X-23 was no stranger to patience. Her life as an assassin made waiting for the moment to strike second nature to her. One of her past missions had her wait for months undercover until her target was in the optimal position for her to make her move.
However, at this moment, she was feeling something she was unfamiliar with. She was feeling restless.
Her knuckles itched as she could feel her claws just under the skin, ready to spring out and attack her target.
The person of interest. Lay unconscious on the stone tables as six, white clade telepaths probed her mind. Five working against her, one supposedly working with her.
Had this occurred a few months back, X-23's goal would have been clear. Eliminate the threat immediately, without hesitation. Her current state left her vulnerable, and the telepaths were too focused on her to stand in her way. A quick slice to her jugular and a precision stab to the heart and the threat would be over.
But that was the old her. And this wasn't a target. Her name is Jean Grey. A member of the X-Men and one whom they all hold a great deal of affection towards.
More importantly, Ben is determined to save her and orders her to keep Jean safe. So she will guard Jean with her life until told otherwise.
However, Jean's situation was not the only thing that was causing her trepidation.
Ben has been gone for over an hour now. Factoring in his travel speed to the city from this location, along with the likelihood of Ben engaging with Magneto and his Sentinel army. The possibility of his watch timing out is likely. Leaving Ben powerless for five minutes in the middle of a warzone. Without her there to protect him.
That thought filled her with so much anxiety that she'd been pacing the alter room in a large circle.
Water dripping echoed throughout as the ice from Big Chill's battle melted.
The Mutant Clone carefully eyed each of the ice prisons for the Hellfire Club members. Paying extra attention to the frozen form of Selene.
She's the only member of the group that Ben wisely saw utterly freeze, as opposed to the other members who were only encased up to their shoulders. Of everyone in the room, Laura felt she was by far the most dangerous individual present. Just being close to her made the hairs on her neck stand on end.
That still wasn't enough to distract her from her worries. Her thoughts constantly drifted back to Ben and his behaviour.
The entire evening, X-23 had to endure watching her friend constantly second-guess every decision he made.
She's used to seeing him so confident in his actions. Always smiling and carefree. He never doubted himself and always found a way to achieve his goals, even when the situation seemed impossible.
To see him in such a state of self-doubt. She wanted to assure him that he was making the right call. But words like that from her would be meaningless. A mere empty promise. A lie.
The Cloned Mutant was not one for lying. Ben knew that about her, and he would know immediately if she tried.
When it comes to the matter of Time Travel, there's only one person that Ben would listen to. Yet, for some unknown reason, he has not arrived.
A strange occurrence as Ben has boasted about this individual's punctuality in any event that relates to the time stream. For what reason would he not show himself now? Especially when Ben needed him the most.
Another groan from Jean drew Laura's gaze as one of the five young telepaths moved to restrain her.
An automatic response as the girls' eyes were still closed, still in a trance-like state.
The raven-haired mutant quickly eyed each of the five. Each one was working to free the Phoenix Force from Jean. Only Emma was fighting against them. Suppose it takes five of them to be able to match her. Then, by reducing their numbers, Emma will gain the advantage and defeat the rest.
Blades extended from her right hand as she approached the girl close to her, next to Jean's left leg.
She won't aim for anything vital. Just enough to break her concentration and render her unconscious.
X-23 took a few steps towards the girl. Her fist clenched as she pulled back her arm.
"I would advise against that." A masculine voice suddenly spoke from her left.
The Female Mutant quickly jumped to the right, the claws from her other hand extending as she got into a fighting stance.
Standing next to her previous position was a man in his mid-forties, wearing a white lab coat and a pair of goggles hanging around his neck.
This man had just appeared as if from nowhere. She didn't hear him approach, nor did she pick up his scent until he spoke.
It's as though one moment he wasn't there. Then he was.
Having someone get the drop on her felt unnerving for a former assassin.
On the other hand, the man did not seem to be wary of her. Despite her aggressive stance, he did not so much as spare a glance in her direction. Instead, giving his attention to the group of telepaths.
"Attacking a telepath in the midst of a psychic battle would cause more harm to all parties involved. Causing irreparable damage to the mind and Ms Frost and Ms Grey will both need their wits about them before the night is done." The man went on to explain, in the dialect and mannerisms of an upper-class Englishman.
X-23 eyed the stranger from top to bottom, taking note of his height, weight, attire, stance, physical features, and speech. All traits appeared to fit the description of a particular individual that Ben once described to her.
Laura shifted to a neutral stance, returning her claws while keeping her right leg primed on the off chance this was a ruse.
"Professor Paradox?" She asked, tilting her head to the side.
The man finally acknowledged her as his gaze met her. "Ah, wonderful to see you again, Miss Howlett… Or is it still Miss Kinney? Time Travel can make keeping track of events difficult… Have we met?"
From the confusing dialect, erratic behaviour, polite tone and all-around eccentric manner that this Man displayed. There was no further doubt in the Young Mutant's mind that this was the man that Ben described to her.
Relaxing her legs and calmly approaching the now confirmed Paradox. Laura held out her hand to the Time Walker.
"This is our first encounter. A pleasure to meet you. I am Laura Kinney. Codename: X-23, Member of the X-Men and close friend of Ben Tennyson." She said in a calm but abrupt tone, all while holding very heavy eye contact with the Time Traveller.
Paradox grinned with enthusiasm and took the girl's hand without hesitation. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Kinney."
They shook hands for exactly three up and downwards motions before separating. The exact number of times appropriate for a handshake greeting in Laura's eyes. Most people tend to go for either too long or too little, often frustrating the girl. Yet the Professor knew her exact preference. Further confirming that they will encounter each other in the future for Paradox to be already familiar with her preferences. Along with knowing key intimate details about her in the future.
"Would you like a gumball?" Paradox offered, holding a brown paper bag filled with multicoloured candy spheres.
"Yes. Thank you," Laura politely responded. She then reached into the bag and removed a green gumball.
But, before she placed the sphere into her mouth. Laura looked up at the Time traveller with a curious expression.
"Why have you chosen to show up now, Professor?" She asked in a blunt tone. "Ben has been second-guessing himself throughout the evening. From what he has explained, you would appear and offer advice to him during events involving time travel."
"Yet, you have chosen now to show yourself. But before me and not Ben. Why? Ben needs your guidance more than I do. Why would you not help him and put his mind at ease."
A look of guilt fell on the Time Walker's face. Followed by a sigh as he pocketed his paper bag.
"I'm afraid it's not quite simple, Miss Kinney," Paradox explained. "I'm sure Ben has informed you of the certain 'rules' that I must abide by?"
Laura nodded, prompting the Time Traveller to continue.
"Well, those rules are even more restrictive in this universe. Especially in a pivotal moment such as this one."
"What do you mean?" She asked.
"Think of the Timeline like a road, with us being the various vehicles that travel along it. Now, usually, we all travel in one direction on this temporal road. But Time Travellers, like myself, can backtrack on the road and drive down it again. However, if too many vehicles travel over the same section of the road too many times. The foundation is weakened and chipped away. Until it eventually forms…"
"A Pothole." The Young Mutant finished. The metaphor becomes clear to her.
Paradox nodded. "Indeed. This moment in time has far too much traffic. So I am limited in what I can do."
"You still have not answered my question," Laura stated. "Why come to me and not Ben?"
She was aware of the Time Walker's knack for speaking in riddles and vague wording. Yet it still annoyed her that he insisted on dancing around the question.
"Ah. Well, the answer for that is quite simple." Paradox stated, a grin on his face. However, Laura could immediately tell it was false.
