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Entry tags:
Fic: Keys to the Kingdom, Part Four (M, Magneto/Rogue)
Title: Keys to the Kingdom, Part Four
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
willowaus
Character/Pairing: Magneto, Rogue, people of Genosha
Verse: 616
Rating: M
Word Count: 6400+
Summary: What if Rogue had decided to stay and help out with the building of Genosha?
A/N: Thanks toresolute for the beta.
She didn't see Magneto for the rest of the week. That should have been a comfort but she wondered if she'd angered him by simply leaving. If maybe she'd simply dreamed the entire encounter up. But they had almost kissed. Again. Hadn't they? Leave it alone, Rogue, she growled, shuffling through her papers. If she went over the supply requests maybe she wouldn't think about...anything.
That worked for about five minutes and she knew the rest of her staff was wondering what was wrong. They were all looking anxiously at her and she tried hard to mask her anxiety, knowing they were probably interpreting it as some downfall for mutates. She gave a reassuring smile and filed the supply requests, not relishing the thought of passing them off to Huxley. That woman irritated the hell out of her and she wasn't sure why--she didn't want to think about why.
Rogue gathered more paperwork, forcing herself to focus. Time passed slowly but at least she was getting the work done. No one could say she wasn't anything but thorough. The constant chatter from her staff comforted her so when they were suddenly silent, she looked up, knowing something was wrong. They were all standing, head slightly bowed and she watched as Magneto strode into her office, the rest of his council trailing behind him.
Huxley was beside him, rattling off information that Rogue had a feeling she should listen to but she couldn't bring herself to care. Quickly looking back at the reports before her. "The settlement along the northern coast is apparently completed," Huxley stated, and Rogue nodded, cheeks reddening.
What couldn't tell me that yourself, Magneto? she thought bitterly, not bothering to look up. That was the settlement Zenia was in charge of and she wondered how the girl was fairing. "We need you to make sure it is up to standard," Huxley continued, and Rogue swore she could hear the disdain in the other woman's voice.
"That's fine." It'd be nice to see Zenia. To actually be around the people she was supposed to be helping again. She missed the laughter.
"I will be accompanying you," Magneto informed her, and Rogue refused to look up, simply nodding again.
"You have a meeting with several representatives of the United Nations and various countries," Huxley reminded, slightly anxious.
Rogue looked up at that. "I'll be fine alone."
"I am certain you would be, Rogue. Regardless, I am going." He was looking at her intently.
"But, Magneto," Huxley began.
"Pietro or Amelia can meet with the representatives, Ms. Huxley," he interrupted, and raised his hand. "Leave us. All of you."
The mutates and Acolytes quickly obeyed, only Huxley remaining behind. "But, sir."
"That was not a request." He hadn't looked away from Rogue and forced back a smile as the other woman left, clearly agitated.
Rogue turned her attention back to Magneto. "Ya dont' have to come."
"They are my people, Rogue." He paused, looking as though he wanted to say something more before shaking his head. "Be ready in half an hour," he stated, and left.
Rogue shook her head. This was becoming entirely too confusing. She left the office, dropping off the forms in the appropriate places before quickly dealing with a few odds and ends, uncertain where he'd want to meet her. She looked at Ferris, wondering if the robot would be of any help but no, all he was doing this time was following her. Of course.
She strode to Magneto's throne room, figuring that was as best a place to start as any and didn't bother knocking as she walked inside. Huxley was having a rather heated discussion with Magneto. Though, it didn't look as though he was paying much attention to the woman's words. His focus on the small screen before him. "I suggest," he finally stated, voice colder than Rogue had ever heard it. "That you remember your place." He gave Huxley a piercing glare.
The woman stumbled backward a little before quickly composing herself. "Yes, sir."
"I am leaving Amelia and Pietro in charge of any decisions that are deemed necessary in my absence," Magneto continued, and waved his hand, a sign for Rogue to enter further into the room. "There should be nothing that pressing."
"Would you like me to ready one of the planes?" Huxley asked, removing a phone from her pocket, ready to do so.
"That will not be necessary." He rose, nodding slightly towards Rogue. "We can fly without the use of that contraption."
"Surely carrying two of you that far would be taxing, sir." That had not been a good response if Magneto's glare was any indication.
"If'n anything, Ms. Huxley, I'd be carrying him." Rogue grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "I'd get us there faster." She tapped a finger against her chin. "I wonder if'n I'm faster than Pietro...I'll have to challenge him to a race."
"At a later time, hmmm?" Magneto replied, and motioned towards the door. "We should leave before the sun sets."
Rogue nodded and started towards the exit, looking curiously at him when she felt his hand press on the small of her back. He wasn't looking at her, guiding her through the hallway and she didn't protest. Enjoying the contact, yet uncertain what any of this meant. They were passing the various offices that had been put in place since his rule and she knew they were taking the long way through the citadel. Who knew what he was trying to show. She didn't want to think about it and kept her mouth shut, nodding to Pietro as they passed who lifted an eyebrow questioningly.
They arrived at the doors and Magneto halted, turning to Ferris. "You are to stay behind. Watch Huxley and the others and make certain that my wishes are followed," he informed the robot.
"Yes, sir." Ferris emitted a few beeping sounds before turning and going back the way they came.
"I don't need a body guard anymore?" Rogue joked, as the door opened, sunlight pouring down on them.
"None would be foolish enough to harm you in my presence, Rogue." Magneto lifted off the ground and she followed, waiting for direction.
He began moving east and she slowed her pace so that she would stay beside him. "Why are you coming with me?" she asked after a few moments. "Are you...do you think I ain't gonna report accurately or something?"
"No." He didn't expand on that and she sighed, rising a little higher, annoyed when he did the same.
She decided it was probably best to simply ignore him and focus on flying. Take a chance to enjoy the scenery below. It had certainly improved since she'd first arrived. Buildings were freshly renovated, the fields and forests were quickly repopulating. She could even spot a few cattle and other livestock in the fields below. "You really are doing good here," she murmured, not all that certain he would hear her. Not quite caring if he did.
"You sound surprised."
Rogue looked at him, sighing at the hardness of his features. Did he ever not look that way? She was finding it hard to remember when he hadn't. "You ain't got the best track record, sugah."
She dove, feeling herself relax a little as she swerved in between the trees, sliding down to glide above a stream, running her hand through the water. It felt good to finally be out of that metal palace. Freeing. Eventually, she rejoined him above but continued to fly erratically. Doing somersaults midair, whirling in and out at her own will. When they finally set down on the edge of the new settlement she spared a glance in his direction.
He was smiling. She reciprocated the look, pleased when his hand found her back, settling there again as he guided her towards the core of the town. They strode quickly through the streets. Mutates sparing cautious glances in their direction, eyes widening as they took in Magneto's full uniform. There was no denying that it was him and whispers quickly filled the air as they continued on their way to government building in the center. It was modeled after the one she'd set up in Hammer Bay, though with more offices for the other agencies that were needed.
Zenia and a group of other mutates exited, dressed in their finest. "Lord Magneto," Zenia greeted, bowing her head slightly. "We have made preparations for your visit."
Rogue held back, knowing now was not the time to embrace her friend. It was very hard not to do. Magneto merely nodded, his expression back to the hardened state that Rogue was finding she despised. She moved to pull away and allow him his space, to face them as their leader but his hand tightened on her back, a silent command to stay. "We will tour the facilities tomorrow," Magneto stated.
"Of course." Zenia nodded, looking hesitantly at him and then Rogue, uncertain what to do next.
"Where are we staying?" Rogue prodded, smiling at the woman.
"We have our best room prepared for you, my lord," Zenia replied, and began leading them towards one of the grander buildings. "And Rogue. I have a room for you. I thought we could catch up."
