Remy Lebeau gazed out across the lake. Normally, he would take his thoughts to the roof, but after finding Warren and Betsy up there the previous morning, he had a strange sense that his thoughts would no longer be safe up there. A small voice inside him screamed at the intrusion, but he silenced it quickly. Still, he could not help but feel a bizarre and somewhat terrifying sense of violation at the invasion of his private spot.

He sniffed at the last thought. Who was he to complain about space? At least he had people to intrude upon his, which is more than he could say before becoming X-Men.

The crimson irises took on a far away look as he thought briefly about his life before the X-Men. Exiled from the Thieves Guild, Now wasn't dat a kick in de head. and forced to become a free roaming thief for hire. To top it all off, he had the unfortunate luck of running into Sinister.

Gambit shivered, pulling his duster around him. He didn't want to think about what went down between him and 'le visage blanc du diable'. He would be content to forget everything that happened. But Remy was afraid it would happen again if he did forget. So he kept the memory locked down, hidden away where it wouldn't hurt him. Away from prying eyes who might stumble across it.

You're actin' like a fool. Gambit chastised himself for the uncontrollable rush of mistrust and insecurity he experienced. He knew he had no reason to feel the way he did. But all things considered, he at least knew why he felt like that.

Mebbe I should talk t' Stormy. The thought popped into his head, and Gambit brushed it away immediately. He loved Ororo deeply, but was afraid of what her reaction would be if she ever learned the truth between him and Sinister. Losing the respect of his Stormy would hurt worse than anything Sinister could do to him.

Y' keep thinkin' like dis and Jean's gonna know somethin' is up. Even though his own shields were quite formidable, Gambit lived in constant fear of his emotions leaking out for any two bit mutant telepath to see. It was this same fear that strengthened his shields, making it impossible for anyone to track him telepathically. He didn't care how they worked, so long as they worked. Unfortunately, what kept other people out sometimes locked him in. Occasionally Remy would find himself trapped inside his own mind with no chance of escape. Though it occurred rarely enough, he still hated it just the same. But there was little he could do except weather it out and pray the spell would pass soon.

Yawning, Remy turned and headed back towards the mansion. He knew that if he kept thinking like this he would have another psychic, psychotic episode. Y' haven't had one since y' joined de X-Men. Best if y' keep it dat way, f' everyone's sake. He knew he didn't have the emotional strength to deal with his mental chaos tonight. Your problem is dat y' t'ink too much as it is. Dat gives y' half your troubles right dere. Ah well, better get t' bed before Stormy comes searchin' f' me. Remy smiled at the last thought. Ever since Rogue decided to end their relationship What relationship? the Windrider had become quite protective and caring of the Cajun. Remy knew she was worried about him and he wished he could tell her that he was okay, but he didn't think he'd be able to pull off that big of a lie. So instead he let her fuss over him, a small part actually enjoying the attention in some brotherly kind of way. It was either that or wallow in his misery, thinking about his life and where it was along with where it was going.

There y' go again. One of dese days you're goin' t' watch what y' start thinkin' about. Resolving not to give in to temptation, Remy walked into the mansion, briefly wondering who he could convince to join him for a round of poker.

Merde. At dis rate, I won't last ten minutes in de Danger Room. He wondered if he could persuade Storm to let him off the hook with the morning practice session. Groaning, Remy flopped on his back. His eyes stared at the ceiling, his mind wandering aimlessly. He fixed on an image of Rogue and assumed that was the cause of his insomnia. What's wrong wit' y' anyway? It's not de first time de femme ends it between y'. So mebbe she mean it dis time, so what? Y' get over it like y' always do, eh? He attempted to talk himself back to sleep. After fifteen minutes of rationalizing, he finally gave up and headed for the kitchen. If he were lucky, that six-pack he saw earlier was still in there. One way or another he was going to get some sleep.

Don't know why I'm all bent out o' shape behind de girl anyway. Not like I can' find anot'er. What de...? Damn. Remy noticed an uncharacteristic tremor in his hands. He took a deep breath to try and calm himself. What's wrong wit' y' tonight Lebeau? Gambit shuffled towards the kitchen. His thoughts were no less chaotic now than they were a few hours ago. Only when he passed by a desktop calendar sitting on a table did he realize why his mind churned with such intense turmoil.

It can' be, it just can' be... He grabbed the calendar and glanced at the date. His eyes confirmed it. Today was the day that Sinister had him in his lab. The day that...

No! I don' want t' think 'bout dat! No! Remy dropped the calendar and ran back to his room, all thoughts of attacking the fridge forgotten in a moment of pure terror. He slammed his door, fumbling with the lock before diving for the bed. Remy buried himself beneath the covers as he found himself trapped inside the hideous memories of his mind.

Hands. He could see them, reaching out toward him. He tried to get away, but was strapped down on some kind of table. He couldn't move. He thrashed uselessly against the restraints. A black diamond flashed off in the background.

The hands came closer. He saw the black diamond once more. Then his mind cried out as his world became an ocean of pain. Formless. Turbulent. Horrifying. Beautiful. It flowed around him. It flowed through him. He felt himself slipping away, his mind losing its grip with reality. With undercurrents of shame and utter humiliation, he gave himself over. He became the pain, as it became him. Soon there was no ~him~ and there was no ~pain~. Only a formless entity remain...

"AAAHHH!!"

Remy bolted upright in his bed. His heart threatened to beat right out of his chest. He gasped for air, his eyes wide with fear. He sat frozen in terror as his ears were assaulted by sounds rendered nearly inhuman from their torment.

"OH GOD! STOP IT! STOP!"

