Loyalty is... - Chapter 2

Avery was thrilled at the fact that he could get out of going to all those boring museum functions when Shuten was around much easier than when Shuten was not. As much as Avery wanted to support Myranda he despised all the hobnobbing and talking to people about things he knew nothing about or had nothing in common with.

On one of his visits Shuten was greeted by an extremely worried and frantic Avery. Two fellow detectives and friends were trying to calm him down. It seemed that Myranda's motorcycle was found in an alley. It looked as if it had been in a crash yet there was no sign of Myranda anywhere. Everyone in Avery's precinct was in some way shape or form trying to find her.

“You're not going to be any help to her if you don't calm down, Avery.” Detective Kagewaki Hitomi said.

“Would you be calm if it was your wife, Hito?” He replied. “What if the government took her again?”

“We made sure that wouldn't happen again.” Detective Joe MacPhearson said. “There's no way they could have tracked her down.”

“What would the government want with Myranda?” Shuten asked.

“She's a mutant.” Avery replied.

Shuten was still just digesting the information when the phone rang. The precinct located a signal from Myranda's cell phone. Avery took the coordinates down and told Shuten to come with him. Avery wasn't sure who or what they might have been up against and he was going to need all the help he could get.

Avery drove as fast as he could to the location he didn't speak at all. Joe and Hito were right behind him.

Shuten couldn't hold his curiosity any more nor could he stand the silence. “Avery, what exactly is a mutant?” He asked quietly.

“Mutants carry a special gene that makes them a little different then regular people.”

“So Myranda's empathic power is because…”

“Yes. It's because she's a mutant and she's able to do more than just that. She's able to manipulate electricity as well. I hope knowing this doesn't change how you think about her.”

Shuten shook his head. “No never. But I do not like the term mutant at all. It sounds derogatory.”

Avery chuckled. “I don't either but it doesn't bother Myranda in the slightest. She said that if people can't accept her for what she is then they're probably not worth knowing in the first place.”

“I agree whole heartedly with that. Everyone is different in their own way why should being a mutant be any more unusual?”

“Some mutants use their abilities to rob and harm others. They've made it bad for the ones who are just trying to live a normal life.”

Shuten sighed. “It's just another case of history repeating itself yet once again. You have my word that I will not tell anyone about what I have found out tonight, Avery.”

“I know you never would. But thanks for telling me.”

That night turned out to be an eye opening experience for Shuten. He and the others had met some members of a band of mutants called the X-men. It seemed that one of their teammates that went by the codename of Gambit had gone missing as well.

Working together they found out that an old enemy of Gambit's named Sinister had taken Gambit and Myranda. Sinister was once a normal human, but because of his obsessions and sick experiments had turned himself into a self-made mutant.

With the help of the X-men's technology they were able to locate Myranda and Gambit and rescue them.

Shuten witnessed Myranda's mutant abilities for the first time that night as they all fought their way out of Sinister's lair. To say he was impressed would have been an understatement. He had no idea she could fight like that.

Myranda had apologized to Shuten telling him that she never meant to keep the fact that she was a mutant from him.

Shuten just smiled and said he wouldn't hold it against her. Which let Myranda know that he didn't feel any different about her because of it?

Myranda who was an orphan had also gained a brother that night. The Sinister character had told Myranda and Gambit that they were siblings. Had they not had so much in common and looked so similar to one another they never would have believed him. However after some blood tests at the Xavier Institute; the X-men's base of operations it was proven that there was ninety-eight percent chance that the two were indeed related.

Gambit whose real name was Remy LeBeau was thrilled at the aspect of having a sister for he too was an orphan. The two became fast friends and very close over the next few months.

Myranda also became a part time member of the X-men in an effort to learn to use her powers better.

When Shuten earned his doctorate degree, he was promoted to head of the research department and would no longer be traveling to New York. Myranda was very happy for him but also quite sad at the prospect of not seeing him as often.

She and Avery had grown quite fond of him and looked forward to his visits. He was due to come to New York one last time so Myranda and Avery had decided to take him out to dinner to congratulate him.