Rogue's smile broadened. "That'd be perfect."
They entered the building and Zenia handed the keys to Magneto. "If you need anything, Jermaine and Dayonna will happily provide you with it," she informed him, bowing again.
Rogue noticed that all the mutates were doing so. She turned her attention to Magneto. "I'll see you in the morning then?"
He was staring at her strangely. "I need to go over a few items with you before you retire with your friends," he informed her and Rogue nodded.
"Dayonna or Jermaine can bring her to my apartment," Zenia said, nodding quickly.
"Okay. Sure." Rogue slipped away from him and gave her friend a brief hug. She'd perfected making sure her skin didn't contact the other person's.
Magneto opened the door and the others filed out of the building. Rogue watched them depart, waving to her friends before accompanying him into the room. "What do we need to go over?" She looked around the room, surprised at how large it was before taking a seat in one of the chairs.
He took the seat across from her, his expression giving nothing away. "I would like your opinions on Huxley and Cortez?"
She raised an eyebrow. "Huh? Now?" She shook her head, leaning back in the chair. "And that couldn't wait until tomorrow?" Sighing, she shut her eyes and gently rubbed her temples. The man was simply aggravating. Taking her away from a fun evening with friends in order to--wait. She looked back at him. "I ain't here to give my opinions on them, am I?"
Narrowing her eyes, she crossed her arms defensively. "What the hell is it that you want?"
He leaned back in his chair, still looking as formidable as ever. "I believe you know, Rogue."
"Well obviously I don't if'n I'm asking," she growled, glaring.
He glared back. "You delight in irritating me."
"Ain't all that hard to do, sugah," she drawled, pushing her hair out of her face. "You anger easily. Don't show any emotion but that it seems."
His hand slammed down on the table and she rolled her eyes. "Ain't scared of you anymore either," she informed him, and rose. "If you don't have anything important I'm going. I'll see you tomorrow."
She tried the door but it wouldn't open. The knob wouldn't even turn. Stupid metal. "Sit down, Rogue."
She turned back towards him. "I'd rather stand."
His mouth was tight as he waved his hand, drawing out the chair she'd used and turning it in her direction. "Please," he bit out.
Shaking her head, she acquiesced and looked pointedly at him. She was giving him five minutes. He rose and she nearly rolled her eyes but kept her emotions in check. "I am proud of the work you have done, Rogue," he stated, watching her closely. His expression guarded. "I reward my soldiers, those in my employ, but there is nothing I can give you. Nothing you would want."
"That ain't true." She bit her lip, surprised she'd spoken.
"Go on," he urged.
Rogue looked away from him, staring at her hands. "I. I want to. To see Erik," she whispered, trying not to play with her hands.
The silence stretched out before them and Rogue twisted her fingers, nervous that she'd angered him. Offended him until she felt soft leather under her chin again, grasping it. Lifting her face so that he could see her eyes. "You see him every day," he stated, still so tense. Still Magneto.
She pulled away, pushing the chair back and rose. "Nevermind."
The door still wouldn't open and she growled. "I told you what I wanted as a reward. You can't give it so let me go."
"You are under the impression that Magneto and Erik are separate beings. They are not."
She spun around. "Yeah, they are," she replied adamantly, irrationally angry. "When the hell was the last time you even let yourself be Erik? To show emotion besides this anger? This focus on your ending goal?"
He did not answer, eyes narrowed. Expression tense. "Look, fine. Give me a bigger room or something as my reward. I'll like that just fine." She turned back to the door, ready to tear it off the hinges.
"What place, Rogue, would softer emotions have for me now?" he asked, the knob melding into the door, stopping her means of escape. "Anger serves my cause. What you propose...does not."
"Right." She refused to look back at him. He had three seconds before she kicked down the door and left. Fine.
He sighed. "Do you want me to say I am glad you are here?"
"Maybe," she grumbled, glaring at the door.
"I cannot do that," he replied, and she whirled around, quickly masking her hurt. She must not have done it well as his gaze softened briefly. "You confuse my plans, Rogue."
"Right. Your plans," she spat out, kicking the floor in irritation.
"Do you want me to say that I missed you?" he demanded, voice rising slightly.
She glared, fists clenching at her sides. "Yeah. That'd be nice." Rogue scrunched up her face, scuffing the floor. Not that you even care.
"I did."
She looked up at that, cheeks heated. "Did?" She turned back to the door, crossing her arms protectively around her body.
"Rogue." She refused to turn around. "I still do."
"Fine." She couldn't look at him. The cause--his damn, insufferable cause--was more important. Always would be. How the hell was she supposed to even try and compete with that. Not even his own flesh and blood won out over that damn dream. "Doesn't matter, though," she whispered, feeling utterly defeated. "I'm tired. I'd like to see my friends." She wanted laughter, happiness. Something he apparently would never be able to give her or let her even try to give him.
"Rogue..." he began, but said no more, the metal door sliding open. "I shall see you in the morning."
"Yes, sir." She exited and looked back at him. "All I wanted was to see Erik. That shouldn't be as impossible of a task as you've made it. I miss him."
She took off into the air before he could answer. Tomorrow was something she was definitely not looking forward to.
-----
Rogue never did make it to dinner with the others, quickly excusing herself once she'd arrived at Zenia's and curling up in the bed. Sleep hadn't come for a long time and even when she did finally manage to it was fitful and full of nightmares. She woke before the sun rose but stayed inside the room, not wanting to disturb the others. Meeting with Magneto was something she did not want to do. Didn't even want to think about enduring hours with the man knowing he didn't...
She shook her head violently, refusing to give voice to her thoughts. It didn't matter. None of it. She was here for the mutates. Whatever the hell was--wasn't--happening between them didn't matter. She kept reminding herself that as she joined the others, forcing herself to be cordial. These were her friends. She was not about to allow him to have ruined this reunion. That happiness was short lived as Zenia and the others led her back to where Magneto was staying and she closed herself off. Building an impenetrable shell around herself, refusing to allow emotions to show on her face.
He exited the room, that steadfast, authoritative expression plastered on his face. The others all bowed slightly, treating him as their king. Their leader. And he is, she reminded herself, fighting back the urge to cross her arms.
"I thought a tour of the hospital and school system would be wise," Zenia stated, watching him with barely contained reverence.
Rogue frowned, watching the mutates, their expressions eager for his validation. "Very well." That was all he said, waving his hand for them to proceed.
Rogue turned, shaking her head for the people. That was all they would ever receive from him. Nothing more. Zenia's right-hand man was leading the group, commenting on the various structures as they passed and Rogue nearly jumped as a hand touched her back. She spared a glance, ready to reprimand whoever it was, eyes widening as she realized it was Magneto. He didn't look at her, keeping his attention on the mutate speaking but he kept his hand where it was, firm but gentle at the same time.
Damn him and his confusing ways. She doubted her ability to pull away without causing a scene and didn't relish the idea of doing that. Besides, she enjoyed it being there. Which probably meant she really should push it away. She almost did but his thumb began slowly sliding back and forth, a simple caress and her resolve was destroyed.
Zenia was talking. Something about the hospital and Rogue forced herself to listen.
This was going to be harder than she'd thought.
The day continued like that, each minute her confusion growing. He kept her close and at first she wondered if he was merely trying to keep tabs on her but he wasn't simply having her nearby. He was continuously touching her. Slow, innocuous touches. On her back. Her arm. Her hand. She almost told him to stop but the look he had been giving her, the intensity of his gaze had squelched any desire to do so. This was torturous.