With sickening clarity, Remy knew who was screaming. He had no doubt that every telepath in a thousand-mile radius were probably shrieking with the same agonizing intensity. Guilt, shame, and nausea battled for dominance inside his body and soul. With great effort, he rose from his bed to confront the chaos he had unwillingly created.

As Remy entered the living room, he could see Hank and Ororo tending to the Professor while Scott and Bobby were busy helping Jean. He could hear Betsy's voice from somewhere in the kitchen. A groan of despair escaped his lips, catching the attentions of Storm.

"Remy! We need your help. Something has happened to..."

"I know," his voice barely carried to the Windrider's ears. But Scott heard him clearly. He paused in trying to control his frantic wife and turned to stare at the Cajun.

"What do you mean you know? What's going on here Gambit?"

Remy sank slowly to the floor, unable to support himself. He didn't acknowledge Cyclops. Instead, he closed his eyes, concentrating on the pain he had released into the astral plane. A noise sounding close to a sob passed his lips as Remy began to draw the pain back into his being. Soon, he felt himself once again engulfed in a sea of unbearable agony. He gritted his teeth as he fought for control against the tide. Remy struggled to keep his sense of self as he redirected the pain away from the astral plain and back to himself. Blood trickled from his lip where his teeth had bit into the flesh. His hands clenched into tight fist. His body shuddered with the effort it took to hold onto his mind.

"Remy?"

He couldn't answer; the risk was too great. He focused solely on the pain. Remy felt it gradually leave the astral plain and flow back into the deep recesses of his self. With a final tremor, he lurched forward, falling to the floor in a heap.

"Gambit!"

Remy's body felt cold, his muscles unresponsive. A dull roar filled his ears, and he gave in to the oncoming darkness.

Tired red eyes fluttered open and abruptly snapped shut. The light was too bright to keep them open for long. Remy moaned softly, trying to get his bearings.

"He's waking up."

He recognized the voice. Beast? Behind closed lids, he sensed the light dimming. He took a tentative whiff, his nose registering the all too familiar smell of antiseptics in the air. I must be in de lab. A hand reached out, folding itself around his own.

"Remy? Can you hear me?"

Gambit tried opening his eyes again. He found a pair of blue cat-like eyes staring back, concern filling their depths. He tried to speak, but a finger sealed his lips.

"Don't try to talk. Save your strength. You've been unconscious for a long time."

How long? He didn't get a chance to ask as Hank entered his field of vision. Storm turned and glanced hopefully at the blue furred doctor.

"Will he be alright Henry?"

"I need to check his vitals, make sure he isn't suffering from any post trauma caused by this unexpected situation. However, in my own humble opinion, I think Gambit is physically in the clear. His body will need time to recuperate, of course."

"Of course." Storm looked back at him, smiling in relief. "Just rest for now Remy. We can talk when you've recovered."

Gambit gazed at her, unaware of the tear falling down his cheek. Storm's eyes widened in surprise. Even in his most vulnerable moments, Gambit never allowed anyone to see him so upset. Fear blossomed inside the Windrider as she wondered what was happening to her dear friend. Swallowing, she leaned closer to brush the tear away.

"Everything will be fine Remy, just sleep now."

He wants to believe her, but he knows the truth. Remy tried to tell her what happened. He wanted to say he was sorry, but his voice wasn't listening. Damn, must be a sedative. Sleep hugged him, and he surrendered willingly. Storm swept a lock of hair out if his eyes. He seemed almost peaceful to her, the hurt and fear temporarily absent from his face. With a sigh, Storm rose and went to join the others in the war room.

"Professor, what happened? I checked Cerebro; it was lit across the board. Every telepath for miles experienced feelings of extreme pain and trauma. We're still getting incoming calls from all over the area."

Professor Xavier regarded his student carefully. Though sufficiently recovered from the psionic wave in the astral plain, he was still weak from the experience. He himself only had the barest idea of what had happened, and he was not sure how much to reveal to the others without Gambit's permission. He chose his words with care.

"The astral plain was bombarded with what I can only describe as a psychic wave. I do not know the exact cause of the wave, but I do know that it was composed of purely of pain."

Storm turned to the Professor, her blue eyes filled with concern for what happened as well as for her friend. "What type of pain Professor?"

Xavier sighed, resisting the impulse to rub his temples. He could feel a headache coming on, yet was grateful for it considering the alternative could have been much worse. "All types of pain. Pain on an emotional, physical, mental, and psychic level. The simplest way to describe it would be to say that it felt like every nerve that registers pain was suddenly turned 'on'. While this rarely occurs in the physical world, it can happen in the psionic plane. Though for such an event to transpire would require great power, more than I myself could possibly begin to imagine."

Scott's mind whirled. That anyone could have so much power as to upset the entire psychic plane worried him greatly. He saw the suffering in the eyes of his wife and his mentor. To think that a person would willingly want to cause so much torment could only mean this person was a threat. He looked to the Professor, ready to do whatever was necessary to neutralize the danger.

"Can you trace the source of the wave Professor?" Scott went into automatic leader mode, his mind already searching through possible members to take with him. Xavier gazed at him and shook his head.

"A mission won't be necessary Scott."

Scott regarded his teacher and wondered briefly if the wave had caused more damage than they'd first suspected. He immediately pushed the thought out of his mind, afraid the Professor might pick it up and think he was questioning the older man's authority. "Why not?"

"Because he isn't a threat, at least not directly. I believe that the wave was unintentional, though I hope he will see the danger of his power and allow us to help him. It's rather remarkable that he was able to control it for so long without any outside influence."

Now Storm was curious. "What do you mean Professor? Do you know who caused this wave?"

Xavier regarded his students carefully. He was well aware of the strained relationships between Gambit and many of the other X-Men, and was sure this new information would not help matters in the least. Yet, as much as he wanted to protect the young man, he was also aware for the need to be ready in case the wave returned. The burden weighed heavily on his shoulders as Professor Xavier spoke.