As usual Myranda met him at the airport. Shuten noticed right off that Myranda's mind was preoccupied. When he asked her if something was bothering her she almost told him then shook her head and said it was silly and not to worry.

On the elevator ride up to the apartment, Shuten asked her again. He didn't like the far away look she had in her eyes.

“Are you sure there is nothing bothering you, minx? You seem awfully preoccupied.”

Myranda smiled at the nickname he had given her a long time ago. It was to get even with her for calling him Rusty all the time because of his hair color and the fact he wore armor. Where her codename for the X-men was Mischief and she was very good at causing such, he dubbed her minx.

“Like I all ready told you Shuten, you'll think I'm just being silly. Once we start working on the presentation, I will have forgotten all about it.” She said as they stepped off of the elevator and headed for the apartment.

Myranda turned the key to her apartment and spoke as she opened the door. “I'll put on some tea and get the computer ready while you get settled in…” Her voiced trailed off as she saw Hito rise up from her couch and turn to face her and Shuten.

Myranda felt the dread running through Hito from across the room. Her hand covered her mouth as her eyes saddened in understanding. Her keys fell to the floor and she took a step back walking right into Shuten.

Shuten put his luggage down and took hold of Myranda's arm to steady her. Something was definitely wrong.

“Myranda, you need to come with me.” He said softly.

“To where?” She questioned in a strained whisper.

Hito looked down at the floor as he closed the distance between them. His long black wavy hair hid his face but when he looked up, Myranda and Shuten saw nothing but sadness emanating from those chocolate brown eyes.

“To the hospital. Joe is all ready there waiting for us.”

Myranda fought against the tears that were forming in her eyes, her knees suddenly felt like jelly.

“I guess it wasn't so silly after all, Shuten.” She said quietly as she started to tremble.

Shuten put his arm around her waist to hold her up. “Did you have a premonition, Myranda? Is that what has had you out of sorts since you met me at the airport?”

Myranda shook her head. “No. Avery must have though. When he said goodbye to me this morning it seemed so final. That's what has been on my mind.” Myranda covered her face with her hand as the cruel realization of what was happening set in.

Hito placed his hands on her shoulders. “Do not crumble on us firefly. You're tougher than this. Stay strong for him.”

Myranda regained her composure before meeting Hito's eyes and nodding. “You're right. Let's go.”

On the way to the hospital Myranda worked up the courage to ask what had happened. Hito explained that he wasn't there but according to Joe, there was a shoot out and a little girl was caught in the crossfire. Avery had run out to save her and was shot down in the process.

Myranda only nodded but was given some comfort in the fact that it wasn't a senseless act that had wounded Avery.

They found Joe pacing in the waiting room of the hospital. As soon as Joe saw them he raced over and hugged Myranda.

“I'm sorry Randy, I couldn't stop him.”

“It's not your fault Joe. No one could have stopped him from what he did, not even me.”

“Have you heard from the doctors?” Hito asked.

Joe let go of Myranda and shook his head. “They're still trying to stabilize him.”

They all knew that if it was taking this long to stabilize him the prognosis was most likely going to be very grim.

Myranda hugged herself and walked over to the window. Shuten followed her and leaned his back against the wall.

“Wouldn't you rather sit down? It could be a while.”

Myranda shook her head. “I dislike hospitals. If I look out the window it helps to block out what's going on in here.”

Joe's incessant pacing was beginning to grate on Hito. He stopped him and then went to ask Myranda and Shuten if they wanted anything.

They came back a short while later with coffee and tea and after handing the beverages off, Hito made sure that Joe sat still. His pacing was only making it worse for Myranda.

Two hours had passed before a doctor finally came into the waiting room asking for Myranda.

Myranda closed her eyes and took a deep breath before turning and acknowledging the doctor.

The doctor motioned for her to take a seat in a quiet corner of the waiting room. His expression showed that he did not have good news. Myranda sat as Shuten, Hito and Joe stood behind her.

