markedmutant

[markedmutant]

davos-steelserpent​:

@markedmutant

It was quite a climb, but Davos finally rested on the high rooftop. It wasn’t the tallest in the city, but it still gave him a better view than most. He liked to be high up so that he could overlook the city. He remembered climbing the steep rock cliffs as a child and finding a sense of peace in watching over his home from above, as he planned to do for the rest of his life.

That was gone now. In its place was this. 

Davos could hardly see what stretched out beneath him. Small bits of dotted the landscape, but he knew without having to see the details that they were there only as long as they were needed. It was unwise and could be downright deadly to draw too much attention to oneself, especially if alone. 

Normally, Davos would have taken a breath and savored the smells of his home, but doing so here threatened to leave him choking and gasping for a shred of clean air. Forgoing that bit of his ritual, he sat of the edge of the building, his legs dangling over the side. He was content to wait for this phase to pass and take on whatever was next.

Another patrol around the city once again had proven uneventful, which was not neccesarily a bad thing. Erik had just become accustomed to the chaos that kept emerging around the city, to the point peace seeemed suspicious and strangely unnerving at times. The strangest thing that had been happening lately was the different auras surrounding the other protectors of this place, and the strange occurances that followed them. Even then, it wasn’t nearly as strange or destructive as other occurances that came before it. So, it was strange to be able to walk the streets relatively peacefully. As he walked, he someone climbing a building had caught his attention. They were far away so it was hard to make out a face, but he didn’t appear to recognise them. He used his mutation to fly closer, and by the time he had flown to the top of the building, the figure had also reached the top. Silently floating down behind them, he slowly approached, hoping his presence wouldn’t startle them too much. “Forgive the intrusion, but I saw you climb up here. Rather impressive, if you don’t mind me saying.”

[markedmutant]

markedmutant​:

A bodyguard… Erik did not like that wording, but he couldn’t fault the logic. He was idly flexing his fist as he mulled over her suggestion. They would all have to do what was neccessary while this affliction plauged the zone, and pray it would not linger too long. “Alright,” he agreed with a nod. “A bodyguard for now. But do not put yourself in unneccsary danger just for me. I have lost too many people already.”

Kwannon gave Erik a geniune smile that bordered on a little devilish. “Do not worry for my well-being. I was raised to become a weapon. I will do whatever is deemed necessary to keep you safe.” Her gaze averted from his for just a second. “Though I’ll comply with your request. Nothing unnecessary.” She nodded, satisfied with their agreement.

[markedmutant]

Alley Alley Oh|Erik & Scott

Heading back to Genosha, Magneto was subtly staying alert to his surroundings just in case of any attacks or other trouble arising. Perhaps that was what had drawn his attention to a nearby alley. Shuffling and bustling around could be heard coming from around the corner, so Erik had made the decision to head over as stealthily as he could, poised ready to react accordingly. Though, as he turned the corner into the alley, he saw it was simply one of the Avengers he’d met briefly. He dropped his arms to his side and let out a sigh of annoyance or disappointment. It was difficult to tell really. “What are you doing out here? I almost attacked you!”

@particlexdealer​

[markedmutant]

Bent But Not Broken|Erik & Ororo

Once again, Erik found himself back at Haven. This time, he was trying a more tactful approach since he’d already pissed the acting leader, and one of the teachers here. So, now he was just talking to the students, giving help and advice when it was asked for, and not really mentioning his own version of Haven unless they persistently asked about it. Though, as he was talking to group of students, a familiar yet old face. At least, in his memory. So, he excused himself from the group and approached the figure with a slight air of caution, since he didn’t know where he stood with her in relation to the other X-Men. “Ah, so you’re here, too. I must say, it’s good to see more of our people making their way here.” With a sorrowful smile he added, “Even if they don’t want to see me.”

@the-weather-goddess​

[markedmutant]

twice-the-pryde​:

Kitty allowed her students to take a short break, they had been working on honing their powers for several hours after all. Though the course work could be mentally taxing, the constant pushing of mutant abilities to their limits could often be physically taxing. Haven didn’t provide quite the same luxuries as the institute, yet she found a place to clear her own head during the break. There was something nice about the normalcy of getting into the groove of teaching. Not to mention many of her students had taken great strides over the last several days. Her hands pushed at the tension in the back of her neck as she stood up from her seated position. Time to get back to it.

She wasn’t entirely sure where Ororo, Piotr, or Emma were, only that she had yet to see them that day. Which is what made her next sight a little bit extra unsettling. As she rounded the corner she found several of her older students talking with a man she was all too familiar with.