"While I am limited. I can bend the rules in a manner to give a little nudge to those that need it." He explained.
X-23 turned her attention to the girls around Jean. "Stopping the Stepford Cuckoos."
"Indeed." Paradox concurred. "A little misstep like that would've made things much harder for Ben."
Like a bolt of lightning, a shock shot through the young mutant. Her actions would have been a hindrance for Ben. The mere notion of such a thing put her in such a state of shock her heart practically stopped beating for one-tenth of a second.
"I-Is there anything else you can do to help Ben?" Laura asked, slightly shaken.
The Time Walker shook his head. "Sadly, I'm afraid this is all I can do at this present moment. You, on the other hand. There is plenty you can do."
Laura looked unsure. What with her recent actions almost being a hindrance to Ben.
Something Professor Paradox noticed as he placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.
Usually, Laura hated being touched by people she didn't know or trust, limited to only Ben and Wolverine. However, when Paradox touched her, she somehow felt a warmth of familiarity with him. It is as if she's interacting with someone she's known for several lifetimes.
"Tell me, Miss Kinney. Do you trust Young Benjamin?"
"Yes." She said without hesitation. "I trust Ben with my life."
A warm smile appeared on the Time Walker's face. "Then be sure to tell him that. His doubt will be his downfall."
He then pulled out his pocket watch again and checked the faceplate. "It would seem my time here is up, for now." He turned to the Young Mutant and flashed her a cheerful smile. "Before I leave. I will give you one last piece of advice."
"What is it?" Laura asked, curious.
"You will want to leave this room in the next 30 seconds." Paradox informed her in a casual tone. "Until next time, my dear Miss Kinney. Cheerio."
A click of his pocket watch and a blue flash illuminated the area, and Professor Paradox vanished from sight.
The Time Walker's sudden bluntness took Laura aback. From everything Ben told her, she was expecting a vague riddle of a future warning.
Suddenly, an orange glow caught the Raven-Haired Mutant's attention as she turned towards the alter to see Jean's body enveloped in psychic flames.
Without a moment of hesitation, Laura bolted towards the chamber door. Using her memory of the mansion's layout, she sprinted down the halls at her top speed, vaulting down a flight of stairs. Then, she burst through the entrance to the dungeon, dashed to the final cell, and dove inside.
The entire mansion violently shook a second later as the stone walls cracked and crumbled around her. The Young Mutant braced herself against the back corner of the cell as a cloud of dust and debris burst into the room. She closed her eyes and held her breath as the dust cloud consumed her.
Late. That is a word the Wielder of the Ultimatrix has heard frequently in his lifetime. The word would often be associated with his arrival at school or handing in homework. Later in his life, that word became synonymous with his dating life.
Over the years, the Young Hero didn't put much consideration to the word as no matter how late he would be, he'd find a way to make up that lost time.
If there were ever a time, he would feel that word's gravity. It would be today.
For today, Ben Tennyson, who was transformed into Commander Comet, was too late to stop the end of the world.
The Ancient Cosmic Entity, the Phoenix Force, has been unleashed upon the world.
True to its name, the entity was a giant bird wreathed in flames. It was about the size of a fully grown Humungousaur, with large wings and a hooked beak. Yellow eyes glowed like a pair of suns as it looked around the area. Finally freed from its prison.
Even at a distance, Commander Comet could feel the energy radiation of the firebird. It was overwhelming. The Alien Avenger could only recall one or two moments where he felt power remotely close to this. Both times, things did not go well for him.
What made the whole ordeal worse was that despite everything he tried to do, he failed to stop the Phoenix from being released. He couldn't save Jean.
"Oh man…." He bowed his head in sorrow. "I'm sorry, Scott. I'm so, so sorry."
He knew exactly what Scott would be feeling at this point. Losing the woman you love, after fighting so hard to get to her, to save her, only to be too late as she's taken from you…
The Shapeshifting Alien could feel the door beginning to open once more.
"No, wait." Cyclops's voice broke through his daze and back into reality.
The One-Eyed mutant stared at the Firebird and raised his right arm to point at it. "Look. In the centre."
Commander Comet followed his gaze. The light the Comic Entity was giving off was intense, but the Alien Avenger's eyes adjusted as he focused on the centre of the Phoenix's chest.
Amidst the intense light of the flames, Commander Comet could make out a dark mass within it.
No. It was five dark masses. Five humanoid, dark masses. They were petite and feminine around adolescents. The Girls. The Stepford Cuckoos.
Emma couldn't stop them. They managed to get the Phoenix Force. Meaning it's out of Jean. But if she's not in the Phoenix, then she must be…
"We have to find her." Cyclops said as if he had read his mind.
"But. The Phoenix?" Commander Comet started to argue. While he was worried about Jean, the giant Flaming Cosmic Bird was by far the more significant issue.
"Jeans had that thing locked inside her for years. She'd know it better than anyone at this point." The One-Eyed Mutant stated with complete assurance.
"Not sure that's how it works." The Alien Avenger thought, but he knew there was no arguing at this point. Plus, there's not much Commander Comet could do while he held Cyclops in his arms.
Plus, Emma might have some knowledge of how to beat the Big Bird. Assuming she's still conscious.
Making his choice, Commander Comet made a beeline to the remains of the mansion.
Fortunately, the Phoenix Force didn't seem interested in them as it turned its attention towards New York. A sharp cry escaped its beak as it beat its massive flaming wings and shot towards the city like a blazing arrow.
Commander Comet quickly activated his communicator. "This is Ben calling all Avengers! The Phoenix is free! I repeat! The Phoenix is free! Last seen heading towards Manhattan. Cyclops and I will head back as soon as we can. Hold out for as long as you can!"
He didn't wait for a response. All he could do was hope his transmission reached the others and they'd have enough time to prepare.
If only he could just drop Cyclops at the mansion and head off to help fight. Without him, the only Avengers that could stand a chance against something like the Phoenix Force are Hulk and Thor. The rest, he's sad to admit, are not in the same league to face off against a cosmic scale being.
He tried to rack his brain for anyone on the X-Men's side of things that could balance out the power. However, he'd only hung out and had the occasional training session with the Mutant team. Therefore, he had no idea how powerful each of them really was. Which only made his anxiety increase.
What the heck was he supposed to do? How could he save everyone?
The questions rattled in the Young Hero's head. He was so lost in his worry that he almost crashed into the ground had Cyclops not snapped him out of it.
"There!" He yelled, pointing to an open area in the ruins.
From what he could make out, it was the remains of the Alter chamber. That was a slight relief to the Alien Avenger, as it looked like the area was mainly untouched. He could clearly see Jean atop the altar and Emma lying on the ground a few feet away from it.
He placed Cyclops on the ground and tapped the dial on his chest, turning back to human.
Cyclops immediately ran to Jean's side. Picking her up in his arms and cradling her. Ben quickly went to Emma and checked on her.
"Jean? Jean! Speak to me, please." Cyclops pleaded.
A moment passed as her eyes fluttered open, and her emerald eye met his ruby visor. A warm, loving smile appeared as she reached up and caressed his cheek.
"Scott." She whispered, almost choking on the words.
The look in her eyes and tone was all he needed to know one crucial fact.
She remembered him.
He leaned his head into her hand as the emotions welled up in his chest. After so long and fighting so hard, they finally found each other.
Jean began to tear up as well, and they started to lightly chuckle and pull each other close, pressing their foreheads against each other. The pair seemed to get lost in each other's eyes, completely oblivious to the rest of the world.