At lunch--which was much grandeur than she was used to, and she had a feeling even more so than what the mutates usually ate--she finally got some time by herself. He was involved in a lengthy discussion about safety measure. She excused herself to meet with Zenia, expecting to go over school supplies. And they did for a few moments. "You are revered," Zenia murmured, looking at her in awe.
"Huh?" Rogue looked up from the list she was writing.
Zenia looked at Magneto before smiling gently. "We had thought you were held in high esteem. At the camp, when you arrived with Lord Magneto's personal robot," the woman continued, her voice low. "And now..."
"Ain't sure what you're implying, Zenia, but you're wrong," Rogue murmured, looking back at the list. "Ferris was merely there to give reports on what I was doing."
"He was your personal bodyguard." Zenia was still smiling. "You are esteemed. In his eyes, Rogue. There is no point in denying it." She placed her hand on Rogue's arm, on the fabric, and Rogue frowned as she flinched.
She apologized, forcing a small smile and looked over at Magneto, quickly averting her gaze when she realized he was watching her. "You're wrong." Rogue picked the pen back up. "And we got more important items to discuss," she murmured, effectively ending the discussion.
Problem was, now the idea was in her head. And she began noticing differences in the way he spoke with the mutates and with her. Always autocratic with them. A master and his servants. A king and his subjects. With her though, his voice was softer. Requests made instead of demands. She wondered if he even realized he was doing it. Never could tell with him. It might be an unconscious distinction or one he was trying very hard to make her see. It was nice and all and she had a feeling he might be seeing this as her reward. This kinder, less abrasive side of himself. But it wasn't what she had wanted.
It was time to accept the fact that the man she knew was never going to show himself again. She didn't think Magneto even knew how to be Erik anymore.
Her expression became sullen at the realization, her gait slowing significantly. The others didn't notice, continuing to appraise him of the inner workings of the settlement and she was glad. Happy to be out of the spotlight and hung on the edges. Half-listening, making mental notes to compliment Zenia on later. After a few moments she noticed that Magneto was watching her, concern evident in his eyes. A flash of Erik.
No. She quickly looked back at Zenia. Trick of the light. That's all.
The tour lasted hours and she successfully stayed on opposite sides of the group from him for the remainder of it. Making sure it looked as though she was in deep conversations with whichever mutate happened to be in that area.
"We have a feast prepared in order for you to meet those responsible for all this work," Zenia stated, and Rogue nodded, refusing to look at Magneto. "If you can stay, my Lord."
He must have nodded as they were walking back towards the government building. The mutate she had been conversing with suddenly bowed his head slightly and moved away. Rogue sighed as Magneto took his place, features hard. "You are avoiding me." She flinched at his tone. "Do not try and deny it, Rogue."
They entered the large hall, usually used for meetings but now filled with tables, chairs and food. "I cannot fathom why you feel the need to play that game," he continued, grasping her arm firmly and steering her along towards where Zenia was leading him. His grip wasn't painful, merely firm, and if she'd wanted she could have easily broken free.
Zenia was pulling out a chair for him and Rogue bit her lip as the one beside it moved out and he deposited her in it, gently pushing her closer to the table before taking his own seat. "Stop pretending," she bit out, keeping her voice low. "I don't want it."
"Pretending?" Neither of them were looking at the other, their focus on the display being presented to them.
"The students have some performances they wished to show. To convey their gratitude," Zenia informed them as a group of children appeared, looking nervous.
"Yeah, pretending." Rogue clapped at the aerobatic show the students were performing. "Like you care."
He grasped her hand, almost painful. "You are under the impression I do not care?"
She forced a smile towards the students who'd finished, another group appearing. Singing a carefully choreographed song. "I think you can't give me what I need," she murmured, pulling her hand away, clapping again.
"I think you do not know what you need," he countered, capturing her hand again, bringing it close. Slowly stroking his thumb across the back. "You wanted to see Erik. As your reward. I have been attempting to give you that."
She looked over at him. Astonished, before looking back at the performance. "I am rusty at showing these emotions, Rogue," he continued, keeping her hand entwined with his. "But I am trying."
"And I wasn't appreciative of it," she murmured, more to herself than him. Slowly, she squeezed his hand and settled back to watching the others, mulling over this new information in her head. "I'm sorry."
He did not reply, continuing his slow caress. God, he was the most confusing man. "I...care more than I should allow myself to," he finally told her.
"Right. Cause I confuse your plans." She forced herself not to glower, not wanting to give the mutates the wrong impression, and tried to remove her hand from his grip. He wasn't letting her.
"Perhaps, I have determined a way to include you into those plans," he replied, and she turned to look at him.
"Huh?"
"Watch the show, Rogue. We shall discuss this later," he murmured, patting her hand. His gaze never leaving the performance.
Rogue was never quite able to recall what the students had shown.
----
The feast had been delicious. Or at least, Rogue thought it was. She didn't think she'd eaten all that much. And now, here she was back in Magneto's room, sitting in the same chair as the night before. Prepared to talk. Again. Didn't we just do this? She sighed, looking steadfastly at the ceiling. Coward. "So, I'm included in these plans of yours now, huh?"
He laughed, the sound deep, throaty and she looked at him. Unsure if she should smile or glare. "You were never one to skirt around the issue," he stated, taking a seat across from her. "I have been pleased to have you working with the mutates."
She shrugged. "Was glad to help."
"I enjoyed your company as well. Knowing that you were here," he continued, watching her closely.
"I've enjoyed my time here as well." She had no idea what else to say.
"I do not have time for matters of the heart," Magneto told her, rising from his chair, hands clasped behind his back. "Building Genosha into a great nation, proof to the world that mutantkind shall flourish without there help, will require all of my focus."
Rogue nodded. No time for matters of the heart...Right. "And yet," he continued, and she looked back at him. "I cannot seem to deny this constant need to have you at my side."
"You could send me away." Oh please no.
"I suppose I could." He grabbed her hand, yanking her unceremoniously to her feet. "I should." He smoothed hair from her face, tugging her closer. "I do not want to."
The distance between them was growing smaller and she braced her hands against his chest, fingers grasping hold of his uniform as his lips brushed against hers. There was a loud explosion and the two sprang apart. The room reverberating from the aftershocks. Magneto's expression hardened again and she watched as his helmet flew to him. Screams could be heard as she followed him out of the room and into the streets.
It was chaos. Men and women with guns and explosives moving through the streets. The mutates in a frenzied state of panic, running for their lives. Most weren't fighting back and she realized that they were doing what they'd always done. They knew no other way. Magneto rose into the air, magnetic energy crackling around him and the humans froze. Rogue could see the horror in their faces. They had not been expecting him to be here.
Magneto raised his hands and a long piece of metal door flew at the men and women, quickly eviscerating them. It was over quickly and Rogue clasped a hand over her mouth in horror, staring at the dead humans. Zaladane flashed before her. Metal spikes piercing the woman. And then she saw a mutate child crawl out from a piece of rubble, crying profusely, pulling at a body trapped underneath.
Rogue shook herself and flew over, helping the remove the debris. It was no use, the young woman was dead and the little boy cried harder, grasping the woman tightly. More explosions occurred in the distance and Magneto flew off, a group of mutates running behind him, ready to help. Rogue stayed behind. Began coordinating a rescue team as members of the hospital made their way to the wreckage.
A crowd had begun to form and Rogue finally looked up from leg she was wrapping. Magneto was back, the group of mutates who'd gone with him looking pleased. "My Brethren," Magneto began, his voice booming across the open air, all heads turning his way. There was absolute silence. "We have been dealt a heavy blow and in turn have given one. We will rebuild, we will survive. And they will regret the day they decided to continue this war."
