CHAPTER EIGHT: BEHIND ENEMY LINES, PART ONE

Undisclosed location, October 24, 2008

Within the secret base of the Mutant Liberation Front, the tall, metallic form of Colossus trudged through the dark hallways, with a large white sack over his shoulders, and a grim expression on his face, as he headed for the base’s exit…

“Goin’ somewhere, Tin-Grin?”

Stopping, Colossus turned to face Quicksilver, calmly leaning against a nearby wall. “I am taking laundry to nearby laundromat.” Colossus answered.

Pietro sneered. “What, you got stuck with grunt work?”

“The laundry-man is ill.” Colossus answered. “Laundry is needing to be done. Magneto will be asking for volunteer; I go.”

Pietro arched an eyebrow for a moment…and then nodded. “Whatever; go on.” he said, before walking off. Alone again, Colossus headed for the exit, his pace a little quicker, as he emerged into the night air, before getting into a nearby jeep, buckling up and securing the sack in the seat next to him. As the guard on duty waved him through, Colossus drove out of the base, heading along the road leading into the nearby town…

…and then took a left, heading away from it, as he deactivated his powers, becoming human. As he drove as fast as he could, Piotr felt a bead of cold sweat form on his brow, occasionally glancing behind him, half-expecting to see a vengeful cloaked, helm-clad figure flying after him…

“Piotr?”

Putting a smile on his face to hide his worry, Piotr looked to the sack as a little 9-year-old girl, her golden hair tied in pigtails, her bright blue eyes sparkling happily, peeked her head out of the sack, still clad in her hospital gown. “Are we at home base, yet?” she asked, in their native Russian.

Piotr smiled. “Not yet, Illyana.” he replied. “You have to stay hidden a little bit longer. We’re almost there, but they’ll be looking harder for us; you don’t want us to lose the game when we’re so close, do you?”

Illyana giggled at her big brother. “No.” she answered. “I didn’t think Mr. Magneto liked hide-and-seek, Piotr! We’re gonna win for sure!”

“That we are, ‘Yana; just hide a little bit longer, okay?”

“Okay!” Illyana chirped, before ducking back into the sack.

As he kept driving, Piotr felt a twinge of guilt at having to lie to his baby sister, but it was nothing compared to what he’d felt as Magneto’s lackey.

He couldn’t do it, anymore; he’d already had qualms about Lensherr’s plans for Genosha and mutants, but after meeting the Justice League and the Avengers, some time ago, he was sure that Magneto’s path was the wrong one…eventually prompting him to formulate this little escape. Only he and Magneto knew Illyana was there, and Magneto checked on her only infrequently, giving Piotr time to get away before Magneto caught on, staying in his human state to avoid drawing Magneto’s attention.

He only hoped it was enough.

Finally, he had driven far enough away from the base so as not to be picked up by their sensors. Pulling into an open field, Colossus stopped the car, and stepped out, looking up into the night sky. “I know that you have no reason to heed my voice, Superman,” he called out, “but I am begging that you listen. My name is Piotr Rasputin…and I was one of Magneto’s Acolytes…and I wish to surrender myself to the Justice League. In exchange for the safety of my sister and my family, I will tell you everything I know about Magneto’s plans.” His tone turned pleading. “I am not caring what you are doing to me…but please…help my family…”

Suddenly, a sonic boom filled the air, seconds before a red-and-blue blur shot out of the sky, slowing and coming to a perfect stop on the ground in front of him. As he touched down, Superman looked to Piotr, and then glanced to the jeep, spying Illyana as she peeked her head out of the sack, before looking back to Piotr, smiling pleasantly. “All you had to do was ask.” he said. With that, he took out his communicator. “Boy Scout calling Eye-in-the-Sky: send the Javelin-3 to my location; we need civilian e-vac, Priority 1.”

At that, Piotr could only smile in relief; at last, he and his sister would be safe…

XXXXXXXX

Genosha City Airport, Genosha

The dead of night had long fallen over the main airport of Genosha City when the last airplane of the day made its landing. As its passengers disembarked, the airport staff greeted them with a smile; most of the passengers had smiled back, before heading on their way, but a fair-sized group of them – about fifteen, all carrying black duffel bags – had stayed behind. “Excuse me,” one passenger, in his early twenties, with mid-length brown hair, and brown eyes, clad in black pants and a black coat, said pleasantly, “but could you tell us where the gift shop is?”

The flight attendant – a young male mutant with slitted eyes – smiled. “Why, certainly, sir; it’s just down the hall to the right.”

“Thank you.” the passenger said.

“Was there anything else you needed help with?”

The passenger smiled wryly. “Why, yes.” he answered…as he drew a revolver from a secret pocket in his jacket, aiming it at the youth’s head. “There is.”

BANG!!

The echo of the shot sent the entire airport into a panic as the mutant’s corpse dropped to the ground, while the group of passengers shed their disguises, revealing black clothes underneath their civilian attire…as well as black F.O.H. armbands. “Move!!” the leader of the troop shouted, as his men drew automatics from their duffel bags, before hurrying into the airport.

The airport security force offered practically no resistance as the F.O.H. troop moved through the airport; several rounds of automatic fire was all it took to disperse the mutie cowards. Within minutes, they had forced their way into the control center, and quickly assumed control of the airport.

“Are you insane?!” the head Air Traffic Controller – a human – shouted. “We’ll have planes coming in within the hour..!”

“…which means that you’d better shut up and do what we tell you, species-traitor.” the leader snapped. Turning to his men, he added, “Set up the radar-jammer, and notify the sleepers; we’re coming in tonight.” At once, the two F.O.H. engineers in their squad took out a high-tech-looking device from one of their duffel bags, before affixing it to the control console, and then switching it on…causing every single radar screen in the room – as well as the radar systems of any nearby facility – to go utterly dead…

…providing the numerous F.O.H. gunships circling the island with a safe place to land.

Smiling to himself, the leader took out his communicator, as he hailed their forces. “Hodge to Essex; the drop-point is secured.”

“Excellent work, Cameron.” came the oily reply. “We’ll land within the hour; just make sure that our covert agents have successfully neutralized the air-defences.”

“It’s being taken care of as we speak.” Cameron Hodge answered. “Our people have successfully infiltrated the muties’ pitiful military; the freaks will barely be able to put up a fight. This place will be ours before morning.”

“Just make sure of that, Hodge; my employers are not to be trifled with. Essex out.”

Putting his communicator away, Cameron frowned to himself. ‘That guy gives me the creeps.’ he thought. He still wasn’t fussy about what Essex wanted to do, but after his organization – HYDRA – had bailed them out, he wasn’t in the position to complain; all that mattered now was results.

Looking out the window, Cameron smiled to himself, as he saw the lights of their approaching ships, ready to land…and put an end to this ‘freak-state’ once and for all.

XXXXXXXX

Xavier Institute, October 25

It was a few hours after midnight when Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Martian Manhunter had brough Colossus and his younger sister to the Institute, their arrival promptly rousing everyone from their sleep. Once the situation had been explained, the other students didn’t mind too much; they had the day off due to a school workshop.

Currently, Colossus – Piotr, they knew, now – was in the infirmary with his sister, watching as Hank performed a medical examination on the girl, while Superman, Wonder Woman, J’onn, and the X-Men, along with Krypto, waited outside, along with the instructors. “So, Flyboy,” Logan spoke up, “think the kid’s on the level?”

“Pretty sure.” Superman answered. “He said that his family was in danger – the last time we faced Magneto and his flunkies, Flash mentioned that Colossus…that Piotr wasn’t with the Acolytes of his own free will, that Magneto had something on him.” His expression turned sad. “Looks like he was right.”

Anita nodded. “I briefly conversed with him, just before the Sentinel incident; his sister, Illyana, was seriously ill, so much that his family could not pay to treat her – Magneto offered to do so, in exchange for Piotr’s services.”

“So Mags was using the guy’s sick little sister against him?” Evan muttered. “Man, talk about low.”

Wanda’s eyes narrowed. “With my father, I’d believe anything.” she grumbled.

“Remy ‘ate t’ say it,” Remy said softly, “but can we be sure dat dis ain’ jus’ one o’ Mags’ tricks?”

“His concern for his family is genuine.” J’onn answered. “I sensed that much from him; if there is such a ploy being used by Magneto, Piotr seems to be ignorant of it.”

Wonder Woman looked stricken. “Trap or no, we cannot let the boy’s family fall prey to Lensherr’s backlash.”

“Agreed; Piotr already gave us the location of his family in Russia.” Superman said. “By now, Beacon should be locked onto that location; if Lensherr goes anywhere near it, we’ll know.”

Just then, Hank stepped out of the infirmary. “How is she?” Scott asked.

“Piotr was telling the truth.” Hank answered. “His sister did have a lung defect, but the gene-therapy Magneto was likely using seems to be working, with little to no side-effects.” He lightly smiled. “She’s young enough to make a full recovery in less than a week.”

“That’s good to hear.” Jean said with a smile.

“Yeah; at least she’s gonna be okay.” Kitty agreed, as Krypto barked in agreement.

Just then, Piotr walked out of the infirmary, a weary smile on his face. “Thank you.” he said. “Thank you for your kindness…”

Lance smiled. “Don’t mention it, pal; we know the kind of raw deal Bucket Head serves.”

Anita nodded, her expression neutral, but her voice held a note of concern. “Your sister…her treatment regimen is complete?”

Piotr nodded. “Several days ago, Illyana took last of her medicine; after a day, she seemed well, so I tell Magneto I wish to leave; that bargain is done.” he answered. His tone grew bitter. “He says no; he says I must help. I say that I do not wish to assist in his plans, any longer; he says that I should consider my parents’ health.”

Wonder Woman’s eyes narrowed. “That cowardly..!”

“Piotr, our Watchtower is scanning your parents’ home; we’ll make sure that Magneto doesn’t even touch your family.” Superman said firmly.

Piotr smiled. “Thank you.”

Just then, Krypto’s nose picked up the new scent in the infirmary; barking excitedly, he scampered into the infirmary, and hopped onto Illyana’s cot. Piotr momentarily looked stricken as he heard his sister’s frightened gasp…but calmed as she began to giggle at Krypto’s happy greeting. “Doggie!” Illyana exclaimed.

Mystique chuckled at the sight. “Well, at least we know you’re sincere.”

“Yeah.” Rogue agreed with a smile. “Super-Pooch is a good judge of character.”

Piotr’s expression turned pained. “I know that…that I have done wrong.” he said softly. “I wish to make up for it; if there is anything that I can tell you of Magneto’s plans…”

Just then, Bobby hurried up to them, his eyes wide. “Guys, you gotta see this!” he cried. “There’s a special news-bulletin on TV!” With that, the entire group followed Bobby to the living room.

As they reached the living room, where the rest of X-Force had gathered around the television, the TV showed an image of Genosha next to the anchorwoman. “For those of you just joining us now, reports are coming in of the island nation of Genosha undergoing a military coup; our sources tell us that, several hours ago, a strike-force funded by the anti-mutant terrorist group known as the Friends of Humanity took over the main airport and used it as a landing site for a much larger invasion force. After several hours, the Genoshan military has been all but completely routed, with only pockets of resistance remaining. We still have not received word as to who is in charge of Genosha, now, but we will continue to keep you posted!”