Even Ben seemed to get swept up in the moment until the sound of breath hitching in someone's throat drew his attention as he looked down to see Emma staring at the couple. Her expression is one of sadness and longing.
Ben glanced between her and the couple a few times. Eventually, the coin dropped, and he understood what was going through her mind.
Feeling awkward about the situation. Ben took a step back and decided to take a quick scan of the area. The roof and the entire west-facing wall were demolished entirely, with some of the structure from the upper levels still intact. But the rest of the room seemed to be ok. Rubble had utterly buried the entrance, but the Young Hero mainly focused on the ice.
The frozen prisons that he'd left behind as Ultimate Big Chill all seemed to be still intact. Surprisingly, the intense heat of the Phoenix Force being unleashed didn't automatically vaporise them.
Ben was incredibly thankful that Selene's prison was still intact. Even in her frozen state, he could feel her threatening aura, as if she could just burst out of the prison and grab him.
However, it seemed she was still secure for now, which allowed the Teen to relax a little.
He was just glad Laura was here to keep an eye on them. He didn't want to think what would've happened if they broke out and….
Time stopped as Ben's eyes widened. Laura. Where is Laura?
His head swivelled in a frantic search as he tried to catch a glimpse of the Raven-haired mutant.
But there wasn't any. She was nowhere to be seen.
His heart thundered in his ears as his breathing grew sharp and rapid.
"L-Laura?" He barely croaked out as he forced himself to draw in more air. "LAURA! Laura! Where are you? Answer me! Laura!"
His cries cut through the silence like an adamantium blade. Drawing everyone's attention to him as the Young Avenger searched for his missing friend.
Emma Frost got to her feet, brushed the dust off her white clothes and composed herself. "Benjamin, please calm down. I'm sure X-23 is fine."
Her words fell on deaf ears as Ben continued to scream her name. Panic surged through him as he continued to fail to locate her.
He finally had enough and activated the Ultimatrix, cycling through his aliens until he found the hologram of his best tracker.
Slamming the dial down with a flash of green light transformed the Teen Hero into the Orange Fury beast Wildmutt.
The Dog-like alien roared as he immediately started sniffing the area, looking for even the faintest whiff of Laura's scent.
Wildmutt's heightened senses filled his olfactory receptors with an abundance of different scents. Each one was unique as they flooded his alien nose. The water from the ice did not help as Wildmutt's keen nose could pick up the scents of every member of the Hellfire Club, and the scent of the woods outside only added to the cluster of smells and pheromones he had to filter through.
Suddenly, he found it. It was faint and jumbled in a mixed bag of other scents. But there was no mistaking it. That was Laura's scent. The cluttered mess blew away like a gentle breeze as Wildmutt zeroed in on her scent trail.
It led away from the altar to the far side of the room. The scent was fresh, barely 10 minutes old. Yet the smell didn't grow stronger as he followed it.
Reaching the far side of the chamber, Wildmutt skidded to a halt, and his body tensed up.
Blocking his path was a mountain of debris and rubble. The entrance to the chamber from the hallway had wholly caved in. The Alien Teen could detect the weak scent trail that was able to waft through the gaps in the rubble.
Without missing a beat, Wildmutt taped the dial on his chest and transformed again. A flash of light and Armodrillo stood in his place.
The yellow-armoured alien quickly started pumping his jackhammer elbows and dug into the debris pile. Pulverising the rock and concrete in his way. Wildmutt's senses gave him a vague idea of where the scent originated. With Armodrillo's physiology, each impact of his jackhammers allowed him to send out seismic waves that pulsated through the earth, with the returning vibrations enabling him to map out the area in his mind, like a 3-D map in a video game.
Even better, the vibrations allowed him to pinpoint exactly where she was as he tunnelled towards her at impressive speeds, slowing down only as he got close, not wanting to hurt her with his vibrations or cause more debris to fall on her.
Finally, the Alien Hero got close enough that he just started pulling rubble aside and using his claws to dig through.
"Laura! Laura! Can you hear me?" He called out as he lifted a large concrete slab and tossed it aside.
At first, there was no response. Then, after removing some more debris and kicking up a cloud of dust, the sound of coughing entered Armodrillo's ears.
As the dust settled, the Young Hero's green eyes fell on the dusty form of X-23. Her clothes were slightly tattered, and her entire body was caked in a fine layer of dust. Giving her a rather ghostly appearance, as even her hair appeared grey.
Other than that, she was perfectly fine.
She coughed and heaved a bit more as her eyes blinked open. She lifted her head and looked at the hulking alien before her.
"Ben." She said softly as she pulled herself out of the rubble she was lying in and tried to drag herself towards him.
Armodrillo tapped the dial and turned back into Ben as he rushed to her and tackled her in a hug.
The Young Mutant quickly returned the embrace with equal force, and Ben let out a sigh of relief. The panic he felt from almost losing her evaporated, and he finally felt like he could breathe again.
A pat on his back caused him to lift his head as he backed up a little, still holding his friend as he looked into her eyes.
"I am alright, Ben." She told him bluntly but with a small smile in the corner of her mouth.
Ben chuckled at her attempt to comfort him. "Yeah. I can see that."
He brushed some dust out of Laura's hair to punctuate his statement.
"What happened, Laura?" He asked, his face turning serious. "Why didn't you call me when the Phoenix started breaking free?"
Laura's face went emotionless as she stood up, guiding Ben with her as she gripped his arms.
"I would have. But, there was not enough time. Since I did not know the full capabilities of the Phoenix and the historical record depicts its destructive force, I calculated the best course of action was to evacuate and secure myself in the lower levels in the most secure section of the mansion." She explained clearly.
Looking back, Ben understood her reasoning. She had no way of knowing that the Phoenix Force wouldn't vaporise the entire mansion upon awakening. Even with her healing factor, the Firebird could've burst forth like a nuclear bomb and turned everything to ashes.
It was extremely fortunate for them that it chose to fly straight up and destroy only the sections of the mansion that were in its way.
Ben sighed as he squeezed Laura's hands and gave her a warm smile. "Ok. But please don't scare me like that again."
"I promise," Laura responded as the pair gave each other one more quick hug before the pair started walking back to the alter chamber.
They were just about to enter when the sound of someone yelling, followed by something crashing into a wall, alerted the Teens. They quickly rushed into the room, Laura extending her claws while Ben activated the Ultimatrix.
Upon arrival, they saw Jean using her telekinesis to pin Emma to the wall, as metal rebar coiled around the White Queen's limbs like serpents, restraining her.
The Red Head's eyes burned with fury. "You'll pay for what you've done." She said venomously as she stood from the altar and stomped towards her.
"Woah, Woah, Woah! Jean, stop!" Ben yelled as he rushed into the room, quickly putting himself between the trapped Emma and Jean.
"Get out of my way, Ben," Jean ordered, not breaking her eye contact with this Blonde Telepath. "This has nothing to do with you."
"The whole world is in danger, and she's one of the people who can help save it. This absolutely concerns me."
Jean's eyes narrowed as she glared down at Ben. "You have no idea what she's done. She's the reason this all started!"
The intense aura that surrounded Jean caused Ben to step back reflexively. It seems that Jean is scary when she's mad, with or without the cosmic entity.
However, Ben stood his ground, clenching his fists as he stood defiant to Jean. He heard the sound of rapid steps as Laura appeared by his side. Her arms were in a fighting stance as she bared her fangs at Jean like a wolf. Having her next to him helped him compose himself.
"What Emma did in the past doesn't matter right now. What matters is that she's doing everything she can to help." He then held out his arms to shield Emma from Jean's wrath. A look of shock appeared on Emma's face as she watched the Young Hero.