As she approached the small group she cleared her throat to gather the attention of the interested students. “Ahem.. The rest of your classmates are ready to continue the lesson,” most of the group that was speaking with the man were her more advanced learners. Her eyes shot a quick glance to Erik. Their last conversation held in confidence had been productive enough. Kitty sought the man out when she was needing advice due to his natural ability to lead. He was nothing if not a charismatic leader, which was why his presence was of slight concern.

Of course he was welcome at Haven, everyone was. Yet the last time the duo spoke it seemed he had certain plans of his own. As the students ushered themselves away with small mutters, her full attention turned to Erik. “They seemed awfully interested in something,” though there was no question, her tone had a slightly accusatory, inquisitive tone underlying her words.

@markedmutant

Though Erik had anticipated being challenged like this, he hadn’t quite expected it to be Kitty. Then again, their last conversation hadn’t exactly gone well. Still, he gave her a smile, albeit a tight-lipped one. “Indeed they did. Emma told me herself I am welcome to visit, mentor and teach here. The only condition being that I don’t make waves. Now, I may have told them about myself and plans here, but you will find that I did not invite or try to encourage any of them to leave Haven.” There was an air of smugness to his expression now. “Ask them. So, if they should find themselves at my doors, then it wil be of their own accord. Not that it won’t stop you from throwing out accusations, of course.”

[markedmutant]

When Bad Does Good|Erik & Betsy

The last time Erik had seen Betsy seemed like a lifetime ago by now, especially with time working so strangely. Well, it hadn’t been her but Kwannon during the last time, when they were forced into the body of their younger selves. She’d taught him to defend himself without his abilities since he couldn’t acces them while he was in that state. Now? Erik wasn’t sure what Betsy had been up to or how she was doing. It wasn’t difficult to find her, however, and greet her with a “Hello again. I know it’s been a while since we spoke, and countless strange things have happened since. I just wanted to check in with you, see how you are.” With a slightly awkward air he added, “And also...” His smile faltered, gaze drifting away from her face. “I have something to discuss with you.”

@kochou-gakure

[markedmutant]

valkyrie-vibing​:

pretty metal

Another day, another walk through this cursed dome that she had come to call home. Today, no wild things seemed to be interesting in calling on her or causing chaos throughout the city, leaving Brunnhilde to entertain herself as she strolled, taking in the air and the sights. The day was uncertain, full of possibilities. She had considered going to the Avengers’ Mansion, seeing if Thor could be persuaded out, but decided against it after some thought given the space she knew he needed.  So, she found herself on a new street that she had never seen before, idly walking and seeing buzzes of new activity, some sign that things were not as desolate as when she had first arrived or even before that, times she had heard about through those who’d been around longer. The Valkyrie was examining her surroundings, eyes on the old storefronts, when she turned a corner and nearly ran into a man- was he wearing a helmet?  She took a step back quickly, eyeing him with interest and a healthy dose of curious suspicion. “My apologies,” Brunnhilde offered, not sounding too remorseful. “I wasn’t watching where I was going.” 

@markedmutant 

Erik always walked with purpose, even when he didn’t have any particualr goal or place he was heading. It was part of his defence, his character. To always keep his head up and not show his true thoughts or feelings. When he found someone suddenly in his immediate path, Erik came to a halt before they actually collided. “It’s alright.”

He took the time to look her over too, take in her appearance. He couldn’t help but scan her for weapons and other potential defences either, since he had trained himself to always be alert and ready for a fight. “Haven’t seen you around before. Are you a new arrival or do you just not come to this part of town much?”

[markedmutant]

Familiar Faces|Erik & Wanda

Back at the Avengers Mansion again. Not out of choice but neccessety. The new mutant haven was now mostly up and running thanks to the help of a handful of allies. There were still mutants here that Erik hoped he could persuade to join him instead. Though, he was also hoping to not reveal the place to the Avengers just yet, assuming they didn't already know. Having this new aura crackling around him that seemd to amplify the bitterness and anger he felt ove the issues he and his people faced on a regualr basis didn't help, either. And yet, he still stood tall, never letting his true feelings show. Looking around the place, Erik found one of the mutants he'd been looking for, though she was one he had not interacted with much. And yet, she seemed strangely familar. "Hello," he greeted her. "Do you have a moment to talk?"

@wiggiiewoo​

[markedmutant]

Preparation| Erik &Remy

Despite the city conditions, Erik had been making progress with his new place. He had a location now, and had been sourcing materials and supplies to build the place up and make sure they had everything they would need. It was still a work in progress, but at least progress was being made. Now he was ready to check in with Remy who had been the first person Erik had come to with his new project. “Hello, again, my friend. I wanted to come by and let you know I have things mostly set up at my new place, but I could use your opinion when you can.” He shifted his feet and stuffed his hands in his pockets then said, “Also, I feel I should ask... how are you?”