The doctor explained that Avery was in grave condition. The bullets had affected his brain function. If he were ever to regain consciousness he would not be able to speak or walk and be dependent on a ventilator for the rest of his life. The doctor also asked if Myranda knew about the living will Avery had.

Myranda did know about it. Avery did not wish to be hooked up to life support for an extended period of time. He did not wish to live like that however it was Myranda who had to make the final decision.

This was a choice that Myranda never wanted to make and she would never ask anyone to make it for her. It was her responsibility and hers alone. She wanted to respect Avery's wishes so she told the doctor that she would just like to say goodbye before the machines were disconnected.

The doctor agreed and gave his apologies before standing and showing them the way to the ICU. The doctor stopped outside the door to Avery's room and said he would come back in a few minutes.

Myranda turned to the others. “I'm sure you all have something to say to Avery. Why don't we all go in one at a time?”

Shuten, Hito and Joe all agreed.

Joe was the first to go in, then Hito. Myranda sensed Shuten's hesitation and told him that he didn't have to go but he told her he was fine and went in.

To see all the tubes and wires that went from Avery to all the machines was a little overwhelming at first. Shuten had prepared himself for the worst but the first thought that ran through his mind was how Myranda was going to react to this. This would not be how she would want to remember Avery. It could very well destroy her.

“I don't know if you can hear me or not my friend but I wanted to say that I will truly miss you. Avery, I was a bit enamored with Myranda when I first met her. I know now is not the time but I feel I must confess this to you even though I think you all ready knew seeing as how you use to joke with me about it. The two of you were very secure in your relationship and I've always admired that. In some strange way I think you were flattered by how I felt. Please believe me when I say that nothing has ever happened between us except for the fact that we've become very close friends. And I hope you accept my apology for ever having such thoughts.”

Shuten reached out and squeezed Avery's arm gently. “I'm going to go now so Myranda can come in to say goodbye. I'm sorry it had to end like this for you my friend.”

Shuten stepped out and held the door open for Myranda.

Shuten's heart went out to her. She looked so defeated and drained.

Myranda walked to the doorway but turned back before entering. “After the doctor comes in and leaves, would you three come in? I don't think I can do this alone.”

“He wouldn't want you to be alone, minx.”

“Shuten is right,” Hito added.

Joe nodded in agreement. “We'll all be there for you, Randy.”

She braved a sad smile. “Thanks guys.” She said before walking into the room.

A tear slipped down Myranda's face as soon as she saw Avery hooked up to all the machines. She stood at the side of the bed and took his hand in hers.

“Forgive me Avery but I'm a little angry with you right now. You knew something was going to happen today, didn't you?”

She wasn't expecting an answer but tried to pick up any kind of emotion running through him. She felt nothing, his mind was blank. She knew that she wouldn't, he was too far gone. He was all ready dead it was just the machines that were keeping him alive.

“What am I going to do without you Avery? I owe you so much. I wouldn't be who I am today if you didn't believe in me all those years ago.

“But I don't want you to worry about me, I'll be all right, eventually. If you've taught me anything it's how to take care of myself. Besides, I'm sure Remy, Hito and Joe will take turns stopping by to annoy me. And Shuten and Mia will certainly keep in touch with me.”

Myranda wiped at her eyes before finishing. “I'm really going to miss you Avery.” She leaned over the bed and kissed him on the cheek.

There was a knock at the door and the doctor entered.

Myranda let go of Avery's hand so the doctor could do what was needed to turn the machinery off.

Once he was finished he pulled a seat over to the bed and offered it to Myranda. “Just notify one of the nurses when you're ready. And once again you have my deepest condolences Dr. McGuire.”

“Thank you, doctor.” Myranda said as she sat down and took hold of Avery's hand again.

Shuten, Hito and Joe came in shortly afterwards and silently stood behind Myranda. It wasn't long before the heart monitor stopped beeping and flat lined. Joe couldn't stand the noise; he flipped the machine off as he wiped the tears from his eyes.

“Damn it.” He whispered brokenly as he turned away. He and Avery had been friends since the Academy and reality was now settling in.