Jean gritted her teeth as her body shook. "Ben… You have no idea what she did to us!"
Ben glanced back at Emma. He stared into her blue eyes as she bit her lower lip and turned away. The expression of shame and regret plastered on her face as she refused to meet his gaze again.
Letting out a sigh, Ben turned back to Jean. "Yeah, I don't know. But, and I'm sorry to say this. But I really don't care right now."
"Ben!" Cyclops yelled at him, insulted by the Alien Shapeshifters comment.
"The world is on the verge of ending, and I, for one, am not about to waste time arguing about who's on what side." Ben barked at the One-Eyed Mutant. "Sort this Soap Opera drama out AFTER we save the world. Our friends are fighting for their lives right now while we're here arguing. So suck it up, shake hands and focus on what's important."
It was a bit harsh to say that, especially after everything that's happened to the couple. Jean lost a year of her life, while Cyclops sank into a deep depression after Jean and Professor X disappeared after the explosion at the mansion.
An event that clearly affected them personally, and now they have the person responsible for the whole thing right in front of them. Had Ben been in their shoes, he'd probably think the same.
But he wasn't. He's thinking about Carol, Janet, Kitty, Bobby, Peter and all the others who are currently in the path of a destructive cosmic entity. There wasn't time to play nice and be considerate. However, he made a mental note to apologise to Jean and Cyclops when this was over.
"You can't expect me to forgive her after what she did to me. To the Professor. To everyone." Jean said, her fists clenched tightly.
"I'm not asking you to," Ben responded. "But this is bigger than you and her. Whatever issues you have with Emma can be sorted out after we take down the Phoenix."
He lowered his arms and stepped to one side so he could look between the two women. "As it stands, you two know more about the Phoenix than anyone. If anyone can figure out a way to stop it, it's you two."
He was leaning more towards Emma in this regard. But, who knows, maybe the Firebird left some kind of psychic message in Jean's brain that'll tell them exactly how to defeat it?
Jean still looked hesitant, like she wanted to argue more, but she knew the Young Hero was right. The world was more important than her feelings.
She felt Scott's hand on her shoulder, and as she touched it, she felt his warmth. Turning to look at him, she felt his presence and strength, letting her know that things would be okay.
With a sigh, Jean released Emma from her metallic bindings as the White Queen dropped to the ground. Rubbing her wrists and neck, which were sore from the metal bindings.
When her eyes met Jean and Cyclops, the pair shot her a combined look that made the Blonde Telepath flinch. She certainly didn't need her powers to tell what they were thinking. The look Cyclops gave her hurt the most. Punctuated by how he held Jean close to him.
It was almost unbearable to witness.
The sound of Ben clearing his throat, turned their attention to him as he stepped forward. "So? Any ideas on how to stop the Phoenix?"
Emma pondered for a moment. She went over all the information she'd researched about the Ancient Entity.
"The Phoenix Force requires a host to survive. My goal was to remove it from Jean and release it into the atmosphere, where its power will disperse and scatter."
"Ok, so we take out the girls that currently have it," Ben concluded. "Are they like a collective? Take one out, the rest fall kinda deal?"
Emma shook her head. "I'm afraid it's not that simple. The girls may have bonded to the Phoenix Force. As such, the Phoenix will defend its host with everything it has. It is taking the combined psychic might of all five to keep the Phoenix focused on the current task. To remove one from the group would result in the Phoenix running ramped."
"What is their mission?" Laura asked.
"From what I could glean from their minds. Shaw had ordered them to eliminate the Sentinels and the X-Men and then to burn Genoshia to the ground."
Shock was present on everyone's faces. The Sentinels and X-Men were still fighting in New York, and Genoshia was still in shambles after the Sentinel's initial attack. If the Stepford Cuckoos go through with their orders, both islands will be reduced to cinders.
Ben could see the flames, the bodies of those he loved, the glowing…. No!
He shook his head, banishing those thoughts. He won't let that happen. It's not too late.
"I-Is there a way to separate them?" Ben asked, his voice barely containing his trepidation.
Emma seemed hesitant to answer. She turned her head to the side and bit her lower lip.
The air became so tense and heavy that Ben started to have difficulty breathing.
Eventually, Emma raised her head and looked right at Jean. "If Jean goes out there. Nothing would stop the Phoenix from returning to her."
A worried look appeared on Cyclopes face. In contrast, Jean's face remained determined and fearless.
"And if it does. Will that stop it?" The Red Head asked.
"Yes," Emma responded. "For now."
"No, that's not an option." Cyclops stated as he grabbed Jean's shoulder and turned her to face him.
"Scott, it chose me for a reason," Jean replied, her expression determined. "I have to try."
Her tone may have been confident. But Cyclops could feel her trembling in his grip. Every fibre of his being was yelling at him to stop her. He was not about to lose her again. He'd rather die than let that happen.
"Let's make that Plan B," Ben spoke up, stepping into the middle of the group.
"Ben…" Jean started to say before the Alien Hero interrupted her.
"I'm with Scott. I'm not really into the idea of sacrificing Jean."
"Plan 2." Cyclops spoke up, catching Ben's attention.
"Huh?" Ben looked at the One-Eyed Mutant, confused.
"We'll call it Plan 2. Plan B implies we only have 26." He elaborated with a smirk.
The Young Hero took a beat to let those words sink in. Then responded with a cocky grin of his own as the pair nodded in approval.
Ben turned to Emma with a stern look in his eyes. "Think of something else."
Emma shouldn't be surprised. The Alien Shapeshifter's heroic spirit is one of his defining traits. He'd sooner lay down his own life than allow someone else to give up theirs.
However, this time, he would have to make an acceptation.
"I'm sorry, Ben. But this is the best option to end the threat of the Phoenix quickly."
"And I'm saying, think of something else," Ben replied fiercely. "There has to be a way to stop this thing without Jean having to give up her own life."
The Blonde Telepath was taken aback. Her telepathy detected a crack in Ben's mental wall. A pain emanating from within as he stubbornly held onto the hope of a way to ensure everyone's safety.
"What about your original plan?" Ben asked. "Draw out the Phoenix Force and release it into the atmosphere?"
Emma shook her head. "I'm afraid that is no longer an option, Ben. The Phoenix was previously dormant within Jean. Making its extraction a difficult but simpler task. Now, it is awake and enraged. It would be impossible to draw it out while it's in this state."
The Alien Hero gritted his teeth as he started pacing the room. Wracking his brain for a solution.
"If sacrificing Jean is out of the question. Would it be possible to eliminate the current hosts?" Laura suggested.
"Absolutely not!" Emma snapped at her in a very protective tone.
This reaction earned a surprised look from Jean and Cyclops, while Laura gave a suspicious look. Ben only gave a sparing glance in their direction as he continued to pace.
"We're not killing anyone." Ben casually stated.
"What should I classify the Phoenix Force as?" Laura asked.
While she was earnest with her question, the quick response, coupled with her naivety and Ben's built-up nervous energy, resulted in the Teen letting out a small chuckle.
"Touché." He responded with a smirk.
In that brief moment of levity, Ben momentarily forgot about the end of the world, the threat looming over him and the weight crushing him from the very moment he chose to step in and save Jean from the Hellfire Club.
He'd been so scared of messing up that he hadn't been able to focus. A laugh was precisely what he needed to take a break from it all.
Ben looked over to the group as they continued their discussion. He watched as the Firey Red Head and the Chilly Blonde telepaths continued to debate the best course of action.
That's when it hit him.
A grin spread across the Wielder of the Ultimatrix's face as the pieces of his idea fell into place.