A thunderous applause erupted from the crowd and she watched him scan the crowd, searching. He stopped once he spotted her and she rose, handing the gauze off to the nurse. His expression was remote and she knew he was unsure how she would respond to this. To what he had done. The humans he had killed were only a few feet away and she spared them a glance as she walked towards him, moving through the crowd. They had deserved their fates. Those they had killed had not. The mutates had done nothing but try and live.
The mutates were turning away, following the instructions he was giving to help tend to survivors and Rogue stopped in front of him. "When should I expect your departure?" he asked, no longer looking at her.
She frowned, realizing he was shutting himself off, like she had that morning. Quickly, she closed the distance between them and wrapped her arms around his neck, a little awkward because of the damn helmet and kissed him. He didn't respond and she pulled back, closing her eyes. Of course. "I'm--"
She never got to finish the sentence as his hand tangled in her hair, lips crushing against hers in a bruising kiss. She melted against him, hands wrapping again in his uniform. Tightening as her power flared, pulling at him. She could hear the metal around them, like a constant buzz in the back of her mind, could sense its nearness and pushed away. Breaking contact as she gasped for air. He was smiling, hand smoothing back her hair before releasing her completely, expression once again sliding into its hardened state. "We shall talk later," he murmured, before leaving her to speak with Zenia and the others.
Rogue turned back to the hospital staff, ready to help once again. She stopped short as a small piece of metal contorted in front of her before clasping onto her wrist. She whirled around to look at Magneto, to demand an answer. He was facing the others but the metal moved slowly around her wrist. Almost like a caress and she sighed, moving back to the throng of injured.
-----
It was late as Rogue quietly made her way towards Magneto's quarters. Zenia and the rest were already in bed. Everyone exhausted from the chaos of that day. She passed members of the newly formed police squad on the streets, nodding silently to her as they patrolled. She arrived at his door and hesitated briefly, fiddling with her hair before dropping her hands. Disgusted with herself. She knocked quickly and waited, fumbling with her new make-shift bracelet.
The door opened and she tried not to gasp at the sight of him shirtless and forced herself to look at his face. His hair was wet and she gave an apologetic smile. "Didn't mean to disturb you," she murmured, turning to go.
"Don't be foolish." He grasped her arm, tugging her into the room.
Shutting the door behind them, he picked up the towel hanging precariously from a chair and finished drying his hair. There were papers on the other chair and Rogue looked around for a place to sit and wait. The only free structure was the bed. She decided to stand.
"Is there a reason you are here?" he asked, dropping the towel back on the chair.
"I." She blushed--face, look at his face--trying not to frown as he slipped on a long sleeve shirt. "You said we were gonna talk."
He smiled and the bracelet on her hand began sliding slowly around as he used his power to tug her forward. He used his power to remove the items from the couch and brought her with him as he laid down on it, situating her on top of him. She forgot to breathe, frozen on top of him until he began slowly playing with her hair. She relaxed, moving a little so she could look at him. "You did not look at me as a murderer," he murmured, an unspoken this time hanging between them.
"You were defending your people." She closed her eyes, hand curling in his shirt. "They would've killed so many more if you hadn't."
"The mutates were unprepared," he continued, voice hard. "They will not be again."
"Ya think they'll come back?" She shook her head at her own naivety. "Of course they will."
"There are many who do not wish for Genosha to be successful, Rogue." Magneto's hand moved down her back, soothing. He continued to speak, telling her of his plans for training the mutates. She didn't hear it though as slumber took hold of her, dragging her down. Finally falling into a dreamless sleep.
She woke several hours later and it took her few moments to realize where she was. They were no longer on the couch but in his bed and she was using him as her own personal pillow it seemed. His hand was wrapped around her, holding her tightly against him and she looked up, taking a moment to watch him sleep. What am I doing? she berated, carefully disentangling herself from his embrace. She sat on the edge of the bed, strengthening her resolve to leave. If she looked back at him she knew she wouldn't.
His hand on her waist stopped her from moving. "Where are you going?" he asked, pulling her back down.
Rogue bit her lip, watching him carefully. "I was gonna go back to my room," she murmured, startled when his eyes narrowed, tugging her so that she was laying on top of him again. "Magneto?"
"This"--she gasped as he pinned her beneath him, raising her arms above her head--"is your place." He kissed her harshly, mouth bruising against hers. Her power tugged immediately at him and her hips bucked into his as his passion spiked through her body. "With me."
He released her hands, pressing kisses along her jaw, down her neck as his hands tugged at her clothes, ripping the buttons off of her shirt. "Careful," she admonished, her power flaring and she cried out, body pushing up against his, overwhelmed by his lust.
Slowly, he rose over her, holding himself up on one hand. His free hand trailing down her bra strap. "No," he told her, leaning down and nipping her shoulder. "I do not care if your power starts, Rogue."
"Yeah, well. I ain't about to hurt you just cause you don't care," she replied, utilizing her strength to push him off. It worked for a moment but then the bracelet elongated, wrapping around both of her hands and drawing her hands over her head.
"I am not scared of your power, Rogue, and neither should you be," he murmured, fingers trailing slowly across the upperswell of her breasts. He kissed her again, slow and deep, edging his tongue into her mouth, heedless of her power.
She struggled briefly beneath him, fearful. Reminded of the guards until he pulled back, watching her carefully. "I will not hurt you," he promised, and she watched as something drifted towards him--a metal towel rod? He released his control on her and sat back, removing her bra. "Trust me."
Rogue nodded slowly, eyes large, trying not to be afraid. The metal shifted above her and she watched it elongate, spreading itself out until it was thin and flat. It slid down over her neck and she groaned at the coolness, watching him, hand curling in his shirt as the metal slid downwards, moving to caress against her breasts. "Oh," she gasped, as the metal continued to slide, silky smooth against her flesh as it thinned out, covering her whole breast.
He was watching her with a heated gaze and she inhaled sharply as his mouth descended on her, tongue flicking her covered nipple. She cried out, fingers twisting in his shirt, breathing heavy. It was like his mouth was actually on her skin. "Oh god. Ohgodohgodohgod."
He smiled against her breast. "Not a god."
She couldn't even think about anything else except his hands, his mouth. On her, making her come alive. His hand pressed against the skin of her stomach, power grabbing at him and she whimpered, legs clenching tightly together, sliding, overwhelmed by his lust and his body. His hands were on her pants, tugging them and her panties off in one quick motion as he released her breast, looking down at her. Hungry.
The metal slid down her body, slowly. Tortuously until she was writhing on the bed, quietly begging for more. Her legs were pushed open and she felt the metal, cold and smooth nudge between them, finding her sex. "You won't leave me," he breathed, his mouth against her ear as the metal pushed into her body. She arched, gasping at the feel of the metal inside, fingers entwining tighter in his shirt as her hips began moving, matching the thrusts. "You will be with me. At my side."
"I will. I will," she promised, groaning as he picked up the pace, free hand tweaking her nipples.
"You will help me mold Genosha into a magnificent society."
Her power tugged at him and she made a whining noise as she felt the metal inside of her in an entirely different way. "Ohgodohgod."
"Oh yes," he murmured, pressing his mouth to her ear. "Mine. All mine."
She shuddered, clenching her eyes shut and came hard, breaking into a million little pieces. The metal thrust into her a few more times and he groaned, kissing her hard before sliding the metal slowly from her body. "Mine," he repeated, laying back on the bed and drawing her to him. "Sleep, Rogue. We will speak in the morning."
He pulled the cover back over them, hands rubbing down the length of her back through the fabric and she curled into him, falling quickly to sleep. She'd worry about what they'd done in the morning.
