The last thing Theresa had done was visiting the grave of the man she once thought of as her father. Black Tom Cassidy was far from the ideal, upstanding citizen, but he had cared about her and that was enough for Siryn. She had asked him to talk to her mother for her, but Theresa decided that instead she would visit her mother herself. Maeve Rourke deserved that at least. She never got to be with her daughter as she grew up and Theresa rarely ever visited.

“Besides I probably won’t be back in Ireland for a while Mom. Figured I’d bring you a present,” Siryn said laying down the batch of roses next to the grave marked for her mother.

Looking up at the clear sky Siryn could have sworn she saw a cloud that looked like a woman and a tear fell down her eye. Turning her attention back to the tombstone she smiled and said, “Thanks for the sign. I wasn’t sure if being here was the right thing to do. I’ve wanted to come here for so long, but I’ve been scared to. Wasn’t sure if I could face you after all the bad things I’ve done.”

“Like sell yourself out to Sinister. I’m sure Mommy isn’t too happy about that,” a voice said from behind Siryn.

Theresa immediately swung her head back to see who would so blatantly insult her at her mother’s grave. The sight that ran across her eyes made her gasp. Standing before her was one of the most low down pieces of shit this world has ever produced. It was Fabian Cortez and from the last she heard he was Sinister’s little bitch.

“What do you want here? Don’t think I won’t kick your ass in front of my Mom,” Siryn said throwing her jacket off into the grass and sliding up the sleeves on her shirt.

Holding up his hands in a show of innocence Fabian said, “Hold up! I’m only here to make you an offer.”

“And what kind of offer would that be?” Rourke asked with a scowl.

“To join my little team of boy scouts here,” Fabian replied as he folded his hands across his chest.

Suddenly a gust of sand blew around Siryn blinding her for a moment. Shaking her head wildly Theresa caught sight of the sand forming into a pile next to Fabian. The pile of sand grains began to rise up and shape itself into a woman clothed in a burqua. In her hand she held an Arabian sword that glistened in the bright sunlight.

“This would be Dust,” Fabian said giving the woman a soft clap for her extravagant entrance.

“Looks more like girl scouts to me,” Siryn laughed preparing herself the entire time for an assault. She knew just how devious Cortez could be and she wasn’t going to let herself fall to any tricks he might pull.

“If I get one more joke about my ponytail I swear some bones are going to get broken,” Cortez warned grabbing and tugging on his long ponytail which had become a trademark of sorts for him.

“Get to the point Fabian. You know I’m already going to tell you flat out no,” Siryn frankly stated.

“Fine, but I’d figured I’d let you know that Sinister has fallen to a pretty low point. He’s going to come after people he once considered commodities. I got myself some protection. Now you on the other hand are all alone and wide open. Good ol Essex won’t mind trying to swoop you up,” Fabian explained.

“Are you done Cortez? I was trying to talk to my Mom here.”

“We’ll let you get back to your John Edwards moment. Just remember what I said,” Cortez reminded as he turned his back to Siryn and began to walk away with Dust at his side.

When Siryn was satisfied that he was really gone she turned back to the grave and knelt down beside it. Releasing a sigh of relief she said, “That there is one of my biggest mistakes Mom. I let myself think my powers were my life and gave into a very dark man.”

Turning her head up to the sky Siryn could almost feel her mother all around her. It was as if her mother was telling her that she forgave Theresa. That feeling was worth more than a thousand diamonds and the largest mansion money could buy. One of the things Theresa had regretted the most out of her life was the mother she never had the chance to grow up around. Maybe her mother was trying to give a piece of that to her.

Pete Wisdom felt like a piece of crap at the moment. Overloading his powers the way he did against Devious had put a cramp in his style. He barely managed to get out of the Zeneo HQ before the self-destruct systems went off. Now here he was back at the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier wanting desperately to pay a visit to Dr. Vesso. More than likely the guy was probably busy dealing with dozens of other injured agents at the moment. He’d be better off paying a visit to McTaggert anyway. Maybe she could tell him what was wrong with his powers.

Bishop was holding Pete on his shoulders and as he did the time lost man completely empathized with the situation that seemed to be facing Wisdom. He knew what it was like not to trust your own powers. From the moment he absorbed all that energy from Savitar to the point he completely lost his powers against Deus he knew what it felt like. Even when he regained his powers working undercover for Genesis as an ally of the Exiles, Bishop couldn’t be sure if his powers were completely trustworthy. The display he did against Devious in the Zeneo Tech. Building was definitely admirable and if nothing else he should be commended for it. If it weren’t for him they would more than likely have been in that building long into the self-destruct sequence countdown. Something that would have made their escape from the building all the more perilous.