@kings-gambit​

[markedmutant]

Business Purposes| Erik & Noir

So many things had changed sinc Erik had first stepped foot inside the barrier. Old friendships severed, and new ones made. Some more expected than others. Noir was one who fell into the latter category. It seemed to be developing into more than that, too. Not that Erik could decide if he felt that way or not. It was hard to love people or even feel anything when you keep getting hurt. So, Erik tended to focus on business and poured all of his energy into it. That meant everything else was secondary, but Erik wsa used to being alone. Now, there was no telling how long it had been since Erik had spoken to Noir, given how differently time worked inside the barrier. There was a new aura surrounding him, too. All the tension and bitter thirst for vengeance that he usually felt deep within his soul seemed to be amplified. Was this a new effect that was plaguing him? Or was it just his imagination? Still, he managed a smile for Noir once he came into view. “Long time no see. But I’m afraid I’m here on business. May I come in?”

@xshow-me-some-moxie​

[markedmutant]

emma-gracefrost​:

markedmutant​:

“Well, lucky you then to see that our people are safe and thriving here in Haven,” Emma nods a little bit, but she was still watching him, blue eyes taking in the muscle in his jaw twitching. “Don’t pretend to be dumb. I mean what do you want from me right now. I know your mantra, we’ve all heard it a hundred times.” At least. Emma heaved a tired sigh. “I am going to pretend you didn’t just insinuate I cannot properly run an establishment I’ve been running for months with the help of Colossus and I will instead address your distaste of humans. This is the end of the world, Erik.” Okay so not exactly but close enough. “Humans need help too. This is a soft place for anyone to land, that includes humans and to assume a human might evade my telepathy in some sneaky bid to hurt mutants is also asinine. So thank you, but no thank you.” Emma says dryly.  “You are welcome to come here, teach here, mentor here but I am not interested in any rhetoric that might cause waves here. There is an equilibrium and I will maintain it. I know you won’t be pleased with that, but that’s my luxury as de facto leader here.”

Erik was listening to Emma’s arguments but he barley made an effort to hide his disdain and frustration. Where to even start here? Every time he even attempted to be civil, it was thrown back in his face. “Such arrogance from one person,” he replied with a venemous tone. “You think you have everything our people need right here. That we can live in peace and harmony with people who look down on us, who can never truly trust us because of what we are! Whether you can’t see it or just choose to ignore it doesn’t matter. However protected you may think this place is, there is always a chance it could come under attack, or something else could damage, it destory it entirely. If for no other reason, that is why our people need somewhere else they can feel safe secure.” His expression actually softened, his tone also losing its sharpness. “A place that’s just for us, for people who have been shunned by society. Who don’t feel like they fit in anywhere else.”

[markedmutant]

kochou-gakure​:

“And that’s why I went with you. Why we should stick together.” The grip on his hand tightened just a little bit before she finally let go. It was strange for Kwannon to trust again, but it had been a long time since she’d had feelings of her own, separate from Elizabeth’s too. “Until you get this punching thing down, it might not be a bad idea to have a bodyguard. Just until all of this goes away.”

A bodyguard... Erik did not like that wording, but he couldn’t fault the logic. He was idly flexing his fist as he mulled over her suggestion. They would all have to do what was neccessary while this affliction plauged the zone, and pray it would not linger too long. “Alright,” he agreed with a nod. “A bodyguard for now. But do not put yourself in unneccsary danger just for me. I have lost too many people already.”

[markedmutant]

twice-the-pryde​:

It was hard not to feel exasperated listening to the two men talk about one another. One seeking peace through justice, the other justice through peace. Two sides of the same coin that seemed apparent to everyone except for the men themselves. Perhaps it was that she had not yet been worn down to the core by the world the way Erik had, but there had to be a better way.

Kitty couldn’t begin to understand the hardships Erik had been through, as she was well aware. Though her opinions on his radical nature remained the same. The way he spoke it seemed something was brewing. Before she could begin to worry about what that may be, the pair stopped in their tracks. Move on from Haven or the Professor’s teachings? She couldn’t help but to think the man likely meant both. “You know I can’t do that,” her head shook slightly even at the thought. Haven was the spiritual successor to Xavier’s Institute. Even beyond her employment at the institute, it had been her home from the time she was fourteen. “Professor Xavier always taught us to prepare for a fight, but never to seek one,” her eyes met his own steely gaze as she stood by the beliefs that were instilled in her.