Superman’s face went pale. “My God…”

“There goes the neighborhood.” Logan grumbled.

Ororo looked stricken. “Goddess…with those monsters in control of Genosha..!”

Scott’s expression hardened. “We have to do something.”

“But what can we do?” Jubilee cried.

Superman’s eyes narrowed, as he looked to Wonder Woman, J’onn, and Krypto. “Wonder Woman, Krypto, you’re with me; we’ll do a fly-by of Genosha and scan the F.O.H.’s forces. J’onn, I want you to head back to the Watchtower; I want the rest of the League on emergency stand-by.” As his comrades nodded, Superman turned to the others. “Guys, I want you to be ready; we won’t do anything until we know exactly what kind of firepower the F.O.H. have. Once we know, we can decide what to do about it, then.”

“Understood.” Jean agreed.

Alison nodded. “Be careful.”

Superman smiled. “We will, taushi.” he replied, before turning to his two comrades. “Let’s go.” With that, the three of them headed outside, with Krypto following, as Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Superdog took to the air, while J’onn headed to the Javelin, taking off and heading for the Watchtower.

Had they stayed a minute longer, they would have heard the phone start to ring…

XXXXXXXX

Genoshan airspace

As the sun began to rise over Genosha, the golden-orange light was dulled somewhat by the smoke from the fires below, ignited by the F.O.H.’s attack on the previously-peaceful nation…the attack that was now over; the F.O.H. had won.

High above the occupied country, Superman’s expression was pained as he gazed down at that horrific sight. ‘They weren’t doing anything wrong…’ he thought. ‘They were just living their own lives, minding their own business…’

Not for the first time, he had to suppress the urge to fly down there and tear those neo-Nazi bastards apart, a sentiment that Krypto clearly shared, judging from his growling. He, Wonder Woman, and Krypto had been scanning the island, getting thorough intel on the F.O.H.’s forces, watching where they moved, where they were fortified; they couldn’t afford to make any mistakes, not when the lives of the Genoshan people were at stake…

…no matter how justified a simple, good-old-fashioned head-cracking was.

As they met up with their teammate, their sweep concluded, Superman noticed the expression of barely-contained rage upon Diana’s face. “This is not right.” she muttered. “We should be down there, smiting those monsters for what they have done..!”

“Believe me, Diana, I’m not happy about it, either,” Superman said, “but if we go in without a plan, all we’ll end up doing is getting innocent people killed.”

Wonder Woman’s eyes narrowed…before she calmed. “Justified or no, waging war for war’s sake is a device of Ares.” she agreed. “Athena’s counsel teaches to make the first battle a decisive one.”

Superman smiled. “That’s the idea.” Krypto promptly barked in agreement.

Wonder Woman’s smile turned grim. “Just promise me this, Kal: once we have what we need, promise me that we will trounce these bullies.”

Superman’s expression matched hers. “Don’t worry about that.” he assured her. “They won’t get away with this; I promise you that much.” With that, he checked his belt-computer, confirming the data they’d recorded. “That should do it…”

Suddenly, the computer began to beep, as it picked up a signal from the Watchtower. As he put it through, J’onn’s voice came in over the air. “Superman, the rest of the League is assembling at the Watchtower,” he reported, “but I am detecting a massive electromagnetic signature heading towards Genosha at a considerable velocity..!”

“Magneto.” Superman muttered; he should have known that Lensherr wouldn’t stay out of this. As J’onn forwarded the coordinates to him, Superman replied, “We’re on it, J’onn. Superman out.”

As the transmission ended, Wonder Woman’s expression turned grave. “It would appear that Lensherr does not possess as much restraint as we do.”

“No kidding.” Superman said with a grim chuckle, before turning serious. “Let’s move.” With that, they both turned, and flew off, to intercept Magneto.

In minutes, they got a visual on the Master of Magnetism, levitating himself and three metal spheres – undoubtedly carrying his three remaining Acolytes – towards Genosha, stopping only when Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Superdog intersected his path, blocking him. “Stand clear, Kal-El!!” Magneto thundered.

“No chance, Lensherr.” Superman countered, as Krypto growled in feral fury, ready to back up his Master’s words with his teeth.

“I will not allow the Friends of Humanity to invade my people’s safe haven!!” Magneto roared. “I warned you that this would happen, boy; I warned you..!!”

“We have a plan to free Genosha, Magneto.” Superman replied. “What we don’t need is you and your goons flying in and getting innocent people killed.”

“You still defend them?!” Magneto cried. “Do you honestly think that this could have been perpetrated without inside help; that there were no infiltrators lying in wait for this day?! Is your conscience that misguided..?”

“You are in no position to lecture anyone about conscience, Lensherr.” Wonder Woman said coldly. “You blackmail your own follower by threatening an innocent family? You despicable little man.”

That statement threw Magneto off long enough for Superman to make his point. “We have every intention of liberating Genosha, Erik.” he said. “But it’s going to be exactly that: a liberation.” His eyes narrowed. “Not a massacre, for either side.”

At that, Magneto finally calmed himself. “Very well,” he said, “but this is our people’s struggle, Kal-El; we will not stay by the sidelines.”

Superman frowned; he wasn’t fussy about the idea, but there didn’t seem to be any other way – plus, they likely needed all the help they could get. “If you want to help, that’s fine,” he answered, “but you follow our plan; otherwise, I suggest you turn around and go home.”

Magneto nodded. “That is fair,” he conceded, “for now.”

“For now.” Superman agreed.

Just then, Superman’s communicator started to beep; taking it out, Superman answered it. “Boy Scout here.”

“Superman, there is a call coming through.” J’onn answered. “It is General Fury.”

Superman sighed to himself; as if there wasn’t enough to deal with. “Put him through.”

Seconds later, the familiar gruff voice of S.H.I.E.L.D.’s Director came through. “Saw you and your pal sweeping Genosha, kid; should’ve known you’d be neck-deep in this.”

Superman’s eyes narrowed. “General, we plan on liberating Genosha’s people; don’t try and talk us out of it.”

“Wasn’t planning to; I was just curious as to whether or not you wanted any help.”

Superman arched an eyebrow. “I didn’t think you wanted the League ‘interfering in S.H.I.E.L.D. affairs’.”

“Under the circumstances, I’m willing to make an exception.” Fury answered. “We’ve already contacted Xavier and his students; they’ve arrived at the Helicarrier, so I suggest you and your team meet us there.”

“Alright.” Superman agreed. “We’ll be there in a few minutes…and we’ll be bringing help. Superman out.”

Magneto’s eyes narrowed as Superman ended the transmission. “You expect us to work with S.H.I.E.L.D.?”

“Yes,” Superman answered, “because we need every hand to free Genosha.” Looking to Wonder Woman and Krypto, he added, “Let’s move.” With that, he, Wonder Woman, and Krypto flew off, followed by Magneto and his Acolytes.

XXXXXXXX

Helicarrier Alpha, S.H.I.E.L.D. Mobile Supreme Headquarters, U.S. airspace

As the massive Helicarrier hovered in the sky above the United States, Nick Fury stood in front of the large window of the command deck, watching the light of dawn slowly start to filter through the clouds.

A red dawn; traditionally, that was a harbinger of bad weather…but the storm that he was predicting was a much worse kind than mere rain or snow could be.

Behind him stood the entire Avengers team: Cap, Black Widow, Iron Man, Thor, Giant Man, Wasp…and the newest addition to the team, who was standing right next to him.

Carol – who had now taken the codename “Ms. Marvel” – had exchanged her military uniform for a one-piece, swimsuit-type garment, dark blue in colour, with a yellow, angular lightning-bolt-shape across the center. She also wore long, high-heeled boots, long gloves, and a simple eye-mask across her face.

After thoroughly analyzing that alien ship, their engineers had discovered that it had been a bio-research vessel, and that it had conducted extensive experiments on humans…with the people of Attilan as their ultimate result. Although it had been shot down on its way home – by an enemy battle-group, and then a ship that had to be of Kryptonian origin – they had clearly kept detailed records…enough so that they could duplicate their work. Despite Fury’s initial misgivings, Carol had volunteered for the procedure…and now possessed enhanced strength, durability, flight, and the ability to launch concussive energy-blasts from her hands.

Even though Carol was still getting the hang of these new powers, Fury couldn’t afford to have her hang back, not when so much was at stake.

“Sir, with respect, this isn’t a good idea.” Ms. Marvel said. “Having the Justice League assist us is one thing…but Lensherr??”

“I’m actually with Carol on this one, General.” Iron Man agreed. “How are we supposed to trust this guy, after some of the shit he’s pulled?”

“We don’t have time to toss him in jail, right now, Stark.” Cap replied. “Our priority is stopping Hodge and his men.”

“The Captain is correct.” Fury answered. “For the moment, Lensherr is a secondary priority.”

Thor nodded. “Perhaps we can understand his ire, given that it is his people that suffer under Hodge’s villainy.”

“Hey, just as long as he isn’t taking it out on us, I’m fine with it.” Giant Man said.

“General?” one aide reported. “The Justice League’s vehicle has just touched down on the main landing pad; Superman and Wonder Woman are escorting Lensherr and his Acolytes onto the secondary landing pad.”

“Have the guards on duty lead them in here, and post an additional security detail outside the command deck.” Fury instructed. “Also, send Xavier and his students in here.”

Within minutes, Professor Xavier, Storm, Wolverine, Beast, Mystique, the X-Men and the newer Institute-based team – X-Force, Nick believed – along with Colossus, all in uniform, headed into the command center. “General.” Charles greeted neutrally.

“Xavier.”

Seconds later, the eight members of the Justice League walked in, followed by Magneto, Quicksilver, Sabretooth, and Pyro; as the last four walked in, the entire command deck went silent. “Erik.” Charles said.

Magneto nodded. “Charles.” he answered. “I suppose I should have expected you to be here.”

Charles nodded. “I must admit, Erik, seeing you here was…something of a surprise.”

“Uh, understatement of the year.” Rogue muttered.

“Rogue.” Superman said gently.

Frowning, Quicksilver sent a glare towards Superman, before glancing back to Rogue. “Believe me, Stripes, we’re not happy about it, either.”

Scowling, Sabretooth nodded. “You think we’d work with the runt by choice?” he spat. “This is really gonna cost you, Lensherr.”

Magneto fixed his Acolytes with a glare. “When it comes to the safety of our people, no price is too high.” he reprimanded.

“Glad you think so.” Fury said. “Regardless, we’ve identified the brains behind this little incursion; Cameron Hodge, one of the F.O.H.’s middle lieutenants. We identified him after he made this little broadcast.” Nodding to an aide, Fury gestured to the main view-screen.

Almost instantly, the screen showed the image of a fairly young, brown-haired man, with a black beret on his head, clad in black. “We are the Friends of Humanity,” he declared, “and today, we have taken back what is rightfully ours! Today, we have corrected the mistake that the bleeding-heart species-traitors have allowed: the ‘freak-state’ of Genosha is no more! Today, our fellow brave fighters have a new home base from which to strike at the foul menace that pollutes our world!”

His tone grew menacing. “Any and all muties that think they can hide here will be dealt with.” Hodge continued. “If anyone – including the team led by the alien, or the freaks employed by the U.S. government – attempts to remove us, they will quickly learn how swift human justice can be!” His voice grew solemn. “For humanity!” With that, the video feed ended.

