Destiny. Mystique sauntered onto the balcony and in standard fashion, kept her eyes trained on Gambit like a starving wolf staring down a meal. She stopped at Destiny’s side and placed a hand on her wife’s shoulder. “Having your blessing means the world to us. It truly does.”
“If only d’sentiment were returned, eh?”
“Why don’t you hold your breath? I’m sure it’ll come any day now, thief.”
“The two of you keep repeating that like murderer-terrorist is a nobler pursuit or somethin’.”
“Momma – Mystique… I was hoping you’d be around.” Rogue spoke up, again stopping what would have inevitably turned into a shouting match or worse knowing those two.
“My dear, you know you’re welcome in our home any time. There’s even a room waiting for you…” Mystique had momentarily shifted her focus to Rogue, but quickly returned it to Gambit “When you’re ready, that is.”
“Thanks, but…” Rogue reached out and took her husband’s hand firmly into her own, lacing her fingers in between his. “I doubt it’d ever be necessary.”
The symbolic gesture visibly disturbed Mystique. She shook her head, winced, and groaned in disgust. “I’m guessing you didn’t come out here to do that. You’d best get on with it before I get sick.”
“Fine. We will. Why’d you follow Remy up to Storm’s this mornin’?”
Mystique shrugged. “What can I say? I was worried about the young man walking around all alone…” Mystique finally pulled out the chair adjacent to Destiny’s and sat. Leaning on the right armrest, she continued “Just wanted to make sure your husband, made it where he was headed, safe and sound… remind me Remy, where was that, again?”
“She already knows. Told her everything. So, you can shove all dat’ nonsense up where ever you hide dat’ gun.”
“Why, that was rude.” Mystique gave a mocking pout, followed by a dangerous grin. “Are you all out of compliments about my butt, already?”
Even though Destiny’s face was concealed behind her mask, it was clear that Mystique’s comment caught her by surprise. A rare occurrence for a precog of her order. “Raven?”
“What?” Rogue shared in the same bewilderment as her foster mother. “What does that even mean?”
“Oh, he didn’t share that part, did he?” Mystique teased.
“Nothing, chere…” Gambit shook his head trying not to let the annoyance he was feeling show on his face. He slightly scowled as he felt Rogue’s grip tighten a bit. “Just ya’ mom being ya mom an’ sowing chaos, as usual.”
“Come now, son. Don’t you want to share? What was it you said?”
“Chere, it was more of a threat, den’ a compliment.” Gambit tried to reassure his wife.
“Oh, come now, it was really quite flattering…” Mystique switched her posture. She leaned in towards her wife and placed her right hand on top of Destiny’s followed by a couple of subtle reassuring pats. “I believe he said my ass was ‘well-maintained’. Was that it, Remy? So glad you appreciate it, son. Now that I know you’ve been peaking, I’ll -”
“Go-to-hell, Mystique…” Gambit sang interrupting her while attempting to free himself from Rogue’s death to no avail.
“Whatever – I don’t even wanna get into that… right now.” Rogue said cutting her eyes up to Gambit guaranteeing it would be gotten into some time soon. At this point, she was actively fighting off exasperation that threatened to overwhelm her good judgment. “This morning, you were planning on doing something to Remy, weren’t you?”
“Now why would you think that, dear?”
“Other than the fact we don’t live all that close – from what my husband here tells me, you were pretty well armed for being on the home front.”
“Darling, I go grocery shopping with those.” Mystique shrugged. “And these days getting anything off-island is like smuggling. Sometimes a custom .44 Magnum Colt Anaconda with a times-four scope and an IR beam comes in handy.”
“Cut the crap, Mystique. You were going to try to kill him, weren’t you?”
“No, I was not...” Mystique purposely fidgeted and peered around to feign coyness. “Well, not at first anyway.”
“Raven…” Destiny cautioned. “Perhaps you’ve said enough.”