Author:
willowausCharacter/Pairing: Magneto, Rogue, people of Genosha
Verse: 616
Rating: M
Word Count: 6400+
Summary: What if Rogue had decided to stay and help out with the building of Genosha?
A/N: Thanks to
resolute for the beta.She didn't see Magneto for the rest of the week. That should have been a comfort but she wondered if she'd angered him by simply leaving. If maybe she'd simply dreamed the entire encounter up. But they had almost kissed. Again. Hadn't they? Leave it alone, Rogue, she growled, shuffling through her papers. If she went over the supply requests maybe she wouldn't think about...anything.
That worked for about five minutes and she knew the rest of her staff was wondering what was wrong. They were all looking anxiously at her and she tried hard to mask her anxiety, knowing they were probably interpreting it as some downfall for mutates. She gave a reassuring smile and filed the supply requests, not relishing the thought of passing them off to Huxley. That woman irritated the hell out of her and she wasn't sure why--she didn't want to think about why.
Rogue gathered more paperwork, forcing herself to focus. Time passed slowly but at least she was getting the work done. No one could say she wasn't anything but thorough. The constant chatter from her staff comforted her so when they were suddenly silent, she looked up, knowing something was wrong. They were all standing, head slightly bowed and she watched as Magneto strode into her office, the rest of his council trailing behind him.
Huxley was beside him, rattling off information that Rogue had a feeling she should listen to but she couldn't bring herself to care. Quickly looking back at the reports before her. "The settlement along the northern coast is apparently completed," Huxley stated, and Rogue nodded, cheeks reddening.
What couldn't tell me that yourself, Magneto? she thought bitterly, not bothering to look up. That was the settlement Zenia was in charge of and she wondered how the girl was fairing. "We need you to make sure it is up to standard," Huxley continued, and Rogue swore she could hear the disdain in the other woman's voice.
"That's fine." It'd be nice to see Zenia. To actually be around the people she was supposed to be helping again. She missed the laughter.
"I will be accompanying you," Magneto informed her, and Rogue refused to look up, simply nodding again.
"You have a meeting with several representatives of the United Nations and various countries," Huxley reminded, slightly anxious.
Rogue looked up at that. "I'll be fine alone."
"I am certain you would be, Rogue. Regardless, I am going." He was looking at her intently.
"But, Magneto," Huxley began.
"Pietro or Amelia can meet with the representatives, Ms. Huxley," he interrupted, and raised his hand. "Leave us. All of you."
The mutates and Acolytes quickly obeyed, only Huxley remaining behind. "But, sir."
"That was not a request." He hadn't looked away from Rogue and forced back a smile as the other woman left, clearly agitated.
Rogue turned her attention back to Magneto. "Ya dont' have to come."
"They are my people, Rogue." He paused, looking as though he wanted to say something more before shaking his head. "Be ready in half an hour," he stated, and left.
Rogue shook her head. This was becoming entirely too confusing. She left the office, dropping off the forms in the appropriate places before quickly dealing with a few odds and ends, uncertain where he'd want to meet her. She looked at Ferris, wondering if the robot would be of any help but no, all he was doing this time was following her. Of course.
She strode to Magneto's throne room, figuring that was as best a place to start as any and didn't bother knocking as she walked inside. Huxley was having a rather heated discussion with Magneto. Though, it didn't look as though he was paying much attention to the woman's words. His focus on the small screen before him. "I suggest," he finally stated, voice colder than Rogue had ever heard it. "That you remember your place." He gave Huxley a piercing glare.
The woman stumbled backward a little before quickly composing herself. "Yes, sir."
"I am leaving Amelia and Pietro in charge of any decisions that are deemed necessary in my absence," Magneto continued, and waved his hand, a sign for Rogue to enter further into the room. "There should be nothing that pressing."
"Would you like me to ready one of the planes?" Huxley asked, removing a phone from her pocket, ready to do so.
"That will not be necessary." He rose, nodding slightly towards Rogue. "We can fly without the use of that contraption."
"Surely carrying two of you that far would be taxing, sir." That had not been a good response if Magneto's glare was any indication.
"If'n anything, Ms. Huxley, I'd be carrying him." Rogue grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "I'd get us there faster." She tapped a finger against her chin. "I wonder if'n I'm faster than Pietro...I'll have to challenge him to a race."
"At a later time, hmmm?" Magneto replied, and motioned towards the door. "We should leave before the sun sets."
Rogue nodded and started towards the exit, looking curiously at him when she felt his hand press on the small of her back. He wasn't looking at her, guiding her through the hallway and she didn't protest. Enjoying the contact, yet uncertain what any of this meant. They were passing the various offices that had been put in place since his rule and she knew they were taking the long way through the citadel. Who knew what he was trying to show. She didn't want to think about it and kept her mouth shut, nodding to Pietro as they passed who lifted an eyebrow questioningly.
They arrived at the doors and Magneto halted, turning to Ferris. "You are to stay behind. Watch Huxley and the others and make certain that my wishes are followed," he informed the robot.
"Yes, sir." Ferris emitted a few beeping sounds before turning and going back the way they came.
"I don't need a body guard anymore?" Rogue joked, as the door opened, sunlight pouring down on them.
"None would be foolish enough to harm you in my presence, Rogue." Magneto lifted off the ground and she followed, waiting for direction.
He began moving east and she slowed her pace so that she would stay beside him. "Why are you coming with me?" she asked after a few moments. "Are you...do you think I ain't gonna report accurately or something?"
"No." He didn't expand on that and she sighed, rising a little higher, annoyed when he did the same.
She decided it was probably best to simply ignore him and focus on flying. Take a chance to enjoy the scenery below. It had certainly improved since she'd first arrived. Buildings were freshly renovated, the fields and forests were quickly repopulating. She could even spot a few cattle and other livestock in the fields below. "You really are doing good here," she murmured, not all that certain he would hear her. Not quite caring if he did.
"You sound surprised."
Rogue looked at him, sighing at the hardness of his features. Did he ever not look that way? She was finding it hard to remember when he hadn't. "You ain't got the best track record, sugah."
She dove, feeling herself relax a little as she swerved in between the trees, sliding down to glide above a stream, running her hand through the water. It felt good to finally be out of that metal palace. Freeing. Eventually, she rejoined him above but continued to fly erratically. Doing somersaults midair, whirling in and out at her own will. When they finally set down on the edge of the new settlement she spared a glance in his direction.
He was smiling. She reciprocated the look, pleased when his hand found her back, settling there again as he guided her towards the core of the town. They strode quickly through the streets. Mutates sparing cautious glances in their direction, eyes widening as they took in Magneto's full uniform. There was no denying that it was him and whispers quickly filled the air as they continued on their way to government building in the center. It was modeled after the one she'd set up in Hammer Bay, though with more offices for the other agencies that were needed.
Zenia and a group of other mutates exited, dressed in their finest. "Lord Magneto," Zenia greeted, bowing her head slightly. "We have made preparations for your visit."
Rogue held back, knowing now was not the time to embrace her friend. It was very hard not to do. Magneto merely nodded, his expression back to the hardened state that Rogue was finding she despised. She moved to pull away and allow him his space, to face them as their leader but his hand tightened on her back, a silent command to stay. "We will tour the facilities tomorrow," Magneto stated.
"Of course." Zenia nodded, looking hesitantly at him and then Rogue, uncertain what to do next.
"Where are we staying?" Rogue prodded, smiling at the woman.
"We have our best room prepared for you, my lord," Zenia replied, and began leading them towards one of the grander buildings. "And Rogue. I have a room for you. I thought we could catch up."
Rogue's smile broadened. "That'd be perfect."
They entered the building and Zenia handed the keys to Magneto. "If you need anything, Jermaine and Dayonna will happily provide you with it," she informed him, bowing again.