Myranda reached out and took his arm as she stood. “It's going to be okay, Joe.” She said quietly.

Joe hugged her as started sobbing. “I'm so sorry Randy.”

“Me too. We're all going to miss him.”

Joe tried to get himself under control as quickly as possible. Myranda didn't need to be mothering him right now. He let her go once he calmed himself.

Myranda did not want to stay in the room any longer and Joe needed a distraction. “Joe. Why don't you let the doctor know were ready to leave.” She suggested.

Joe nodded and left.

Myranda took hold of Avery's hand one last time, giving it a quick squeeze before letting go and turned to leave.

Shuten wanted to say something but there were really no right words to say. He decided it was best to wait for Myranda to strike up any conversation.

Shuten realized that Hito must have felt the same way by the look on his face.

As the three exited the room, Remy and Rogue were coming down the hall.

Myranda met her brother's eyes and shook her head. “He's gone, Remy.”

Remy pulled her into his arms. “I'm so sorry, Randy.”

Rogue joined in the hug. “We both are sugah.” She said as she tried to hold her tears back.

“Thank you.” Myranda replied as she stepped back in fear oft losing her composure. “I really just want to get out of here. You know how much I hate hospitals.”

“Would you like us to come back to the apartment with you?” Remy offered.

“I suppose I could use the distraction.” She looked to Shuten. “You shouldn't have to be burdened with me alone.”

Shuten gave her a half smile. “You're never a burden, Myranda.”

She sadly smiled back. “I knew you'd say that.”

Hito had to get back to the precinct so he took Remy up on the offer to take Myranda and Shuten back to the apartment. Myranda purposely sat on the passenger side in the back seat so her brother couldn't watch her in the rearview mirror. Myranda kept her vision out the window for the entire ride and Shuten kept his eyes on Myranda for most of the trip.

Shuten wondered how Myranda was really feeling at this moment. Was she in shock? Was she in denial? Or was she holding it all in? He promised himself that he would try his best to be there for her if he was needed. He owed her his life after all, and being at her beck and call would be the least he could do for her.

When they got to the apartment, Myranda put some coffee on and started heating water for tea for Shuten. Remy called the local funeral home for Myranda and made an appointment for the following day. Myranda asked Rogue to come and help her get Avery's uniform ready for the undertaker; leaving Remy and Shuten out in the kitchen.

“You've been awfully quiet.” Remy said to Shuten.

Shuten gave an apologetic smile and shrugged. “I'm in fear of saying the wrong thing.”

“I know what you mean. I don't wanna upset her either.” He paused before asking. “You don't mind staying here with her alone, do you?”

Shuten shook his head. “Not at all, besides, my being here gives her a diversion of sorts.”

Remy nodded. “That what she needs right now. She's trying really hard not to fall apart.”

Shuten nodded in agreement. “I know. I wish there was something I could do for her.”

“Just be there for her, Shuten. That's all any of us can do right now.”

“Myranda doesn't deserve to have had this happen to her.” Shuten said.

Remy smiled. Shuten had been a good friend to his sister and Avery. Shuten probably knew Myranda better than he did.

“You're right, she doesn't. But where one door closes another always opens. I bet she'll be all right sooner than either of us thinks.”

Myranda went into the closet and pulled out Avery's police uniform. She stood there looking at it.

Rogue walked up behind her. “You all right, Randy?” She asked quietly.

Myranda nodded. “Just remembering is all. I use to love it when he'd have to wear this.”

“Yeah, he always did look pretty handsome in that.”

“I miss him all ready, Rogue.”

“I do too, Randy. You always will, but it'll get easier.”

“I know.”

“I'm glad Shuten is here to stay with you. Remy and I would have stayed with you if he wasn't.”

“I'm glad he's here too. He's even extended his visit. I think he's worried about me.”

“I hate to say it but we're all worried about you.”

“Thanks, but I'll be fine. Eventually that is.”

Remy and Rogue stayed for the rest of the afternoon making small talk that Myranda wasn't really paying much attention to. She made dinner for all of them but didn't eat much herself. Remy held back the urge to prod her about eating something.

