Becoming Complete: Inchoate Book 1

Chapter 3: Second Thoughts

Back in the diner, the woman called Ororo was helping a befuddled Antonela to her feet and checking her for any sign of injury. It seemed she had received a minor shock from the event, but was otherwise unharmed.

"Professor, everyone seems to be okay, aside from some slight bumps and scratches."

The man on wheels responded, "Thank you Ororo. I will take care of the rest while you ready the car."

As the woman left, the Professor turned to the teens and staff with two fingers pressed to his temple. The patrons and servers' eyes glazed over and everything was calm as he rolled out the door.

No one knew what happened. A sudden after gust from the storm maybe?

Out in the car, the man and woman discussed a plan.

"I am having some trouble keeping a lock on her. Her mind is in complete chaos. It seems she has some mental defenses that are preventing me from getting a better look, but from what I can tell, she is headed toward the beach. Back in the diner, I was able to see a brief glimpse of a lighthouse. I think she may live there."

The woman gazed out at the road as they headed toward the beach. "Professor, do you think we should have brought someone else? You saw what happened in the diner. I don't know if I was your best choice to bring along. Maybe Jean, or you could call up Raven. They have a lot more experience and control than I do."

"Ororo, your gifts are very similar to hers it seems. There is a reason we call you Storm. Also, I wouldn't have brought you if I wasn't absolutely confident in your abilities," the man replied.

They drove in silence for the next few moments. Ororo mulling over what Charles had said. He was one of the most accomplished mutants she had ever known. He was her mentor, and now her dear friend. She trusted him with her life and thus she should trust his judgement, but 'what ifs' still tainted the corners of her mind.

As they neared the shoreline Charles spoke up.

"You know Ororo, Jean and Raven and even myself have fought, and continue to fight, our battles to take control over our own abilities. You have done exceedingly well, but I do understand your doubts and fears. I do hope that, with time and experience, you will be able to reassure yourself of this fact."

The silence in the car continued. Charles felt the tension in the young woman's mind ease some. He made a point not to invade others' privacy, but he could not help sensing the stronger emotions.

"How will we know where on the beach she is? There are miles of coastline, and we don't know what direction she..." Ororo was abruptly cut off by the sound of an explosion and a streak of lightning originating from the ground less than a mile from them. They looked toward where the sound and light had originated. In the distance stood a lighthouse and possibly a cottage, but it seemed to be in a haze. There was a sand storm enclosing the feature.

"I don't think we'll need to search anymore, but we need to hurry," Charles entoned.