“I have faith in Haven,” as well as faith in herself, Piotr, and even Emma. “My point is, we will try to reach these students as best we can,” Kitty held his gaze to show the man she meant business, “but in the event we are unable. I’d like to ensure they are safe, and find themselves in other capable hands.”

@markedmutant

Even though he had half expected that answer, Erik would be lying if he said it didn’t hurt. It seemed unlikely that he’d be able to change her mind, too, so why even bother trying? Instead, he simply said, “I see,” and carried on walking. “That is a pity but I understand. What I don’t understand is you seem to see me as a back up.” It was entirely possible he was reading this all wrong, but whether or not he had, Erik’s expression was showing how he felt about what he assumed Kitty meant. “So, you’re only willing to allow me to influence the students if, and only if, you otherwise fail. Doesn’t seem like there’s much trust there from your side.” His tone was sharp, cold and unforgiving. And yet, his next words were said with an unmistakably venonmous undertone. “Though, I must say it is a nice upgrade from being nothing more than a cautionary tale!”

[markedmutant]

xshow-me-some-moxie​:

markedmutant​:

The moment Erik went to push himself up Peter was hurrying to sit up, ready to catch the man in case he fell, having a feeling he wouldn’t be up to moving around just yet. His hunch was correct, but thankfully, Erik figured it out before he keeled over. 

A small smile spread over the monochromatic man’s lips at the words, and then he was twisting to check on Cin’s status. The symbiote was still digesting the cocoon, slowly, but surely and Peter left her to it. 

Turning his attention back to Erik he reached out to brush a bit of hair from his forehead, hand falling away just after. “If you want I can get you to the couch, or your bed? Wherever you’d be the most comfortable, kitten.” He had a feeling that Erik wouldn’t love being carried, but even sitting on the couch had to be better than being on the floor. 

After a couple of seconds to contemplate, Erik replied with, “Couch will be fine,” and lifted a hand in gesture. He really didn’t like being so weak he needed help standing up, let alone being helped to his couch. But stubborness was not going to help anyone in this situation. “Just be gentle,” he chuckled, tyring to breathe a little humour into the situation. It didn’t happen oftenk, either. Some who knew Erik would surely argue he wasn’t the type to joke at all. But everyone has thier momements.

[markedmutant]

xshow-me-some-moxie​:

markedmutant​:

Lips wrapped around the end of his gasper, Peter taking a long drag before he tilted his face up, blowing the smoke up and away from Erik. He lowered his head and was focused on the other man in time to catch his smile, Peter’s lips mirroring the expression. He wanted to move closer to the other man, even just lean into his space a bit more, but he didn’t. He didn’t want to push, didn’t want to make the other man uncomfortable again. “You’re not gonna lose me, kitten.” It’s a quiet assurance, Peter, again, not wanting to make the man uncomfortable with the display of sentiment, but the hardboiled detective had a soft spot for dangerous, mysterious types. 

As Erik went on Peter hummed. “I suppose you’ve got to ask yourself if you’re really doing it for them. If you are, then it shouldn’t matter if they know you’ve done it for them or not.” While he and his Jameson were on fairly good terms, the J. Jonah of this Earth apparently was out for Spider-Man’s blood, and by the sounds of it had turned a good portion of the city against him by the way the kid told it. It wasn’t the same level as being called a terrorist, but the kid kept going out there protecting the citizens of New York even when they had been doing anything but appreciating the effort. 

Those last words did resonate with Erik, strongly too. It didn’t matter if they understood or even appreciated what he was doing for his people, as long as his efforts were keeping them safe from those who wished to harm them. “Perhaps you’re right... I don’t even know why I’m telling you all this. I’m usally more careful about who I open up to. No offence. I just made many mistakes in my life. Got people I loved hurt.” He gave a small smile then said, “But feel free to spill your guts to me for a while. Then we’ll be even. And I might even start calling you Puppy as a pet name.” He was joking of course. Pet names really weren’t his style, and he really wasn’t sure why he was okay with the one Noir had given him.

[markedmutant]

twice-the-pryde​:

Kitty watched as the man took off at a brisk pace, catching up to him quickly before matching it. He seemed to be walking with purpose and determination. Perhaps it wasn’t the best time to seek him out. “Right- I know you and Professor Xavier have always been close,” her feet shuffled slightly as though their pace changed momentarily at the mention of her mentor. “I thought you may be the best person to come to about this,” more like the only person.