Lydia watched Bishop haul Pete on his shoulders down the hallway to the nearest infirmary and couldn’t help but to naturally worry about the state that her lover was in. His powers had proven themselves to be potent indeed on this mission and Peter had been the saving grace for all of them. Now though it seemed that brave act had cost him because he didn’t look anywhere near good shape. His skin was very close to being slate gray and the poor man was hardly moving.

“Move faster Bishop. Stop playing around with that man’s life,” Mystique scolded as she ran down the hall in front of Bishop carrying a disc in her hand.

“About time you showed up! We weren’t sure if you made it out of the building or not with the goods,” Lydia exclaimed keeping pace with Raven.

“You know I always deliver the goods. Just make sure your lover boy is alright,” Mystique replied veering down a corridor to the right of the rest of her teammates.

“C’mon Bishop! We gotta hurry.”

Peter lay in the hospital bed and had more wires running through him than Lydia cared to count. Brian Vesso and his other medical assistants had hooked Peter up to a bunch of instruments and sophisticated machines that del Ruiz didn’t have the first clue about. As long as they kept Peter alive she didn’t care what they were called.

“He’ll be alright Lydia. Your boy Peter is a fighter. That much I can tell,” Mystique said leaning against a wall.

“How did you get in here?” Lydia asked upset at Raven’s intrusion of her privacy. She wanted to be alone with Peter right now and having this snoop around was not only pissing her off, but making her feel like dealing out some physical harm.

“You’d be surprised all the places worms can get into unnoticed,” Mystique replied.

“Any particular reason you’re here?” Lydia inquired squeezing Peter’s hand to keep her from lashing out at Mystique and reminding herself what she really needed to focus on.

“Genesis wants to talk to all of us. He’s finished analyzing the information that he received from Zeneo Technologies and there is something he wants to share with us,” Mystique answered.

“Never thought I’d see Genesis share anything. The man makes King Tut look like an open book,” Lydia said as she moved her hand across Peter’s face and rose up from her seat.

“Trusting Genesis doesn’t seem to be anybody on this team’s strong suit. I know from experience trust is hard to deal out and I’m far from one to give a lecture on the matter, but I’ve run plenty of teams. If you can’t trust your leader you’re bound to fall apart,” Mystique warned.

“I’ve never thought of that computer as my leader. He is,” Lydia said pointing to the incapacitated Peter. All Mystique could do was smile at Lydia’s passion for the man she loved. It reminded her a bit of Rogue.

Bishop, Lydia, and Mystique all sat down in leather plush chairs in front of the large computer screen. As always Genesis’ face was staring down at them. Various high-ranking SHIELD agents were all around the three X-Forcers as they listened to Genesis present segments of information he uncovered from the stolen Zeneo Tech files.

{{Zeneo Technologies seems to have been monitoring mutant activity for some time and they’ve compiled a list of mutants that they consider to be very viable threats. I think it’s a list you all should see because some of the people they consider threats are also people we should be examining more closely.}}

The image of Genesis quickly faded away to reveal a computer file. Each person in the room began to read the file slowly.

Brief Summary of Considerable Threats in Mutant Community

Magneto- Despite having suffered some blows recently from the likes of Magistrates and Justin Hammer this man is still one of the most powerful mutants on the face of the planet. The simple fact of the matter is that Erik Magnus Lensherr controls an entire country of mutants. He has the ultimate army at the palm of his hand.

Cyclops- This man controls the X-Men which is a strike force that could give anything S.W.A.T. or S.H.I.E.L.D. could ever hope to muster a sound defeat. Extremely powerful mutants that have literally unlimited potential are at this man’s helm. We have spotted numerous Omega level mutants under his thumb and we have a strong suspicion that he caused the human/mutant riots in Washington D.C.

Archangel- Warren Worthington Jr. controls a multi-billion dollar business and has a very strong sway on public opinion with this X-Corp. His threat lies in how he can affect public perception of mutants. Not to mention he also commands quite a powerful force of mutants. He only falls below Cyclops because of the lack of leadership experience he has in comparison to Summers.

Dani Moonstar- A perfect combination of Cyclops and Archangel. She’s a deadly leader with a knack for handling public affairs. Her Force Works has been in many situations faced with appeasing the public and has done so with a surgical precision. Nothing ever seems to phase this woman and at her command are people who have gone toe to toe with Heralds of Galactus. The potential power in her team is staggering.

Abyss- A complete and total unknown in the mutant world. Nothing has been able to be procured about his resources, who works for him, and what his goals are. His name is only whispered in the mutant underworld as someone not to be played around with. If it weren’t for the fact he was such an intangible force he’d be at the top of this list.

Sunfire- Shiro controls one of Japan’s most powerful families and as such has immense influence throughout the Asian world. Not to mention his many connections in the world of X-Men and his inclusion into the Avengers ranks he’s quickly becoming an international mutant figure. The young man has also reached a new height in his powers and the potential within those abilities is terrifying.

