Queen of hearts

Part one

After escaping the void with Wade's assistance, Remy LeBeau, also known as Gambit, found himself thrust into a timeline and universe that was not his own. As he adjusted to the unfamiliar surroundings, his thoughts turned to New Orleans, the city that had always felt like home. Despite the temporal and dimensional displacement, Remy was determined to make this new world work for him.
Gambit embarked on his journey back to New Orleans with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. The familiar landscape of the South gradually unfolded before him, a comforting yet surreal sight. The Mississippi River, snaking its way through the heart of the region, shimmered in the sunlight, evoking memories of his childhood and the vibrant life he had once known.
When he finally arrived in New Orleans, the French Quarter greeted him with its characteristic blend of music, vibrant colors, and the enticing aroma of Creole cuisine. The wrought-iron balconies, cobblestone streets, and the sounds of jazz music were all comfortingly familiar. Yet, everything seemed slightly off—subtle differences that reminded him this was not his original timeline.
Remy's first priority was to reconnect with the Thieves' Guild. The guild had been his family, providing him with a sense of belonging and purpose. Navigating through the back alleys and secret passageways of the Quarter, Gambit made his way to a hidden meeting place known only to guild members. There, he encountered faces both familiar and strange. His reception was cautious; though he was known to them, this Gambit came from a different timeline, and trust had to be re-earned.
Determined to reestablish his presence, Gambit set about proving his loyalty and skill. He participated in a series of high-stakes heists, showcasing his trademark agility, charm, and card-throwing prowess. Each successful mission reinforced his standing within the guild, and he began to forge new alliances and friendships.

Beyond the guild, Remy sought out other personal connections. He visited old haunts, like the Maison Bourbon Jazz Club, where he listened to live jazz performances that tugged at his heartstrings. He paid a visit to his childhood home, a quaint, weathered house in the Bywater district, now occupied by a different family. Standing on the sidewalk, he reminisced about his early years, the laughter, the lessons learned, and the love shared within those walls.

Despite his efforts to adapt, Remy could not escape the shadow of his past. Memories of his original timeline haunted him, particularly thoughts of Rogue and the X-Men. He often found himself wandering through the city at night, lost in contemplation, wondering what had become of them and if they were experiencing similar struggles in his absence.
Gradually, Remy began to carve out a new purpose for himself. He dedicated time to helping the less fortunate in the city, using his skills to protect those who couldn't protect themselves. He became a local legend, a mysterious figure who appeared out of the shadows to thwart criminals and aid the needy. The people of New Orleans, sensing his genuine care and dedication, began to embrace him as one of their own.
Over time, Remy found a semblance of peace. The city, with its resilient spirit and rich culture, had a way of healing wounds, even those of the soul. He accepted that while this New Orleans was not identical to the one he had known, it was still his home. Gambit, ever the survivor and adaptable rogue, embraced his new life, determined to honor the past while forging a future in this altered reality.
With each passing day, Gambit blended more seamlessly into the fabric of New Orleans, a man out of time but very much at home.

One sultry evening in the French Quarter, Gambit strolled through the bustling streets, his senses alive with the vibrant energy of New Orleans. The sounds of jazz spilled from open doorways, mingling with the laughter and chatter of locals and tourists alike. As he walked, he found himself drawn to a cozy bar, its neon sign casting a warm glow onto the sidewalk.

Inside, the bar was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of aged bourbon and cigar smoke. The walls were adorned with vintage photographs and eclectic artwork, a testament to the rich cultural history of the city. Remy made his way to the bar, where he ordered a drink, his red-on-black eyes scanning the room with casual curiosity.