"THAT'S IT!" He shouted to the heavens, causing everyone but Laura to jump in surprise as they witnessed Ben running over to them like an excited child.
"What are you talking about, Ben?" Cyclops asked, confused by the Teen's sudden change in attitude.
Ben couldn't wipe the grin off his face as excitement and hope flooded his system like a massive sugar hit.
"Emma's plan. It can still work!" Ben exclaimed, further confusing the older Mutants. Even Laura seemed confused by her friend's statement.
"What makes you think that?" Jean asked. Shooting the White Queen a side eye, still cautious of her motives.
Ben took a deep breath, slowed his mind down to sort out his thoughts properly, and proceeded to explain.
"We can draw out the Phoenix Force and destroy it, just as you planned."
"Are you going to explain how you plan on doing that?" Cyclops asked sceptically.
Ben shot him an exasperated look. "I'm getting to it." He turned to Emma. "You said that you can't draw out the Phoenix 'cause it's going crazy, and the Cuckoos are driving it, right?"
The White Queen nodded. Ben clapped his hands, then clicked his fingers as he jumped to Jean.
"Then we give the Phoenix Force something that'll draw it out."
Laura's eyes widened as she realised what Ben was planning. "You mean…"
"Bingo." He touched his finger to his nose and pointed at her. "We use Jean as bate to draw out the Phoenix Force and then shoot that turkey right into the atmosphere."
The Mutants before him all had looks of scepticism, shock and disbelief.
Cyclops was the first to break the silence. "Ben, we can't put Jean in danger like that."
"Scott." Jean gently gripped Cyclops's arm, making him look at her. "I can't just sit by while people are in danger. The Phoenix chose me. It's my responsibility. I have to go."
The One-Eyed Mutant clenched his jaw as he held Jean's hand. He wanted to stop her. He tried to find the words that would convince her to stay away. But he couldn't. He could see the look in her eyes. It's the same look she had whenever they went on a mission, ever since they were Young Teens who engaged in street brawls with Magneto.
That sense of loyalty and justice. It's the same look he would have had when he led the X-Men on dangerous missions to rescue innocent people. Any choice he would make, she always supported him. Even if the others were against him, Jean would be behind him no matter what.
Suppose she can find the strength to do that for him. He needed to be strong for her.
"Cyk," Ben said, walking up to him. "You once told me that Jean is one of the strongest telepaths you've ever met."
He smirked as his breath hitched in his throat. The words just couldn't form in his mouth.
Jean reached her hand up and placed it against his cheek.
"I know you're scared, Scott. I am, too." She spoke into his mind.
"I can't lose you again, Jean. The past year… I didn't know who I was without you and the Professor." Cyclops admitted, his chest welling up from reliving the pain. "Jean, I was…"
He tried to turn away from her. But Jean held him in place.
"I know, Scott. I'm only just realising how much time I've lost." Her hand migrated to the back of his head as she pulled him close. "But we can make up that time. We have a chance to start again."
The pair locked lips in a passionate kiss. Their feelings were on full display, and they held nothing back.
For those outside the psychic conversation, this sudden PDA caused Ben to avert his eyes while awkwardly scratching the back of his neck. Emma looked a little hot under the collar and slightly envious. As for Laura, she kept the same neutral expression as she patiently waited for them to finish.
When they eventually did part. Jean and Cyclops rested their foreheads together as they held each other's hands.
"But all those people." She said aloud, looking up at him. "We cannot let the Phoenix Force ruin their lives as it did ours."
His lips quivered as his crimson visor stared into Jean's eyes.
"OK." He finally said.
A warm smile spread across Jean's lips as they kissed once more. This time, there was only a quick exchange before looking at the others.
Ben looked up at Scott with a determined expression. "I promise, Scott." He held up the Ultimatrix. "I won't let that thing take Jean."
"How can you be certain you can contain it?" Emma asked, still sceptical about the plan.
A cocky grin appeared on the Teen's face. "Hey, I don't know about the X-Men. But I got the God of Thunder and the Strongest One there is on my team. Plus, I still have a few heavy hitters I can bust out in this watch."
It still sounded like a crazy idea, but with no other options. Though she will admit, this plan does have merit. The combined might of Jean and her telepathic abilities should be enough to extract and destroy the Phoenix Force.
"Very well. I will do what I can to help." Emma stated.
Ben nodded to her, while the other Mutants begrudgingly nodded as well.
"Great. You guys head to the city. I'll go ahead and help fight the Phoenix till you get there." Ben said, activating the Ultimatrix.
Before he could slam down the dial, Emma placed her white-gloved hand over the dial, getting him to look at her.
"Please don't hurt the girls." She telepathically begged him.
Ben could see the intense emotions in her eyes. He gave her an assuring look and nodded.
Smiling, Emma backed away and allowed Ben to transform.
"JETRAY!" The alien cried out and took to the skies.
"You can take my car. But only Laura drives it!" Jetray yelled back at them as he shot into the air.
The city that never sleeps is on fire.
It happened so fast. None of the heroes could prepare for it.
They were in the middle of an engagement between Magento and his Sentinels. When suddenly, Ben's voice broadcasted over their comms. The heat of battle and only a few managed to hear what he was saying.
By the time they managed to convey what the Alien Heroes message was. It was too late.
It came out of nowhere. A Living Inferno shaped like a Bird of Prey. It tore through the Sentinels like tissue paper, reducing them to scraps.
What happened next was nothing short of hell on earth.
Captain America dashed through the streets, an unconscious Black Panther draped over his shoulder as the Super Soldier sprinted through the burning streets.
The King of Wakanda's Vibranium suit was heavily damaged. With several tears and burn marks all across his body. The lower half of his cowl was ripped open, exposing his mouth.
His Vibranium suit offered little protection from the power of the Phoenix.
Captain America sprinted down Liberty Street, leaping over a burning car, heading towards Broadway. He lost track of the others during the initial attack. Fortunately, their ID cards were still active, allowing him to track their signal. He located Black Panther first; now he was heading towards the next signal.
He should be panicking. The city he calls home is on fire, attacked by an unknown enemy he has no idea how to defeat, and his team is scattered with no way of determining if they are alive or dead.
Most people in his position would be curled up on the ground, crying and praying to God. But, not Captain America. Not while his team and his country need him. It doesn't matter if it's a God-like being or even the Devil himself. He will fight on and do his duty.
Rounding the corner, Cap saw the street cratered with several cars on fire and a section of a building collapsed. A large dust cloud had been kicked up from the debris, making visibility difficult.
Fortunately, Captain America wasn't the only one on the lookout for others.
"Cap! Cap! Over here!" the voice of Wasp cried out as the small frame appeared over the debris mound. Waving her arm frantically to ensure the Super Soldier could see her.
Captain America waved back at her in acknowledgement as he rushed over to her. Efficiently scaling the debris pile and reaching her.
"Glad to see you in one piece, Wasp," Cap said as he quickly looked over.
She was a little bruised, with scraps on her arms and legs. Her suit had patches of soot in various places, and there was a little smudge on her right cheek.
Wasp gasped at the sight of Black Panther, but Cap assured her that he was alive. This calmed her down a bit as she turned and pointed to a small café on the corner of the block. The front of the store was destroyed, but it left enough space for the heroes to form a makeshift shelter.
"We gathered as many as we could," Wasp explained as she led them. "I tried giving first aid. But… I just…" Her hands started to shake.
A hand gently rested on her shoulder, grabbing her attention as she turned to see Captain America's warm smile and blue eyes shining like beacons of hope.
"You did what you could. And they're alive because of you."
