Back to Gatefold#31 - "Different Avenues of Wisdom - Part II"
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Looking up into the sky, Magneto and everyone else saw a large square shaped portal open up. Seven individuals fell through the portal and landed on stage with Magneto and Iman Madras. Blistik stepped ahead of all his teammates and pointed his staff at Magneto.
“Abyss has deemed you worthy for death and we’re here to deliver his sentence.”
“Then you have been sent on a fool’s errand boy!” Magneto roared as he knocked all his would-be attackers to the ground with a magnetic shockwave. Looking to Madras, he commanded, “Get the others to safety!”
Madras nodded and began to huddle the various Lichtenbad diplomats off of the stage. He looked back at Magneto and saw the torrent of magnetic energies that were swirling around his body and he was in awe of the mutant leader. His power was truly a terrifying one.
“We came plenty prepared for the power that one such as yourself would possess,” Massacre yelled as he charged forward and slammed himself into Magneto’s shield.
“You must truly be a fool to think your brutish behavior would have any effect against me,” Magneto laughed as he lifted Massacre into the air and flung him away at sub-sonic speeds.
“You were the fool this day Magneto,” Lynx said as she attached a tiny circular metal plate to Magneto’s magnetic shield. She had taken the time to slink her way up to Magnus’ shield while he was busy with Massacre.
“Child you play with powers you can’t comp—ARGHH!!” Magneto screamed as his own magnetic energies were turned against him. His hairs stood on end and his body convulsed as the energies ripped through him. It wasn’t long before he fell to his knees in a desperate attempt to regain control of his own abilities. The attempt proved futile as he eventually succumbed to the attack and was laid out cold on the wooden stage.
Lynx smiled as she crawled over to Magneto and tapped his shoulder to make sure he was down. Looking up at her compatriots with pride she said, “I think Abyss’ device worked.”
“Of course it worked child. Abyss would never fail us,” Firefist proclaimed with the fervor of a southern Baptist minister.
“Do you think Massacre’s okay?” Lace asked as she flew up into the air to see if she could see any impact areas where Massacre might have landed.
Leather called out to her lover, “Give it up baby. The way Magneto flung his ass I doubt you could see him.”
“Abyss will take care of him. We need to hurry up and do what we came here to do,” Blistik reminded as he looked to Infection who nodded in agreement.
“The arrogance your master has imbued you with is astounding,” Magneto groaned as he rose to his feet and instantly entrapped all of the Superior Force members in body tight magnetic bubbles. He lifted his attackers up into the air and snarled at the one who had delivered him the message of death.
Instinct told Magnus to snap the bodies of all these fools and move on to their master, but he was in front of cameras and a panicked crowd. Acting in such a manner would not only horrify his audience, but give the nations of the world even more ammo to use against him. He would have to take a different path this day.
“Tell this “Abyss” that he has made the wrong enemy this day. I do not take assaults against my person lightly,” Magneto warned as he smacked all the Superior Force members together and merged their magnetic shells into one. Then without warning he flung them in the direction of their friend.
Turning back to the crowd Magneto smiled, “Unfortunately, I am not as universally loved in other places as I am here.”
Even as the crowd began to loosen up and as people laughed Magneto struggled with the physical toll of the attack and the burning question in his mind. Who was Abyss?
“Let Feral go or I’m going to splatter your leader’s face all over the deck,” Meltdown warned as she kept her hand hovering above Romany Wisdom’s face.
“I could say the same for your friend,” Herne replied as pushed his knife closer against the former Morlock’s throat.
<No you can’t!> a psychic voice echoed throughout the Proudwalkers’ heads as Herne’s arms were telekinetically flung back and he was thrown off of the boat.
Looking to her left Tabitha could see Ever and the rest of the missing Fallen Angels approaching. Ever had encased everyone in a telekinetic protective field. With ease he flung all of the Proudwalkers off of the boat with the exception of Romany Wisdom who was still being held down by Meltdown.
“Why are you attacking us?” Meltdown growled.
“Abyss demands it. Abyss will see you and all of Genosha burn!” Romany said spitting in Meltdown’s face.
“Oh that’s it--
“You will not lay a finger on her!” Herne yelled as he erupted from the water and held out his hand. A green light flew from his fingertips and illuminated Romany. Within an instance she was gone.
“The Proudwalkers have spared you a battle this day.Just be warned. Abyss will see the island burn,” Herne said as his antler horns glowed gold and he vanished as well.
Exodus was using his telepathy to make all the local San Marcians view him as a sleeping vagabond while he waited for Fontanelle to arrive. Gloria was supposed to have met with him half an hour ago, but du Paris was patient if nothing else. Fontanelle would show up.
Just as that thought had registered the Viceroy of Genosha spotted his old teammate. She had clothed herself in beggar’s clothing, but her rushed movements betrayed her. Exodus almost laughed. Could it be possible that Fontanelle felt bad about being late? Being remorseful wasn’t one of Dayne’s strong qualities.
Bennet allowed her to see him for who he truly was and she quickly made her way to him. She smiled and Exodus pointed at a nearby bar, “Let us go there and chat. I’m sure your TP can keep nosy listeners out of the conversation.”