Magneto’s expression was one of barely-contained rage. “Nice guy.” Aquaman muttered.

“Oh, yeah; a regular ‘Mr. Congeniality’.” Flash agreed.

The expressions of the X-Men and X-Force were utterly horrified, but none more so than Angel. “God, Cam…why?”

Wolverine arched an eyebrow. “Anything you’d like to share, Wings?”

“Yeah.” Angel whispered. “I know that guy.” His voice turned soft. “We went to university, together; he was my friend…well…at least, I thought he was…”

Pyro scoffed. “Think ya know some people, eh, mate?”

“Quiet, whelp.” Thor said flatly. “This is neither the time nor the place.”

Superman glanced to Angel. “Warren, do you think this guy is serious about his threats?”

Angel looked grave. “An hour ago, I’d have said no.” he answered. “But, after that, I don’t think I’m qualified to say what Cameron might or might not do.”

“In other words, we have to assume he’s serious.” Iron Man said grimly.

“Regardless, Hodge has information about the F.O.H. that we need.” Fury said. “Furthermore, we can’t allow them to gain a fortified base of operations, especially since they’re allied with HYDRA, as Xavier indicated earlier.”

“It sounds like you’ve made up your mind to attack them.” Beast observed.

“Under the circumstances, we don’t have much choice.” Fury answered, before turning to Superman and Wonder Woman. “We observed you two flying over Genosha, so I’m assuming you gathered some critical intel regarding Hodge’s forces.”

Nodding grimly, Superman took out his belt-computer, and linked it to the nearest terminal, uploading the files, before removing it. “The vast majority of Hodge’s forces – infantry, artillery, and aircraft – are supplied by this naval base here; in addition, we’ve spotted numerous transports going to and from it, carrying both prisoners and equipment.” he said. “Hodge’s goons are doing something there, that’s for certain.”

Cap nodded. “Recapturing that base will definitely be a priority.”

“We should be able to handle it.” Cyclops said, as the rest of the X-Men nodded.

“Not alone.” Superman interjected. “Batman, Martian Manhunter, you two should accompany them.”

“Understood.” J’onn agreed, while Batman simply nodded.

“Black Widow, you should tag along, as well.” Cap said.

“No problem, Steve.” Black Widow agreed.

“I’ll tag along.” Wolverine said.

“So will I.” Mystique added.

“As will Pyro and Quicksilver.” Magneto said.

Quicksilver smirked as he glanced to Power Girl. “Don’t worry, babe; I’ll watch your back.”

Power Girl just rolled her eyes. “I’m sure.” she said flatly.

Glancing at the readout, Wasp looked stricken. “One problem.” she said. “The only way to approach this base is by sea, and it looks like they’ve moved quite a few naval units in to protect it.”

“Janet’s right.” Giant Man agreed. “Unless those Javelins of yours have unbelievable stealth-systems that protect against visual confirmation, you’re at least going to get spotted, and then the base will go on alert.”

Aquaman chuckled. “Leave that to me.”

Superman smiled, before turning to X-Force. “Leviathan, think you can help him out?”

Leviathan grinned. “Oh, yeah.”

His expression calm, Batman gestured to an area of sea adjacent to the naval units. “The Javelin should drop you here to avoid detection.” he said. “The naval forces are mostly commandeered Genoshan vessels; aim for their lower, unoccupied decks – that should incapacitate them with minimal loss of life, and give the crews time to escape.”

“Got it.” Aquaman agreed.

“The next target should be this facility: Hodge’s personal stronghold, judging from how his transmission originated from here.” Batman continued. “The facility is remarkably well-defended…above ground.” He then gestured to a series of tunnels running beneath the stronghold. “Another small team should be able to infiltrate it from here.”

“I will assist.” Colossus said. “I am familiar with the tunnels; they were designed as an emergency escape route in the event of an invasion.”

“Ironic.” Flash remarked.

“We’ll handle it.” Iceman said, as the rest of X-Force nodded.

Superman nodded. “Flash?”

“On it.”

Fury then glanced to Cap. “Think you can help ‘em out, Rogers?”

Cap chuckled. “I’ll do what I can, sir.” he answered. “Wasp?”

“I’m in.” Wasp said.

Magneto then glanced to Sabretooth. “Creed?”

Sabretooth grumbled. “Ain’t getting’ paid enough for this…”

“No bloody kidding.” Pyro agreed.

“So, how exactly do you plan on getting them to Hodge’s stronghold?” Ms. Marvel said. “It’s completely inland, and you’ve got their entire attack force between them and the fort.”

“The Argo should be able to handle that; its cloaking-field will render it invisible.” Superman answered.

Quicksilver arched an eyebrow. “The what-o?”

“The Argo, genius.” Shadowcat snapped. “It’s a ship.”

Carol frowned. “Finally using your tech to help us, I see.”

Cap half-glared at his comrade, before turning back to the screen. “Regardless, I don’t think that Hodge’s entire force is going to just let us waltz right in.”

Superman chuckled. “That’s where the rest of us come in.” he said. “Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Wonder Woman, Krypto and I should be able to provide a sufficient distraction.”

Storm smiled. “And I’m sure that bad weather is quite distracting, correct?”

Cap chuckled. “Iron Man?”

“Count me in.”

“Pym?”

Giant Man nodded. “I’m up for stomping a few bad guys.”

“Indeed!” Thor agreed. “This be a melee that could make even Tyr envious!”

“I will assist.” Magneto said somberly.

“Lt. Danvers will also assist you.” Fury said.

Wonder Woman blinked. “Why? What can she do?”

Superman momentarily met Carol’s gaze…and he knew. “You used it, didn’t you?” he accused, turning to Fury. “You used the Kree bio-research; God, Fury, how could you..?”

Fury smiled grimly. “Danvers volunteered, kid; I actually tried to talk her out of it.”

“With the threats our country is facing, we need every edge we can get.” Carol added coldly.

Green Lantern frowned. “I’m pretty sure that’s what the Kree said, too.”

“Regardless, I’m not entirely certain that all of you will be enough to disable the combined firepower of the F.O.H.’s forces and the commandeered Genoshan forces; we’ve intercepted transmissions indicating that heavy reinforcements are en route.” Fury said. “It’s going to be messy…”

“I hear them, too.” Superman said. “I think I know where we can get a little boost in firepower.”

Quicksilver sneered. “What, from your little cabana in the North Pole?”

There was silence at that. Fury’s eye narrowed. “What?”

Quicksilver smiled. “You didn’t know where it was, did you?” he asked. “Well, take it from me, Eyepatch; Super-Dork’s old hangout is practically right around the corner from St. Nick’s..!”

“Enough, Pietro!!” Magneto thundered.

Avalanche groaned. “Way to go, Captain Blabbermouth.”

Ms. Marvel’s eyes narrowed. “The Pole?!” she exclaimed. “Are you insane?! You may very well have jeopardized our treaty with Atlantis..!!”

“You needn’t worry about King Namor finding out, Lieutenant.” Superman replied flatly. “He already knows; he and I have an understanding.”

“I see.” Fury said. To himself, he added, “Right under our noses…”

“If you plan to infiltrate Kal-El’s outpost, General, I would advise against it.” Magneto said. “The entire outpost is defended by a highly sophisticated weather-modulation system, and a high-powered energy shield. I strongly doubt that your forces could pierce those defences…assuming that those were the only countermeasures present.”

“So, Last Dork of Crap-Tun, planning on bringing back a few toys for us?” Quicksilver sneered.

Flash scoffed. “Wouldn’t do you any good, Twinkle-Toes.”

Quicksilver’s eyes narrowed. “Why not, Copycat?”

“All Kryptonian technology is Bio-Coded to respond only to those with Kryptonian DNA.” Android stated. “In the hands of non-Kryptonians, it is rendered utterly inactive – inert.”

Magneto scowled. ‘I…see.”

Quicksilver blinked. “You’re kidding.”

Scarlet Witch smiled darkly. “You didn’t really think that Kal’s people would be dumb enough to leave their tech unguarded so morons like you could snatch it, did you?”

Hawkgirl chuckled. “Apparently so.”

His expression thoughtful, Fury turned to Charles. “Xavier,” he began, “based on your last session with him, what’s Banner’s status?”

Cap frowned worriedly. “General, sir…”

“Captain, if the Hulk can be harnessed, he can pretty much guarantee ground superiority.” Fury replied. “Well, Xavier?”

Charles’ expression turned grave. “Dr. Banner is making progress in maintaining control of the Hulk-consciousness, General,” he answered, “but I don’t think..!”

“Is he combat-ready?” Fury pressed.

Charles sighed. “In theory, he should be able to maintain control,” he admitted, “but the Hulk-consciousness is not to be underestimated, General; it essence, it is a true alternate-personality, and psychotherapy can sometimes take years to reconcile such rifts…”

“We don’t have years, Xavier.” Fury said. “If Banner’s good to go, we need to know, now.”

Charles sighed. “I’ll need to talk to him.”

“Fine.” Fury said. “The two of us will pay Banner a visit at the Triskelion; I want all of you good to go by the time we get back.”

Cap nodded, saluting. “We’ll be ready, sir.”

“Power Girl and I will prep the Argo; we’ll be back before you know it.” Superman agreed.

“Good.” Fury said. To everyone present, command-crew included, he added, “Anything that was just discussed here does not leave the deck; am I understood?”

No-one objected. “Good.” Nick said. “Now, let’s get to work.” With that, they all split up, to handle their objectives before the mission started.

Time was of the essence.

XXXXXXXX

North Pole

Within minutes of leaving the Helicarrier, Superman and Power Girl were flying over the polar ice, heading for the Fortress…but they hadn’t flown fast enough to outrun their grim mood.

“Ugh! Can you believe Pietro?!” Power Girl exploded. “First he has the nerve to hit on me, again, and then he blabs the Fortress’ location to General Fury?!” She managed to calm herself somewhat. “Baby, can I hurt him when we get back? Please tell me I can kick him, or something!”

“Tempting as that is,” Superman answered with a grim chuckle, “I think we have bigger concerns.”

Power Girl nodded, her expression worried. “Do you think S.H.I.E.L.D. will try to break into the Fortress..?”

“Presently, no; Fury’s more concerned about catching Hodge than anything else.” Superman said. “As for later…I’ll keep the Fortress’ shield and defences on stand-by, from now on.”

“Good idea.” Power Girl agreed.

By then, they had reached the Fortress; tapping his belt-computer, Superman accessed the Fortress’ teleporters and ‘ported them directly into his main workshop. “Fortress: engage Emergency Protocol, codeword: Kir’ton Rakar Ly’Rek.” Superman instructed. At that pass-code, a crystalline pillar rose up from the floor, surrounded by a holographic interface invisible to all but those with X-Ray vision. After aligning the interface and entering the proper code, Superman opened the pillar, revealing a cylindrical crystal, like most of the others in the Fortress, except this one was pitch-black. Taking the black crystal, Superman inserted it into the single slot of a second crystal pillar, before twisting it to align with the symbols of the code he’d just entered, before removing the crystal.

“Emergency Protocol enabled; locked systems now unlocked.” came the computerized reply.

“Fortress: access Armory.” Superman instructed. “Prepare one hand-mounted Polaron Disruptor.” At once, a teleporter beam flashed in front of the workbench, depositing a single, crystalline glove, a single red crystal on the back, onto the bench. Taking the glove, Superman handed it to Power Girl. “This should take care of any mechanized threats you come across.” he said. “You remember how to operate it?”