“Since we’ve started classes at Haven I’ve noticed a bit of- unrest in some of our students,” she took pause to find the right words, “Professor Xavier provided them guidance, as well as to the professors. Without him, they seem a little- lost.” Kitty couldn’t help but to let out a small sigh. The frustration some students expressed had felt like her own failings as an instructor. Xavier’s ideals had been taught to all that walked through his doors, but without the man himself, there developed a hollowness to the words.

For better or worse, Erik had always been a captivating leader amongst mutant kind. Where he led them was a different path than that of the X-Men. Yet he led nonetheless. Much the way Kitty followed him as they rounded the corner and continued their journey down the street, remaining unsure of where he was headed.

@markedmutant

That initial statement had made Erik feel things he’d rather not, but he did his best to hide it as he listened. Though, a small frown did form on his face. “Sounds like you’re looking for a little more than a supportive ear and advice,” he replied with a slightly aprehensive tone. “You know I’m not Charles, right?” He glanced at her as they walked. “There was a time when we both fought for the same thing. But he believes in peace, I believe in justice. In my experience, those hings don’t always come hand in hand. At least, not in the way we want them to.”

Now he was looking slightly pensive, his steps slowed. “All I have ever wanted was for our people to be treated with the same respect as everyone else and live in peace, without all the rules and regulations. For us to have a safe space to live and embrace our gifts. Just like Charles, only with the understanding that the rest of the world will never let us be. Not without a fight. Charles isn’t willing to lead that fight but I am. I always have been. I’m trying to build a place for us where we can be just as safe as as Charles wanted us to be, but more secure. I haven’t figured everything out yet, but I will.”

He took a deep breath then said, “My point is, if Haven isn’t working anymore...” He slowed his steps to a stop so he could focus his gaze on her properly. “Maybe it’s time to move on.”

[markedmutant]

emma-gracefrost​:

markedmutant​:

emma-gracefrost​:

“Coffee, black, thank you,” he said as he followed her in. At least just to be polite.Then he was just sort of listening to her and trying not to let his internal reactions show. “Thank you,” he replied in response to the compliment. He also just about managed a half-smile for her. “It’s strange, really. Being an old man in a younger body. And yet.. Stranger things have happened since.” Biggest understatment of the century, honestly. But surely, Emma had been around long enough by now to know what he meant by that.

“Anyway, I’ve survived up to this point. I have simply decided to focus my efforts even more on helping our people survive in these trying times. Limited resources and such, but all the more reason to check in and see if there’s anything I can do. That being said, I trust you’re handling things just fine? Like you said, you have help. I suppose I’m just curious how many people you actually have staying here, currently.”

It felt cheap and underhanded to try and extract information like this, but if Emma knew why he was asking, she’d clamp up for sure.

“Sure,” Emma said as she walked into the ktichen and grabbed a clean mug to pour him some coffee. She nodded in agreement at his assessment of the world around them currently. “Yes well allegedly the stones are creating some sort of murferous microcosm and the high numbered of mutants and mutates here with human sort of makes a dangerous cocktail,” She sais as she hands him the coffee and gestures toward the large family style table in the dining room. She sat down and crossed one leg over the other with a small smile. “Well that’s kind, and you’ll forgive me for saying, out of character. While I wouldn’t call you the cruel monster many would, I wouldn’t necessarily put ‘helping the X-Men affiliated’ very high on your charming list of attributes,” Emma points out and leans her elbows on the table in front of her, watching him with an unflinching gaze. “There are a fair few. In and out of course. Not everyone needs someone to land permanently. Some just come for hot meals, some just hang out for a place out of the cold.”

She was a quiet a moment as she regarded the man across from her.

“Erik,” She says, tone slow and sultry. “What is it you want, darling? As beautiful and alluring as I am you rarely come by unagendized.” 

Somehow, his every move being scrutinised and questioned seemed worse than flat out being called a monster. His jaw clenchd slightly, a bulding intensity in his eyes. “I want what I have always wanted,” he replied bluntly. “For our peope to be safe and allowed to live in peace just like everyone else. Free from scrutiny and prejudice that we face every day, just for being what we are.” He scoffed and added, “Funny, I thought you knew that by now.” He moved further in, slowly as not to spill his coffee, and glanced around as he spoke. “If you are going to insist on letting non mutants mix with our people, then you’ll need someone to help you keep an eye on the place. I just don’t want to get into a fight with you about this, because I do enough of that with Charles.” Turning back to her, Erik gave her a subtle but hopeful smile. “So, hopefully, we will be able to have a better understanding of eachother’s intentions, and find a way to work together here.”