“So am I to assume that this conversation will be interesting?” Exodus inquired as the two friends entered the bar to find it jam-packed with an assortment of drunken men and seedy characters. It was hardly Bennet’s environment, but this was Fontanelle’s playing field. He would follow her lead.
“Only if you ask interesting questions Bennet,” Fontanelle smiled as the two of them took a seat in the back corner of the bar. Gloria wanted privacy and Exodus’ telepathy was a nice bonus to boot.
Getting straight to the point Exodus asked, “Did you know that Onset was still alive?”
“Found out about a week ago. She’s getting stuff in motion, but she’s hardly our main concern at the moment,” Fontanelle replied.
“How can you possibly say that? What is she setting up?”
“I told you she’s not our main concern. Abyss is our main concern. He wants Genosha wiped off the map,” Fontanelle replied.
“And just who is this Abyss?” Exodus asked.
“He’s one of few filling in the power vacuum left behind by the Shadow King. He’s helped in the revitalization of HYDRA. He has X-Nation under his thumb and he’s assembled the Proudwalkers and Superior Force to his side. He’s also in possession of a powerful mystical text. Vanisher is peddling a drug created by the man called Abyssmal.”
“That’s his drug?” Exodus almost yelled.
Gloria nodded, “Yes that’s his drug and he’s making a ton of money off of it. The man is not to be taken lightly.”
“So this is why you’ve found employment with X-Nation?”
The former Exile nodded again, “Yes, Bennet. I’m not alone though. Legolas, Vyper, Hope, Slipstream, and Lifeguard are with me.”
Exodus’ stare narrowed, “You are putting these children at risk Fontanelle. You play a dangerous game.”
“I know what I’m doing, Bennet. I looked into this. If I had bought Chemistra along like I originally intended then things would have been a disaster. I’m a clairvoyant remember?” Gloria said tapping the side of her head slightly.
Exodus sighed, “Well, you need to be careful. So what can I do to help combat this Abyss?”
Fontanelle had to suppress a laugh because Exodus was always trying to be the knight in shining armor. Of course she had to remember that he couldn’t help it. He had actually been one of those knights that the metaphor referred to. It was a charming quality at times, but Bennet didn’t need to get wrapped up into the affairs that she was dealing with.
Gloria replied with a slow and steady voice, “Stay on Genosha. You’re about to be in danger and you need to prepare yourself.”
The former knight’s eyes widened, but quickly softened as he said, “What do you mean? What kind of danger?”
“Magneto thinks you will betray him. Lies and deceit surround Genosha. Your best bet is to ally with Gamemaster. Go to him. I really can’t provide anymore details because then things won’t necessarily swing the way we need them to,” Fontanelle answered.
Exodus’ eyes narrowed again, “We need them or you need them. Forgive if your lack of details isn’t exactly encouraging. And I don’t like that have my students against an enemy I know practically nothing about. I want more information in regards to X-Nation.”
Fontanelle wasn’t particularly pleased with Bennet’s demanding attitude, but she did understand that she wasn’t being complete upfront with him. Her reasons for not being so were her own and she had to keep them that way.
“Fine,” Fontanelle surrendered, “I’ll tell you all about X-Nation.”
“First and foremost they’re an organization interested in seeing the dismantling of Genosha. That is their main goal. After they want to establish a mutant nation that would be more conducive to their needs. A main Board of Directors is in control of the organization.”
“Who makes up this board?”
Fontanelle laughed at the interruption. Exodus was as eager as a child. He was soaking up whatever she was telling him. Of course she wasn’t feeding falsehoods, but she knew that she easily could. That wasn’t her style though and besides Exodus was a friend.
“At the head of this group is a formerly reclusive millionaire by the name of Elias Bogan. He’s a terribly powerful empathic mutant. Bogan is able to twist your emotions in very specific ways. He could make Ann Coulter hug Ted Kennedy. The guy is a manipulative SOB and it’s my firm belief he used his abilities to form X-Nation’s heads in the first place.”
“Then we have the lovely Dr. Sublime. The guy has been running mutant chop shops for years. If you want a good look at his work check out Force Work’s Arsenal. I have a strong feeling that Sublime is definitely someone Elias Bogan worked his mojo on. Sublime isn’t the kind of guy that would get involved in international politics.”
“Neither is Sledge. That guy is mostly a technology scavenger. Reports have it that he assisted Sinister some in an attack against Shadow King, but I don’t have a positive on that one.”
Exodus’ fists clenched up at the mention of Sinister. That man had wrought so much destruction and caused his team so much grief. The sins that he had committed in the name of goal of genetic perfection were innumerable. Exodus was so wrapped up in his anger that he nearly didn’t hear Fontanelle name the next member of X-Nation.
“Then we have someone that we’ve dealt with before. Do you remember the mutant slaver that Amadeus had you check into?” Fontanelle asked.
Nodding Exodus replied, “Yes, his name was Mario DaVingi I believe.”
“Bingo. He’s providing X-Nation with cheap mutant muscle. At the head of this muscle is a human mercenary by the name of Brent Jackson. I believe some of the Fallen Angels have already encountered him. He’s as sneaky as they come and I wouldn’t underestimate him. Though he’s not the most dangerous of all the board.”