“Yeah: press the red button, clench your fist, aim, and then unclench once you’ve got the right charge.” Power Girl answered, as she put on the glove. “I remember.”

“Good.” Superman said. ‘Okay, I’ll likely need a bit more punch than just a Disruptor, if we’re going up against Hodge’s main forces.’ he thought. “Fortress: prepare a Battle-Gauntlet with the following weapon-modules: one hand-mounted Polaron Disruptor; one wrist-mounted Ion-Cannon; one arm-mounted Nanite Spreader-Cannon; one arm-mounted Free-Energy Amplifier; and one Rotamace. Also, prepare a standard Targeting Visor, and link it to the Gauntlet’s targeting systems.”

Power Girl blinked. “Okay…I know about the Disruptor, the Ion-Cannon, the Spreader and the Amplifier…but what the heck is a Rotamace??”

Superman chuckled. “It’s just a little something in case we get in any real trouble, Ali. Trust me; you do not want to see what it can do.”

Instantly, the teleporter beam deposited a longer, crystalline glove, extending almost to cover the entire arm, appeared on the bench. The hand-section of the glove was similar to the first glove, except that its red crystal was on the side, just above the thumb, with a black metallic disc on the back of the hand, containing three small, spinning, golden-metal spheres. At the wrist-joint of the Gauntlet was a small, three-pronged, dagger-like shape, with numerous cylindrical, dagger-like spikes adorning the upper part of the forearm, and a crystalline circle on the underside of the arm. Next to the Gauntlet itself were two small crystalline discs, each no larger than a penny.

As he put on the Gauntlet, Superman tapped a crystal on its side, causing the Gauntlet to power down, retracting in on itself, until only a white arm-band encircled his forearm, before he clipped the two tiny discs to his temples. Folling his cue, Power Girl tapped her Disruptor-glove, changing it into a bracelet around her wrist. “We’d better prep the Argo, Ali.” Superman said. “We’ve got no time to lose.” With that, he turned towards the Vehicle-Bay.

“Clark?”

Instantly, Superman stopped, and turned back to Power Girl…and froze as he saw the worried expression on her face. “I…I know I probably shouldn’t feel this way,” she said softly, “but I just can’t help it; I’m…I’m scared, Clark. I-I mean, I know we’ve done some crazy stuff, but we’re heading straight into a war-zone!” She lowered her gaze. “I-I‘m sorry.” she added quickly. “I’m just a little jumpy…”

Smiling gently, Clark walked to his taushi’s side and gently held her. “I know you’re scared, Ali; I am, too.” he assured her. “And you’re right; this isn’t like what we’ve faced before. It is a war-zone; we’ll be facing people who hate us with every fiber of their being. They’ll likely do anything to stop us, taushi. It’s human to be scared.”

Alison lightly smiled. “So, how do you deal with it?”

Superman chuckled. “By remembering that if we don’t do something, innocent people are going to suffer for it.” he answered.

Power Girl’s smile grew. “Got it.” she agreed.

Superman smiled back. “Just be careful out there, taushi.”

“You too, tausha.” Power Girl answered, before her voice grew determined. “Let’s go.” With that, the two of them headed to the Vehicle Bay, to prep for their mission.

XXXXXXXX

Triskelion, S.H.I.E.L.D. Headquarters, New York

After the S.H.I.E.L.D. gunship had dropped them at the Triskelion, Charles and Nick had been quickly escorted into the brig-level of S.H.I.E.L.D.’s New York Headquarters. As Charles rolled his wheelchair to the last bulletproof-glass-walled cell, thick enough to stop anything short of an artillery shell, he smiled. “Hello, Bruce.”

Turning away from his computer and workbench, Dr. Bruce Banner, in his thirties, of average height and lanky frame, his blue eyes framed by glasses, his brown hair cut short, clad in his S.H.I.E.L.D. orange prison-jumpsuit, turned to greet him, smiling. “Hello, Charles.” he answered. “This is quite the surprise; I thought I wasn’t due for another session at the Institute for another week, or so!”

“That’s correct, Bruce; this isn’t another session.” Charles agreed. He spared a glance to Bruce’s cell, and smiled. “I see that they’ve given you a better room.”

Bruce chuckled. “Good behaviour.” he answered, tapping on his cell walls. “They’ve lowered the security to just bulletproof glass, plus they’re letting me work on a few projects that S.H.I.E.L.D. is running.”

“Why, Bruce, that’s wonderful!” Charles exclaimed, before his expression turned grave. “I only wish that this visit was a simple session.”

Fury nodded. “Banner, did you read the briefing I had sent to you?”

Bruce nodded grimly. “Yes, General.” he answered. “This is definitely a bad situation.”

“‘Bad’ is putting it mildly.”

Charles’ expression turned earnest. “Bruce…how long has it been since you had an…episode?”

Bruce chuckled. “You mean, how long has it been since the Hulk broke out?” he asked. “Charles, the Hulk hasn’t come out since our last session, and that was just because I brought him out.”

“That’s good,” Charles said, “but do you feel confident that you can maintain control in a more…stressful situation?”

Bruce was momentarily silent. “You want the Hulk to help deal with this crisis.”

“We’ve got a hostile military force in control of another country, Banner; one with every reason to attack major U.S. cities on the grounds of destroying mutants if they get a solid foothold.” Fury said.

Charles looked to Bruce intently. “Bruce, if you don’t feel up to this…”

“I’ll do it.”

“Bruce,” Charles said, “are you sure..?”

“I’m sure, Charles.” Bruce answered. “As the Hulk, I’ve hurt a lot of innocent people because I couldn’t keep him under control. This is exactly why I agreed to our sessions: so that I could help people instead of hurting them.”

Charles slowly nodded. “I’m glad to hear that, Bruce,” he said, “but I’m also going to need to hear from the Hulk; may I please speak with him?”

Bruce nodded, before slowly closing his eyes, concentrating…and then his teeth started grinding, as if in agony, as his body began to shift and expand, growing larger, more muscular, his uniform ripping apart, revealing an incredibly powerful torso, which began to gradually turn emerald-green, as his arms and legs doubled in width, and as his eyes turned a deep green…until it was no longer Bruce Banner that they stood before.

By sheer reflex, Fury fingered his firearm as the Hulk roared in utter rage…but slowly, that rage began to die down, until the gamma-powered goliath was simply breathing heavily, agitated, but in control. “Hello, Hulk.” Charles said.

“Wheel-Man.” Hulk boomed. “Why here?”

“We need your help, Hulk.” Charles said. “Ask Bruce; he will tell you.”

Hulk seemed to concentrate for a moment…and then said, “Puny Banner say bad men on island; bad men want hurt mutants. Banner say One-Eye want smash bad men; make bad men leave.”

He grinned savagely. “Hulk good at smashing.”

“Very good.” Charles agreed. “But Hulk…in order to help…we will need you to listen to what Bruce is saying. Can you do that?”

Hulk scowled. “Banner puny,” he muttered, “but Banner smart; Banner know what to smash and what not to smash. Banner say Hulk need to smash only…F.O.H., and not smash anyone else; that bad.” Hulk frowned, and added grudgingly, “Hulk can do that.”

“I am glad to hear that, Hulk.” Charles said.

Fury nodded. “Good enough for me.” he added. Taking out his communicator, he spoke into it. “As soon as Banner calms down, unlock the cell; Not-So-Jolly Green is taking a walk.”

“Hulk,” Charles said, “we’re going to need to talk to Bruce; can we talk to him, now?”

“Okay.” Hulk answered, before he began to shrink, until Bruce stood in his place, clad sparsely by the shredded uniform.

As the S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel quickly began to open the cell and let Bruce out, the somewhat-dazed Dr. Banner put his glasses back on, before looking down.

“Hey…you guys’ll let me have another suit…right?”

XXXXXXXX

Helicarrier

Aboard the briefing room of the Helicarrier, to say that the mood was tense would have been a gross understatement.

“I don’t like this.” Scarlet Witch muttered, voicing the thoughts that all the X-Men and X-Force were likely thinking. Currently, they and the rest of the League, along with Colossus, Beast, Storm, Wolveine, Mystique, and Krypto, were the only ones there, having completed their preparations, and were just reviewing the details of their objectives. “How can we possibly work with Magneto?”

Polaris frowned, in complete agreement with her half-sister. “Wanda’s right; we can’t trust Magneto – he’ll probably wait until we clear out Hodge’s goons, and then try to take over himself!”

Cyclops looked grim. “As much as I agree, Lorna, the fact is, we may very well need Magneto’s help.” he said. “Between the forces Hodge has now and whatever’s on the way, we’re going to have quite the fight on our hands.”

Phoenix nodded. “We’re going to have to get to Hodge fast.”

“As long as those tunnels lead into his hideout, we should be fine.” Green Lantern said.

“They do.” Colossus confirmed. “I am sure of that much. As long as we are not detected entering the tunnels, we should have no trouble.”

“Good to hear.” Flash said.

Siryn nodded. “What do you plan to do after this, Rasputin?”

Colossus sighed. “First, I should be bringing Illyana back home; Mother and Father are surely very worried.” he answered. “After that…I do not know.” Turning towards Beast, he asked, “You are sure that ‘Yana is well?”

“Quite sure.” Beast assured him. “She’s a tiny bit underweight, but given her condition, that’s no surprise; the S.H.I.E.L.D. physicians are looking after her, right now. She’ll be just fine.”

Colossus looked relieved. “Thank you.”

Just then, J’onn suddenly put his hand to his forehead. “Charles and the General have just returned with Dr. Banner,” he said, “and Kal and Alison have also returned. They are waiting for us on the main landing pad.”

“Guess we’d better go meet ‘em.” Spyke said. With that, the entire group headed out of the briefing room, towards the landing pad.

As they emerged onto the landing pad, they saw the Avengers enter via an alternate exit, followed by Magneto and his Acolytes; seconds later, Superman and Power Girl ‘ported out of the Argo, as Charles and Nick stepped out of the S.H.I.E.L.D. gunship, followed by Dr. Banner, clad in a black S.H.I.E.L.D. bodysuit.

Bruce smiled weakly. “Hi, guys.” he greeted.

“Bruce.” Cap replied, lightly smiling. “Good to see you.”

“Yeah,” Giant Man said, “nice to see you’re out and about…y’know, without the other guy…”

“Pym.” Cap said flatly. “Not now.”

But Bruce just chuckled. “No, it’s okay, Cap.” he said. “He and I have…come to an understanding.”

“That’s good to hear, Doctor.” Superman said. “The group infiltrating the naval base will be taking the Javelin; the rest of us will be taking the Argo – her cloak should keep us off-radar until the main attack-group is close enough to engage. We’ll also fly over Aquaman and Leviathan’s drop-point, so they’re not detected.”

“Sounds sensible.” Wasp agreed.

Slowly, Magneto walked towards the Argo. “Is…Is this..?”

“The Argo.” Power Girl answered. “She’s a Swift-Justice-Class Speeder; fastest type of ship in Krypton’s Fleet.”

Superman chuckled. “At full throttle, she makes me look like I’m standing still.”

Slowly, Magneto glided his hand along the Argo’s hull. “It’s…beautiful…”

Quicksilver rolled his eyes. “So it’s a space-faring muscle-car. Big whoop.”