Rogue noticed that all the mutates were doing so. She turned her attention to Magneto. "I'll see you in the morning then?"
He was staring at her strangely. "I need to go over a few items with you before you retire with your friends," he informed her and Rogue nodded.
"Dayonna or Jermaine can bring her to my apartment," Zenia said, nodding quickly.
"Okay. Sure." Rogue slipped away from him and gave her friend a brief hug. She'd perfected making sure her skin didn't contact the other person's.
Magneto opened the door and the others filed out of the building. Rogue watched them depart, waving to her friends before accompanying him into the room. "What do we need to go over?" She looked around the room, surprised at how large it was before taking a seat in one of the chairs.
He took the seat across from her, his expression giving nothing away. "I would like your opinions on Huxley and Cortez?"
She raised an eyebrow. "Huh? Now?" She shook her head, leaning back in the chair. "And that couldn't wait until tomorrow?" Sighing, she shut her eyes and gently rubbed her temples. The man was simply aggravating. Taking her away from a fun evening with friends in order to--wait. She looked back at him. "I ain't here to give my opinions on them, am I?"
Narrowing her eyes, she crossed her arms defensively. "What the hell is it that you want?"
He leaned back in his chair, still looking as formidable as ever. "I believe you know, Rogue."
"Well obviously I don't if'n I'm asking," she growled, glaring.
He glared back. "You delight in irritating me."
"Ain't all that hard to do, sugah," she drawled, pushing her hair out of her face. "You anger easily. Don't show any emotion but that it seems."
His hand slammed down on the table and she rolled her eyes. "Ain't scared of you anymore either," she informed him, and rose. "If you don't have anything important I'm going. I'll see you tomorrow."
She tried the door but it wouldn't open. The knob wouldn't even turn. Stupid metal. "Sit down, Rogue."
She turned back towards him. "I'd rather stand."
His mouth was tight as he waved his hand, drawing out the chair she'd used and turning it in her direction. "Please," he bit out.
Shaking her head, she acquiesced and looked pointedly at him. She was giving him five minutes. He rose and she nearly rolled her eyes but kept her emotions in check. "I am proud of the work you have done, Rogue," he stated, watching her closely. His expression guarded. "I reward my soldiers, those in my employ, but there is nothing I can give you. Nothing you would want."
"That ain't true." She bit her lip, surprised she'd spoken.
"Go on," he urged.
Rogue looked away from him, staring at her hands. "I. I want to. To see Erik," she whispered, trying not to play with her hands.
The silence stretched out before them and Rogue twisted her fingers, nervous that she'd angered him. Offended him until she felt soft leather under her chin again, grasping it. Lifting her face so that he could see her eyes. "You see him every day," he stated, still so tense. Still Magneto.
She pulled away, pushing the chair back and rose. "Nevermind."
The door still wouldn't open and she growled. "I told you what I wanted as a reward. You can't give it so let me go."
"You are under the impression that Magneto and Erik are separate beings. They are not."
She spun around. "Yeah, they are," she replied adamantly, irrationally angry. "When the hell was the last time you even let yourself be Erik? To show emotion besides this anger? This focus on your ending goal?"
He did not answer, eyes narrowed. Expression tense. "Look, fine. Give me a bigger room or something as my reward. I'll like that just fine." She turned back to the door, ready to tear it off the hinges.
"What place, Rogue, would softer emotions have for me now?" he asked, the knob melding into the door, stopping her means of escape. "Anger serves my cause. What you propose...does not."
"Right." She refused to look back at him. He had three seconds before she kicked down the door and left. Fine.
He sighed. "Do you want me to say I am glad you are here?"
"Maybe," she grumbled, glaring at the door.
"I cannot do that," he replied, and she whirled around, quickly masking her hurt. She must not have done it well as his gaze softened briefly. "You confuse my plans, Rogue."
"Right. Your plans," she spat out, kicking the floor in irritation.
"Do you want me to say that I missed you?" he demanded, voice rising slightly.
She glared, fists clenching at her sides. "Yeah. That'd be nice." Rogue scrunched up her face, scuffing the floor. Not that you even care.
"I did."
She looked up at that, cheeks heated. "Did?" She turned back to the door, crossing her arms protectively around her body.
"Rogue." She refused to turn around. "I still do."
"Fine." She couldn't look at him. The cause--his damn, insufferable cause--was more important. Always would be. How the hell was she supposed to even try and compete with that. Not even his own flesh and blood won out over that damn dream. "Doesn't matter, though," she whispered, feeling utterly defeated. "I'm tired. I'd like to see my friends." She wanted laughter, happiness. Something he apparently would never be able to give her or let her even try to give him.
"Rogue..." he began, but said no more, the metal door sliding open. "I shall see you in the morning."
"Yes, sir." She exited and looked back at him. "All I wanted was to see Erik. That shouldn't be as impossible of a task as you've made it. I miss him."
She took off into the air before he could answer. Tomorrow was something she was definitely not looking forward to.
-----
Rogue never did make it to dinner with the others, quickly excusing herself once she'd arrived at Zenia's and curling up in the bed. Sleep hadn't come for a long time and even when she did finally manage to it was fitful and full of nightmares. She woke before the sun rose but stayed inside the room, not wanting to disturb the others. Meeting with Magneto was something she did not want to do. Didn't even want to think about enduring hours with the man knowing he didn't...
She shook her head violently, refusing to give voice to her thoughts. It didn't matter. None of it. She was here for the mutates. Whatever the hell was--wasn't--happening between them didn't matter. She kept reminding herself that as she joined the others, forcing herself to be cordial. These were her friends. She was not about to allow him to have ruined this reunion. That happiness was short lived as Zenia and the others led her back to where Magneto was staying and she closed herself off. Building an impenetrable shell around herself, refusing to allow emotions to show on her face.
He exited the room, that steadfast, authoritative expression plastered on his face. The others all bowed slightly, treating him as their king. Their leader. And he is, she reminded herself, fighting back the urge to cross her arms.
"I thought a tour of the hospital and school system would be wise," Zenia stated, watching him with barely contained reverence.
Rogue frowned, watching the mutates, their expressions eager for his validation. "Very well." That was all he said, waving his hand for them to proceed.
Rogue turned, shaking her head for the people. That was all they would ever receive from him. Nothing more. Zenia's right-hand man was leading the group, commenting on the various structures as they passed and Rogue nearly jumped as a hand touched her back. She spared a glance, ready to reprimand whoever it was, eyes widening as she realized it was Magneto. He didn't look at her, keeping his attention on the mutate speaking but he kept his hand where it was, firm but gentle at the same time.
Damn him and his confusing ways. She doubted her ability to pull away without causing a scene and didn't relish the idea of doing that. Besides, she enjoyed it being there. Which probably meant she really should push it away. She almost did but his thumb began slowly sliding back and forth, a simple caress and her resolve was destroyed.
Zenia was talking. Something about the hospital and Rogue forced herself to listen.
This was going to be harder than she'd thought.
The day continued like that, each minute her confusion growing. He kept her close and at first she wondered if he was merely trying to keep tabs on her but he wasn't simply having her nearby. He was continuously touching her. Slow, innocuous touches. On her back. Her arm. Her hand. She almost told him to stop but the look he had been giving her, the intensity of his gaze had squelched any desire to do so. This was torturous.
At lunch--which was much grandeur than she was used to, and she had a feeling even more so than what the mutates usually ate--she finally got some time by herself. He was involved in a lengthy discussion about safety measure. She excused herself to meet with Zenia, expecting to go over school supplies. And they did for a few moments. "You are revered," Zenia murmured, looking at her in awe.