Exodus sighed with frustration, “I could do without the theatrics.”
“Don’t be such a baby Exodus and believe me I have every reason to pause before I reveal this name. The last person making up X-Nation is none other than everyone’s favorite soul sucking mutant sorceress, Selene.”
Exodus straightened up at the mentioning of that name. He had never encountered Selene directly, but he knew that she was a powerful woman. A woman who was as old as Apocalypse and just as brutal.
With a touch of pity Exodus said, “Bogan is a brave man if he is indeed using his powers to manipulate Selene. I pray for him if she ever finds out.”
“That’s not your concern at the moment Bennet. Your concern is with Genosha. Focus on that and do what I told you to,” Fontanelle said as she rose up from her chair, “Now I really have to get going. When you get back to Genosha you’ll attend a cabinet meeting, but then go immediately to our old base. A couple of old friends will be waking up.”
It was the first time in their entire conversation that Exodus actually felt any sense of happiness. If she was telling the truth, then Osman and Mutant Forger were on their way back from whatever limbo their comas had trapped them in.
“I had hoped that my trip to Lichtenbad would have been less action filled, but it seems I’ve caught the attention of a certain Abyss,” Magneto said. Upon his arrival back to Genosha the cabinet had been assembled and it was them that he was addressing.
Exodus knew a fraction of Abyss’ power, but let none of his knowledge be known because to do so might put himself and his former charges in danger. Fontanelle had warned him of magneto’s mistrust and he had been unable to talk to Gamemaster. He was in a very uncomfortable position and from the smirk on Gamemaster’s face; the omnipath knew that was well.
“My troops and Madras’ scanned the area in search of any particular evident that we could use to track down this Abyss. Unfortunately, Superior Force didn’t leave behind much, “Mikhail Rasputin summarized quickly. He didn’t like to report failure, but not even his psychometrics had been able to find anything. Whoever this Abyss was he had been thorough enough to make sure his enforcers didn’t leave the slightest clue.
Dr. Sando leaned back in her chair and smiled at the obvious shame of Rasputin. Twirling her jet-black hair with the end of her pen she said, “Don’t fret Mikhail. I have a meeting with the Damocles Board tomorrow. I fully intend to inquire about this Abyss character. A presidential assault can’t be tolerated.”
Magneto appreciated the concern, but he was quick to say, “Let us not focus on Abyss and get back to the work of building this country. In fact, I think Mikhail and Dr. Sando have news you would be every interested in hearing Viceroy.”
Exodus noted the masked disdain in Magneto’s voice, but he could not let on he knew of the President’s lack of trust in him. Fontanelle had been so sparse with her details that it was driving Bennet mad. A couple of years ago he would have simply pryed the information from her mind, but this was a friend. He needed to trust her. She wouldn’t purposely throw him into harm’s way.
“Well, I would be very interested in hearing this news. Please explain Eve,” Exodus said turning his thoughts away from the prophecies of Gloria.
Dr. Sando stood up from her seat and looked around as if eh were about to give a presidential speech. With a haughty smile she began her explanation, “As you know we have been genetically producing mutant soldiers for about a month now. With the latest technology we’ve been able to produce and train 300,000 in that time. Those of course we created with just our facilities here in Genosha.”
Amadeus laughed, “I don’t mind you patting your back, but could you please get to the point.”
Sando crossed her eyes at the businessman, but pressed forward saying, “That was our public operation. We need the world to see that Genosha was quickly regaining its strength. At the same time we didn’t want to explode on the scene with a million soldiers. So in secret we’ve been using Damocles facilities in India and Russia to clone any and all telepaths we produced in the GMS process. This group of psychics numbers at 600,000. We’ve decided we want your protégé, Ever, to be the first leader of the Genoshan Psi-Corps.”
Exodus was floored, “Are you sure? This is quite the responsibility. He’ll be in charge of more than half of Genosha’s military forces.”
Mikhail laughed, “Don’t make it sound so dramatic Exodus. He’ll only have that much control for a month. The GMS will number six hundred thousand by then. Besides outside of yourself and Gamemaster he is the most powerful telepath we have in this country. Do you not have faith in him?”
Exodus wanted to slap that smug expression off of Rasputin’s face. He had been trying to push Ever’s buttons since his arrival on the island. Normally, he wouldn’t fret for Ever because he could always override Rasputin with rank. Now thought he lacked the trust of Magneto and Exodus suddenly felt like the weakest cabinet member there. Ever would be at the mercy of Rasputin and he was a man who delighted in breaking his subordinates.
All eyes were on the Viceroy as they waited for his answer. Exodus looked directly to Magneto and said, “My faith in Ever is boundless. His potential is unlimited, but I don’t feel thrusting him into such a large position will help him further realize that potential.”
“Then let us leave it for ever to decide. I had hoped you would rejoice at the news Exodus, but since you aren’t I suggest we move to other business,” Magneto said as he looked down the table, “Amelia how goes your projects? I have heard that the resources of Shaw and Amadeus have been put to good use.”