"Yes Storm. I know who caused the wave."

A snikt from the side told everyone that Logan had just 'popped' his claws. "So tell us where ta find him and we'll make sure he don't make any more a those unintentional waves."

"I'm afraid it's not that easy. Besides, the X-Men have sworn to help mutants learn to control their powers. This is no different." Xavier floated to the comlink and called down to the infirmary. "Hank? Can you give me a report on Remy's condition?"

Hanks voice sounded tired, "He is asleep for the moment. Whether or not he will remain in said state is unknown for the time being. Given his unusual rest pattern for the last three hours, I would dare to hazard a guess and say that he will come too somewhat, at which time I will be given the wretched and rather dismal task of having to sedate him yet again."

Xavier felt the concern in the room peak. For all their mistrust of the Cajun, it warmed him to know that they cared enough to worry about him. "What do you mean Hank?"

A sigh echoed from the com, "Gambit has awaken three times since Storm's departure. In each case he became severely agitated to the point where I feared he would physically harm himself if left to his own vices. I later became aware that his metal state was in even worse condition. I had no choice but to sedate him to ensure his well being. I can not imagine what would happen if I allow him to awaken at this point."

Now Scott became interested. "Can you be more specific Beast?"

"Of course. Each time Gambit regained consciousness he was highly disoriented. To compound the situation, he seemed unfamiliar with his surroundings which in turned led him to believe he was being held prisoner. This had the rather undesirable effect of causing his kinetic powers to lash onto whatever matter was within range and charge it to maximum force. It is really quite fascinating when you consider the fact that he apparently charged the items without having to touch them."

Now Warren spoke up. "Are you saying he charged stuff with his mind?" The mistrust echoed in every syllable. "Would that have caused this whole mess?"

"Not at all, my winged friend. To paraphrase my earlier statement, he sent a charge out through the air, much like a sound or light wave. The charge traveled until it met with solid matter, or simply dissipated after a certain point. Once the charge came in contact with an object, the results were quite predictable, given our shared experience with Gambit's powers."

Warren looked as if he had more to say, but a sudden glare from Jean silenced him. Jean had listened intently to the conversation. She too was partially aware of what had happened on the astral plane and was worried about Remy. She herself didn't feel Gambit was directly responsible. Jean guessed that Gambit didn't realize what he was doing, and he had fixed it as soon as he sensed what had happened. Jean was afraid of what absorbing all that energy would do to him, and was glad the Professor called Hank to check on him. The fact that Gambit had been responsible for the psychic wave wouldn't help his relationship with the others. Jean made a silent vow to help Remy no matter what.

"How is he at the moment Hank?"

"For now he is stable. I think it would be beneficial if Storm or perhaps even Jean were here when he awakens."

The Professor nodded and glanced towards the two X-Men in question. The obvious choice was Storm, but Jean spoke up first.

"I'll go. I wanted to ask Hank a few questions anyway."

Scott opened his mouth to protest. Jean sent a mental message that shut him up instantly. He had the decency to look chagrined as she got up to go the med lab. Once Jean was gone, Cyclops looked back at the Professor. Xavier spoke to the com.

"Please keep me posted on Gambit's condition Hank."

"Certainly Professor. Signing off."

Bobby, who had been keeping his feelings to himself, decided he couldn't wait anymore. On one hand, he wasn't sure he trusted Gambit. On the other, a team mate was lying up in the infirmary, and no one knew what the hell was going on. They could sit and discuss this if they want to, but I want some answers.

"Give it to us straight Professor. Did Gambit have something to do with this wave thingy."

Xavier sighed. He had wanted to break it to the group gently and minimize on the damage. Bobby's outburst just canceled his plans. With a heavy heart he looked at his students.

"Yes, and no. Gambit did cause the wave..."

That was all he could manage before the room exploded in a rage of accusations and tempers.

"I knew he shouldn't be trusted!" "Why would he want to do this?" "When I get my hands on him." "But he did fix it! Why would he do that if he wanted to hurt anyone?" "We should have got rid of him when we had the chance." "That's big talk comin' from you." "Why you..."

A crash of thunder echoed throughout the estate. All eyes turned to the only X-Man capable of creating such a disturbance. Ororo Monroe glared out at her team mates. Her eyes sparked with anger and righteous indignation. She stood up, an Egyptian goddess in all her fury. Several members backed away as far as possible.

"How dare you! And you call yourselves X-Men! It is obvious to any who would bother to use the senses the goddess has given them that Remy did not intend to harm anyone. When he came out of his room, I could see the sadness in his eyes as he realized what he had done. And if you weren't so busy trying to condemn the man, you would remember that he healed the astral plane at great cost to his own self. I will not tolerate any of you sentencing him without knowing the complete story." Her eyes narrowed, and a streak of lightning flashed outside the window. "Now all of you will be quiet and let the Professor continue. And if I hear one more outburst concerning Remy's loyalties, that person will answer to me. Is that understood?"

Storm turned away from the group and faced Xavier. "I believe you had more to say Professor."

"Indeed." Xavier hid a smile as several of the X-Men stared at the Windrider with a new level of respect and justifiable fear. While she often kept her emotions under beautiful control, Storm felt no compunction about using her elemental powers to get her point across. Especially when that point was in defense of a friend. Xavier was more than grateful to Ororo for bringing a semblance of order back to the meeting. He nodded his thanks and addressed the group.

"Storm is right. I believe that the wave was accidental and involuntary."

"Involuntary?"

"Quite. From what I was able the read from both the wave and from Gambit, he's kept this wave tightly sealed inside himself. To be able to do that takes great mental and physical control."