Mystique smiled at Destiny, rubbed her thigh, and then stood from her chair. She placed both of her hands on the table and leaned forward with a mischievous, almost flirtatious smile. “Originally, I intended to visit you, Rogue. There were – are a few things I wanted to talk about. Things that your mother and I believe you should be made aware of. But when I saw your husband by himself… it was hard to pass up.”
“Chere, can I just-” Gambit pulled two cards from behind him and charged them. “I’ll make it quick – promise.”
“Remy LeBeau put those things away.” Rogue reasoned.
“Yes, Remy…” Mystique didn’t flinch a millimeter. “Do as your told and put them away. I’d threaten to spank you, but now I think you’d enjoy it.”
“Babe, s'il vous plaît… jus’ one, den’?” Gambit’s eyes were begging.
Rogue didn’t bother to justify the request with an answer. Gambit got the message and tossed the glowing cards over his shoulder. Before they made contact with anything, they harmlessly disintegrated and were carried off by the wind.
“All in all, dear, I simply needed him out of the way…” Mystique continued to explain herself. “I figured a quick death, followed by an expedited resurrection amounted to impersonating one of his guild groupies and summing him somewhere. Tomayto, tomahto.”
“You can’t be serious…” Rogue was horrified at the callousness in Mystique’s voice.
“I’m pretty sure she is, chere.” Gambit took on a slightly defensive stance. All of a sudden, he wasn’t sure this whole thing wasn’t an elaborate trap. He could tell that he wasn’t the only one feeling the tension rise. If Rogue didn’t want to be moved by someone of Gambit’s strength – much like the Juggernaut – she wouldn’t budge a centimeter. Yet, they were still holding hands. The micro-adjustment to his stance meant she’d have to allow at least some movement. The fact that she did, meant that they were both on the same page.
So, what’s it gon be? Power dampeners? Fentanyl gas grenade? We jumpin’ over the rail or just goin’ straight up? Maybe she got a telepath in her pocket? Maybe I should put up that red-triangle thing the Professor taught us a while back? Never found much use of dat’, though…
“What?” Mystique was tracking them. She wasn’t concerned. Making people tense was a hobby of hers. She’d rather they’d be tight and paranoid. She and Gambit at least had that much in common. Not that she was planning on attacking them. But it didn’t make it any less fun to screw with her son-in-law.
“Give me a break. I didn’t do it. That should afford me some credit, shouldn’t it?”
“The fact that you can joke about murdering my husband on a whim doesn’t exactly get you a gold star in my book, Mystique.” Rogue said through half-gritted teeth. “What’s so important that you thought this crazy @#@$# was even necessary?”
Destiny uncrossed her legs and stood. “We should wait a bit longer for that...”
She had been quiet throughout most of the conversation. She’d been gone a long time and understood that there was much bad blood between her two girls. Though she had no intention of feigning approval of Gambit – she didn’t want to alienate her foster daughter any more than she had already by further publicly backing Mystique’s sentiments. “The last guest should be here soon.”
“Guest…?” Remy muttered with a suspiciously raised brow. He and his wife exchanged looks, both readying to bug out or fight at a moment’s notice.
“Momma, Irene… what’re you two plannin’?”
“Oh, calm down, Rogue.” Mystique waved a dismissive hand. It made them jump somewhat. “Stop being so dramatic. You are both perfectly safe. If wanted someone dead, I could have plucked your husband out of the air long before you got here.”
“So, you were looking at us through a scope?” Gambit’s eyes narrowed.
“It’s not uncommon for me, I assure you…” Mystique smirked. “Don’t you go feeling special, now, sonny-boy”
“Ok, Remy – we’re leavin’ before this-”
Rogue’s words were cut short by a flash of purple light that suddenly off between herself, Gambit, and the table Destiny and Mystique occupied. It was almost immediately followed by a near-sickening billow of sulfur smoke. The strong winds flowing around them promptly carried the haze out to sea. Left behind was the fuzzy visage of Kurt Wagner, the Nightcrawler – Rogue’s foster brother and Mystique’s son. As unexpected of an entrance as it was, they were all surprised still – Kurt didn’t arrive alone. At his side, holding his three-fingered right hand was a peculiar-looking young lady.