Rogue helped her with the dishes before she and Remy left.

Myranda told Shuten she was going to take a shower and she would help him with the research report they were working on together if he felt like working on it afterwards.

She emerged from her room thirty minutes later in sweatpants and a T-shirt, her hair still damp.

Shuten took one look at her and asked. “Are you sure you want to do this minx?” She was not herself at all.

Myranda thought a minute. “It could be riddled with errors if I do work on it. I really just wanted to occupy myself with something. Maybe I could clean.” She thought.

“Personally I think you should get some rest. It's been a very long day for you.”

“Easier said than done.” She said as she plunked down on the couch.

Shuten sat down next to her. “If you want to talk, I'd be more than happy to listen.”

Myranda braved a smile. “Thanks but I believe I'll turn into a sobbing idiot if I do that. And we know how much you hate crying.”

“I think I could manage for a little while.” He teased.

“That's very generous of you but I'm going to pass for now.”

Shuten changed the subject. “I hope you don't mind but I took the liberty of calling Mia.”

“I appreciate that. Thank you. I don't think I could have gotten past the first sentence.”

“She and Rajura are taking the next flight out.”

“She's a great friend. Just like you. Thanks for extending your trip, Shuten. I really don't wish to be alone.”

Shuten knew that loneliness was Myranda's greatest fear. She enjoyed time to herself but being alone for extended periods of time bothered her. Avery had told Shuten that in confidence one time when he planned his out of state training around one of Shuten's visits. Avery said that it was because of all she had been through as a child.

Shuten shrugged “There is no need to thank me Myranda.”

Myranda chuckled. “You may be wishing you hadn't been so hasty before the week is out.”

“I'm sure I won't be wishing for any such thing.”

“We'll see.” Myranda replied on a sigh as she crossed her arms and leaned back into the couch, closing her eyes.

“Are you sure you don't want to get some rest?” He asked again.

“I'm not tired.” Myranda answered without opening her eyes.

Shuten didn't say another word. He decided to wait it out. She was exhausted and it was only a matter of time before she lost the battle.

He reached for his glasses and one of the research books and read.

Twenty minutes later, Myranda was sound asleep. Shuten put his book down and carefully lifted her into his arms.

“I'm not tired.” She mumbled in her sleep.

“I know.” He answered quietly as he carried her into her room.

Shuten placed her on the bed and covered her with the comforter.

Myranda turned onto her side and snuggled under the covers.

Assured that she would remain asleep, Shuten turned to leave. He saw Avery's police uniform hanging on the closet door and shook his head in sadness. `How could you leave her like this my friend?' He said to himself.

Shuten had gone to bed right after he had tucked Myranda in. He woke up several hours later to the scent of cookies. He rolled over to look at the clock and groaned when he saw that it was three in the morning.

He slowly got out of bed and headed out of his room still half asleep to see why Myranda was up at such a ridiculous hour.

It took a minute for his eyes to adjust to the light but when he could see, there was Myranda in the kitchen taking a batch of cookies out of the oven.

“Minx, what are you doing?” He asked on a yawn.

Myranda looked up at him. “Sorry. Did I wake you? I was trying to be quiet.”

“It was not you that woke me. It was the baking. Do you know what time it is?” He asked as he made his way to the kitchen.

“A little after three,” She held out a plate to him. “Cookie?”

Shuten answered with a question of his own. “Why aren't you in bed?”

Myranda put the plate down and looked away as she began moving the last batch of cookies to the cooling rack. “I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep.”

“So you decided to make cookies?” He asked.

Myranda shrugged. “Why not?”

“Minx you need to get your rest. Go back to bed.”

“All right, I will as soon as I clean up. Go on, I'll be right behind you.”

“I'll help you with the cleaning. It'll go that much faster.”

“You don't trust me, do you?”

“I trust you more than anyone on this earth. I just don't believe you'll keep your word in your present state.”

“Fine.” Myranda mumble. Damn him for knowing her so well.