Ignoring the shot, Superman said, “We’d better get moving.”

Fury nodded. “We’ve hailed the U.S.S. Grant; she’s currently en route, but she’s going to take a few hours to reach Genosha.” he said. “That’s the best we can do, I’m afraid.”

“Let’s just hope that’s enough.” Hawkgirl replied.

“Good luck.” the Professor said. “Be careful.”

“We will.” Cyclops replied. With that, they split into their respective groups, and boarded their vehicles. Once everyone was aboard, the Argo’s engine-pods extended, as the Speeder took to the sky, flying towards Genosha, followed by the Javelin, leaving Charles and Nick behind.

XXXXXXXX

Genosha

In the command center of Hodge’s stronghold, as the cluster of officers worked diligently at their terminals, the Winter Soldier idly leaned against the wall, cleaning his revolver, before putting it back in its holster.

The occupation of this country was going well enough, he mused; Hodge was in control, and the few pockets of resistance left would be taken care of in a few hours, once their reinforcements arrived. He was starting to wonder why he’d been sent here in the first place…

“Something bothering you, Soldier?”

The Winter Soldier scowled to himself as he turned to face the owner of that creepy-sounding voice. Nathanial Essex – who called himself “Sinister,” and for good reason – was tall, and of average frame, with dead-white skin, short black hair, and pale yellow eyes, with a single red-and-black dot right in the middle of his forehead, clad in a black bodysuit with a creepy-looking black cape. Essex had arrived on Genosha with their main forces, but recently, he had been spending all his time at a naval base, where they were storing the mutant P.O.W.s they had been taking…but his role in the operation was presently unknown; Madame Hydra had kept Sinister’s job secret from even him.

Normally, that fact would have bugged the Soldier, but this time, being kept in the dark was fine by him; judging from what little he knew of Essex, something told him that he didn’t want to know.

“Nah; just bored.” the Soldier answered. “I mean, we’re practically running this place, so I don’t see the point of me even being here.”

Sinister chuckled – a truly creepy sound. “Come now, Soldier; you don’t really expect our little visit to go unnoticed, do you?” he asked. “I’m surprised that the Justice League hasn’t smashed our doors in, by now.”

The Soldier just shrugged. “My pay’s the same, either way.”

“Of course.” Sinister said. “But it wasn’t always that way, was it…Sargeant?”

The Winter Soldier momentarily blinked; how the hell had he known about..? Then, he quickly scowled. “That part of my life is over, Essex.” he snapped. Quickly changing the subject, he added, “What exactly do you do, anyway? What’s HYDRA got you doing over in that base?”

Sinister just smiled. “Don’t concern yourself over things that have nothing to do with you, Soldier; you’ll be happier that way.” With that, he turned to go, passing by Hodge as he walked into the command center. “Hodge.” he greeted idly, before continuing on his way.

Cameron just scowled as Sinister left. “I still don’t see why we need him.” he muttered softly, once Essex was out of earshot. “If you ask me, I think he might be a mutie.”

The Soldier just shrugged. “Hey, your guess is as good as mine; I’m starting wonder if he’s even alive.” he answered. “All Madame Hydra said was to bring him along.”

Cameron nodded grudgingly; their reliance on HYDRA for funding wasn’t without its price. Still, after Trask’s capture – and subsequent near-bankruptcy – they couldn’t afford to be picky. “Any sign of the alien’s team?”

The Winter Soldier shook his head. “Radar’s completely quiet, Hodge.” he answered.

Cameron frowned. “Keep an eye out, just the same.” he said. “With how fast that…thing moves, it and its team could be on us in..!”

“Sir?” one officer piped up. “We have an incoming transmission; it’s from Command, sir!”

Cameron’s eyes widened. “Put it through!”

Instantly, the face of Graydon Creed appeared on the view-screen, prompting Hodge to salute. “At ease, Hodge.” Graydon said. “I trust that the occupation is going well?”

“Yes, sir; very well, sir!” Cameron answered. “We’ll have this place under our thumb before the day’s out, and the muties will be taken care of!”

“Good.” Graydon said approvingly. “I trust that, once our reinforcements arrive, the purification should go smoothly.”

“Begging your pardon, sir,” Hodge said, “but I’m afraid that you weren’t exactly specific as to the nature of our reinforcements…”

“I am aware of that, Cameron; the line was not entirely secure, so I couldn’t risk it.” Graydon answered. “Even this line isn’t safe, given that alien’s hearing. All I’ll say is that, though we lost our funding when we lost Trask, we didn’t lose our research; that’s all I can say.”

“Yes, sir.” Cameron said. “Was there anything else?”

“As a matter of fact, yes; we’ve re-evaluated our secondary first-strike target.” Graydon said. “Our more recent satellite-sweeps have detected a very large weather-anomaly coming from the North Pole.”

Cameron blinked. “The Pole, sir?” he asked. “With all due respect, sir, I don’t see why…”

“You will, Hodge; initially, we had ignored the anomaly, but after reviewing the flight-patterns of the alien, we realized that its trajectory has it headed for and leaving the Pole on numerous occasions.” Graydon said, his eyes narrowing. “I think you understand what that means.”

Cameron’s eyes went wide. “The alien has an outpost, there!”

“Precisely.” Graydon agreed. “And given the nature of the vehicle used against our Roswell installation, several months ago, I have no doubt that it utilizes the technology of its homeworld.”

Cameron didn’t dare speak.

“Do you understand now, Cameron? The existence of this outpost is undoubtedly the alien’s first step towards taking over this planet, and it’s likely going to do it by supplying the muties with its technology!”

Cameron gulped; Graydon was absolutely right. With that kind of firepower in mutant hands…

It was like something from a horror movie.

“Understood, sir; we’ll make the necessary adjustments to our missiles’ telemetry.” Cameron answered.

“Good.” Graydon said. “That should also serve to provoke the U.S., just as well…provided you’ve taken care of things on your end.”

“We have, sir; our sleepers have infiltrated one of the free Genoshan bases; once we launch the missiles, it will look like the muties fired them.”

“Excellent.” Graydon said with a smile. “The muties will take the blame for this attack, provoking the states, and the Justice League will be utterly humiliated.”

Cameron smiled as well. “Yes, sir.”

“Contact us once you’re ready to launch.” Graydon instructed. “Once the missiles have been fired, our allies will begin their objectives. Creed out.”

As the transmission ended, the Winter Soldier just arched an eyebrow. “So, the plan is to fan the flames of anti-mutant hatred and take down the League all at once.” he mused. “Mind telling me how you plan on doing that?”

Cameron frowned. “You just do your job, Soldier; we’ll do ours.” With that, he turned to go.

Shrugging, the Soldier just leaned back against the wall, and took out his revolver, giving it another once-over polish. Hodge actually had a point: he was just here to do a job.

Anything else wasn’t his problem. He’d had enough of fighting for causes and stupid ideals, thank you very much…and in the end, it had gotten him nothing.

The Justice League would have to be stupid to come after them.

And in this business, stupidity got you killed.

XXXXXXXX

Genoshan waters, several miles off the coast of Genosha

As the morning light began to rise over the Mediterranean Sea, the fleet of commandeered Genoshan vessels sailed on their usual patrol, despite the fact that the vast majority of their usual crews had been tossed in the brig, after the F.O.H. sleeper agents had practically welcomed the F.O.H. soldiers onto their ships.

Aboard the bridge of the lead cruiser, the captain called out, “Any sign of trouble?”

“Negative, sir; radar’s completely clean.” the radar-officer reported. “We thought we saw a light further out, but it vanished; it was probably just the sun reflecting off the water.”

The captain nodded. “Very good; steady as she goes…”

Suddenly, the entire cruiser shook, as alarms began to blare throughout the ship. “What the hell..?!” the captain shouted.

“Sir, something hit us! The port-side lower cargo-hold has been completely breached; we’re taking on water!”

The captain frowned. “Something’s wrong; we’re not close enough to be running aground..!”

Suddenly, the ship shook again. “We’ve got a breach on the starboard side, sir! We’re floundering!!”

At that, the comms officer piped up. “Captain, the submarine-group has something on sonar; we’re under attack!!”

As another tremor shook his boat, the captain snarled, feeling the ship suddenly start to pitch back; she was sinking, no doubt about it. “Send this order to the sub-group: fire at will!” he shouted. “Abandon ship! I want everyone to head to the life-boats, now!!”

“And the prisoners, sir?”

The captain thought for a moment; this ship hadn’t had any muties on it…and some captives could be useful, later. “They’re no good to us, dead.”

“Aye-aye, sir!” With that, the entire crew began to abandon ship…while wondering what the hell had hit them…

XXXXXXXX

After the Argo’s teleporter beam had deposited them in the ocean water, Aquaman and Leviathan had dove under the surface and swam north, heading towards the naval units patrolling Genosha’s waters. Within minutes, they had spotted their targets. “There they are.” Aquaman spoke into his communicator. “I’ll take the one on the left; you take the one on the right.”

“Got it.” Leviathan agreed, before they broke formation, and swam towards their targets at top speed, closing on them in seconds. Swimming up to the lead ship, Aquaman pulled his arm back and punched a massive hole in its lower hull, causing seawater to spill in. Darting around to the other side, Aquaman punched another hole, flooding the rest of its lower section, rendering it useless.

Swimming up to his own target, Leviathan punched through its lower hull, and then swam along its side, slicing a deep gash in the hull, causing the vessel to start to tip over on one side. As he broke off, Leviathan turned…and saw a submarine barrelling towards them. “Aquaman! Heads up!” he called out, but it was too late: the submarine had fired a torpedo at Aquaman, which was lancing towards him at top speed…

Quickly, Leviathan swam towards the torpedo as fast as he could, getting ahead of it, and then altering course; as he’d expected, the torped locked onto him, as it veered away from Arthur, following Leviathan instead. Once it was clear, Leviathan cut his speed, and dodged, allowing the torpedo to rush past him, heading out to sea, to detonate harmlessly.

“Thanks!” Aquaman said, before he swam at the sub, heading for its stern, where he ripped its propellor off at the axle, rendering the sub immobile, prompting its crew to flood its ballast tanks, initiating an emergency ascent. Armed with the propellor – now a massive, bladed discus – Aquaman pulled back and let it fly towards the nearest ship, slicing into its lower cargo hold and sticking there, its weight dragging the ship down, compounding the hull damage.

By then, the entire naval force was in chaos, as the ships realized that something was attacking them from below. “So,” Leviathan asked, “think we’ve spooked ‘em enough for the others to get in?”

Aquaman chuckled. “Let’s just keep smackin’ these guys around, for good measure.” he replied. With that, the two of them renewed their attack, keeping the focus on them…

…and not on the approaching Javelin.

XXXXXXXX

As the naval force patrolling Genosha’s waters promptly went into disarray from the underwater assault, the cloaked Argo soared towards the island, its sensors picking up everything that was happening. “Well, it looks like your aquatic comrades are doing their job well.” Magneto mused.

Superman chuckled. “Yeah, I don’t think Hodge’s goons are going to be paying any attention to the space above them.”

Even Ms. Marvel managed a grudging chuckle. “Well, I’ll say this much for your League; you certainly can cause a ruckus.”

“Wait ‘till you see us on Monster-Movie Night.” Flash quipped.