"Like sealing someone up in the astral plane?" Bobby asked. The thought of Gambit trying to hold someone like the Shadow King at bay gave Bobby the chills. Though he would never admit, not even to himself, that it was out of fear for the Cajun more so than anything else.

"Close. Gambit's case is different due to the fact that what he sealed up isn't a separate entity, like the Shadow King. He's been holding back a force of energy that in many ways is aligned with the astral plane itself."

This answer didn't not appease Bobby, who jumped at the sound of Logan sharpening his claws thoughtfully. "So you're sayin' that Gumbo's been holdin' back a piece a the ocean."

"It's more complicated than that. This wave was created outside the plane. Whoever engineered this wave needed an avatar to introduce it to the rest of the plane."

"And that avatar was Gambit?" asked Psylocke.

"Apparently so. Since then, Gambit has been unconsciously holding the wave inside himself, away from the astral plane. That fact that it took this long for his shields to crack indicates an enormous amount of power on his part. No doubt something upset him greatly for this to occur. Even as he pulled the wave back I could feel his regret at allowing this to happen. To have to live in such constant fear must be terrible for him."

Bobby bit his lip. He was worried and scared, wondering what could have upset Gambit to make him crack. Warren, however, remained unconvinced of Gambit's innocence. "So then why didn't he tell us? I'm sure either you or Jean could have helped him if he had asked."

Scott agreed, though for different reasons. "This wave obviously poses a danger to every telepath and telempath on the planet. He should have told us so we could make sure something like this wouldn't happen."

A low growl caught everyone's attention. "Did it ever occur to ya that maybe there's a reason why he didn't want ta talk about it?"

Cyclops appeared stunned. "What do you mean? This wave is doing more harm than good. He lost control of it once and look what it did. When he pulled it back, it knocked him out. I don't see any reason why he wanted to keep something so painful to himself."

"That's because you can't see what's staring you in the face most the time." This outburst came from Bobby. It surprised everyone, including Drake himself. A dull heat crept on Scott's face. He planned a retort, but Xavier intervened.

"What Logan and Robert are saying, and is something I agree with, is the way that the wave was introduced inside Remy."

Xavier's hover chair floated to a nearby window, where he gazed out across the expanse of the school grounds. He drew strength from the tranquility of the moment, and faced his students once more.

"It is only a theory at this point, as I need more information from Gambit himself. But I think that the wave was created inside him."

Xavier looked around the room as his words slowly sank in. "The source of the wave may very well be Gambit himself."

Jean walked into the lab just as Hank finished recording Gambit's vital signs.

"Hello Hank, how is he?"

"Asleep for the moment. But I believe he will be waking up soon. I must admit, I was expecting Storm to be the one to greet our nervous friend when he wakes up."

Jean smiled, "I think a lot of people thought that, but it's better if she stays since she can keep everyone under control."

Hank's lip twitched as he tried to suppress a grin. "Yes, I noticed the thunderstorm a few minutes ago."

"Knowing everyone like I do, it was probably very necessary."

"I agree. It was probably quite effective." Hank gathered his papers together and headed for the door. "Now that you are here, I feel secure enough to go and record my findings for prosperity. Should you need any assistance, do not hesitate to inquire after me."

"Thanks Hank, I'll be fine." She waited until Hank left, then walked over to Remy's bed. She sat down in a chair next to it, thoughtfully supplied by the blue doctor. Alone and away from the ever watchful eyes of her husband, Jean took an appreciative look at Remy while he slept. He was indeed a handsome man, almost to the point of being beautiful. She reached over and laid a hand on one of his, marveling at the quiet strength that emanated from him even now. She allowed her mind to wander, her thoughts returning again and again to this enigmatic man that had fallen into their lives.

A small whimper interrupted her musings. Jean reached out with her mind, ignoring the approaching headache, and call out to Gambit.

~Remy?~

For a while the was no response. She was about to give up when a mental whisper crept into her mind.

~ho..who?~

~Remy? It's Jean. Can you hear me?~

~j...jean?~

~Yes Remy. Do you remember me? Do you know who I am?

~t'ink so...yeah...know y'...je suis désolé~

The sadness radiating from within him brought tears to Jean's eyes. She tried to dispel it by projecting calm reassurances to him.

~It's okay Remy. You're in the med lab. You were brought here after you stopped the wave.~

~...wave?~

Jean bit her lip and wondered how much she should reveal when the Professor spoke to her.

~Not yet Jean. He's still blaming himself as it is. Wait until he's recovered first. Then maybe we can talk to him.~

~Understood Professor.~

Jean watched as Gambit slowly came to. Using her telekinesis she dimmed the lights in the room as his eyes fluttered open once more. He stared at the ceiling for a bit. After adjusting his eyes to the light, he focused his vision on Jean. She smiled warmly, hoping to put him at ease.

"Hi there."

Remy sighed as he accustomed himself to his surroundings. He returned the greeting with some measure of politeness. "'Allo Jean."

Remy attempted to sit up and Jean helped him, placing a couple of pillows behind his back to prop him up on. He leaned against them with a sigh and waited.

"How are you feeling?"

Remy considered how to answer this, and opted for the truth. "Tired, beat, worn out, an' whatever other thing's y' can come up wit'." He fixed his eyes directly on Jean's and asked, "How are y'?"

"I'm fine. And so are the Professor and Betsy in case you're wondering. Right now we're worried about you."

Gambit snorted. "Save your worry f' someone who needs it chere. I'll be fine."

Jean didn't have to be a telepath to catch the true meaning to Gambit's statement. Save it for someone who deserves it is what you want to say, isn't it? When will you accept the fact that you deserve our concern as much as anyone? She patted his hand gently. "I don't know if you need it or not, but you have it just the same. You are a part of this team and this family, and we will always worry about you."