Wasp sniffed as tears started to form in her eyes. But she quickly composed herself as she walked to the doorway.
"Actually, he did more than I could." She said, pointing inside.
The Super Soldier followed her gaze and saw Beast, Forge, and Shadowcat lying on tablecloths that had been fashioned into improvised beds for them. They had bandages and soaked cloths on their bodies, treating their burn wounds and cuts.
Standing over them is a weary and beat-up Hawkeye. His mask is off, and his bow and quiver are hung off the back of one of the chairs. His suit was scorched, and he had some severe burns and cuts on his body.
Yet the Archer paid no mind to them as he focused all his attention on first aid.
"He's been like this since he carried her inside," Wasp gestured to Shadowcat. Her first night meeting the X-Men in person, she was having trouble remembering the Mutant's names.
"Clint. Cap's here. He found Panther." She said gently, like she was trying to coax a child out from hiding.
Hawkeye didn't even glance in their direction. "Just put him on the cloth. I'll deal with him after I treat her." He said, offhandedly as he ripped some disinfected onto some gauze to wrap up Shadowcat's head.
Captain America was surprised by the Archer's attitude. He turned to Wasp, who looked at him with concern on her face.
The Super Soldier walked into the store, placed Black Panther on the cloth as instructed and turned to his hard-working teammate.
"Those injuries look serious, Hawkeye. You should have them looked at." He suggested.
"I'm good," Hawkeye answered. "They need more attention than me."
Looking down at the unconscious X-Men, Cap could see the victims were in stable condition. The more severe wounds were adequately treated, and the minor ones were cleaned, and there was no sign of discomfort on anyone's part.
Hawkeye managed to administer proper first aid to everyone except himself. His years as a S.H.I.E.L.D. field agent show there's more to his skill set than being the marksman.
But Cap saw a side of the Archer he'd never seen before. It's a behaviour he'd seen many times during the war.
"Clint. You need to sit down."
"I can't, Cap," Hawkeye responded, preparing more gauze. "I need to help them."
"You have. You need to rest now." He said, reaching his hand out and placing it on the Archer's shoulder. "You'll need your strength if you're to…"
"What, Cap!" Hawkeye snapped, recoiling and swatting the Super Soldier's hand away. Finally locking eyes with him. "What the Hell am I supposed to do here!"
Cap could see the fear and panic in Clint's eyes. It's a look he's seen in many young men during the war.
It was disheartening, but he needed to be strong. For Clint's sake and Janet's. Morale was low, and they needed to rally.
"Sit down, Clint. That's an order." He held his gaze as he noticed Hawkeye balling his fist.
The Archer and Super Soldier locked eyes, neither backing down. Then Hawkeye scoffed as he relented and sat down in his chair.
"Not like it matters anyway."
Captain America sighed as he took his shield off his arm, secured it to his back, pulled up a chair, and sat down.
"Every little bit matters, Son." He then gestured to the unconscious X-Men. "Their conditions would be much worse if you didn't step in."
He leaned forward. "But there's more to do, Hawkeye. There are still people that need our help."
Clint sarcastically chuckled as he dropped his head. "Oh, Cap." He chuckled a little more before deeply inhaling, lifting his head and looking the Super Soldier in the eye. "What am I… What can WE possibly do here?"
He then pointed outside to the apocalypse. "Fire literally rained from the sky, the city is lit up like a freaking birthday cake and the thing causing all this is a giant parakeet, MADE OF FIRE!"
With that outburst, Hawkeye clapped his hands over his face and rubbed his temples before removing them and sighing. "How am I supposed to fight that? How is a bow and arrow supposed to fight that?"
He dropped his head into his hands again. Letting his question dangle.
Seeing him like this. Captain America understood all too well. The feeling of being overwhelmed. Like you're an ant in the presence of an elephant. He'd be lying if he didn't feel overwhelmed by this new enemy. The only thing that kept him from falling into that void. Is his duty to his team.
He's the Captain, and right now, his soldier needs him.
"Tell me, Clint. How many targets have you hit since joining the team?"
Hawkeye raised his head with a confused look on his face. "What?"
Cap leaned forward with a compassionate expression.
"How many targets have you hit since you joined the Avengers?" Captain America asked again.
Hawkeye raised an eyebrow at the question but pondered the question regardless.
"Every shot." He answered with stone-cold determination. "I hit every shot."
"And why is that?" The Super Soldier asked, a slight grin on his face.
"Cause I don't miss." Hawkeye snapped at him.
His little grin turned into a full-blown smile. "Exactly."
Captain America stood up, with the Archer's eyes tracking him.
"You see the weakness in your targets and find a way to hit it no matter what. That is what makes you the World's Greatest Marksman." Cap then reached out to the table, picked up his bow, and held it out for him. "The world may end tonight. Would you rather go out doing nothing or die shooting that flaming chicken in the eye?"
Hearing a sentence like that from the Boy Scout's mouth made Hawkeye chuckle. The situation hasn't changed. He knew he had no shot, but with Cap by his side, that suddenly didn't matter.
Yeah, if he's gonna die. He's gonna die fighting.
Standing up, Hawkeye took his bow from the Super Soldier and strapped his quiver on his back.
"Take out one eye? I'll take both out." He smugly quipped.
Captain America nodded in approval as both Men turned to Wasp, who looked relieved by Hawkeye's renewed vigour. He smiled and nodded to her, which only made her tear up, leap at him, and hug him tight. All while grinning ear to ear.
Just then, an explosion sounded outside, grabbing the hero's attention. The trio ran outside to see the Phoenix flying overhead.
The Cosmic Firebird cried out as it spread its wings across the sky.
Hawkeye saw two figures flying towards the Entity and quickly identified them as Carol and Rogue. The two women flew right at the Phoenix Force, their fists cocked back, the former raising her right fist while the latter raised her left.
The pair struck the Phoenix with their enhanced strength, sending out a shockwave upon impact.
However, the Phoenix was utterly unaffected by the attack and unleashed a blast of psychic fire at the pair.
The flames consumed the Kree Hybrid and Mutant Power Siphon, which exploded. Carol fell like a cruise missile and crashed into a nearby building while Rogue crashed into the street like a meteor.
The Southern Belle groaned in pain as she tried to remain conscious.
The Phoenix Force locked onto the downed X-Man and the Five Psychics inside its chest, waved their hands in unison and unleashed a fireball at her.
Rogue could barely see more than three feet in front of her nose at the moment to make any attempt to avoid the incoming fireball.
Suddenly, a shadow appeared before her, and the flames erupted around the figure, dispersing around it, making a dark silhouette.
Shaking her head, the dizziness cleared up as Rogue opened her eyes to see Captain America standing before her. His shield raised in front of him as he blocked the full might of the Phoenix.
The heat of the flames and the force of the blast started to push the Super Soldier back as his boots slid across the ground.
This shield has held up against HYDRA's most potent weapons and even took the full might of Thor's hammer. The shield held firm and protected Captain America each time, with barely a scratch on his body afterwards.
But against the power of the Phoenix Force, Cap could feel his arms going numb from the power acting against him.
He gritted his teeth and tried to push back, only for the tidal force of the flames to blast him off his feet. Sending him flying and crashing on the ground in a heap.
"Cap!" Wasp yelled, running to his side.
She and Hawkeye ran to the Super Soldier's side as Rogue pulled herself to her feet. They all looked up to see the Phoenix Force floating above them, glowing like the sun as the flames danced around its body.
This close, Hawkeye could see the five girls floating inside the flaming entity. Each one was identical to the other, wearing a skin-tight suit with a symbol on their chests that resembled the Phoenix. The girls were arranged in a pentagon formation.
