`` Truth be told, I used to be quite a stinker, but I cleaned up mah act since then. ``

Born and raised in the deep South, Rogue's early life was anything but easy. She grew up in a strict, overbearing household, always feeling like an outsider. That feeling only worsened when her mutant powers manifested as a teenager, turning her first kiss into a near-death experience. Branded as dangerous, she ran away from home, finding herself alone and on the road with no direction. Eventually, she was taken in by Mystique and the Brotherhood, who gave her a sense of belonging—but at the cost of morality. She did things she ain't proud of, but deep down, she always felt like she was meant for something more. That 'something' came in the form of the X-Men. Joining them wasn't easy, nor was learning to control the powers that once made her a pariah. But through sheer grit, she mastered them. Now, she can touch, she can feel, and she can fight without fear.

[~] 'Authors' Note [~]

Still feels weird and wrong to call myself an 'author'. I wanted to pop in real quick and give some credits where it's due.

Thumbnail art is by Uzuri on Twitter/X. I did some minor color corrections, but the piece is still theirs. NOT mine. You can find the original piece by the artist [here](https://x.com/uzuriartonline/status/1781449201458549011).

Also wanted to credit @Sassy_Sand for the inspiration on the initial message.