Gambit turned his head, unwilling to accept what Jean tried to offer him. She leaned forward and cupped his face in her hands, forcing him to look at her.

"I know how bad you feel about what happened. You're projecting strong feelings of guilt, sadness, and shame. But it wasn't your fault. Please Remy, let us help you."

Gambit sat up. He took Jean's hands away from his face and covered them with his own. He avoided her eyes, knowing what he would see in them. He bowed his head as the words fell in hushed tones from his lips.

"It means a lot t' Remy dat some of y' want t' help me. But de fact is y' can'. No one can, not without risking' dere own life. I won't let y' or anybody else do dat. I'm sorry dat I let dis ting loose, it won' 'apnea again. Just let me take care o' it, an' keep de rest of y' safe okay?" He gazed at her now, wearing one of his famous heart-stopping smiles. "Besides, ol' Gambit handle things fine so far. He'll do okay again, you'll see."

Jean wasn't sure what to think. While she was worried about the wave being released back into the astral plane, it was also true that Gambit had managed to pull it back in. Not to mention the fact that he had controlled it without their knowledge prior to this. She sighed, knowing that she couldn't argue with him.

"You're right, you have been controlling it. When I think about it, you've handled it well since no telepath even detected it before today. I think the Professor will still want to talk to you about though."

"Not if y' tell him dat I'm okay. I was just stressed, with Rogue an' Joseph an' all that. Dat was just a one time thin'. Y' said it yourself, none of de otter telepathy even knew 'bout it. Je vais bien, tout va bien. Y' tell de Proof dat I can handle, he'll listen to y'."

Jean nodded. "I'll tell him. Do you want to rest for awhile?"

"Only if I can do it in my own room. Where's Beast when y' want t' get out o' here?"

"I'll send him in. Just rest, okay?"

"Très bien." Gambit watched as Jean left. He had his charm powers on full force so Jean would leave him alone. He rested back against the pillows and wondered how many of the others he would have to convince. His eyes drooped, and Remy slipped quietly back into a fitful slumber.

Sinister appraised at his newest creation. Perfection in all its scientific glory. He ran his hand over his experiment's face. Though untested, there was no reason why it wouldn't work. He'd proven the thesis. There were no variables or scenarios that he didn't have a contingency plan for. And the subject itself was a remarkable find. All the pieces fell into place. Now he simply had to add the final component.

The screams began...

Gambit woke up just as Beast walked into the med-lab. He willed himself to calm down, knowing the doctor would only release him if he appeared normal. He glanced up at Hank, his charm going into overdrive.

"You're here t' let me go, non?"

Hank shook his head. There were some things even charm couldn't work on. "Not until I take your vital signs again. You woke up severely distressed on more than one occasion. I do not wish to take a chance with you current stability by removing you prematurely. Such a move may cause over stimulation of your seemingly unused empathic abilities, which would result in possibly detrimental and perhaps ruinous effects on both your physical and mental well being."

For all that Remy felt proficient in more than one language, he had yet to understand what he called 'Beast speak'.

"Can you try saying that in English?"

"I thought I just did."

Remy bit back a groan and tried another bid for freedom. "I feel fine Hank. I know where I am, and I'm not trying to hurt myself or anything. I just want to sleep in my own room, that's all." He reached down inside himself and called on every ounce of charm he had. He didn't stop until he felt Hank give in.

"If your vitals signs read green, then I suppose there would be no harm in allowing you to recover in the privacy of your own humble dwellings."

"Merci Beast." Remy watched patiently as Hank went over the monitors, alternately checking and scribbling on his clipboard. After a few minutes, the doctor turned back to Remy.

"For the most part, you appear to be well. I am concerned with the rapid heartbeat you had a few moments ago."

Remy bit down on a groan. He couldn't risk telling Hank the truth. He would never let him go if he knew about the nightmare. Then a thought entered his head, and Remy silently thanked Jean for giving him an alibi.

"Jean was in 'ere earlier. Mebbe I just reacted t' being so close to a beautiful lady, no?"

Hank chuckled. "I don't think it would be wise to react so strongly. I doubt our fearless leader would be very appreciative of that." Hank checked the monitors again and sighed. "Alright, you are free to go, under restriction of course."

"O' course." Remy lost no time in getting out of bed. He reached for his clothes and began putting them on. A furred hand on his elbow stopped him in the middle of buttoning his shirt.

"It would behoove you to listen to the restrictions before you take your leave." The tone in his voice indicated that there would be no arguing the subject. Remy nodded and sat on the edge of the bed as Hank began.

"First, I would very much prefer if you were to wait until someone can escort you back to your room. Second, you are hereby confined to your bed until I feel your condition warrants otherwise. Third, if you feel even the slightest discomfort, you will use the comlink and notify me immediately. Is that understood?"

"Yes mother."

Hank glared at him. "I'm serious Remy. If you don't think you can handle it, I will have to insist you remain here."

Remy looked up, his eyes suddenly vacant. "I can handle it. Would y' see if Stormy can walk me t' my room den?"

Beast was puzzled. Remy was known to put up a fight regarding Hank's advice. More than once Hank would come into his lab after Gambit had been brought in only to find the Cajun had sneaked out as soon as his back had turned. But now Remy had capitulated without so much a one flippant remark. It troubled Hank, but he couldn't say why. He decided that discretion would be for the best and kept his misgivings to himself.

"Of course Remy. You can finish changing while I call her if you want."

Remy nodded and began to slip back into his clothing. He was tired of having to convince everyone he was okay. All he wanted now was to go to bed and try to forget what happened. He didn't see Hank's look of worry as the furry doctor went to call on his teammate.

