Before
It was one of the most chaotic battles that the X-Men had ever faced. Their long-time foe Apocalypse had managed to capture twelve of the world's most powerful mutants, in an attempt to channel their powers into a thirteenth, the X-Man Nate Grey. In doing so the diabolical mutant would of not only been the most powerful mutant walking on the planet, he would of gained the ability to alter reality at a whim.
En Sabah Nur's intentions were to inhibit the body of the young Nate Grey but his plans were thwarted in a last minute sacrifice. Nate Grey managed to avoid his fate but another took his place. Escaping his fate it was thought that the battle had been won by the X-Men.
Still something went wrong. Reality has changed, but not into what it should of been. Time has seemingly reversed but it is not as it was. The taint of Apocalypse may not of passed but scars have been made. This 'new' reality has many irregularities within it, many of which have yet to come to light. Though everything appears as it should, it would seem that all is well. However there is at least one person left with a vague feeling that something is different.
Now
Xavier's Institute For Higher Learning
For years, this institution has served a variety of purposes. Over the course of time it has evolved from being a home, to a school, and most recently it served as the base of operations for the mutant heroes known as the X-Men. Now however it was uncertain what lay ahead in the future of this establishment, for it's meaning has far outlived it's purpose. Now it was simply a reminder of a dream that has not only been shattered but was on the verge of being forgotten.
Gathered at the entrance of the mansion were four mutants from all walks of life, whom once all believed in such a coveted dream.
"So, this is it?" The question came from Scott Summers, long-time leader of the X-Men and one of the original students of the former school itself. Having lived his teen years, as well as most of his adult life here at the Institute, he had only recently moved on to begin pursuing a life beyond the dream of Professor Charles Xavier. He had hoped to build that life with the woman standing beside him, his wife Jean Grey-Summers, also an original student and some would argue was once Xavier's prized pupil.
"No, it can't end my friend. Not like this," said Ororo Munroe, the African mutant known as Storm. Though she had come to Xavier's as part of his second class of students, Ororo at the moment was possibly the last to call herself an X-Man. Well, her and the other male gathered amongst them, Logan. Now he was certainly the last person anyone expected to pursue the dream of peaceful coexistence between mutants and humans but Wolverine had proven to be one of the biggest ambassadors of the concept. His reasons may not be as clear as the others but they existed and that was all that mattered.
"Give it up 'Ro, the Professor pretty much told us all we're not needed. You're the only one he seems to be acceptin' at this point, see how long that lasts," Wolverine said with a gruff tone.
"Logan, you're over-reacting," Jean retorted.
"Am I Jean? The old man just pretty much told all the X-Men, everybody whose put their lives on the line time and again for his dream to go fuck themselves! And you think I'm over-reacting?" Wolverine replied, cutting off Jean in a harsher way than he had wanted.
"Logan is right Jean. I don't know, maybe the Professor has just been through to much. As much as I would like to believe he is alright, maybe it's time we all stop dreaming and wake up. Charles has just driven the X-Men away from here and perhaps it's for the best," Scott said with a sombreness in his voice as he looked towards the ground. Staring at the world through his ruby quartz framed glasses, all the former X-Man saw was red, which for the moment possibly left an indication of the future.
"That is why we owe it to the Professor to stay here Scott, at least until we know he is alright. Just think of all he's done for us, we owe him at least that much," Jean said as silence fell over the foursome. None of them knew what to say or wanted to admit that their time as X-Men was up for the foreseeable future even less.
"Orr, what did the Professor say to you about his plans now? Is he going to close up the institute?" Jean asked her friend, breaking the silence.
"From what I understand, he wants to start over. He has asked me to help go through the rosters of our sister teams and reform anew," Storm's words were said with uncertainty as her eyes met Logan’s.
"Startin' over fresh with the kids. With no help from any of us, I tell ya Chuck is a real pistol 'Ro. You might as well take off like the rest of us, let him do this on his own since that's the way he wants to play. Just time for the rest of us to move on," Logan snorted, not out of spite but hurt. He had offered his services to help Xavier rebuild the team, only to get it thrown back in his face.
Jean on the other hand wasn't willing to give up hope. She didn't want to believe that there was nothing they could do about this. Here stood people whom have saved the world at times, yet can't seem to save the legacy which brought them all together.