The Five moved in perfect unison as they prepared to attack. The Phoenix responded as it opened its beak to unleash another blast at the Heroes.
Suddenly, something collided with the Phoenix. Striking the Firebird in the head, knocking it off balance as it hurtled across the sky before catching itself.
What hit the Cosmic Being was revealed to be Mjolnir as the mighty hammer flew back to the hand of its Master. Thor, the God of Thunder, had arrived.
Thunder clapped as lighting flashed behind him. The Asgardian Prince floated before the Ancient Firebird.
"Hear me, Phoenix!" Thor announced, his voice booming like the thunder he commands. "I am Thor, Prince of Asgard, God of Thunder! Thou hath unleashed destruction and chaos upon the innocence of this realm."
Lighting crackled around Mjolnir as Thor lifted the mighty hammer above his head. His eyes glowed as power flowed from them. "Know that you have incurred my wrath! For this realm and its people are under my protection!"
Grabbing Mjolnir by the straps, Thor spun the hammer as the wind howled around him. The clouds gathered as the storm answered the Thunderer's call.
The Phoenix Force glared at the Norse God. Its eyes burned with rage as it let out a mighty shriek in response to Thor's decree.
With a beat of its mighty wings, the Living Inferno launched itself at the Thunder God.
"HAVE AT THEE!" Thor roared as he charged straight at the Phoenix Force with all his might.
The two deities clashed in the sky, resulting in a shockwave that threatened to split the heavens as Fire and Lightning collided in a brilliant display of power.
The Mortals below looked on in awe as they watched this clash of titans. The wind whipped them so intensely that it became hard to look at them.
Another clash between the pair resulted in a blast of wind almost knocking them all off their feet.
It took only a few seconds for the winds to calm down slightly, enough for the heroes to open their eyes. Looking up, they could see the battle still raging above them. However, as the shockwaves approached, the winds suddenly grew calm and brushed past them like a gentle breeze.
Rogue smiled as she recognised this sensation. "Took ya a while ta get here, Storm."
The Southern Belle turned to see the Weather Witch glide down to them.
A cold snap, followed by the appearance of an ice ramp, signalled the arrival of Iceman as he slid down his little construct.
"Somebody order some ice?" the Young Mutant quipped with a childish grin.
"We are sorry for the late arrival. Iceman and I had to ensure the citizens in this area of the city were all evacuated." Storm explained.
"Good call," Hawkeye said as he walked past them to the café. "Cause you two can help get these guys out of here."
He pointed inside, and the two new arrivals, and Rogue, looked inside, and their eyes widened. The sight of their friends in such a state caused them to briefly forget about the godly brawl above them as they rushed inside.
"Kitty!" Iceman screamed as he turned his ice body back to human and cradled the Phasing Mutant in his arms. "W-What happened to her? Is she ok?" He asked in a panic. Seeing her in such a state, he could barely contain his emotions.
"She's ok," Wasp assured him. "Hawkeye treated her as best he could."
The Ice Mutant turned his gaze to the Archer, his face showing signs of scepticism.
Hawkeye didn't even react to him as his eyes focused on Kitty. "She's stable. She only has a minor cut on her head. No signs of a concussion, but she should get medical treatment."
Iceman looked relieved but was still concerned seeing Kitty's unconscious form.
While he cared for her, Storm kneeled next to Black Panther and took his hand in hers. Concern was present on her face as she looked over his unconscious form.
Captain America watched the interaction with a raised eyebrow. Before this evening, he wasn't unaware that Black Panther was familiar with any of the X-Men.
An explosion erupted just outside the entrance before he could question the Weather Mutant. Captain America quickly moved to shield everyone, as did Hawkeye, Storm, Rogue and Iceman. Protecting Wasp, Beast, Forge and Shadowcat, respectively.
The heroes looked outside to see the Phoenix Force blast Thor with a powerful stream of cosmic flames. The Asgardian, spinning Mjolnir like a propeller in front of him, blocked the attack like a shield.
Unfortunately, his efforts to shield himself caused stray fireballs to be launched around the city. Resulting in collateral damage far and wide.
Another fireball was sent screaming towards them. This one would hit them directly, and Cap's shield was not big enough to block a blast like this.
Fortunately for the heroes, the giant green form of the Hulk leapt in front of the incoming fireball and, with a mighty punch from his fist, dispersed the flaming projectile in an instant before landing on the ground in front of the café.
The Gamma Giant grunted as he stood up to his full height. Looking over him, the Super Soldier could see several burns all over his body. The scorch marks slowly healed, restoring the Brute to his usual shade of green.
"Stupid Glowing Bird." He grumbled, looking up at the fight. "I'm gonna blow out that candle."
Hulk prepared to jump at the Firebird, only for Wasp to fly before him.
"Hulk, wait!" She cried.
Hulk raised an eyebrow at her. "What?" He asked, confused and frustrated by the Size Changing Heroine's interference.
"We need your help." She said, flying around him.
The Gamma Giant's gaze followed her as she showed him the unconscious victims.
"They're in serious trouble here. We need to get them to safety."
Hulk scoffed as he turned back around. "Take them yourself. I'm not letting Thor have all the fun."
Hawkeye's knuckles turned white from his grip on his bow, and his jaw clenched. Fun. That's what Jade Jaws called all this. Fun?
People are in danger, and the rest of the world will soon follow. Yet he has the gall to treat this like any other fight. He had half a mind to put an arrow right between his eyes for that.
Lucky for him, Captain America stood forward. "Hulk. You're the only one strong and fast enough to get these people to safety. Take them to the Helicarrier. You can reach it easily, get them the medical attention they need and get back here to help fight."
Hulk still seemed hesitant but turned around to face the Super Solider directly. "Worlds gonna end if Big Bird isn't stopped. Be better if I stayed here and stopped it now."
A logical argument. Coming from the Hulk, it's certainly a surprise.
However, Captain America was resolute in his decision. "It's not the planet that makes a world. It's the people in it. That is what we are here to save."
Those words stunned the Hulk, and his grumpy expression evaporated.
The Super Soldier gestured to the injured heroes. "These people need your help. You want to save the world. Start with theirs."
A moment of silence passed between them as Captain America held his gaze, unwavering and strong. Hulk thought about arguing or even ignoring his orders. But he remembered how Cap called him a hero and how Ben believed in him to do the right thing without any hesitation.
Hulk looked up at the café, which had one intact window, and saw Bruce Banner looking back at him.
The Punny Scientist didn't say a single word. Simply giving him a warm smile and nodding.
His expression hardened as the Hulk looked down at the Sentinel of Liberty and nodded, grunting before marching over to the café and scoping up the unconscious heroes.
"Careful." Iceman protested as Hulk's massive hands reached towards Shadowcat. Her body looked very frail in the presence of the Gamma Brutes' powerful appendages.
"Relax, Snowflake. I only smash bad guys." Hulk stated as he gently scooped her up in his arms.
Iceman glared at the Hulk but ultimately let her go. The Hulk carried the wounded out of the little store and proceeded to leap into the sky, heading towards the Helicarrier with great speed.
With the wounded out of harm's way, the remaining heroes could focus on the battle at hand.
Thor raised his hammer to the sky and the clouds rumbled and unleashed multiple bolts of lightning that struck the Phoenix Force, causing it to cry in what they could only hope is pain.
Seeing such a display of power, Wasp couldn't help but feel even smaller than she already was.
"Not that I'm questioning your orders, Cap." She said as she fluttered over to him. "But, don't you think we should've gone with Hulk?"