"Sir, I think you should see this."

Sinister leaned back in his chair and glared down at the timid man before him. He was but one of many lowly scientists he employed in his research. They mainly handled the drudgework, as Sinister trusted no one with his actual research. He vaguely remembered placing the one cowering before him in charge of monitoring any unusual activity regarding the psychic plane. For this man to brave an audience with him must mean that he had come across something important. At least it had better be important...

"What is it?"

"The computers picked up a massive energy fluctuation in the psionic plane. Apparently, it affected several telepaths for miles."

"And you felt this significant because..."

The scientist gulped. He didn't want to be here, but was afraid of what would happen if Sinister caught him and he didn't report it. He only hoped that the readings were as important as they appeared. "Well, I crossed referenced the energy signature with all known telepaths. No matches were found. Then I decided to check it against your past archives. This is the result."

The scientist walked forward and handed a file over to Sinister. Sinister flicked through the file briefly, his face impassive. After a few minutes, Sinister seemed to remember the man waiting nervously in front of him. With a flick of his hand, Sinister dismissed him. The scientist scampered out, grateful to leave. Sinister reread the file. His finest creation, his greatest mistake, right before his eyes. Sinister did not hope, as he had lost his emotions a long time ago. Yet he could not deny a certain swell of satisfaction at having found his wayward 'child' once more. Second chances did not come often, and Sinister knew better than to let this chance slip by. He rose, his cape sweeping the floor. Sinister's mind immediately began to formulate a plan as he went to gather his minions.

It was a few hours later that Remy was finally able to sleep in his own bed. Hank had insisted on one more round of test before releasing him to Storm. Storm took him to his room without questioning him once. Remy was grateful, but knew it probably wouldn't last. She told him she would be back to check on him later. She hugged the Cajun briefly and departed. Remy hoped it would be much later when she came back. He cared deeply for Ororo, but he was tired and wanted nothing more than to go to sleep for at least a couple of days. With a sigh, Remy changed his clothes and collapsed on his bed. He was tired, so much that he couldn't fall asleep right away. He passed the time by remembering all his more noteworthy thefts and conquest. His eyelids drooped about halfway through the list.

Remy was nearly asleep two hours later when a gentle knock came from his door. Slowly he pulled himself from the abyss and called out hoarsely.

"Who is it?"

"It is I Remy. May I come in?"

Remy reached over and turned on a lamp next to his bed. His eyes blinked several times as he adjusted to the level of light flooding his senses. Remy could feel Storm waiting patiently outside his door. With a groan of effort, he sat up and called out to her.

"Come on in Stormy."

The door opened. "I have told you not to call me that." Ororo Monroe strode gently into the room. Her hair flowed in soft white tendrils from her face. She wore a long silk gown that matched her eyes. The dress whispered gracefully around her form. Concern flowed around her a surely as the silk of her gown. Storm walked over and sat carefully on the edge of Remy's bed. She rested a hand on one of his as she gazed into her friend's scarlet eyes.

"How are you feeling Remy?"

Remy looked at the Windrider for a second. A part of him wanted to tell her the truth about what had happened. He wanted to tell her what Sinister did to him. Mostly, he wanted to know that everything would be okay again. This is what he wanted, and what he couldn't have. Remy couldn't risk it. There was too much danger involved. And he didn't want to run the chance of losing the first real friend he ever truly had. So he kept it all inside, giving Storm an answer he hoped would appease her.

"I'm fine Stormy. Just a little tired. I'll get some rest an' be alright tomorrow."

"That is good to hear. Hank was on his way to check on you." She paused as Remy groaned in response. "Do not worry. I told him that I wanted to visit you anyway. I think he will be pleased to know that you are actually resting for once, instead of sneaking out for your version of recuperation."

Remy smiled. It was common knowledge that he often left the mansion when he was on sick leave to engage in his own brand of 'healing'. "Mebbe I save dat f' later Stormy. Even Gambit knows when he's 'ad enough f' one night."

"Are you sure you're okay my friend?" The concern she felt showed clearly on her face and in her voice. Remy sighed.

"Like I said, I'm just tired. I just need t' sleep dats all." Remy leaned back against the headboard of his bed. "What 'bout y'? What brings y' out at dis time o' night, eh Stormy."

"Do not call me...never mind. I came because I'm worried about you my friend. I know you Gambit. You would gladly keep all of this lock inside if given half a chance. I'm not going to give you that chance Remy. I want to know what hurts you so much."

Remy winced. The fact that Storm could read him so easily must mean he was slipping. He tried to speak, hoping to get her off his back. Storm reached over and caught Remy's face in her hands, her expression gentle.

"For what it's worth, my fellow thief, I'm the only one who can see that you're still in pain. You may have been able to fool Jean, but I won't allow you to hide from me. Talk to me Remy. I only want to help you."

Remy turned away from Storm's touch. "Y' can't help me Stormy. No one can help me. It's my business, my problem, an' I'll deal wit' it."

"Remy..."

"Please Stormy, it has to be like this. I don't want to hurt anyone. That's why I can't let anyone help me. It just the way it is."

Red eyes stared at electric blue, emotions bleeding out from them. A single tear made it's way down Remy's face. Storm was stricken at the pain her friend was suffering. She wiped the tear away as Remy pleaded with her once more.

Compassion radiated from Storm like a light through a mist. She pulled Remy into a hug tight enough to make him gasp.

"It's okay Remy. No one will force you. I just don't want you to feel like you have to keep this to yourself. We are more than a team, we are a family. And you are as much a part of this family as anyone. Don't you know that when you hurt, I hurt too?"

Remy wrapped his arms around the Windrider and returned the hug. "I know Stormy. I don't like y' t' hurt. Not when I know I'm de reason you're hurting."