Bennet was not at all pleased with the way Magneto had brushed him aside. It hurt him to think that he was almost building a bond again with Magnus and now they were at odds. Where had the distrust come from? That was a burning question for Exodus.
<Distrust and deceit run rampant in this country.>
<And it seems you and I are about entrap ourselves in this deceit.>
<We were trapped the moment we accepted Magneto’s offer.>
<Magneto’s offer was not given with mal-intent. I truly believe he seeks to make this country better.>
<By bringing in the likes of Rasputin, Shaw, and Sando? I have done gruesome things, but I’m a saint compared to them.>
As the two telepaths continued their discussion Amelia stood up from her chair and said, “My works on the island have been going smoothly. We’ve documented the names and powers of eighty percent of the population. All immigration routes are now strictly policed with the efforts of my security forces. Surprisingly enough, Vanisher’s drug trade has calmed unrest in the most impoverished areas of the island. I’m proud to say Genosha is at the highest level of security it has ever had.”
Amadeus laughed in disbelief, “The Magistrates held this island down tighter than Steve Urkel’s pants on prom night. We’ve got a long way to go before you can make that claim, Amelia. Are the detector towers anywhere near completion? What of the Armor Droids?”
Voght bore the brunt of Amadeus’ criticism with poise and replied, “The main network of the tower system will be operational within two days. As for the Armor Droids… I am still considering the proposal.”
Blood rushed to an angered Amadeus’ face as he sharply replied, “How can you still be considering it? Did you not just run a mock Sentinel invasion with the citizens only a week ago? Why not use technology against humans the same way they would use it against us?”
“Bogging ourselves down with technology could be a liability. Especially if the humans send our brothers and sisters against us,” Amelia argued. She believed that technology made for lazy, complacent people. Genoshans could not afford to be that.
<The Armor Droids would line Amadeus’ pockets. The robots are poorly conceived and have many weak points.>
<Does he know that?>
<Of course he does. Amadeus only took this cabinet position for the financial opportunities. He doesn’t care for the welfare of this island or anyone on it.>
<And why are you here Gamemaster?>
<It gives me something to do. Being bored isn’t a good thing for someone with six billion voices buzzing around in their head.>
Standing up in his chair Exodus looked at Magneto again and said, “Perhaps this can be sttled with a simple test of the effectiveness of these droids?”
“The Fallen Angels will fight a group of these robots,” Magneto commanded and then he turned to Dr. Sando saying, “Update them my dear.”
Amelia and Exodus sat down as Sando stood up and walked around the table handing each cabinet member a manila folder. As soon as she sat down again, she began explaining.
“Genosha’s premiere team is going through a bit of a change. With the possibility of Ever leaving new members have been selected for the team. If you look at your folders you’ll see who we have chosen.”
Exodus looked through the folder horrified. He immediately scowled at Sando and said, “Have you no idea who some of these people are? These are creations of Sinister! Do we really need him on our heads?”
“Stop being paranoid Shaw. We’ve prepared for Zemo and whoever else wants to come onto our turf,” Mikhail said.
Gamemaster snickered, “You almost make us sound like a gang.”
Sando was quick to defend herself, “I took these new members on because I’m confident Genosha can handle whatever is thrown at it. The country is under far better leadership at the moment and the potential in these new members is just too much to overlook.”
“This Babylon fellow does look like a gem,” Shaw commented.
Magneto spoke to prevent any further argument. “Madrox, Glance, and Volcana will accompany Forge and Mystique to an outpost in Tajikistan. We believe that there we’ll find a database in regards to who bought the Mutant Extermination Protocols and what they’re likely intent for them is.”
“And what of this situation in San Marco?” Gamemaster asked wanting to turn the discussion to something that was of importance to his department.
Magneto was quick to respond, “We will be sending in troops as peacekeepers and to ensure an easy transition of the government from human to mutant hands. Lichtenbad will be assisting us in that affair.”
Gomi finally spoke up, “Do you think that wise sir? Countries are already looking for any sign of hostile activity from us. This might be misconstrued as such and will give countries a reason to attack us.”
Magneto rose up from his chair and defiantly said, “Then let them come! It will be all the worse for them Ambassador. Amelia I want that network done by tomorrow night and Rasputin inform the Angels of their assignments. Sando check in with me as soon as you make it to the states. This meeting is dismissed!”
As the various cabinet members were making their way to the door Shinobi’s cell phone vibrated in his pocket and he quickly looked to see the contents of the text message that had just been sent to him. He quickly read it and his face turned ghostly pale. Turning around he quickly he cried out, “Magneto! We have a problem!”
Everyone stopped cold in his or her tracks and focused on Shaw as he said, “Vanisher has just given me a frightening bit of news. It seems that Roberto DaCosta has taken control of San Marco!”
Next Issue: A new arc begins with the Fallen Angels facing off against Amadeus’ robots and Ever is forced to make a choice!
AUTHOR’S NOTES
Yeah, I know. This arc really didn’t have a whole ton of Fallen Angels in it. Its focus was mainly on Magneto and Exodus. I needed to establish some things though as I press forward with my run and this arc was really a necessary evil. Don’t get me wrong though. I had fun writing it.The next arc though will definitely be more focused on the Fallen Angels themselves.