She was clad in a form-fitting white and blue outfit that left small portions of her amber skin exposed along her legs and arms. Her exotically enchanting face was adorned with distinctive, possibly tribal markings. Her eyes, luminously yellow as her companion and just as menacing as Mystique’, skillfully scanned her surroundings taking account of every person and detail.
It was obvious that she was of Krakoa’s sister nation, Arrako. They all had an undeniable edge to them. Always just as ready to fight to the death as they are to see another day. If nothing else, they all shared that trait. As well as a distinct lack of social skills. Aversely, despite his devilish appearance, that’s not something Nightcrawler had ever struggled with.
“Guten Tag, mother, Irene…” Kurt said cheerfully. He’d appeared facing Mystique and Irene. It wasn’t until his companion turned to look behind them did he notice the presence of Rogue and Gambit. “Oh, Rogue! Gambit, mein Freund! I didn’t expect to see the two of you! Vhat’ a pleasant surprise!”
Kurt released his companion’s hand and went to greet his sister and brother-in-law. He wrapped one arm around each of their necks and pulled them in close. But it wasn’t without cause. He turned to whisper into Rogue’s ear. “Vhy are ve here…? Are you ok?”
Rogue kept the subterfuge going by returning his embrace with a hug of her own before replying in the same manner. “Not sure. We’re fine. Mystique claims she has somethin’ to talk bout’… but she also confessed to premeditated murder just a moment before you arrived.”
“So, business as usual, then…”
“If you two are done chatting, I’d love to make the acquaintance of this lovely young mutant you’ve brought along...” Mystique interjected with an air of sarcasm and fake enthusiasm.
Kurt released the two and cleared his throat. He returned to his friend’s side and with her turned slightly to the left, so they’d be facing all in attendance. “Yes. This is Zsen. Weaponless Zsen, of Arrako. Zsen, this is Mystique, my mother, and her wife, Irene. Both also members of the Quiet Council…” Kurt motioned toward the table and then to the left. “And this is my sister, Rogue, and her husband, Remy.”
“Lovely.” Mystique flashed a thin smile. “And she’s here, because…?”
“Vell, I’m her chaperon of sorts vhile she’s visiting Krakoa. I didn’t think it ‘vas appropriate to leave her, nor did I believe it’d be a problem if she accompanied me.” Kurt explained looking a bit annoyed. “But if it is, ve vill go…”
“Nonsense. I’ve come to… appreciate the core values of our Arrakii brethren.” Mystique spoke while studying Zsen. “If you trust her… She’s more than welcome to stay, Kurt. Zsen, I trust my son has kept you occupied while you’ve been in his company?”
Mystique’s patented smirk did not sit well with Zsen. In Arrakii culture such a look was often a prelude to a stab in the back or worse, depending on the opponent. She didn’t know anything about Mystique, but she knew when she was in the presence of a predator. Luckily, she was introduced to her as Kirk’s mother and a dignitary of an allied nation. Zsen decided it best to suspend her uncertainty and attempt diplomacy.
“If by occupied you mean sex, then yes...” Zsen announced, without even a morsel of humility or subtlety. She turned to Nightcrawler as if seeking validation of her statement. “We have been engaging in much of that.”
Never one to brag about his sexual exploits, Kurt was caught off guard by the sudden confession.
“I… uh, yes, umm… ve have been-”
“Well, good for you, son!” Mystique almost laughed. “And here I thought you’re ‘make more mutants’ suggestion was just a joke. Who would have thought you’d be leading the charge, personally?”
“Not bad, bro.”
“Remy.” Rogue elbowed Gambit in his side. She felt mortified for her Kurt. Unlike Gambit, she didn’t think it was amusing.