"Huh?" Rogue looked up from the list she was writing.
Zenia looked at Magneto before smiling gently. "We had thought you were held in high esteem. At the camp, when you arrived with Lord Magneto's personal robot," the woman continued, her voice low. "And now..."
"Ain't sure what you're implying, Zenia, but you're wrong," Rogue murmured, looking back at the list. "Ferris was merely there to give reports on what I was doing."
"He was your personal bodyguard." Zenia was still smiling. "You are esteemed. In his eyes, Rogue. There is no point in denying it." She placed her hand on Rogue's arm, on the fabric, and Rogue frowned as she flinched.
She apologized, forcing a small smile and looked over at Magneto, quickly averting her gaze when she realized he was watching her. "You're wrong." Rogue picked the pen back up. "And we got more important items to discuss," she murmured, effectively ending the discussion.
Problem was, now the idea was in her head. And she began noticing differences in the way he spoke with the mutates and with her. Always autocratic with them. A master and his servants. A king and his subjects. With her though, his voice was softer. Requests made instead of demands. She wondered if he even realized he was doing it. Never could tell with him. It might be an unconscious distinction or one he was trying very hard to make her see. It was nice and all and she had a feeling he might be seeing this as her reward. This kinder, less abrasive side of himself. But it wasn't what she had wanted.
It was time to accept the fact that the man she knew was never going to show himself again. She didn't think Magneto even knew how to be Erik anymore.
Her expression became sullen at the realization, her gait slowing significantly. The others didn't notice, continuing to appraise him of the inner workings of the settlement and she was glad. Happy to be out of the spotlight and hung on the edges. Half-listening, making mental notes to compliment Zenia on later. After a few moments she noticed that Magneto was watching her, concern evident in his eyes. A flash of Erik.
No. She quickly looked back at Zenia. Trick of the light. That's all.
The tour lasted hours and she successfully stayed on opposite sides of the group from him for the remainder of it. Making sure it looked as though she was in deep conversations with whichever mutate happened to be in that area.
"We have a feast prepared in order for you to meet those responsible for all this work," Zenia stated, and Rogue nodded, refusing to look at Magneto. "If you can stay, my Lord."
He must have nodded as they were walking back towards the government building. The mutate she had been conversing with suddenly bowed his head slightly and moved away. Rogue sighed as Magneto took his place, features hard. "You are avoiding me." She flinched at his tone. "Do not try and deny it, Rogue."
They entered the large hall, usually used for meetings but now filled with tables, chairs and food. "I cannot fathom why you feel the need to play that game," he continued, grasping her arm firmly and steering her along towards where Zenia was leading him. His grip wasn't painful, merely firm, and if she'd wanted she could have easily broken free.
Zenia was pulling out a chair for him and Rogue bit her lip as the one beside it moved out and he deposited her in it, gently pushing her closer to the table before taking his own seat. "Stop pretending," she bit out, keeping her voice low. "I don't want it."
"Pretending?" Neither of them were looking at the other, their focus on the display being presented to them.
"The students have some performances they wished to show. To convey their gratitude," Zenia informed them as a group of children appeared, looking nervous.
"Yeah, pretending." Rogue clapped at the aerobatic show the students were performing. "Like you care."
He grasped her hand, almost painful. "You are under the impression I do not care?"
She forced a smile towards the students who'd finished, another group appearing. Singing a carefully choreographed song. "I think you can't give me what I need," she murmured, pulling her hand away, clapping again.
"I think you do not know what you need," he countered, capturing her hand again, bringing it close. Slowly stroking his thumb across the back. "You wanted to see Erik. As your reward. I have been attempting to give you that."
She looked over at him. Astonished, before looking back at the performance. "I am rusty at showing these emotions, Rogue," he continued, keeping her hand entwined with his. "But I am trying."
"And I wasn't appreciative of it," she murmured, more to herself than him. Slowly, she squeezed his hand and settled back to watching the others, mulling over this new information in her head. "I'm sorry."
He did not reply, continuing his slow caress. God, he was the most confusing man. "I...care more than I should allow myself to," he finally told her.
"Right. Cause I confuse your plans." She forced herself not to glower, not wanting to give the mutates the wrong impression, and tried to remove her hand from his grip. He wasn't letting her.
"Perhaps, I have determined a way to include you into those plans," he replied, and she turned to look at him.
"Huh?"
"Watch the show, Rogue. We shall discuss this later," he murmured, patting her hand. His gaze never leaving the performance.
Rogue was never quite able to recall what the students had shown.
----
The feast had been delicious. Or at least, Rogue thought it was. She didn't think she'd eaten all that much. And now, here she was back in Magneto's room, sitting in the same chair as the night before. Prepared to talk. Again. Didn't we just do this? She sighed, looking steadfastly at the ceiling. Coward. "So, I'm included in these plans of yours now, huh?"
He laughed, the sound deep, throaty and she looked at him. Unsure if she should smile or glare. "You were never one to skirt around the issue," he stated, taking a seat across from her. "I have been pleased to have you working with the mutates."
She shrugged. "Was glad to help."
"I enjoyed your company as well. Knowing that you were here," he continued, watching her closely.
"I've enjoyed my time here as well." She had no idea what else to say.
"I do not have time for matters of the heart," Magneto told her, rising from his chair, hands clasped behind his back. "Building Genosha into a great nation, proof to the world that mutantkind shall flourish without there help, will require all of my focus."
Rogue nodded. No time for matters of the heart...Right. "And yet," he continued, and she looked back at him. "I cannot seem to deny this constant need to have you at my side."
"You could send me away." Oh please no.
"I suppose I could." He grabbed her hand, yanking her unceremoniously to her feet. "I should." He smoothed hair from her face, tugging her closer. "I do not want to."
The distance between them was growing smaller and she braced her hands against his chest, fingers grasping hold of his uniform as his lips brushed against hers. There was a loud explosion and the two sprang apart. The room reverberating from the aftershocks. Magneto's expression hardened again and she watched as his helmet flew to him. Screams could be heard as she followed him out of the room and into the streets.
It was chaos. Men and women with guns and explosives moving through the streets. The mutates in a frenzied state of panic, running for their lives. Most weren't fighting back and she realized that they were doing what they'd always done. They knew no other way. Magneto rose into the air, magnetic energy crackling around him and the humans froze. Rogue could see the horror in their faces. They had not been expecting him to be here.
Magneto raised his hands and a long piece of metal door flew at the men and women, quickly eviscerating them. It was over quickly and Rogue clasped a hand over her mouth in horror, staring at the dead humans. Zaladane flashed before her. Metal spikes piercing the woman. And then she saw a mutate child crawl out from a piece of rubble, crying profusely, pulling at a body trapped underneath.
Rogue shook herself and flew over, helping the remove the debris. It was no use, the young woman was dead and the little boy cried harder, grasping the woman tightly. More explosions occurred in the distance and Magneto flew off, a group of mutates running behind him, ready to help. Rogue stayed behind. Began coordinating a rescue team as members of the hospital made their way to the wreckage.
A crowd had begun to form and Rogue finally looked up from leg she was wrapping. Magneto was back, the group of mutates who'd gone with him looking pleased. "My Brethren," Magneto began, his voice booming across the open air, all heads turning his way. There was absolute silence. "We have been dealt a heavy blow and in turn have given one. We will rebuild, we will survive. And they will regret the day they decided to continue this war."
A thunderous applause erupted from the crowd and she watched him scan the crowd, searching. He stopped once he spotted her and she rose, handing the gauze off to the nurse. His expression was remote and she knew he was unsure how she would respond to this. To what he had done. The humans he had killed were only a few feet away and she spared them a glance as she walked towards him, moving through the crowd. They had deserved their fates. Those they had killed had not. The mutates had done nothing but try and live.