“Javelin to Argo.” came Cyclops’ voice over the radio. “We’re proceeding to target.”

“Acknowledged.” Superman replied. “Good luck.”

“You too. Javelin out.”

“Sounds like it’s go-time.” Cap observed.

Superman nodded, as his hands glided over the control console. “The Argo’s sensors are detecting the main attack-force dead ahead; we’ll be on them in several minutes.” he reported. “I’ve just set the autopilot; once we disembark, it’ll automatically bring you to the coordinates above the tunnels and ‘port you in.”

“‘Bout damn time, runt.” Sabretooth grumbled. “Sooner I get out of this damnthing, the better.”

“Just make bloody sure that beam-thingie doesn’t screw up my molecules, mate.” Pyro added.

“Aw, cool it, you wimp.” Iceman quipped.

Just then, the Argo’s console began to beep; they were approaching the island. “Well, guess it’s time to get to work.” Giant Man said.

Dr. Banner managed a nervous chuckle. “I don’t think I’ve ever tried to Hulk-out in live combat, before; this should prove interesting.”

Cap chuckled. “Just don’t smash any of us, and we’ll all do fine.”

At that, Krypto barked, prompting Superman to reach down and scratch his ears. “Ready to cream some bad-guys, boy?” At that, Krypto barked again.

“You guys just watch your backs, out there.” Berzerker said.

“You, too.” Hawkgirl replied. By then, the Argo had reached Genosha, and was flying over the island, prompting Superman to activate the Speeder’s teleporter; instantly, the blue-white beam filled the Argo’s cockpit, ‘porting Superman and the rest of the main strike-force into action.

As the teleporter beam deposited himself and Bruce a few miles from the main F.O.H. ground-force, Giant Man quickly activated his powers; in a matter of seconds, he had grown over a hundred feet tall, looming over the surprised – and horrified – tank brigade. With his new size, Giant Man began to walk through the tanks, as if he were just taking a morning stroll, his feet absently sending several tanks flying in his path. Quickly, the rest of the tanks, along with numerous foot-soldiers, scrambled to counterattack; as the foot-troops fired, Giant Man shrugged off their bullets like mosquito-bites…but those tank-shells looked to be trouble. As the tanks brought their cannons to bear, Giant Man prepared to dodge…but a familiar roar filled the air, causing the F.O.H. goons to freeze.

“Hulk smash!!”

Roaring in anger, the Hulk leapt out from where Banner had been hiding, his transformation complete, leaping over fifty feet into the air, to land with an axe-handle strike to one of the tanks targeting his comrade. The troopers quickly turned their fire on Hulk, but the green behemoth didn’t even feel their shots, as he sent a half-dozen of them flying with a single swipe of his fist. Roaring again, the Hulk ran through the tanks, sending several of them flying with his fists as he went, his rage growing as the puny men shot at him; he turned in his path, to smash them..!

‘No, Hulk! We have to take out the tanks aiming at Hank!’

Frowning, Hulk turned back, and ran at the five tanks surrounding Giant Man; as much as he hated to admit it, puny Banner was right. As Giant Man kicked away two of the tanks, Hulk grabbed a third by the cannon-shaft, and swung it around like a baseball bat, knocking the other two away, before tossing away his makeshift weapon.

Giant Man managed a chuckle. “Thanks.”

“Growing Man should watch own smashing; Hulk have own smashing to do.” Hulk grumbled.

“I’ll keep that in mind…” Giant Man began, but he was cut off as a missile hit him dead in the chest, sending him flying, while numerous airborne bombs detonated around Hulk, as a squadron of fighter-jets shot past them, before coming around for another pass…

Suddenly, a blazing red energy-beam lanced towards the lead fighter, searing off one of its rear fins with pin-point accuracy, causing it to spin out of control and forcing its pilot to eject. Before the rest of the squadron could react, a green energy-beam and a blue-white repulsor-blast forced them to scatter, as Superman, Green Lantern, and Iron Man flew straight at them. As a second squadron came at them, Superman inhaled deeply, and then unleashed a blast of his gale-breath, blowing the fighters off-course, and into the attack-range of Hawkgirl, Wonder Woman, and Krypto. Snarling in feral fury, Krypto grabbed one fighter by its tail, allowing Hawkgirl to smash its wing with her mace, causing it to spin out of control. As she darted out of the path of another fighter, evading its vulcan-cannon fire, Wonder Woman drew her lasso and threw it, snagging the fighter by the wing, before spinning it around and around in mid-air, and then flicked her wrist to release and retrieve her lasso…as the fighter spiralled towards the ground, its pilot ejecting before it hit.

Turning, Wonder Woman saw a salvo of missiles lance towards her as another squadron closed on her…but the missiles were promptly blown away, to detonate harmlessly, as Storm summoned a massive tornado, trapping the fighters in its blustery funnel. “Thor?” she called out.

“Many thanks, Lady Ororo!” Thor declared, as he sighted his targets, before raising Mjolnir above his head, his weapon beginning to crackle with energy. “Feel the wrath of asgard, foul villains!!” he thundered, before he brought his hammer down; the sky instantly darkened, before massive lightning bolts shot down from the sky, striking the fighters and shorting out their systems. As Storm released them, the fighter-pilots had no choice but to bail out, as their jets crashed lifelessly to the ground.

Dodging out of the way of a missile-salvo, Ms. Marvel unleashed twin concussive blasts from her hands, felling two fighters, before she turned and smashed the nose-cone of another with her fist, sending it into a death-spiral, as the pilot quickly ejected. Turning, Ms. Marvel was in time to see numerous anti-air turrets fire several missile-salvos at her from the ground, and braced herself…

Suddenly, a green energy-barrier from Green Lantern’s ring formed in front of her, as Superman unleashed a blast of frost-breath, freezing half of the missiles, while the other half impacted against Green Lantern’s barrier.

Carol frowned. “I had that covered.”

“I know.” Superman answered…before the three of them swiftly dodged several cannon-shells fired from the tanks below. His eyes narrowing, Superman began to take aim, ready to sear those cannons off…but he needn’t have bothered, as two cannons suddenly levitated right off the ground, flipped over, and crashed onto another two, as Magneto released them from his magnetic field.

With the tank-threat momentarily dispatched, Magneto turned towards the anti-air turrets. “Those certainly present a nuisance.”

“No kidding.” Iron Man agreed, as he shot down several missiles. “They’re a damn nuisance.”

Flexing his hands like a concert conductor warming up, Magneto started to gesture towards them. “Yes…one that is easily remedied…”

“I’ve got a better idea.” Superman said, as he tapped his arm-band, activating his Gauntlet. “Allow me.” With that, he pressed the red button on the back of his hand and cllenched his fist; automatically, the blue holographic visor extended across his eyes, targeting the turrets as his hand started to crackle with blue-white electricity. With the movements of his eyes, he locked onto the turrets, widened the range a little bit, and unclenched his hand; instantly, the Polaron Disruptor-burst lanced from his hand, burning through the air, before it hit the anti-air turrets, exploding in a massive starburst of electrostatic force, utterly devastating the turrets’ electronics, along with every tank in the blast-radius, without harming a single soldier.

Green Lantern whistled. “Nifty little gadget.”

“It gets the job done.” Superman replied.

“Well, we’ve just about got things taken care of.” Iron Man said.

As he booted another couple of tanks away, Giant Man nodded. “We’re just about done on our end.” he agreed, as Hulk’s roars, punctuated by the sounds of metal buckling, gave credit to that statement.

“Hopefully, the others are doing as well as we…” Superman began, but he stopped, as his hearing picked something up.

“Kal, what’s wrong?” Wonder Woman asked.

Following the noise to its source, Superman looked up…just in time to see several dozen massive silhouettes fill the sky.

Sentinels.

The others quickly followed his gaze. “You’ve got to be kidding…” Iron Man muttered.

“So, the cowards hide behind these monstrosities still.” Wonder Woman spat.

“Afraid so.” Superman agreed grimly. “Well, it’s officially a whole new ball-game, guys; everyone stay frosty.” With that, their little band began to quickly regroup, as the metal monsters began to descend towards Genosha.

XXXXXXXX

Genoshan Naval Base, a few minutes earlier

After the Javelin had passed by the naval blockade without a hitch, Batman had guided it down a few miles from the base, landing in the forest surrounding the installation, before he, J’onn, the X-Men, Black Widow, Wolverine, Quicksilver and Pyro quietly approached the base’s entrance, stopping at the very edge of the forest, surveilling their way in.

“There are two guards patrolling the main entrance.” Batman observed. “They’re running a standard clockwise-counterclockwise patrol; that makes them vulnerable to a stealth-attack when they’re changing direction.”

“So we sneak up and grab ‘em when their backs are turned. Cool by me.” Quicksilver said. “I’m up for it.” He flashed a supposed-to-be-charming grin at Power Girl. “How ‘bout you, babe?”

“You do that and you risk alerting every other guard in the area, Maximoff.” Batman snapped. “Blaire?”

Looking towards the base, Power Girl’s eyes flashed electric blue. “Batman’s right, Pietro; I’m seeing two guards just inside the main entrance. If we grab them, they’ll come running.”

“And that’s if the security cameras don’t get us first.” Cyclops agreed, pointing to the entrance. “We’ve got two cameras covering the entrance.”

“I think we can handle that much.” Black Widow said, clipping a silencer onto her revolver.

“And if the guards are alerted, I believe that Raven and I can handle the other two guards.” Martian Manhunter agreed.

Just then, the sounds of numerous explosions filled the air, echoing from a distance. “Well, whatever we’re gonna do, we’d better do it fast.” Wolverine muttered. “It sounds like Flyboy’s team just started the party, and these guys could get jumpy once they realize they ain’t invited.”

“Agreed.” Batman said. “Maximoff, Blaire, you two take the two outside. Widow, you and I will take out the cameras. J’onnz, Darkholme, you get the other two when they come out. Let’s move.” With that, the entire team ducked back into the bushes, to carry out their plan.

As the two guards in front of the base continued their patrol, one groaned to himself. “This ain’t fair, man; how come we get stuck with guard duty?”

“Because of how we got busted during that attack on the Genoshan Ambassador, that’s why, dumb-ass.” the other muttered. “So keep your mouth shut and your eyes open; if those explosions mean anything, we may just have company…”

But he stopped as a soft popping noise caught his ears, followed by a whistling sound; glancing up, he thought he could see that one of the video-cameras had its cable cut…with a metal throwing-blade sticking into the wall behind it…shaped like a bat..!

Suddenly, two silver-coloured blurs slammed into them, as Power Girl sent one flying with a punch, while Quicksilver took out the other with a flying kick. Once the two thugs were out cold, Power Girl looked to Quicksilver. “We haven’t got much time! Move!” she whispered. Quickly, they each grabbed hold of a thug, and started to drag them away…

Seconds later, the main doors opened, as the other two guards on duty darted out, weapons at the ready…only to find their two comrades standing there, with one holding his arm, concealing a nasty-looking burn. “What happened, Vinny?” the first asked.

The injured guard – Vinny – grimaced. “Damn video-cameras shorted out; zapped me in the arm.” he muttered. “Frank was just about to call Command and tell ‘em.”

The second grimaced. “Man, that looks nasty, pal; you might have second- or third-degree burns, there.”