"That's not what I mean Remy, " she said. "It hurts to think that you can't come to one of us for help. I know you'd never hurt me. You've always helped me when I needed it. I just want you to know that I am here for you. I don't want you to keep this to yourself if you don't have to."

A grin touched his lips as Remy pulled away. "I know dat too Stormy. Gambit knows when his friends got his back f' him." He sighed as his face grew serious once more. "It's just too dangerous right now. Just let me deal with my mess. When I t'ink it's safe, I'll call y' okay?"

Storm sighed in submission. "You'll protect us even if it's the death of you, won't you my friend?"

Remy smiled again. "Now now Stormy, y' should know better dan dat. Heaven too boring f' Gambit, an' de Devil already kicked him out o' hell f' tryin' t' take over."

Her laughter trickled like running water. "Very well then." Storm stood up, placing a quick kiss of affection on Remy's cheek. She was one of the few people who could get away with it, and she relished the special bond it signified. "I'll let Henry know that you are indeed resting. I'm sure that will please him to no end. I'll be back in the morning. Good night my friend, sleep well."

"Bonne nuit Stormy." Remy watched as the Windrider glided out of his room. He heaved a sigh filled with relief and exhaustion. He'd used his charm powers three times today, pushing them to the limits. It was starting to get to him. He hoped no one else would check on him tonight. He reached back and turned off the lamp before settling down into the blankets for the night.

Cold eyes observed the group standing before the man known as Sinister. They were clones, the originals having been killed before, as well as subsequent copies. The Marauders represented crude works of his research. Still, they were useful in their own primitive way.

"I have a job for you." Sinister tossed a file to Scalphunter. He flicked through it, looking at the picture attached. Scalphunter turned back at Sinister.

"I want him alive and unharmed. You are to get him and bring him to me immediately."

"And what makes you think its going to be so easy? We've tried breaking into this dump before, remember."

"Indeed, but you will find it child's play now. After the energy that has been released into the astral plane, the telepaths are crippled. No doubt the others are too worried about their comrades. It will be a two-prong attack. Some of you will attack the telepaths. Engage with the team and keep them busy. When the attack begins, no doubt the majority will be deployed to defend them. During this time the target will be vulnerable. The others will secure the target. At the moment, security for the estate is pathetically lax. I have managed to open a terresect without being discovered. Escape will be guaranteed, as will success." Sinister raised a hand, and a glowing opening revealed itself. From the look of it, the terresect lead straight onto the Xavier estate. "Now go, and bring me back my creation."

Remy had fallen asleep shortly after Storm had left. Exhaustion made it easy, blocking out the fear that threatened to keep him awake. He rolled over in his sleep, his hair falling across his face. His dreams were pleasant, which is why he was more shocked than usual at the sounds of screaming coming from within in the mansion.

"INTRUDERS! RED ALERT! WE HAVE INTRUDERS IN THE MANSION!"

For the umpteenth time that night, Remy sat up in his bed with a pounding heart. He blinked as he saw the door to his room flung open. He looked up in utter confusion as Bobby ran inside and slammed the door shut. He barricaded it with a solid sheet of ice. Remy shook his head as he tried to make sense of what was happening.

"What's goin' on. What y' doin' here Drake?"

"Saving your life." Bobby went and grabbed some clothes from out Remy's drawer and tossed them into a bag. He strode over and grabbed the Cajun by his shoulders and hauled him to his feet. "Come on, wake up! We don't have time for this sleeping beauty!" Bobby shoved a change of clothes in his hands and went to watch the window. Still confused, Remy began changing his clothes as his sleep-muddled mind attempted to piece everything together.

"What's going on Bobby?" Remy finished changing and sat down on the edge of the bed. Past fears began creeping into his soul.

"We're under attack. The Prof barely sensed it before it happened."

A cold knife of terror stabbed Remy through the heart. "Who?"

"I'll tell you once we're clear. The one thing the Prof did manage to pick up was that they mainly wanted you. Since I was the closest one to your room, I get stuck with babysitting your Cajun ass."

Remy was too upset to give a smart retort. He was still confused, and knew the only way out was to trust Bobby. "What we do now den?"

"Now I make sure I can get us to one of the Blackbirds without running into anybody." Bobby checked the window one more time. "All clear, everybody must be wrestling on the other side." Bobby created an ice slide from the window. "Come on Gambit, we have to book it." Bobby grabbed the dazed man and dragged him onto the slide. They touched ground without incident. Bobby turned to his teammate.

"No matter what, the Professor ordered you to get out of here. If we run into trouble, let me deal with it. Just get your butt to a bird and take off. Got it?"

Remy nodded, his mind numb. He didn't want to leave. But since the Prof made it an order, and Bobby was willing to back it up, Remy knew his best bet was to listen for once and do as told. He didn't protest as Bobby dragged him towards the hanger. Bobby quickly slid to the nearest Blackbird and shoved Remy inside. Jumping in the pilot seat, Bobby fired the jet up.

"Going somewhere ice cube?"

Remy felt his stomach drop as he found himself staring at the side of a barrel pointed at the back of Iceman's head. He knew now what had happened back at the mansion, and why the Professor wanted him to escape. Scalphunter's smile was cruel and twisted and he held the weapon against Bobby's skull.

"Please, give me a reason."

"Last I heard, you never needed a reason," Bobby sneered.

"True. Guess I don't need one now." Scalphunter pulled his finger back...

"De others?"