As a full-time mutant looking, mutant, and a former circus performer – Kurt had gotten used to being stared at. However, it was rare that it was on the grounds of his sex life. No less in front of his mother and little sister.
“Weaponless Zsen…” Mystique began. “If I’m not mistaken Arrakii refer to their mutant powers as weapons. Am I to assume your lovely exterior is your only gift?”
“Mother-”
“Not at all, Counselor…” Zsen interrupted Kurt. She may be less experienced in foreign relations and navigating taboo subject matter – but she was far from a fool. Zsen sensed the tension in the air the moment she and Nightcrawler arrived. Determining the source was easy enough.
“However, my gift, as you call it, aids me not in battle. So, it cannot be considered a weapon, thus I was aptly titled.”
“Is that so…?”
Mystique wasn’t simply getting to know Zsen. She was sizing her up. And not making a secret of it either. Perhaps it was having a competing femme fatale in her presence, or maybe Mystique felt a measure of jealousy? She knew Kurt wasn’t a complete monk, but she’d never had a firsthand experience with a woman he was romantically linked to. It was a level of intimacy she had never shared with her son. “If I could be so bold, might I ask what your gift is?”
“The truth… I paint the truth.” Zsen words were utterly unemotional, but they hit at least two people in attendance like a sack of bricks. Mystique winced as if she’d been slapped in the face.
“Excuse me, dear?”
“Ha! You know the truth, don’t ya, Mystique?” Gambit was visibly enjoying someone else putting his mother-in-law on the back foot. “It’s like cyanide to you, ain’t it?”
Zsen glanced at Gambit and then returned her attention to Mystique. “I do not know of this… cy-a-nide? I see through deception. The deception of others, or even the deception in ourselves. As I said… it is a useless talent.”
“Don’t sell yourself short, petite. Seeing through people’s bull is something that’d be invaluable in all sorts of situations.” Gambit offered a friendly smile. Weaponless Zsen did not reciprocate.
“As if you have the highroad on the subject, thief.” Mystique hissed at Gambit, again, giving that last word much emphasis.
Rogue had had about enough of that. Finally releasing her husband’s hand she stomped over to the table and slammed her hands on top of it. Not enough to damage it, but with the right amount of force to ensure her two mothers understood she meant business.
“I’m getting a little tired of the two of you insulting mah husband. Or trying to, at least. Neither of us is ashamed of the name and last I checked the Brotherhood helped themselves to other people’s belongings more than once back in my day.”
“A challenge?” Weaponless Zsen all of a sudden wasn’t so weaponless. A curved blade leaped out of her right arm like a spring-loaded pocket knife. Up until that point, she’d been mostly docile – content with feeling out the situation and analyzing body language. However, Rogue’s unexpected act of defiance was hostile enough to finally set her off.
“Nein!” Nightcrawler quickly and carefully put his hands on Zsen’s shoulders and backed her away from the group “No challenge, Zsen, just family.”
“Indeed...” Destiny spoke. “Why do we not try this again, when it is just family present?”
“What’s the problem, ol’girl?” Gambit was opening and closing his hand, still trying to coax blood flow back through it. “Don’ want t’talk around a living lie detector?”
Mystique touched her wife’s shoulder and nodded.
“No, Irene. It’s fine. We can talk freely. The Arrakii aren’t known for having loose lips. Besides…” she looked at Nightcrawler who had just convinced Zsen to withdraw her blade, and then back to Rogue still directly across from her. “We’ve got nothing to hide.”
“Well then…” Rogue crossed her arms across her chest. “Out with it.”
The century-old mutant shapeshifter sighed, straightened her posture, and pulled on her clean ivory dress to smooth out any potential wrinkles. “This land will soon be left in ruin. Burned to ashes and every mutant man, woman, and child on this island will be nothing but memories. Simply put… Krakoa is going to die.”
To be continued...