Grey King- As the leader of a new incarnation of the Brotherhood, Addison Falk commands a ruthless force that could easily throw every effort at mutant/human cooperation down the drain. He has already leaded a brutal attack on a high school killing dozens of innocents without any remorse. He in fact presents a rising threat to humankind that may begin to dwarf all others.

Jean Grey- The single most powerful telepath on the planet. Omega level potential is written all over her. Xavier finding her first was probably the best thing that could have happened for the world. Imagining this woman in the hands of Magneto, Sinister, or Mystique is a frightful thought.

Mikhail Rasputin- Though this mutant has fallen from glory for some time and has hidden himself under the radar there are whispers of this former cosmonaut seeking to gain a place of power amongst the mutants once again are circulating. If nothing else this should be reason enough to keep an eye on this mutant.

Scarlet Witch- Another Jean Grey in the making. At least in terms of power and potential. This Avenger has shown on numerous occasions just how deadly and potent her power can be. And like Grey she has had her moments of darkness which leads one to wonder how much can be mutants be trusted. Do all mutants possess such a powerful dark side as this woman has demonstrated?

“I assume that only about four on that list concern us?” Mystique asked having grown a little bored reading over the short summaries that Zeneo Technologies had compiled. She was flattered at the fact that her name had been mentioned, but it did make her think. What if she had gotten to some of Xavier’s ilk before he did? How different would things be and what if she had never taken Rogue into her care? Maybe that poor girl wouldn’t be as tortured as she was today.

Bishop saw the smug look on Raven’s face quickly turn into something that seemed forlorn and shaken. What could have altered her expression so quickly? He would have figured a person like Mystique would have been thrilled by the fact she had been included alongside the likes of Magneto and Sinister. Instead it looked like her reaction had been the complete opposite. She would get no sympathy from Bishop. You couldn’t go around wrecking the lives of hundreds and then except to be given a big hug when you decided to turn around. Life didn’t work that way. Where Bishop came from you paid for the mistakes you made. Second chances were rare and when you found them you took advantage of them.

{{There is one person in particular on this list in question that I feel the need to address. I don’t like the fact that there are enemies out there who are complete enigmas. Abyss is a person that will have to be investigated. I can’t have shadow threats in my midst.}}

“But there are other matters to be addressed first,” one of the senior SHIELD officers said.

{{Indeed. In fact I intend to address something crucial now. Everyone is dismissed except for X-Force.}}

Genesis didn’t have to repeat himself. Within moments all the senior officials were out of the office scuttling into the hallway like a panicked crowd. Bishop looked at the sight with disgust. He served under Genesis, but he would never act in such a subservient manner as those officers had. It was truly degrading to watch. Men and women of their status were meant to act with a degree of pride. The way they ran from Genesis’ presence spoke of bureaucracy and cowardice.

“Pathetic. Do you have this effect on all humans Genesis?” Mystique asked as she watched the pitiful officers march out of Genesis’ little sanctuary he liked to call his office.

{{Perhaps you would do well to follow their example Raven. A bit more obedience from you would not be entirely out of the question.}}

“Not my style,” Mystique replied with a devilish smile.

{{You might want to consider making it your style. Especially after today’s failure. Despite getting the information you all failed miserably.}}

“I believe an explanation is in order Genesis. You can’t throw out accusations like that without something solid to back them up,” Bishop said masking the resentment that he was feeling. He went out there risking his life at Zeneo Tech. HQ and one of his teammates suffered because of it. Now, this mechanical bastard was telling them that they had failed when it was clear as day they had accomplished their mission.

{{You’ll get your explanation Bishop.}}

The image of Genesis dissipated off his computer screen and was replaced by a news conference. A young Japanese man in his late 20s was at the podium surrounded by flashing lights and anxious reporters. At the bottom of the screen ran one line that pissed everyone in the room off.

ZENEO TECHNOLOGIES HEADQUARTERS IS ATTACKED AND DESTROYED BY TERRORISTS.

Mystique only eyed Bishop for a moment and in that brief eye contact both of them knew where this was heading. Raven and Bishop were both experienced in how events could be twisted around to make something that never was out of a situation. Raven had done it many times herself and had become somewhat a master of the art form.

Lydia vocalized what everyone in the room was feeling, “I can’t believe this shit!”

{{Our company suffered a terrible blow today. Ruthless mutant terrorists attacked our HQ without reason. Zeneo Technologies was working to help mutants and we are repaid with terrorism. Radicals won’t stop our efforts though and I’ve just been informed we’ve been given a grant of 23 million dollars from the Damocles Foundation to rebuild our HQ better than ever. We will survive and keep going strong.}}

“And that right there is Miles Durashi,” a strangely cold and mechanical voice said to the three X-Force members. All eyes quickly turned in shock to see the new cybernetic body of Genesis.