Bobby snorted. "The bastards tried to fake us out by attacking the Professor, Jean, and Betsy. I guess they expected them to still be hurt behind that wave thingy. Good thing you pulled it back. Last time I saw them, Cyclops was blasting Vertigo. Rogue was doing the tango with Arclight. Wolverine was breathing down Blockbuster's neck. Psylocke and Archangel were dealing with Harpoon and Riptide, and Beast and Storm took out Prism and Scrambler. Professor told me that Scalphunter was going after you and to make sure to get you out of there. By the way, thanks for the save." Bobby waited for some smart remark, but none came. He glanced over and saw the expression on Remy's face. "Hey, are you okay? You don't look so hot."

Remy crossed his arms, his hands clutching the sides of his stomach. Bobby put the plane on auto-pilot and went to go check on the Cajun.

"Gambit?" Bobby did not want to let on just how worried he was at the moment. Still, he couldn't keep a small tremor from entering his voice.

Remy glanced up, a strange and hunted color in his eyes. "Dey were after me." It wasn't a question, and the tone spoke volumes. Bobby didn't know what to say, and for once opted for the truth.

"Yes, they were after you. That's why the Professor wanted me to get you out of there." Bobby was going to say more, but stopped as Remy leaned forward in his seat. His body trembled, and Bobby was shocked to the teeth to see the Cajun trying hard not to cry.

"Should have let dem take me. Now de others are in trouble. Shouldn't have left like dat."

It was of the tip of Bobby's tongue to say 'If you had told us, we might have been able to help.' Fortunately, the more compassionate and caring side of him kept his mouth shut. He laid a hand on Remy's shoulders, offering what he hoped were words of support.

"And what would have happened if Sinister got his hands on you? The first wave would have been a love tap compared to what ~he~ would do with it. No, this time I agree with the Professor. We can't let Sinister get a hold of you. Besides, where's your faith? The X-Men can take care of themselves. Remember, the Marauders were expecting all the telepaths to be down. I can still see the look on Riptide's face when Betsy jabbed that psychic knife in the back of his head. They probably thought it was going to be easy. What I wouldn't give to see Sinny's face when those jerks go back empty-handed."

An incredulous expression passed over Remy's face. He looked up at Bobby. "Sinny?"

Bobby smiled. "Got it from Jubilee."

Remy dropped his head and stared at the floor. "Y' don' understand. He ain't gonna stop till he got me strapped back on de table. Y' t'ink we're safe? Nous ne sommes pas! If he catches up t' us, y' can just go ahead an' kiss your cold ass goodbye." Remy's voice broke at the last part. He turned away from Bobby, still struggling to contain himself.

Bobby looked down at Gambit. A feeling of something passed through him, and he was sure it was somewhere in between worry and concern. Because he's a teammate. You'd feel the same if it was any of the others. Bobby placed both hands on the Cajuns shoulders and shook him hard enough to make Remy face him.

"Listen to me. The Professor told me to protect you and I will. So get any thought of sacrificing yourself for the sake of the team out of your head right now. I won't let Sinister get you, and I won't let you hand yourself over to him. Suicide is not an option, so don't even go there. And if I even think that's what you're doing, I swear I'll freeze you right where you stand. You're stuck with me, got it?

"Got it."

"Good." Bobby sat back in the pilot's seat and took the controls. He continued to try and cheer the Cajun up and get his mind off of Sinister. "Don't worry about anything. The Prof gave me an address we can hole up in for awhile. Besides, I was going to take a vacation anyway." Bobby sighed with relief when he heard Gambit chuckle. Good, you still got your humor. Keep it bud, I think we'll need it before any of this is through. A small part of Bobby enjoyed the sound of Gambit's laugh, but that was squelched under the rest of his persona telling it to shut up and mind its own business.

"Y' couldn't have picked a better time t' get away mon ami."

"Well duh. Everyone knows the best time to take a vacation is when you have company over."

Gambit chuckled dryly. Then a question popped into his head, and he just had to know. He looked over at Bobby.

"Bobby, what where y' goin' to my room f' anyway?"

"Huh?"

Remy sighed. Dis is goin' t' be like pullin' teeth. He thought for a bit and changed his direction.

"Y' said y' were de closest one t' my room when de Marauders attacked, right?" Bobby nodded. "Well, my room is at de end o' de hall. De only reason you'd be close is if y' were coming t' my room in de first place. So I'll ask again, what where y' coming t' my room f'?"

"Um..." Bobby hedged. He really didn't know why he had been going to Remy's room. Finally he came up with a good excuse.

"Jean wanted me to check on you. She would have done it herself, but I Scott was acting funny. Between me and Warren, she figured you'd be better off seeing me." It sounded doable, even if it wasn't true. Gambit seemed to believe it, and that was all that mattered. Bobby heaved a mental sigh of relief. Truth be told, he hadn't realized he was going to the Cajun's room until the Prof called him in his head. When he saw where he was, Bobby just assumed it was luck and left it at that.

Now, he wasn't so sure.

Bobby glanced over at Remy and noticed how tired he was. He sighed. "Why don't you get some sleep? We have a couple of hours in the air anyway. And you look like you could use it bud."

"Oui, but let me know if somethin' comes up."

"Sure thing. Go to sleep Gumbo."

Remy settled back in his chair. Within moments he was sound asleep. Bobby checked the coordinates and set the auto-pilot once more. Then he turned and took a good look at Gambit. With everything that happened, he was more than a little worried about the Cajun, though he kept telling himself it was out of team loyalty and nothing more. Bobby got up and fetched a blanket, tossing it gently over the sleeping man. Remy mumbled something in his sleep. Bobby cocked his ear and listened carefully.

"...please...stop...no more...please..."

Even in his sleep, Bobby could hear the undercurrents of pain and despair. He sighed as he took the controls and continued their flight, his mind wandering.

I don't know what's going on, but I won't let Sinny get you. I swear.

Bobby didn't notice the fervent emotions behind his promise as the Blackbird sped through the sky.