The mutates were turning away, following the instructions he was giving to help tend to survivors and Rogue stopped in front of him. "When should I expect your departure?" he asked, no longer looking at her.
She frowned, realizing he was shutting himself off, like she had that morning. Quickly, she closed the distance between them and wrapped her arms around his neck, a little awkward because of the damn helmet and kissed him. He didn't respond and she pulled back, closing her eyes. Of course. "I'm--"
She never got to finish the sentence as his hand tangled in her hair, lips crushing against hers in a bruising kiss. She melted against him, hands wrapping again in his uniform. Tightening as her power flared, pulling at him. She could hear the metal around them, like a constant buzz in the back of her mind, could sense its nearness and pushed away. Breaking contact as she gasped for air. He was smiling, hand smoothing back her hair before releasing her completely, expression once again sliding into its hardened state. "We shall talk later," he murmured, before leaving her to speak with Zenia and the others.
Rogue turned back to the hospital staff, ready to help once again. She stopped short as a small piece of metal contorted in front of her before clasping onto her wrist. She whirled around to look at Magneto, to demand an answer. He was facing the others but the metal moved slowly around her wrist. Almost like a caress and she sighed, moving back to the throng of injured.
-----
It was late as Rogue quietly made her way towards Magneto's quarters. Zenia and the rest were already in bed. Everyone exhausted from the chaos of that day. She passed members of the newly formed police squad on the streets, nodding silently to her as they patrolled. She arrived at his door and hesitated briefly, fiddling with her hair before dropping her hands. Disgusted with herself. She knocked quickly and waited, fumbling with her new make-shift bracelet.
The door opened and she tried not to gasp at the sight of him shirtless and forced herself to look at his face. His hair was wet and she gave an apologetic smile. "Didn't mean to disturb you," she murmured, turning to go.
"Don't be foolish." He grasped her arm, tugging her into the room.
Shutting the door behind them, he picked up the towel hanging precariously from a chair and finished drying his hair. There were papers on the other chair and Rogue looked around for a place to sit and wait. The only free structure was the bed. She decided to stand.
"Is there a reason you are here?" he asked, dropping the towel back on the chair.
"I." She blushed--face, look at his face--trying not to frown as he slipped on a long sleeve shirt. "You said we were gonna talk."
He smiled and the bracelet on her hand began sliding slowly around as he used his power to tug her forward. He used his power to remove the items from the couch and brought her with him as he laid down on it, situating her on top of him. She forgot to breathe, frozen on top of him until he began slowly playing with her hair. She relaxed, moving a little so she could look at him. "You did not look at me as a murderer," he murmured, an unspoken this time hanging between them.
"You were defending your people." She closed her eyes, hand curling in his shirt. "They would've killed so many more if you hadn't."
"The mutates were unprepared," he continued, voice hard. "They will not be again."
"Ya think they'll come back?" She shook her head at her own naivety. "Of course they will."
"There are many who do not wish for Genosha to be successful, Rogue." Magneto's hand moved down her back, soothing. He continued to speak, telling her of his plans for training the mutates. She didn't hear it though as slumber took hold of her, dragging her down. Finally falling into a dreamless sleep.
She woke several hours later and it took her few moments to realize where she was. They were no longer on the couch but in his bed and she was using him as her own personal pillow it seemed. His hand was wrapped around her, holding her tightly against him and she looked up, taking a moment to watch him sleep. What am I doing? she berated, carefully disentangling herself from his embrace. She sat on the edge of the bed, strengthening her resolve to leave. If she looked back at him she knew she wouldn't.
His hand on her waist stopped her from moving. "Where are you going?" he asked, pulling her back down.
Rogue bit her lip, watching him carefully. "I was gonna go back to my room," she murmured, startled when his eyes narrowed, tugging her so that she was laying on top of him again. "Magneto?"
"This"--she gasped as he pinned her beneath him, raising her arms above her head--"is your place." He kissed her harshly, mouth bruising against hers. Her power tugged immediately at him and her hips bucked into his as his passion spiked through her body. "With me."
He released her hands, pressing kisses along her jaw, down her neck as his hands tugged at her clothes, ripping the buttons off of her shirt. "Careful," she admonished, her power flaring and she cried out, body pushing up against his, overwhelmed by his lust.
Slowly, he rose over her, holding himself up on one hand. His free hand trailing down her bra strap. "No," he told her, leaning down and nipping her shoulder. "I do not care if your power starts, Rogue."
"Yeah, well. I ain't about to hurt you just cause you don't care," she replied, utilizing her strength to push him off. It worked for a moment but then the bracelet elongated, wrapping around both of her hands and drawing her hands over her head.
"I am not scared of your power, Rogue, and neither should you be," he murmured, fingers trailing slowly across the upperswell of her breasts. He kissed her again, slow and deep, edging his tongue into her mouth, heedless of her power.
She struggled briefly beneath him, fearful. Reminded of the guards until he pulled back, watching her carefully. "I will not hurt you," he promised, and she watched as something drifted towards him--a metal towel rod? He released his control on her and sat back, removing her bra. "Trust me."
Rogue nodded slowly, eyes large, trying not to be afraid. The metal shifted above her and she watched it elongate, spreading itself out until it was thin and flat. It slid down over her neck and she groaned at the coolness, watching him, hand curling in his shirt as the metal slid downwards, moving to caress against her breasts. "Oh," she gasped, as the metal continued to slide, silky smooth against her flesh as it thinned out, covering her whole breast.
He was watching her with a heated gaze and she inhaled sharply as his mouth descended on her, tongue flicking her covered nipple. She cried out, fingers twisting in his shirt, breathing heavy. It was like his mouth was actually on her skin. "Oh god. Ohgodohgodohgod."
He smiled against her breast. "Not a god."
She couldn't even think about anything else except his hands, his mouth. On her, making her come alive. His hand pressed against the skin of her stomach, power grabbing at him and she whimpered, legs clenching tightly together, sliding, overwhelmed by his lust and his body. His hands were on her pants, tugging them and her panties off in one quick motion as he released her breast, looking down at her. Hungry.
The metal slid down her body, slowly. Tortuously until she was writhing on the bed, quietly begging for more. Her legs were pushed open and she felt the metal, cold and smooth nudge between them, finding her sex. "You won't leave me," he breathed, his mouth against her ear as the metal pushed into her body. She arched, gasping at the feel of the metal inside, fingers entwining tighter in his shirt as her hips began moving, matching the thrusts. "You will be with me. At my side."
"I will. I will," she promised, groaning as he picked up the pace, free hand tweaking her nipples.
"You will help me mold Genosha into a magnificent society."
Her power tugged at him and she made a whining noise as she felt the metal inside of her in an entirely different way. "Ohgodohgod."
"Oh yes," he murmured, pressing his mouth to her ear. "Mine. All mine."
She shuddered, clenching her eyes shut and came hard, breaking into a million little pieces. The metal thrust into her a few more times and he groaned, kissing her hard before sliding the metal slowly from her body. "Mine," he repeated, laying back on the bed and drawing her to him. "Sleep, Rogue. We will speak in the morning."
He pulled the cover back over them, hands rubbing down the length of her back through the fabric and she curled into him, falling quickly to sleep. She'd worry about what they'd done in the morning.
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The effort Magneto made to show her 'Erik' was great.
The lovemaking...MEW! Hot and well-written.
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I am very glad she was able to see what he was trying to do, to show her Erik. It makes me believe she can make him see there must be more then just the Cause and having more doesn't mean he has to give up the Cause.
Great chapter.
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Thank you. :)