“That’s what I said.” Frank agreed. “This job just ain’t worth it.”

“I hear ya, man.” the first said. “The only reason I joined up was on account of I got sprung when the F.O.H. busted some of their guys out, a couple months ago; with guys like that Superman around, and psycho-freaks like the Batman, we’re safer in jail!”

“Don’t have to tell us twice.” Vinny groaned. “Jeez, it ain’t enough we got mutants to deal with…”

“Look, your shift’s about over, right?” the second asked. “You guys just head to the infirmary; we’ll clear it with Command – we’ll be covering you guys, anyway.”

“Thanks.” Frank said. With that, the other two guards headed back into the base.

Alone again, J’onn and Mystique shed their disguises, resuming their true forms, while the others emerged from the brush. “Excellent performance!” Mystique declared.

“Thank you.” J’onn replied. To the others, he added, “I was also able to gleam the location of the brig from their minds; we should head there first, and evacuate the prisoners.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Avalanche said.

“Agreed.” Cyclops said. “Let’s move.” With that, they headed into the base, following J’onn to the brig.

Within minutes, they had reached the brig, and were standing outside the large steel doors leading inside. Power Girl’s eyes flashed electric blue once more. “We’ve got three guards in there, all with automatics.” she reported. “We’ve also got about three-dozen prisoners; they seem to be in good shape.”

“Okay,” Cyclops began, “Shadowcat, we’ll need you to phase Phoenix and J’onn through the door. Once you guys are through, you should be able to take those guys out with your TK…”

But he was interrupted by Siryn’s chuckling. “Oh, Summers, you poor fool; there’s a much easier way.” she chided. “If you all would be so kind as to switch off your Neutralizers for just a moment..?” With that, she vanished into a cloud of green haze, which twisted under the edge of the doors, slipping into the brig.

Rogue scowled. “Are we sure about this?”

Cyclops frowned. “I guess we don’t have a choice.” he admitted. “Everyone, turn your Sonic Neutralizers off, but switch them right back on as soon as Siryn’s done.” Promptly, all the X-Men’s hands went to their belts, turning their Neutralizers off, letting their teammate do her work.

As the cloud of green haze flowed into the brig, the three guards instantly brought their weapons to bear…but hesitated, as Siryn reformed herself, smiling coyly, innocently twirling a strand of her hair. “Oh, come, now; do I really look like I could hurt you?” she cooed. “You don’t need those big guns of yours, not against a little waif like me…”

Her next words carried a UHF edge. “Drop them.”

Instantly, the automatics fell out of the guards limp hands.

Before the three of them could question how it was that they had obeyed her without question, Siryn quickly wove a low-level seduction spell into her voice. It was admittedly one of her favourite tactics; not enough to render them incomprehensible, but just enough as to make them nice and manageable. “Now, isn’t that better?” she chimed, her smile growing sly as their expressions turned foolish. “All this responsibility must get so terribly tiring; wouldn’t it be nice to just relax, and not have to worry about it?”

The guards just smiled goofily.

“Of course it would.” Siryn said. “Now, why don’t you just unlock those cells, open the doors, and go to sleep?”

The guards promptly did as they were told; they unlocked the cells, activated the mechanism that opened the doors…and then fell asleep on the spot.

As the others walked in, reactivating their Neutralizers, Siryn just smiled. “See? Simple.”

Shadowcat frowned. “I so don’t like her, right now.”

As the prisoners walked out of their cells, dazed and bruised, but in otherwise good condition, Cyclops asked, “Everyone okay?”

“Ugh…yeah, we’re fine.” one ex-prisoner – a young mutant with pure white eyes –said. “We’ve only been here a few hours; they shipped us here after they raided the city.”

“Vhy? Vhat did zhey vant?” Nightcrawler asked.

“I don’t know,” the former prisoner murmured, “but the guy running this place – a real creepy-looking guy – was taking blood-samples from each of us; I think I overheard him say he was running some kinda experiment…”

Gambit frowned. “Gambit don’ like de sound o’ dat…”

“Join the club, Gumbo.” Wolverine muttered. “Any idea where this guy’s holed up?”

“I…I think he’s got a lab or something on the fourth floor…” the young mutant said.

“Thanks.” Cyclops said, gesturing back the way they had come. “You’d all better clear out; the exit is that way.”

As the prisoners ran for the exi, Pyro grinned savagely. “So, we’re gonna go after the bloke runnin’ this outfit, eh?” he asked. “‘Bout bloody time!”

“Don’t get cocky, Allerdyce.” came Batman’s frosty voice. “Let’s move.” With that, they darted out of the infirmary, heading towards the fourth floor.

XXXXXXXX

In his office within the Genoshan base, Sinister had just finished the analysis of the genetic samples he’d harvested from the prisoners that Hodge’s men had taken. ‘Yes, these should do nicely.’

It had been pathetically simple to manipulate Hodge and the F.O.H. fools like him into following their plan; a simple alliance involving a financial bail-out, and now HYDRA had gained a new following of utter fanatics, willing to do anything as long as it harmed mutants.

He’d almost laughed, when he’d found out.

His analysis finished, Sinister loaded his new samples into his briefcase, making sure that the liquid nitrogen coolant was of sufficient levels to keep them cool until he returned to his main lab, before he got up to leave…

…and then he felt it: there were intruders.

Momentarily scowling, Nathaniel turned his expression back to its usual toothy smile as he recognized exactly who it was that had intruded, while blessing the Master for bestowing telepathy, along with his other gifts, upon him, so many years ago. Tapping the communicator on his belt, Sinister raised Cameron. “Hodge,” he hissed, “we have a problem.”

“Dammit, Essex, I know we have a problem!” Cameron spat. “The alien and his League are attacking our main forces, and some of the Avengers are with them..!”

“It’s a diversion, Hodge; the X-Men have infiltrated this facility, and I wouldn’t be surprised if another team was coming after you, as well.” Sinister snapped. “I suggest that we accelerate our timetable, before we lose the ability to proceed.”

Cameron suppressed a snarl. “Very well; I’ll begin arming the nukes. I suggest you clear out, Essex, before those freaks stumble onto our plans. I’ll also have the Soldier start patrolling this base; it’ll take a few minutes to get the launch-codes, and I don’t want to get caught with my pants down if we do have company.”

“Very well, Hodge; I’ll be taking my leave…after I greet our guests. Essex out.” With that, Sinister switched off his communicator, before glancing to the two guards at the door. “Get a squad together and meet me in the main lab.” he ordered. Nodding, the guards quickly hurried off, while Sinister strode out of his office.

Time was of the essence…but he wasn’t about to pass up an opportunity to examine some new specimens.

XXXXXXXX

Genoshan sewers

The tunnels running far below Genosha’s capital were utterly silent, save for the slow drip-drip of stagnant water; nothing was moving, this far down…

Suddenly, the silence was broken as a crimson blur darted through the tunnels, before rounding a turn, and coming to a stop, as Flash peered around the corner, and spotted two surveillance cameras, flanking a thick metal gate, standing between him and a ladder leading upwards. His reconnaissance done, Flash darted back the way he had come, quickly meeting up with the others. “Well, Flash?” Iceman asked. “Did you find the exit?”

“Oh, yeah; right where Colossus said it would be…except, you know, for being behind a steel grate and guarded by video-cameras.” Flash replied. “The usual.”

Cap looked to Wasp. “Think you can miniaturize and take out the cameras without being seen?”

“Easily.” Wasp replied.

“With respect, Captain, that is not advisable.” Android interjected. “While severing the camera-feed will prevent detection, Hodge’s men will surely notice the interruption and become suspicious.”

“You got a better idea, Metal-Head?” Berzerker quipped.

“If I can access the cameras, I can loop them into a cyclic recording; they will continuously play the previous five minutes over and over again, with no-one the wiser.”

Beast nodded. “That could definitely work.” he agreed. “A recursive algorithm could definitely…”

Sabretooth scowled. “You runts actually put up with that techno-babble?” he grumbled.

“Hey, it usually works!” Cannonball replied.

Iceman turned to Phantom. “Think you can keep Android invisible long enough for him to do it?” he asked.

Phantom nodded. “No problem.”

“Okay; Android, you and Phantom take out those cameras.” Iceman said. “Miss Martian, once they do, you take out that grate with your TK.”

“Understood.” Miss Martian answered.

“Okay.” Iceman said. “Mark, Tina, K’imm, you’re good to go.” With that, Android and Phantom hurried off, followed by Miss Martian, with the others trailing behind them.

In minutes, the three of them had reached the corner by the exit. “Okay, Mark.” Phantom said. “I’m ready when you are.”

“I will require approximately one minute to reconfigure the camera-feeds.” Android answered. “Can you maintain your invisibility-field for that duration?”

“I’ll have to.” Phantom answered. “Let’s go.” Concentrating, Phantom cast her invisibility-field around herself and Android, before they stepped into view of the cameras.

The cameras simply continued their sweeps, ignoring them completely. His eyes narrowing, Android pointed his hand at one camera, as his wireless system interacted with their network, copying the past five minutes and instructing the cameras to continually feed that data back to the main computer instead of its current feed. With one camera looped, Android quickly did the same with the other. “Cameras neutralized.” he reported. “K’imm?”

“On it.” Miss Martian answered, stepping out from around the corner, before she closed her eyes, focusing, and then unleashing a powerful TK-pulse, blasting the grate right out of its frame, clearing the way for them to head up.

By then, the others had caught up with them. “Good job.” Cap said approvingly. “Let’s move.” With that, they all began to climb up the ladder, out of the tunnels.

The ladder led them up into a small room, which opened into a metal corridor. “K’imm,” Iceman asked, “any sign of company?”

Miss Martian closed her eyes momentarily…and then opened them. “No; for now, we’re in the clear.”

“Good.” Cap said. “Everyone stay alert, and keep an eye out for Hodge.” With that, they slowly started to move through the hallway.

As they walked, Colossus looked to Angel. “This man – Cameron Hodge – he was your friend, yes?”

Angel sighed. “Yeah, he used to be, back in university.”

“What happened?” Jubilee asked.

“I guess it started back when I was his roommate.” Angel answered. “At first, we got along fine, although I think he was a bit ticked that my old man practically bought my way into university. As time went on, our friendship got more and more strained…and then in our third year, things came to a head.”

“How so?” Polaris asked.

“At the time, Cam had been dating this girl – Melinda Desmond – but she dumped him after she caught him cheating on her.” Angel said.

Boom-Boom frowned. “Jerk.”

“That’s what Mel said, and more.” Angel agreed. “Anyway, after the breakup, Mel came to me, crying her eyes out, so, of course, I had to comfort her. After that, we went on a few dates…one thing led to another…”

“…and Cameron hated it.” Sunspot finished.

“Oh, yeah.” Angel confirmed. “We argued a bit, Cam tried to punch me out and ended up getting tossed out of university, and that’s the last I’d heard of him, until now.”

“And when mutants got outed, Hodge went postal.” Iceman said.

“That’s the working theory.”

Android frowned. “Hodge’s hatred is illogical, as is his blaming of you over the termination of his relationship; it was his actions that precipitated the termination, not yours.”

“Hatred follows no logic but its own, Android.” Wasp said.

Husk lightly smiled. “Are you and Melinda still together?”

Angel smiled. “We’ve been going steady for the past few years, and we plan to stay that way.”