"Scott, let's talk to the Professor one more time. Try to make him see reason," Jean said with a final plea.
Letting loose a much needed sigh, Cyclops shook his head almost uncertain of what they should do. Finally giving in to his wife, Scott agreed to talk to the Professor one last time.
"Ok, together then."
Inside Xavier's Study
How did it come to this? What started off as a goal with such promise, had now turned into a devastating failure. No...not failure, just a setback. Charles Xavier was not willing to give in to defeat. He has brought in new students before and he would again.
Sitting alone in his office, the mentor to all whom have ever called themselves X-Men looked rugged to say the least. His eyes gave the impression he hadn't slept in days and his face showed that he hasn't shaved in just as long.
Professor Charles Xavier had been many things in his life, one of which was hailing as one of the world's most capable telepaths. At least so it was believed, though Xavier would admit there was a list of others whom had surpassed him for that title.
A knock at the door startled him for a second, as the Professor had believed to have been alone at the moment. His X-Men had all left save for a few and Charles wasn't sure if any would ever return. What made matters even worse, he also wasn't sure he wanted them back.
"Come in," he said as he wheeled himself around to face forward, the sight of four of his former students giving him no reason to change his frown.
"Professor, look. You have meant more to us than you could ever know and all we want is what's best for you. If your feeling ill or if you think this is the end then let us help you like you did for all of us," Scott asked as he became the self appointed spokesman of the group.
"Yes, that is what you would like to believe isn't Scott? All of you would like to think that I was on the verge of recreating an Onslaught, that would be the logical idea would it not?" Charles said as his eyes trailed over all four of them before resting once more on Cyclops.
"My students...My X-Men. I have failed. I've failed myself, my goals and I've failed you. For far to long the X-Men have been driving without a purpose and I am just now realizing it. Even worse, I'm not even sure exactly where I strayed off the path," Xavier's words left a reflection of a man whose spirit was weary.
"Charles, don't you ever think for a second that you've failed us. You've given us the chance to embrace a world that would rather send us to our graves," Jean spoke out.
"Thank you Jean but your words couldn't be further from the truth. You have all put yourselves on the line for a dream. My dream. At least so I believed it to be but it has only been a nightmare for the rest of you. Think of all those we've buried because of this foolish crusade I've forced on you all," Charles said, his voice wavering with each word.
"It's a crusade we all wanted. We made the choice to follow you and I'd sure as hell wouldn't change a thing," Logan said as Xavier looks toward him.
"Charles...if your desire is to reform the X-Men start with us. Allow us to help you," Storm said with a pleading voice.
Looking at all of their faces, Charles Xavier knew that they were sincere in wanting to help but he couldn't allow them to make this choice. No, he had burdened their lives enough and wanted them to experience their own before it was to late.
"The X-Men will stand once more but not with you."
Wolverine, Cyclops, Phoenix and Storm all look at each other with uncertainty as they remain silent for the Professor.
"My stu...no, not students. You are all very much my equals at this point. Though this was not my first option I have decided to bring in another to serve as the headmaster of the Institute. If I am going to start over then I'll need to do it right. I have offered this position to Emma Frost."
Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, Massachusetts Academy
"So what are ye' sayin' Emma. The professor thinks the kids are ready to be X-Men? Is the lad serious?" the Irish accented question came from Sean Cassidy, former X-Man and current co-headmaster of the Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, home of the teenagers known as Generation X.
Sitting on the other side of the desk across from him was his partner, Emma Frost. The sensual blonde was once an enemy of the X-Men and a fierce one at that. Though it can't be said that she's given up her villainous ways, Emma could care less who thought that she had reformed. Love her or Hate her, one can not deny that since she's been teaching the kids of Generation X under Professor Xavier's wishes mind you, she has shown on numerous occasions that the former White Queen has a heart.
"My darling Sean, Charles Xavier and I rarely exchange jokes. So yes, I would have to say that he is deadly serious," Emma responded to her co-headmaster.
"That's not to say that they actually will become X-Men. From what I gather, he was really only interested in Jonothan and Monet. The rest need more teaching. That makes them expendable at best," Emma added with a coolness.