See ya next issue!
-Brent (the artist formerly known as Troy)
“Abyss has deemed you worthy for death and we’re here to deliver his sentence.”
“Then you have been sent on a fool’s errand boy!” Magneto roared as he knocked all his would-be attackers to the ground with a magnetic shockwave. Looking to Madras, he commanded, “Get the others to safety!”
Madras nodded and began to huddle the various Lichtenbad diplomats off of the stage. He looked back at Magneto and saw the torrent of magnetic energies that were swirling around his body and he was in awe of the mutant leader. His power was truly a terrifying one.
“We came plenty prepared for the power that one such as yourself would possess,” Massacre yelled as he charged forward and slammed himself into Magneto’s shield.
“You must truly be a fool to think your brutish behavior would have any effect against me,” Magneto laughed as he lifted Massacre into the air and flung him away at sub-sonic speeds.
“You were the fool this day Magneto,” Lynx said as she attached a tiny circular metal plate to Magneto’s magnetic shield. She had taken the time to slink her way up to Magnus’ shield while he was busy with Massacre.
“Child you play with powers you can’t comp—ARGHH!!” Magneto screamed as his own magnetic energies were turned against him. His hairs stood on end and his body convulsed as the energies ripped through him. It wasn’t long before he fell to his knees in a desperate attempt to regain control of his own abilities. The attempt proved futile as he eventually succumbed to the attack and was laid out cold on the wooden stage.
Lynx smiled as she crawled over to Magneto and tapped his shoulder to make sure he was down. Looking up at her compatriots with pride she said, “I think Abyss’ device worked.”
“Of course it worked child. Abyss would never fail us,” Firefist proclaimed with the fervor of a southern Baptist minister.
“Do you think Massacre’s okay?” Lace asked as she flew up into the air to see if she could see any impact areas where Massacre might have landed.
Leather called out to her lover, “Give it up baby. The way Magneto flung his ass I doubt you could see him.”
“Abyss will take care of him. We need to hurry up and do what we came here to do,” Blistik reminded as he looked to Infection who nodded in agreement.
“The arrogance your master has imbued you with is astounding,” Magneto groaned as he rose to his feet and instantly entrapped all of the Superior Force members in body tight magnetic bubbles. He lifted his attackers up into the air and snarled at the one who had delivered him the message of death.
Instinct told Magnus to snap the bodies of all these fools and move on to their master, but he was in front of cameras and a panicked crowd. Acting in such a manner would not only horrify his audience, but give the nations of the world even more ammo to use against him. He would have to take a different path this day.
“Tell this “Abyss” that he has made the wrong enemy this day. I do not take assaults against my person lightly,” Magneto warned as he smacked all the Superior Force members together and merged their magnetic shells into one. Then without warning he flung them in the direction of their friend.
Turning back to the crowd Magneto smiled, “Unfortunately, I am not as universally loved in other places as I am here.”
Even as the crowd began to loosen up and as people laughed Magneto struggled with the physical toll of the attack and the burning question in his mind. Who was Abyss?
“Let Feral go or I’m going to splatter your leader’s face all over the deck,” Meltdown warned as she kept her hand hovering above Romany Wisdom’s face.
“I could say the same for your friend,” Herne replied as pushed his knife closer against the former Morlock’s throat.
<No you can’t!> a psychic voice echoed throughout the Proudwalkers’ heads as Herne’s arms were telekinetically flung back and he was thrown off of the boat.
Looking to her left Tabitha could see Ever and the rest of the missing Fallen Angels approaching. Ever had encased everyone in a telekinetic protective field. With ease he flung all of the Proudwalkers off of the boat with the exception of Romany Wisdom who was still being held down by Meltdown.
“Why are you attacking us?” Meltdown growled.
“Abyss demands it. Abyss will see you and all of Genosha burn!” Romany said spitting in Meltdown’s face.
“Oh that’s it--
“You will not lay a finger on her!” Herne yelled as he erupted from the water and held out his hand. A green light flew from his fingertips and illuminated Romany. Within an instance she was gone.
“The Proudwalkers have spared you a battle this day.Just be warned. Abyss will see the island burn,” Herne said as his antler horns glowed gold and he vanished as well.
Exodus was using his telepathy to make all the local San Marcians view him as a sleeping vagabond while he waited for Fontanelle to arrive. Gloria was supposed to have met with him half an hour ago, but du Paris was patient if nothing else. Fontanelle would show up.
Just as that thought had registered the Viceroy of Genosha spotted his old teammate. She had clothed herself in beggar’s clothing, but her rushed movements betrayed her. Exodus almost laughed. Could it be possible that Fontanelle felt bad about being late? Being remorseful wasn’t one of Dayne’s strong qualities.
Bennet allowed her to see him for who he truly was and she quickly made her way to him. She smiled and Exodus pointed at a nearby bar, “Let us go there and chat. I’m sure your TP can keep nosy listeners out of the conversation.”
“So am I to assume that this conversation will be interesting?” Exodus inquired as the two friends entered the bar to find it jam-packed with an assortment of drunken men and seedy characters. It was hardly Bennet’s environment, but this was Fontanelle’s playing field. He would follow her lead.