“When did this happen?” Mystique asked.

“A few days ago my cybersuit was completed. Now back to the news coverage. Miles Durashi is the VP of Zeneo Tech. With this turn of events the company is more than likely to get outpourings of charity money and grants. By taking their information all we’ve managed to do is strengthen them. I told you to be discreet. Instead you allowed yourselves to be discovered.”

“We couldn’t prevent that. Devious was already there waiting for us. It was like someone had tipped him off we were coming,” Lydia tried to explain to no avail.

“You’re supposed to be professionals. As senior officers to XSE you should be giving an example. Instead I’ve had to send down an XSE unit to extract Maverick’s team, which managed to be captured. As we speak they’re being bought back to the Helicarrier. If you all can’t prove yourselves I’m afraid I’ll forcibly integrate X-Force into XSE.”

“Don’t act like it’s something you don’t want to do. You can’t have regrets. You’re a machine. Remember?”

Genesis glared at Mystique and replied, “You might want to remember that I am your superior. Openly challenging me will earn you some time in the Vault. I’m sure you’ll like it there.”

“Please. I’ve been in more brutal brothels,” Mystique mocked.

“I see the new blood is starting to fit in already.”

Everyone, Genesis included, looked to the door to see Siryn with one hand on her hip and leaning to the side in a pose that would give Tyra a run for her money. She had a large smile on her face like she had been given a week’s prescription of codeine.

“Welcome back Ms. Rourke. Just in time to hear me complain,” Genesis said pulling a mock smile. Despite not truly having emotions his cybersuit was fitted so that he could display them at least.

“Great so how did you fuck up this time? Must have been by making that awful cyborg suit you’re in. Really! Forge wasn’t that damn skinny,” Siryn laughed trying to lighten up the atmosphere. She had heard the whole exchange while standing outside the door and while being the humorist wasn’t usually her role she’d figured it was time for her to play it. Especially, since things were about to get so much more serious around here.

Abyss looked like he had just stepped out of a manga movie. His hair was up and spiky, but not one facial feature could be seen. All was black except for his crossed yellow eyes. His blue cloak, which wrapped around his body, billowed though no wind was in the damp room. One bandaged hand kept the cloak around his body and the other remained hidden.

“Charon come to me,” Abyss ordered. Suddenly, a few feet in front of him there was a pink mist and out of it stepped an ample sized Indian man carrying a staff with a skull atop it. The dress of the man hardly seemed to fit this downtrodden building. He wore a name brand suit that more than likely cost more than the warehouse he was standing in.

“You know I was in the middle of a business meeting. Couldn’t you have summoned Fatal or maybe even Vortigen?” Charon asked a little annoyed at having been snatched away.

The ground beneath the short man began to rumble wildly and he nearly lost his footing. Abyss kept his eyes locked on Charon and said, “Don’t question me little man. Just do as I ask and you’ll stay alive.”

“Fine. What do you want from me this time? Who do I have to kill?” Charon asked a little more excited than the normal person should be at the prospect of killing someone.

“No killing Charon. Just acquire an item from me. The Black Tarantula has the mystical Book of Omens, which is an ancient Mayan script. I want it. Bring it to me and I’ll grant you another ability to your already formidable arsenal,” Abyss promised.

“I don’t understand how the hell they managed to get through all the security,” Maverick complained as he took a sip from the cup of straight black coffee he always enjoyed. It was actually quite an embarrassment for North to have a bunch of kids save his ass. Especially on a mission that was suppose to be as cut and dry as this one was. Needless to say, Maverick was feeling pretty shitty.

“It was as if the systems just decided to lapse for an hour to let XSE get through,” Shard said scoffing down a chocolate donut. The woman was trying not to say what she really thought of the situation. Missions like the one she just came from were what trainees did and so it shouldn’t have been a sweat breaker for Shard. Eve knew they were coming. There was no other way X-Force could have fallen as hard as they did. How Eve knew she couldn’t be sure, but Shard was sure as hell going to make sure she bought the point up to Genesis.

“Either way something fishy is going on around here and I don’t like it,” Shadowcat replied staring intensely out the window into the blue sky.

“At least you guys are alright. That’s all that counts,” Lydia sighed. Just thinking about Peter locked down in a bed made her sick to her stomach. Wisdom was always so strong and defiant. Overloading his powers had taken its toll. If he hadn’t battled Alastaire would he even have been able to pull off that stunt? Would they all have died when that building exploded?

Just then Mystique bust through the door of the lounge and said nearly out of breath, “Come quick! Peter’s health has taken a turn!”