"But look at what we've done for these kids. Aye sure as hell don't think any of them are ready to take that next step. Sure M already thinks she's outlived her schoolin' and Chamber's use over his powers has improved but they're still kids. Surely yeh told him the same," Cassidy said almost with a certainty.
Making eye contact with the former X-Man, Emma remained silent for a second. What she said next would most likely be the hardest to say.
"Sean...Charles has offered the headmaster position at the Institute. He believes that there is a problem with this foolish dream he's been raving on about for years and thinks that there may yet be a solution. However with this 'new beginning' comes changes and well..." Emma paused for a moment unsure how to say this for fear of sounding uncaring.
"Well what woman, speak up." Cassidy demanded, not in the mood to play games with Frost today.
"Well, I'm sorry Sean but apparently, you're not part of the solution."
Xavier's Institute for Higher Learning
"Emma Frost, Charles you can't be serious. I admit what she's done with Generation X has been great but to allow her to operate side by side with the X-Men is asking us all to put our trust into a woman who's repeatedly tried to kill us," Scott said, shocked by the Professor's announcement.
"Emma Frost has more than proven her worth not only to this foundation but to the future of everything we've worked so hard to achieve. I believe that she has reformed, and is a viable asset to me. Now Scott I am not asking for your approval but I will offer one to you. You and Jean have both shared to me that you are interested in starting a family, which is why I can not allow either of you to be apart of this rebuilding stage. It's time you both deserve to share with each other, in taking the next step of your lives," Xavier told him.
"But Charles, surely you do not believe that Emma Frost is the key to rebuilding a new road to follow," Storm said to her former mentor.
"This is not a time to discuss the status quo of Emma Frost. Your dislike for her has blinded you all to the positive aspects of the woman and I refuse to allow this to go any further," Charles said with a note of finality in his voice.
"Heh, positive aspects. Way to think with your head Chuck," Logan muttered slyly as he leant against the far wall.
His eyes darting in Logan's direction for a brief moment, the Professor continued "I have also contacted Bobby Drake, as well as Domino from X-Force. They have answered my call and will be arriving within the coming days. There are others whom I've sent telepathic calls to that at this point are....unclear of whether this is the path for them. However these are other matters entirely," Charles said as he moved around his desk closer towards his former pupils.
"If you will all excuse me, I'd like to have a moment alone with Scott," Charles declared, the other three leaving Cyclops and Professor X alone.
Massachusetts Academy
"Not part of the solution, woman what gives yeh the right to assume you know of Charles Xavier's intents?" an enraged Banshee says as he leant over the desk staring straight into the eyes of Emma Frost.
"Sean, relax. Charles and I both agree that your presence is needed elsewhere. If you think harder, you may realize that there is someone who needs you now more than ever," Emma said with an unwavering voice.
Cassidy continued to glare at the woman until he is suddenly reminded of another. His long-time lover Moira McTaggert, whom at the moment was currently suffering from the Legacy Virus. Though he hated to admit it, Banshee truly wanted to be there for her. His grief over not being able to stand by his love during her most darkest hour had caused him to think irrationally and drink much more than he should.
"Go to Muir Island. Don't worry about the kids Sean, they will be fine. However if you don't face your demons I'm afraid you won't be doing anyone any good," Emma said, trying to reassure her colleague.
"Perhaps I do need to get away..." he trailed off as he became distant, only to quicklyreturn attention back towards Frost.
"But know this. Yeh better stay true to those kids Emma. All of 'em. To Charles too. That's a good man and far too forgiving. Aye seen you do good, so yeh don't have to convince me of nothin'," walking towards the door of the office, Cassidy stopped with his back turned.
"Guess I'll say me goodbyes and let everyone know what's goin' on. Take care of yerself Emma," with that said, Cassidy left Emma alone in her office, to think to herself.
Xavier Institute
As Professor Xavier and Scott Summers were left alone, there was an awkward silence between the two. Choosing to break it, Charles took the initiative to open up.
"Scott, I know you only want what's best and you would hate to think that you were leaving me in a state of distress. This is far from that though. I've watched you grow from a confused boy into a fine young leader. Over the years you have shown a commitment to my dream that not even I have been able to match. The student has truly surpassed the teacher in this case," Charles paused for a moment as he noticed Scott looking towards the ground. Giving himself a moment to collect his thoughts, Charles continued.