“Only if you ask interesting questions Bennet,” Fontanelle smiled as the two of them took a seat in the back corner of the bar. Gloria wanted privacy and Exodus’ telepathy was a nice bonus to boot.
Getting straight to the point Exodus asked, “Did you know that Onset was still alive?”
“Found out about a week ago. She’s getting stuff in motion, but she’s hardly our main concern at the moment,” Fontanelle replied.
“How can you possibly say that? What is she setting up?”
“I told you she’s not our main concern. Abyss is our main concern. He wants Genosha wiped off the map,” Fontanelle replied.
“And just who is this Abyss?” Exodus asked.
“He’s one of few filling in the power vacuum left behind by the Shadow King. He’s helped in the revitalization of HYDRA. He has X-Nation under his thumb and he’s assembled the Proudwalkers and Superior Force to his side. He’s also in possession of a powerful mystical text. Vanisher is peddling a drug created by the man called Abyssmal.”
“That’s his drug?” Exodus almost yelled.
Gloria nodded, “Yes that’s his drug and he’s making a ton of money off of it. The man is not to be taken lightly.”
“So this is why you’ve found employment with X-Nation?”
The former Exile nodded again, “Yes, Bennet. I’m not alone though. Legolas, Vyper, Hope, Slipstream, and Lifeguard are with me.”
Exodus’ stare narrowed, “You are putting these children at risk Fontanelle. You play a dangerous game.”
“I know what I’m doing, Bennet. I looked into this. If I had bought Chemistra along like I originally intended then things would have been a disaster. I’m a clairvoyant remember?” Gloria said tapping the side of her head slightly.
Exodus sighed, “Well, you need to be careful. So what can I do to help combat this Abyss?”
Fontanelle had to suppress a laugh because Exodus was always trying to be the knight in shining armor. Of course she had to remember that he couldn’t help it. He had actually been one of those knights that the metaphor referred to. It was a charming quality at times, but Bennet didn’t need to get wrapped up into the affairs that she was dealing with.
Gloria replied with a slow and steady voice, “Stay on Genosha. You’re about to be in danger and you need to prepare yourself.”
The former knight’s eyes widened, but quickly softened as he said, “What do you mean? What kind of danger?”
“Magneto thinks you will betray him. Lies and deceit surround Genosha. Your best bet is to ally with Gamemaster. Go to him. I really can’t provide anymore details because then things won’t necessarily swing the way we need them to,” Fontanelle answered.
Exodus’ eyes narrowed again, “We need them or you need them. Forgive if your lack of details isn’t exactly encouraging. And I don’t like that have my students against an enemy I know practically nothing about. I want more information in regards to X-Nation.”
Fontanelle wasn’t particularly pleased with Bennet’s demanding attitude, but she did understand that she wasn’t being complete upfront with him. Her reasons for not being so were her own and she had to keep them that way.
“Fine,” Fontanelle surrendered, “I’ll tell you all about X-Nation.”
“First and foremost they’re an organization interested in seeing the dismantling of Genosha. That is their main goal. After they want to establish a mutant nation that would be more conducive to their needs. A main Board of Directors is in control of the organization.”
“Who makes up this board?”
Fontanelle laughed at the interruption. Exodus was as eager as a child. He was soaking up whatever she was telling him. Of course she wasn’t feeding falsehoods, but she knew that she easily could. That wasn’t her style though and besides Exodus was a friend.
“At the head of this group is a formerly reclusive millionaire by the name of Elias Bogan. He’s a terribly powerful empathic mutant. Bogan is able to twist your emotions in very specific ways. He could make Ann Coulter hug Ted Kennedy. The guy is a manipulative SOB and it’s my firm belief he used his abilities to form X-Nation’s heads in the first place.”
“Then we have the lovely Dr. Sublime. The guy has been running mutant chop shops for years. If you want a good look at his work check out Force Work’s Arsenal. I have a strong feeling that Sublime is definitely someone Elias Bogan worked his mojo on. Sublime isn’t the kind of guy that would get involved in international politics.”
“Neither is Sledge. That guy is mostly a technology scavenger. Reports have it that he assisted Sinister some in an attack against Shadow King, but I don’t have a positive on that one.”
Exodus’ fists clenched up at the mention of Sinister. That man had wrought so much destruction and caused his team so much grief. The sins that he had committed in the name of goal of genetic perfection were innumerable. Exodus was so wrapped up in his anger that he nearly didn’t hear Fontanelle name the next member of X-Nation.
“Then we have someone that we’ve dealt with before. Do you remember the mutant slaver that Amadeus had you check into?” Fontanelle asked.
Nodding Exodus replied, “Yes, his name was Mario DaVingi I believe.”
“Bingo. He’s providing X-Nation with cheap mutant muscle. At the head of this muscle is a human mercenary by the name of Brent Jackson. I believe some of the Fallen Angels have already encountered him. He’s as sneaky as they come and I wouldn’t underestimate him. Though he’s not the most dangerous of all the board.”
Exodus sighed with frustration, “I could do without the theatrics.”