Captain America did not say anything at first. His eyes locked on the Thor as the Asgardian bravely faced the living inferno alone.
The Super Soldier clenched his fists as if frustrated that he could not do anything to aid his teammate.
"There's still work to do here." He said before turning to the remaining heroes. "We still have men missing in the field. And civilians that are still in harm's way. So far, Thor is holding the line, but he can't keep that up forever alone." He then pointed to the buildings that were currently on fire. "We need to keep those flames from spreading. So far, the damage has been contained in the Financial District, but it won't stay here. We'll form a parameter on Canal Street. Wasp, you take the East side at Coleman Park. Hawkeye, head to the intersection on Bowery. I'll head to Broadway and cover the area there."
With the Super Soldier barking orders for his team. He then turned to the X-Men.
"I don't mean to overstep. But, can we count on your assistance?" He politely asked.
Storm grinned at the Man out of Times chivalry as she stepped forward. "It is I who should be making that request of you, Captain." She said in a very regal tone.
"You and your team have risked much, coming to our aid. Do not feel the need to ask permission before issuing commands."
Cap smiles as he looks to the southern belle first. "Rogue, head to Hudson Street and check on Agent Danvers on the way. I saw her crash in one of the buildings in that direction."
Rogue nodded as Captain America turned his attention to the Windrider. "Storm, you take…"
He paused as Storm held up her hand. "However, Captain. Iceman and I have our own objective."
The Young Mutant's eyes widened as he looked at the Weather Witch confusedly. "We do?"
"Indeed," Storm said to the Ice Mutant as she gestured to the two gods battle above them. "We are going to assist the Prince of Thunder in his endeavour."
For the first time since his powers first manifested, the Young Mutant's blood ran cold. Did she seriously ask him to help fight the most powerful being he has ever seen?
"Huh?" Iceman asked as his jaw hit the floor. "Y-You want me to fight that?"
He pointed to the Phoenix as it blasted a stream of fire that proceeded to slice a building in half like a butcher knife to salami.
Upon seeing that, he gulped and turned back to the Weather Witch. "Are you serious? Storm, I'm the guy who makes ice slides, traps people in a layer of ice and occasionally keeps everyone's drinks cool in the summer. There's no way I can fight that thing."
Iceman started to hyperventilate the more he spoke. "I-I mean, you can take on something like that. You're Storm; you can make a hurricane with a wave of your hand. I'm the guy people look to, to crack a joke."
"Robert!" Storm yelled, snapping the Teenage Mutant from his rambling. She then walked over to him, placed her hands gently on his shoulders and leaned down to look him in the eyes.
"You are so much more capable than you believe. Time and time again, you have exceeded expectations and have gone above and beyond what you are capable of. Remember, you froze a large portion of the ocean to save us from crashing."
"I just froze some water. That's it." Iceman protested.
The African Mutant looked at him with a knowing smile. "Bobby, freezing such a large volume of seawater, with the strength of the currents in the open ocean. That is no small feat. Charles saw great things in you. So does Scott, Logan, Hank and myself. We all believe in you. Now you must believe in yourself."
She stood up as Bobby reflected on her words. He still looked doubtful and scared. Understandable given what they are up against. But she would not be asking him if she wasn't confident in his abilities. She'd known the Young Mutant for many years and knew how powerful he could be if he had more faith in himself.
"Hey, kid." Both Mutants turned to Hawkeye, who called out to Iceman.
"That girl. She's important to you, right?" The Archer asked in a sincere tone.
The Young Mutant quickly figured out he was talking about Kitty.
Slightly embarrassed, he nodded.
Hawkeye then gave the Ice Mutant a stern look. "Then you do this for her. Cause right now, the only thing standing between her and that flaming chicken is you."
Iceman's head immediately snapped up as he locked eyes with the Archer. The two didn't say a word, yet the message was clear. The Young Mutant's expression changed to match the Avenger's as they gave each other a look of determination.
"Ok. Let's do this." Iceman said with confidence.
With a nod of approval, the heroes split up. Each heading towards their designated area.
In the skies above the city. Thor faced his most formidable challenge yet. In all his many millennia, the Prince of Asgard has faced the greatest horrors of the Nine Realms. From the terrible fangs of Fenrir, braving the frigged torment of Niffleheim, to the gargantuan Midgard Serpent. All those trials pale in comparison to the foe he currently faced.
The Phoenix Force was an entity consisting of flames that rivalled the scorching blazes of Muspelheim itself. Its power was unlike anything Thor had previously faced. It was power incarnate.
Thor knew his father Odin once told him that he feared the power that resided in the Midgard Realm. So much so, the All-Father commissioned the Dwarves to fashion a weapon that would be capable of defeating such a power.
Could this be the power his father feared?
It mattered not. This threatened the safety of the Mortals, and by Odin's name, Thor would not allow this creature to bring about Ragnarok. Not while he still breathes.
Charging up lighting within his Hammer, Thor let out a battle cry as he charged at the Mighty Beast. Swinging Mjolnir at full force, aiming for its chest.
He specifically aimed at the five women who reside there. From his observations, the Mortal girls seem to be puppeteering the Phoenix. Whatever spell binds them to the entity, it is clear to him that disrupting their bond is the key to defeating it.
With a mighty swing, Mjolnir was sent straight for the girls.
Only to slam into an invisible force that shielded them. Blocking Mjolnir and sending the mighty weapon flying back.
The invisible shield caught Thor off guard, allowing the Phoenix Force to strike the Asgardian with its flaming talons. The blazing claws scorched Thor's skin with the heat of a thousand suns before tossing the Norse God to the earth below.
The Prince of Thunder hurtled towards the ground at incredible speeds. Bracing himself for impact. Only for the howling winds to become a gentle whisper.
Surprised, Thor opened his eyes and felt the new sensation. The winds surrounding him gently caressed his body and supported every part of his being like a cradle.
A sensation that was not unknown to the God of Thunder. Nay, what surprised him was that he was not commanding these winds. The power he felt was not his own. But he knew to whom they belonged.
Turning around, Thor saw Storm flying towards him. Her eyes glowed as she waved her hands to command the winds that supported him. Every movement, like she conducted a symphony of nature. And the world responded with glee.
Thor couldn't help but grin as he caught himself and flew over to her. "Ho, Storm: Sky Maiden of Midgard. I welcome your presence and am grateful for your assistance." He said, bowing to her.
Storm responded with a curtsy. "The honour is mine, Thor: Prince of Thunder."
"The winds speak highly of you, fair Storm. Twould seem they favour thou more than I in this realm." Thor stated with a warm grin.
Storm chuckled at the Asgardian's compliment. "That is high praise coming from you. But, even if I am favoured by the winds. You are the true master of the Thunder."
"Aye, Fair Maiden. Thou speak the truth. Tis why I must ask for thy aid in this battle. Will thou lend thine strength to my own?"
"Of course. It stands to reason that Storm will answer the call of the Thunderer." She said with a grin. "But I did not come alone."
She gestured to the building below her, where Iceman stood as he awkwardly waved to Thor.
"Hi." He said meekly.
Thor let out a booming laugh as he summoned Mjolnir to his hand and held it aloft. "Then come, fellow Warriors! Onward to battle, where death and glory await!"
"Any chance we can skip the death part?" Iceman asked. But his words fell on deaf ears, and Thor and Storm flew towards the Phoenix, lighting crackling around Thor's hammer and Storm's hands.
The Young Mutant had no choice but to follow them, generating an ice slide as he joined the two Weather Manipulators to face the Living Inferno.