Sabretooth just snorted. “Well, that’s just freakin’ beautiful.” he sneered. “What is this: a soap-opera?”

Magma frowned. “Do we really need him?”

Iceman was about to respond, but his reply was cut off by Miss Martian’s cry. “DOWN!!” she shouted, prompting the entire team to duck down…just in time to evade a spray of bullets.

“Well, isn’t this a surprise!”

Looking up, Cap saw a fairly young man, clad in a black bodysuit, with mid-length brown hair, and his eyes covered by a black eye-mask, armed to the teeth, standing in their path. “I figured that some of you punks might try to sneak in,” he sneered, “but I never would have guessed that you would be here, Captain.”

“Who are you?” Cap demanded.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?”

Sabretooth bared his teeth. “Out of the way, shrimp, or I’ll rip you in half.”

The stranger smirked. “No can do, Shaggy; gotta earn my pay.”

Cap glanced to X-Force, Flash, and Colossus. “The rest of you go on ahead; the three of us can handle this.”

Sabretooth grinned. “Soldier-Boy, that’s the first thing you’ve said right, today!” With that, he pounced at the stranger, his claws and fangs bared, while Colossus, Flash and X-Force darted into a side-corridor; as the stranger raised his left arm to block, Sabretooth’s claws tore into his arm’s flesh…

…but the stranger didn’t even flinch; he quickly drew his revolver and shot Sabretooth in the stomach, before kicking him away, revealing the tears in his arm…and exposing the circuitry underneath. “Bionic arm, genius.” the mercenary sneered. He then turned to Cap and Wasp, drawing a second revolver and opening fire. “Sending kids on ahead to do your dirty work, Rogers?” he shouted. “I’m surprised at you…but, then again, it was always about completing the mission with you, wasn’t it?!”

Raising his shield, Cap deflected the bullets, while Wasp quickly miniaturized, firing her bioelectric stings, which the stranger easily dodged, with a swiftness that surprised Cap. “How do you know me?” Cap pressed. “Who are you?!”

“Just a soldier come in out of the winter’s cold.” the soldier replied, drawing a grenade. “You’d know about that, wouldn’t you?!” And with that, he lobbed the grenade at Cap, but Cap threw his shield with expert aim, knocking the explosive into an empty adjacent hallway, letting it explode harmlessly, giving Hodge’s stronghold a new window, before the shield ricocheted towards Winter Soldier, who backflipped out of its path…giving Captain America time to close on him. As Winter Soldier’s feet hit the floor, Cap greeted him with an uppercut, followed by a side-kick…but the Soldier blocked the kick and reversed it – with a move that Cap might have used himself, he observed – before knocking him to the ground and drawing a knife…

…but Cap didn’t give him a chance to use it; he leaned back and kicked Winter Soldier off of him, sending him flying overhead…towards the recovered Sabretooth. Snarling in fury, Sabretooth slashed wildly at the Soldier with his claws, but the Soldier dodged each and every attack, only catching a grazing blow to the face, before countering with a beautiful jab to the gut, slamming deep into Sabretooth’s abdomen, and then unloading a flip-kick on his face, using his bent knee as a stepping-stool, landing perfectly on his feet…where Wasp blasted him with one of her stings, sending him sprawling, and causing something to fall away from him, clattering onto the floor.

His eyes narrowed, Cap quickly regained his shield, before storming towards the Soldier, to finish this…but his boot tapped against something metal. Glancing down, Cap’s eyes widened as he saw a set of dog-tags on the floor. Confusion and curiosity momentarily overrode his training, as he picked them up…

Cap’s eyes went wide with utter, incredulous horror as he read the name on the tags, before glancing to the recovering Winter Soldier, with half of his mask torn…revealing a brown eye, narrowed in utter hate. “B-Bucky??” Cap stammered.

The Soldier just glared at him. “That name,” he spat, “has even less meaning for me than your precious flag, Cap.” He smiled evilly, as he listened to his earpiece. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, my job is done; time to cut-and-run, Soldier…another thing you’re good at.” With that, he smashed a smoke-grenade against the ground, shrouding the hall in white haze. Cap rushed into the haze after him…but the Soldier was gone.

“Cap?” Wasp asked. “What was that all about?”

Sabretooth sneered. “Pal of yours?”

Cap had to force himself back into the moment. “No time to explain! Let’s move!” With that, they hurried after the others…while Cap forced himself not to think about his old comrade…and what on God’s green earth had happened to him…

XXXXXXXX

Genoshan Naval Base

Within minutes, the X-Men, Batman, J’onn, Wolverine, Mystique, Black Widow, Quicksilver and Pyro had reached the main laboratory on the fourth floor…and found it completely empty…which only added to the creepy atmosphere that the lab exuded. “I don’t like this…” Cyclops murmured, his hand going to his visor, ready for a fast shot.

Spying an active computer terminal, Batman quickly moved to it, his hands quickly bringing up the most recently-viewed files. “Someone was running DNA-analyses, here.” he reported. “Whoever it was ran comparative scans of all the X-Genes of the prisoners; they were looking for structural similarities, transposable elements, protein binding-sites…”

“In English, mate?” Pyro said.

Siryn rolled her eyes. “Someone was looking at how different X-Genes were put together.”

“But why?” Scarlet Witch asked.

Glancing at an adjacent terminal, J’onn’s eyes went wide. “That is not our only problem.” the Manhunter said. “If these readouts are correct, then this Genoshan outpost is preparing to launch missiles…equipped with nuclear warheads!”

“What?!” Mystique cried.

“That’s insane!!” Quicksilver shouted. “Genosha doesn’t even have commercial nuclear power; where’d they get nukes?!”

“Easy.” Wolverine growled. “Somebody gave them nukes.”

Scarlet Witch glared at her brother. “I knew it.” she accused. “This was Magneto’s plan all along!!”

“What?! No!!” Quicksilver cried. “Father wouldn’t..!”

“Gambit got t’ admit; dis don’ look good f’r y’ pere, Maximoff.” Gambit said.

“Yer old man once tried to drop meteors on the planet, Quicksilver.” Rogue said. “This would be raht up his alley.”

“Well, isn’t this interesting.”

Turning towards the owner of that oily voice, they spotted a seriously creepy-looking guy, with dead-white skin, clad entirely in black, flanked by eight F.O.H. troopers. “I take it you’re the guy running this operation.” Cyclops said.

The stranger smiled, and lightly bowed. “Sinister, at your service.” he replied. “And you needn’t introduce yourselves; the reputations of the X-Men and the Justice League are well-known.”

“Then you can guess what we’re gonna do to you for what you F.O.H. Nazis pulled.” Scarlet Witch snapped.

Sinister just smiled. “Well, then,” he said, “come and get me.”

“With pleasure, mate!!” Pyro laughed, as he flicked on his lighters and sent a massive wave of flame at Sinister, who simply smiled…and gestured, causing the fire to crash against a telekinetic barrier, as his troopers opened fire on them.

“He’s a telekinetic! Scatter!” Cyclops shouted, as the others dodged out of the way of the troopers’ bullets. Rolling onto his feet, Cyclops unleashed an optic blast, while Batman let fly with a Batarang; the force-blast sent one goon flying, while the Batarang sliced the hand of a second, forcing him to drop his gun with a scream of agony, allowing Black Widow to take him out with a deadly-accurate toss of her vibranium knife, throwing it just so, causing the knife-butt to clunk against the goon’s head, knocking him out.

Raising a TK-bubble, Phoenix repelled one thug’s shots, before slamming the TK-barrier against him, knocking him into the air, where Nightcrawler ‘ported in and booted him into a second. As they tried to get up, Avalanche unleashed a precisely-aimed tremor, opening a hole in the floor beneath them, causing them to fall right into the room below.

Morphing herself into a bear, Mystique sent one trooper flying with a swipe of her claws, and causing a second to back away from her in fear…blundering right into the Martian Manhunter’s attack-range, where he sent the goon flying with a TK-pulse. As the last two tried to take aim at them, Scarlet Witch simply snapped her fingers, causing their weapons to instantly corrode into dust. Before the troopers could react, Spyke let fly with a burst of bone-spikes, pinning them to the wall with expert accuracy, allowing Rogue to easily drain them with a touch.

By then, Sinister’s smile had started to fade. “Well, perhaps I’ve overstayed my welcome. I had best be off…”

‘You ain’t goin’ anywhere, bub!!” Wolverine snarled, running at Sinister with his claws extended; as Wolverine leapt at him, Sinister simply pointed at him, sending him flying with a telekinetic burst. Quicksilver ran at him, but Sinister simply levitated himself into the air, causing the silver-clad speedster to crash into the wall.

Sinister just chuckled. ‘Oh, come now; is this truly the best that you can..?” But he was cut off as Power Girl darted into the air, slamming him with a punch to the face; Sinister’s head bent back from the impact…before snapping back with an eerie crack! Smiling, Sinister caught Power Girl’s follow-up punch, as his soulless eyes bored into hers, forcing Power Girl to suppress a flinch. “Phono-photic transmutation…” he mused aloud. “Quite an impressive ability…”

His voice dropped to a whisper, as he finished his statement. “…but that’s not the full extent of your abilities, is it?”

Power Girl’s eyes widened…before she remembered the plan. “Siryn, Gambit, Shadowcat, NOW!!”

At once, Siryn unleashed her sonic scream on them both, stunning Sinister and supercharging Power Girl, before Power Girl slammed Sinister with an uppercut, causing him to start to sag. With perfect accuracy, Gambit threw a handful of charged cards at the falling Sinister, which detonated as they hit him, sending him flying across the room, landing hard on the ground, where Shadowcat phased him into the floor, trapping him.

Looking at his predicament, Sinister chuckled. “Well, the odds certainly appear to be against me.” he said. “But, then again…appearances can be deceiving.” Out loud, he added, “Exit strategy!”

At once, the base’s automated defence-system activated, causing numerous laser-turrets to drop from the ceiling and open fire on them. As they scrambled behind the nearby computer terminals, Sinister unleashed a TK-pulse around himself, breaking free, before taking his briefcase, and walking away.

“Terrific.” Quicksilver muttered from behind a terminal. “He’s getting away..!”

Darting out momentarily, Cyclops fired an optic-blast, destroying one turret…and causing another to drop down to replace it. Batman took aim, and threw an explosive Batarang, destroying another turret, while Black Widow took out a third with her revolver, but they were quickly replaced. “We need to take out the entire system.” Batman said.

Power Girl looked stricken…and then she smiled, before tapping her crystal bracelet, re-forming her Disruptor. “Allow me!” she declared, as she charged up a blast, and fired; the fair-sized blue-white electrostatic wave surged through the turrets, disabling the system, rendering it utterly inert.

Pyro gulped nervously. “Powerful little gizmo you got there, sheila.”

“Hopefully, it didn’t disable the rest of the computer database.” Batman said, standing up. “We might be able to figure out what they were planning from their files.”

“Well, y’ ain’ got t’ worry ‘bout Ali’s gizmo fryin’ de computers, Bats,” Gambit sighed, glancing to the fried computer terminal, “on ‘count o’ de turrets beat ‘er to it.”

His expression hardening, Batman quickly scanned the flickering readout…seconds before it died. “Those missiles are almost ready to launch.”

“We’d better tell Big Blue.” Spyke said. “What’s the target?”

“There were two targets.” Ba