“Don’t be such a baby Exodus and believe me I have every reason to pause before I reveal this name. The last person making up X-Nation is none other than everyone’s favorite soul sucking mutant sorceress, Selene.”
Exodus straightened up at the mentioning of that name. He had never encountered Selene directly, but he knew that she was a powerful woman. A woman who was as old as Apocalypse and just as brutal.
With a touch of pity Exodus said, “Bogan is a brave man if he is indeed using his powers to manipulate Selene. I pray for him if she ever finds out.”
“That’s not your concern at the moment Bennet. Your concern is with Genosha. Focus on that and do what I told you to,” Fontanelle said as she rose up from her chair, “Now I really have to get going. When you get back to Genosha you’ll attend a cabinet meeting, but then go immediately to our old base. A couple of old friends will be waking up.”
It was the first time in their entire conversation that Exodus actually felt any sense of happiness. If she was telling the truth, then Osman and Mutant Forger were on their way back from whatever limbo their comas had trapped them in.
“I had hoped that my trip to Lichtenbad would have been less action filled, but it seems I’ve caught the attention of a certain Abyss,” Magneto said. Upon his arrival back to Genosha the cabinet had been assembled and it was them that he was addressing.
Exodus knew a fraction of Abyss’ power, but let none of his knowledge be known because to do so might put himself and his former charges in danger. Fontanelle had warned him of magneto’s mistrust and he had been unable to talk to Gamemaster. He was in a very uncomfortable position and from the smirk on Gamemaster’s face; the omnipath knew that was well.
“My troops and Madras’ scanned the area in search of any particular evident that we could use to track down this Abyss. Unfortunately, Superior Force didn’t leave behind much, “Mikhail Rasputin summarized quickly. He didn’t like to report failure, but not even his psychometrics had been able to find anything. Whoever this Abyss was he had been thorough enough to make sure his enforcers didn’t leave the slightest clue.
Dr. Sando leaned back in her chair and smiled at the obvious shame of Rasputin. Twirling her jet-black hair with the end of her pen she said, “Don’t fret Mikhail. I have a meeting with the Damocles Board tomorrow. I fully intend to inquire about this Abyss character. A presidential assault can’t be tolerated.”
Magneto appreciated the concern, but he was quick to say, “Let us not focus on Abyss and get back to the work of building this country. In fact, I think Mikhail and Dr. Sando have news you would be every interested in hearing Viceroy.”
Exodus noted the masked disdain in Magneto’s voice, but he could not let on he knew of the President’s lack of trust in him. Fontanelle had been so sparse with her details that it was driving Bennet mad. A couple of years ago he would have simply pryed the information from her mind, but this was a friend. He needed to trust her. She wouldn’t purposely throw him into harm’s way.
“Well, I would be very interested in hearing this news. Please explain Eve,” Exodus said turning his thoughts away from the prophecies of Gloria.
Dr. Sando stood up from her seat and looked around as if eh were about to give a presidential speech. With a haughty smile she began her explanation, “As you know we have been genetically producing mutant soldiers for about a month now. With the latest technology we’ve been able to produce and train 300,000 in that time. Those of course we created with just our facilities here in Genosha.”
Amadeus laughed, “I don’t mind you patting your back, but could you please get to the point.”
Sando crossed her eyes at the businessman, but pressed forward saying, “That was our public operation. We need the world to see that Genosha was quickly regaining its strength. At the same time we didn’t want to explode on the scene with a million soldiers. So in secret we’ve been using Damocles facilities in India and Russia to clone any and all telepaths we produced in the GMS process. This group of psychics numbers at 600,000. We’ve decided we want your protégé, Ever, to be the first leader of the Genoshan Psi-Corps.”
Exodus was floored, “Are you sure? This is quite the responsibility. He’ll be in charge of more than half of Genosha’s military forces.”
Mikhail laughed, “Don’t make it sound so dramatic Exodus. He’ll only have that much control for a month. The GMS will number six hundred thousand by then. Besides outside of yourself and Gamemaster he is the most powerful telepath we have in this country. Do you not have faith in him?”
Exodus wanted to slap that smug expression off of Rasputin’s face. He had been trying to push Ever’s buttons since his arrival on the island. Normally, he wouldn’t fret for Ever because he could always override Rasputin with rank. Now thought he lacked the trust of Magneto and Exodus suddenly felt like the weakest cabinet member there. Ever would be at the mercy of Rasputin and he was a man who delighted in breaking his subordinates.
All eyes were on the Viceroy as they waited for his answer. Exodus looked directly to Magneto and said, “My faith in Ever is boundless. His potential is unlimited, but I don’t feel thrusting him into such a large position will help him further realize that potential.”
“Then let us leave it for ever to decide. I had hoped you would rejoice at the news Exodus, but since you aren’t I suggest we move to other business,” Magneto said as he looked down the table, “Amelia how goes your projects? I have heard that the resources of Shaw and Amadeus have been put to good use.”
Bennet was not at all pleased with the way Magneto had brushed him aside. It hurt him to think that he was almost building a bond again with Magnus and now they were at odds. Where had the distrust come from? That was a burning question for Exodus.