"We've dealt with death, deception and loss. Through it all you've remained and persevered where others have faltered. You've never asked to be recognized for this, nor wanted to be treated better than the others. Your nobility knows no limits and have proven to me beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you are truly the greatest X-Man Scott," Finishing, Charles eyes meet Scott's ruby quartz tainted glasses.
"Professor, I've only done what you've taught me to do. Everything I am, I owe to you and for that I am thankful. As for my plans to finally start a family with Jean, I just feel that it's time but I'm not turning my back on you or the X-Me-"
"Scott, stop. I know. As I've said before, I wish only the best for you and Jean. Don't worry we can do this without you. Give Jean my best," Xavier said as he extends his hand to shake Cyclops'.
"Thank you Professor, this means a lot to me," Cyclops said as he returned the handshake before leaving the study.
In another part of the mansion were it's other three inhabitants, all taking up space within the living room.
"So Emma Frost is going to be the new headmaster. Perhaps I should be thinking of taking a leave of absence as well," Storm said with amusement, though her words were fairly true.
"You mean co-headmaster Storm and you better not leave the Professor alone with that woman. Though he does seem to give her a lot more credit than we would think," Jean said as Scott entered the room.
"Well, everything is good. Looks like we'll be leaving now," Scott said as he walked toward Storm, embracing her in a hug, an action followed by Jean as the foursome made their way back to the main entrance. As Storm and Jean walked towards the car, they leave Cyclops and Wolverine the chance to talk for a brief period.
"Well guess I'll be followin your lead Summers," Logan said having already decided to take off himself.
"No Logan, I want you to stay here with Storm and the Professor," Scott said.
"What, why? I already told you how he basically told me to take a flyin' trip. Chuck don't want me here," Logan replied with a fierceness.
"That's why we need you to stay Logan. Look I'm sure he has the best of intentions but we've all seen where that can lead people sometimes. Whether he knows it or not, the Professor needs you here Logan. Should he stray...." Scott paused as he shook his head for a moment, then looking over at his wife.
"Somebody has to keep everyone honest Logan. You're good for that," Scott said with a smile as he made his way to the car with Jean already inside.
As the pair drove off, Storm and Wolverine watched them leave into the sunset, neither sure of what to expect.
"So I take it you're going to leave me as the last one here Logan?" Storm asked, saddened that it's come to this.
"Actually Stormie I think I'll stick around for a little while. Help you out here and there and keep you from goin' postal on Frost," he added with a wink.
"Besides, this is only the beginning."
Author's Note~
Well here it is the unofficial first issue of what I hope to be a long, exciting run.
I know some of you are probably thinking, "Issue #0, the hell is the point," lol, but I felt this was a vital story that needed to be told. It picks up after the events of the "Shattering", but just before the events leading into The Twelve, though as shown that event hasn't necessarily been erased but more or less misplaced so to speak.
However I will say that the whole Wolverine Skrull thing is something that has definitely been changed. Meaning this is the genuine Logan, no worries about a shape shifter or any of that mess.
As for the fate of the kids in Generation X well, let's say that it's time to graduate. The New X-Men team itself hasn't even begun to form, though you can all start making predictions as to who will make the cut.
When coming into this I didn't really want to just use the concept of time reversing to what it was. Actually I thought the idea was pretty neat and decided to play around with it a little bit and it will have an effect throughout my stories in various ways.
As for the issue itself, as I said, I didn't want to just pick up something with out giving a little insight into why what happens from here on out, well. Happens. This wasn't really heavy on any action, but hopefully you were able to bear through the more character heavy scenes, I promise things will speed up, so just stick with me, and enjoy the ride. In fact we're gonna go ahead and fast-forward about a month to be exact, as you'll see Professor Xavier has certainly kept himself busy.
Oh, and here's a solicit for Issue #1.
Next Issue- Well there you have it, this marks the end of an era as some of the more familiar X-Men move on with their lives. So who will be the 'New' X-Men? Find out next issue as a new chapter in the lives of the merry mutants begins, starting with the return of a certain somebody? Well, make that the return of several some bodies, and if you want to know who then you'll just have to stick around and find out...
-Eric Roman 8/4/06