Storm's voice trembles as she seeks answers from her teammates. "Since our capture, I have heard nothing from Xavier. He was supposed to seek safety and aid from T'Challa to keep himself secure while they planned our rescue . What has happened? Why haven't they come?"
Rogue takes a deep breath, her expression reflecting a mix of emotions. "Well, Storm, I overheard Wolverine speaking to Psylocke about your departure with Shay. I was laying into Logan for not informing me about it when I heard X-23 arrive." She glances at X-23 with a light-hearted tone. "But don't let her fool you, she was just as eager to join me. We're a team, after all."
X-23 interjects, her voice carrying a hint of bluntness. "Yeah, I can't resist the charm. You just had to go bawl your eyes out and drag half across the planet."
" Hey i only dragged you to the jet, you flew us the rest of the way"
"Enough!" Storm interjected " from your story Rogue it seems you have not been in contact with Xavier is that correct?"
" yes we've been flying blind out here "
" I wonder why he has not contacted us is there something you're not telling me, Rogue?"
Rogue shifts nervously under the weight of the question unable to break the news to her
Silence falls among the X-Men as the weight of Storm's questions hangs in the air. X-23 takes a deep breath and decides to deliver the painful truth. "Storm, T'Challa is dead.As for Shuri and any news about his son, we haven't heard anything yet. They've likely gone into hiding. Wakanda is in crisis."
The room falls into a heavy silence, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Storm's eyes widen in shock and disbelief. Her voice trembles as she finds the strength to speak. "T'Challa... gone? My son..." Her words trail off, the weight of her pain evident in her voice.
" her son!!" the X-Men said in unison excluding X-23 who was already aware.
As Storm grapples with the devastating news, the X-Men surround her, their hearts heavy with compassion. It is in this moment that Storm finds solace in her team's support, even amidst the uncertainty and sorrow. Together, they will navigate the storm of emotions, searching for answers, and bringing hope to a fractured Wakanda.
Resolute, Storm takes a deep breath, her eyes glistening with determination. She raises her head high, gathering her strength amidst the turmoil. "We will find Shuri, and my son along with Xavier and of course Shay" she said turning to Rogue. "And we will bring light back to Wakanda. T'Challa's legacy will not be forgotten." Her voice carries a mixture of grief, resilience, and a mother's unwavering love.
With renewed purpose, the X-Men unite, their shared resolve strengthening their bond. They will honor the fallen, protect the vulnerable, and face the challenges ahead with unwavering determination. Storm's son may be missing, but they will leave no stone unturned until he is brought home, safe and sound.
Cyclops's authoritative voice echoes through the room as he takes command of the situation. The X-Men gather their focus, knowing that time is of the essence.
"Alright, X-Men, we've got a lot on our plate and little time to spare. Our mission is to reunite with Xavier, secure Shay, find the hermit scientist, and ultimately save Wakanda. It won't be an easy task, but we can't afford to waste any time. We have to split up if we want to accomplish all of this before the situation worsens."
Cyclops turns to X-23, his eyes focused and determined. "X-23, how much fuel does the Quinjet you brought have?"
X-23 responds quickly, "About half. It should be enough to get us to the states, but probably not all the way back."
Cyclops nods. "That's good enough. Rogue, Storm, I need you two to take Shikaawa and Nakia. Fly them to wherever Xavier and Shuri may be. Nakia may know possible hideouts, and Shikaawa could provide them valuable intel."
Rogue and Storm exchange nods, ready to take on the task assigned to them.
Cyclops then turns his attention to X-23. "X-23, I want you to find Shay and take Kurt with you. Once you've found and secured him, Kurt can teleport both of you to a rendezvous point. We'll decide on the exact location through coms."
X-23 acknowledges the mission with a firm nod, her determination evident.
Kurt, responds with a hint of excitement in his voice, "Got it, Cyclops. I'm ready to teleport on your command."
Jubilee speaks up, seeking her role in the mission. "What about me, Cyclops?"
Cyclops looks at Jubilee and considers his response. "Good question, Jubilee. You and I are going to fly back to the states. We'll get as close to the institute as we can, where we'll attempt to find assistance that we can bring back here. Time is running out, so we'll have to move swiftly."
Jubilee nods, understanding her part in the plan.
Cyclops reaffirms their mission. "Remember, X-Men, we've got less than 20 hours. Let's make every moment count. Move out!"
With their instructions clear and their resolve strengthened, the X-Men disperse, each focused on their assigned tasks. They embark on their separate journeys,
As Cyclops listens to X-23's update, he nods appreciatively. "Good work, X-23. We'll need those keys. Keep a close eye on the Quinjet while we're gone."
He then calls over Nightcrawler and Jubilee, requesting their teleportation services. "Kurt, Jubilee, I need you both to teleport us as close as you can to the medical research facility where we left Shay. We need to retrieve him and regroup."
Nightcrawler nods, understanding the strain it will put on him. "It's no problem, Scott. We've got a country to save. I can't start complaining now."
Cyclops turns his attention to Shikaawa and asks about Nakia's condition. Shikaawa responds, "She's fine for now. My golems are looking after her just beyond the door. Her condition is severe, but not yet life-threatening."
Cyclops considers their options. "Can she be moved?"
Shikaawa assures him, "Yes, she can. I will create a plant dome that Rogue can carry. It will provide her with the necessary support and protection during the journey. But before we go, I have something for all of you."
He conjures up an array of fruits and berries, offering them to the X-Men. "You'll need your strength. Most of you haven't eaten in at least a day, some even longer without proper nourishment."
Grateful for his gesture, the X-Men thank Shikaawa and quickly consume the provided food, replenishing their energy reserves.
Cyclops gathers the team for a final briefing. "Alright, X-Men, time to move out. Shikaawa, quickly secure Nakia in the plant dome. Storm, Rogue, you'll carry it. Kurt, Jubilee, get ready to teleport us."
As Shikaawa swiftly arranges Nakia's transport, Storm and Rogue position themselves beneath the plant dome, gripping the sturdy branches that act as handles. Shikaawa carefully places Nakia inside, ensuring her comfort and safety and joins her .
Meanwhile, Kurt and Jubilee prepare for their teleportation. The tension rises as they all await the impending jump.
Cyclops turns to X-23, knowing she'll have to stay behind for now. "X-23, wait here for Kurt's return. Once he's back, he'll join you"
With their preparations complete, the X-Men brace themselves for the journey ahead, ready to face the challenges and dangers that await them in their mission to save Wakanda and their captured comrades.