<Distrust and deceit run rampant in this country.>
<And it seems you and I are about entrap ourselves in this deceit.>
<We were trapped the moment we accepted Magneto’s offer.>
<Magneto’s offer was not given with mal-intent. I truly believe he seeks to make this country better.>
<By bringing in the likes of Rasputin, Shaw, and Sando? I have done gruesome things, but I’m a saint compared to them.>
As the two telepaths continued their discussion Amelia stood up from her chair and said, “My works on the island have been going smoothly. We’ve documented the names and powers of eighty percent of the population. All immigration routes are now strictly policed with the efforts of my security forces. Surprisingly enough, Vanisher’s drug trade has calmed unrest in the most impoverished areas of the island. I’m proud to say Genosha is at the highest level of security it has ever had.”
Amadeus laughed in disbelief, “The Magistrates held this island down tighter than Steve Urkel’s pants on prom night. We’ve got a long way to go before you can make that claim, Amelia. Are the detector towers anywhere near completion? What of the Armor Droids?”
Voght bore the brunt of Amadeus’ criticism with poise and replied, “The main network of the tower system will be operational within two days. As for the Armor Droids… I am still considering the proposal.”
Blood rushed to an angered Amadeus’ face as he sharply replied, “How can you still be considering it? Did you not just run a mock Sentinel invasion with the citizens only a week ago? Why not use technology against humans the same way they would use it against us?”
“Bogging ourselves down with technology could be a liability. Especially if the humans send our brothers and sisters against us,” Amelia argued. She believed that technology made for lazy, complacent people. Genoshans could not afford to be that.
<The Armor Droids would line Amadeus’ pockets. The robots are poorly conceived and have many weak points.>
<Does he know that?>
<Of course he does. Amadeus only took this cabinet position for the financial opportunities. He doesn’t care for the welfare of this island or anyone on it.>
<And why are you here Gamemaster?>
<It gives me something to do. Being bored isn’t a good thing for someone with six billion voices buzzing around in their head.>
Standing up in his chair Exodus looked at Magneto again and said, “Perhaps this can be sttled with a simple test of the effectiveness of these droids?”
“The Fallen Angels will fight a group of these robots,” Magneto commanded and then he turned to Dr. Sando saying, “Update them my dear.”
Amelia and Exodus sat down as Sando stood up and walked around the table handing each cabinet member a manila folder. As soon as she sat down again, she began explaining.
“Genosha’s premiere team is going through a bit of a change. With the possibility of Ever leaving new members have been selected for the team. If you look at your folders you’ll see who we have chosen.”
Exodus looked through the folder horrified. He immediately scowled at Sando and said, “Have you no idea who some of these people are? These are creations of Sinister! Do we really need him on our heads?”
“Stop being paranoid Shaw. We’ve prepared for Zemo and whoever else wants to come onto our turf,” Mikhail said.
Gamemaster snickered, “You almost make us sound like a gang.”
Sando was quick to defend herself, “I took these new members on because I’m confident Genosha can handle whatever is thrown at it. The country is under far better leadership at the moment and the potential in these new members is just too much to overlook.”
“This Babylon fellow does look like a gem,” Shaw commented.
Magneto spoke to prevent any further argument. “Madrox, Glance, and Volcana will accompany Forge and Mystique to an outpost in Tajikistan. We believe that there we’ll find a database in regards to who bought the Mutant Extermination Protocols and what they’re likely intent for them is.”
“And what of this situation in San Marco?” Gamemaster asked wanting to turn the discussion to something that was of importance to his department.
Magneto was quick to respond, “We will be sending in troops as peacekeepers and to ensure an easy transition of the government from human to mutant hands. Lichtenbad will be assisting us in that affair.”
Gomi finally spoke up, “Do you think that wise sir? Countries are already looking for any sign of hostile activity from us. This might be misconstrued as such and will give countries a reason to attack us.”
Magneto rose up from his chair and defiantly said, “Then let them come! It will be all the worse for them Ambassador. Amelia I want that network done by tomorrow night and Rasputin inform the Angels of their assignments. Sando check in with me as soon as you make it to the states. This meeting is dismissed!”
As the various cabinet members were making their way to the door Shinobi’s cell phone vibrated in his pocket and he quickly looked to see the contents of the text message that had just been sent to him. He quickly read it and his face turned ghostly pale. Turning around he quickly he cried out, “Magneto! We have a problem!”
Everyone stopped cold in his or her tracks and focused on Shaw as he said, “Vanisher has just given me a frightening bit of news. It seems that Roberto DaCosta has taken control of San Marco!”
Next Issue: A new arc begins with the Fallen Angels facing off against Amadeus’ robots and Ever is forced to make a choice!
AUTHOR’S NOTES
Yeah, I know. This arc really didn’t have a whole ton of Fallen Angels in it. Its focus was mainly on Magneto and Exodus. I needed to establish some things though as I press forward with my run and this arc was really a necessary evil. Don’t get me wrong though. I had fun writing it.The next arc though will definitely be more focused on the Fallen Angels themselves.
See ya next issue!
-Brent (the artist formerly known as Troy)