𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐂𝐇 | Scott Summers

CHAPTER 5

Morning came too early, each ray of light slicing through the curtains with a harsh intensity. I stir groggily, pushing aside the covers and sitting up, the room slowly coming into focus as i rub the sleep from my eyes.

For a brief moment, I'd forgotten where i was. The events of the previous day now hit me like a wave.

Gathering my thoughts, I rise from the bed, my movements slow and deliberate. The room feels stifling, and for a brief second, i lets myself feel the weight of my situation.

However, i quickly push that feeling back and focuses on the present. With a final deep breath, i open my bag of stuff I had brought, and begin selecting clothes to slip into. Hopefully I would be able to find more clothes. Because I definitely was not going back to my home.

As I dress, i can't help but appreciate the softness of the fabrics, the familiarity of the gesture, a reminder that even in this new place, I'll still be myself. I go to open the door but I pause.

The thought of stepping outside my room and facing unfamiliar people fills me with a sense of unease. The idea of having to make small talk or navigate new social dynamics feels daunting. I'm used to being on my own yes. But Stepping out now means opening myself up to constant social interactions, and the thought of being constantly 'on' is honestly terrifying and makes me sick.

I breathe out "fuck" under my breath. Taking a moment before I open the door. I find myself face to face with a girl. The girl had a striking appearance, her porcelain complexion accentuated by a mane of fiery red hair cascading down to her shoulders.Our eyes meet.

"Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to startle you," She says, her voice carrying a hint of amusement, but laced with empathy. The curve of her lips and the tilt of her head convey warmth and understanding, though just a glimpse of nervousness can be glimpsed in her eyes.

I watch as she pauses briefly before continuing, "My name is Jean Grey, The Professor asked me to come greet you and check how you're settling in." The redhead says

"Oh uh... I'd say I've settled in fine" I say

"That's good to know." Jean pauses for a moment,
"Uh... well, I can introduce you to some of the others here., if you'd like you can come with me." As Jean speaks, her tone is soft, and she gives me a small smile.

I look at the red head. Before nodding and closing my door stepping out into the hallway. I follow Jean as we walk slowly down the hall. "Oh um I'm Elmira by the way."

I hear a faint whisper of acknowledgment in my mind. The fleeting thought seems to form on its own, almost imperceptibly. Jean's voice echoes clearly in my mind , even though her lips remain motionless. "Yes. I'm aware."

My eyes widen slightly with surprise as Jean's reply enters my mind. The unexpected intrusion of a foreign voice in my head sends a ripple of shock across my features but shortly to a more neutral look as I speak, " so you're like the professor?" I say

Jean hesitates for a moment, her expression unreadable.* "Well, I'm not exactly 'like' the Professor. My powers work a bit differently."

My eyebrows furrow just a bit, "and how so?.. that's if you don't mind me asking?."" I say my voice shying away at the end

Jean shakes her head no "My abilities are more instinctual and emotional in nature. They're influenced by my feelings and reactions. My control can be... unpredictable at times. It takes a lot of practice to harness and refine my powers."

"Oh.." I say my voice trailing off. "That's cool though, I literally only control like wind" I say dismissing myself as we continue to walk

Jean gives a me small smile. "Don't downplay yourself." she says gently. "Cmon" she says as she leads us outside

As we step outside, the warm sunlight greets us. She leads me towards another girl who by one of the many trees. Talking with others. The girl sees us as we get closer.

She's dressed stylishly with a pair of baggy jeans, and a colorful top. Her hair is styled in two high pigtails, and she's wearing a pair of funky sunglasses on top of her head. Jean turns to me with a smile, and gestures towards the girl.

"this is Jubilee."
"Hello... I'm Elmira." I say softly looking at the girl in front of me with a small smile

Jubilee gives a cheerful wave, her hair bobbing in the breeze.* "hi there, Elmira! Nice to meetcha. My name is Jubilation Lee, but my friends call me Jubilee, but you can call me whatever you like"-

I nod, the girl infrint of me making a light spark in me. "right of course, I'll stick to jubilee.." I say saying softly.

Jubilee's eyes light up with recognition. "Hey, I remember you! You were the girl who was doing that windy thing with the air yesterday. That was pretty cool, by the way! You've got some serious skill there."

"Oh you saw that?" I say my voice faulting. My eyes dart to Jean. For some reason I was nervous? Embarrassed even? I don't know why I expected no one to see it when quite literally I was outside when I showed a demonstration to Charles and Hank.

Jubilee nods, a playful glint in her eyes.."Yeah, I did. Can't miss all that wind swirling around, can I? You have a cool ability, there's no doubt about that."

My face remains neutral and unreadable as Jubilee speaks, but a faint blush tinges my cheeks at the praise. Somthing I was not use to.

I nod in acknowledgment,.* "Thank you," i murmur softly.

Jubilee turns her head back to look at the others she was with, those calling her name.

"It was lovely to see you Elmira! I'll see you later yea" She says with a smile before running of with the others

I don't say anything just giving a slight nod. I look at jean.

Jean motions for me to continue to walk. Over the next hour or so Jean shows me around some more, more than Charles and Hank did and introduces me to some more students. According to jean the student that actually didn't look at her like she was a freak. I was confused why anyone would call her a freak but didn't question it.

As we continue walking, I notice that Jean seems to be holding her head, her expression hinting at pain or discomfort. Are you feeling alright?" I ask, concern evident in my voice. Jean flashes a reassuring smile, though I can see a hint of strain in her eyes. "I'm fine, don't worry. Just a bit of a headache," she replies.

As the sun sets, the school's atmosphere transforms into a serene calm, punctuated by the sounds of insects and the occasional chatter of students. Jean leads me along a winding path, our footsteps falling silent on the soft ground. The scent of blooming flowers fills the night air, filling the air with a sweet and subtle aroma.

Inside the mansion, a faint flicker of light escapes from behind a large window, casting an inviting glow into the dark surroundings.

Jean leases me back to my room "Thank you, Jean," I reply, a hint of shyness in my voice. Without her today I probably would have made an idiot of myself even trying to talk to someone. I offer her a small, but sincere smile, grateful for her help.

Jean gives me a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with empathy. "You're welcome, Elmira I'll see you tomorrow. She says before walking down the hall

I nod before opening my door. I close it and sit on my bed. My head in my hands, my emotions rise to the surface. meeting new people, and grappling with unfamiliar surroundings leaves me feeling overwhelmed. Thoughts of my old life linger in my mind, despite my turbulent relationship with my family. The longing for familiarity and connection tugs at my heartstrings.

"God help me." I whisper tears spring my eyes. I had no reason to cry but I couldn't help it.

A soft whisper from Jean echoes in my mind,
"You're not alone, Elmira. Take it one step at a time, and remember, courage lies in the hearts of those who dare to embrace the unknown, trust me I know.. "

I close my eyes the last bit of tears racing down my face; courage lies in the hearts of those who dare to embrace the unknown...oh jean I hope you're right.

(Guys I kinda hate this chapter 🤭- remember vote and comment if you would like to it means a lot )