X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter Sixty Seven
Author's Word: Happy Halloween and Happy Anniversary! My readers, I have to tell you that I am crazy. I am crazy for ever thinking the anniversary special could be contained inside one measly little chapter. Meaning, that's right, the special edition has become the special editions. So, relax. There's more where this came from coming in the next chapter.
The entirety of this chapter and the next will be complete and chronological flashbacks. If you think we're in the present at any time, check again. If the flow of this story is confusing, I strongly advise you to look back at other backstory chapters and flashback sequences (chapters 4,5,7, and 37 off the top of my head), which explain away any gaps you may notice.
Also, about last chapter. My thoughts were so with Tom and Baby Daren that putting up a warning didn't come to mind. I must say, that some of you pleasantly surprised me by being bothered by some of the raciness. I always consider this generation lost to the idea that the world is one big orgy, so I never considered for a moment there are people who don't feed on that kind of thing. It was about the joys of true marriage, though. Nothing more
Now, read and review and we'll see how fast these fingers can get the next chapter out. Enjoy!
A sharp whistle left his lips before Darwin marveled, "Outta sight."
"I hear you," Angel concurred. "This place is fly oh my."
Charles sent a smile to their first two recruits as they along with a silent Lehnsherr explored the facility. "I'm happy you approve. This is all rather exciting, isn't it?"
"Maybe even better than my high tip weekends," said Angel.
Darwin asked, "Tell me about it. I drive my own cab and folks tend to be selectively stingy. You a waitress, miss lady?"
"Entertainer," she answered vaguely.
"Excuse me," Charles stopped when they passed one agent, "have you seen my sister?"
The man replied, "Last I saw her she was with McCoy."
A briefly tense look crossed Charles' face. "Of course. Thank you." He then made use of his mutation to hone in on his missing sibling. "This way." He brought their group around a corridor.
Darwin glanced Erik's way. "We really appreciate you two bringing us out here. This is an amazing opportunity."
Erik's gaze remained set forward. "Adaptation ability and you showcase it as a chauffeur. You may be able to survive, but thriving is something you need to learn."
Instead of getting offended by the claim, the young man said, "Maybe you could show me a few things, sir. You've been at this mutant game longer than I have."
Erik then looked at him. "Maybe."
The familiar giggle caught Charles attention before he even saw the pair. "Raven."
Raven stopped walking when she saw him while Hank froze in place as if he currently had a bank vault tucked under his arm.
"Hey, you're back." Raven went to hug her brother.
Charles kept an arm around her. "Everything alright?"
"I'm fine," she whispered back.
"Good." Charles held out an arm to indicate the new faces. "Raven, Hank, I'd like you to meet Armando Munoz and Miss Angela Salvadore."
"Hello," Hank greeted while Raven gave them a bright, "Hi."
"How do you do?" Darwin reached out and shook Raven's hand with delicacy and looked to Hank. "Nice to meet you."
"The pleasure is mine," Hank told him. "Welcome."
"Who does your hair?" Angel asked. "It's gorgeous."
Raven touched the locks in question. "Just me I guess." She never found it simple to explain that one. "It's nice to see another girl here in testosterone-ville."
"Raven, would you mind showing Armando and Angela to the recreation room?" Charles requested. "Erik and I have another stop to make today."
"Sure," Raven agreed.
"Right this way." Hank began to lead them over.
"No one ever calls me Angela," Angel said covertly to Raven.
"Yep, that's my brother," she whispered back.
When they got to the double doors, Darwin jogged ahead, pushing one open. "Ladies first."
The females appeared most impressed, mainly Angel, as they entered.
Darwin walked around the decked out room with Hank. "You work here?" He took note of the lab coat.
"Research scientist," Hank responded.
The other male's jaw dropped. "You must be jiving. You can't be more than twenty-two."
"Not even," informed Hank. "I completed school a little early."
"In what, kindergarten?" Darwin cracked a smile. "That's what I'm talking about, though. We got a genuine Einstein in the ranks. Do your thing."
Hank became relaxed by him. "So, tell me. What's the nature of your mutation, Armando?"
"Just call me Darwin," he said. "Get to know me and you'll figure out why. My body adapts to any situation for survival."
"Fascinating," Hank reacted in interest. "That's an advancement to the human race if I ever heard."
"What about you?"
Hank's face contorted slightly. "I'm afraid my mutation is a genetic abnormality. But I'm very close to curing it."
Darwin looked him up and down. "You don't seem like a defect to me. You sure you want to fix what's not broken?" At Hank's following uncomfortable expression, he decided to switch subjects. "So what's the story between you and Miss Fine?" He used his shoulder to indicate where Raven sat talking on one of the black sofas with Angel.
"The Professor's sister?" Hank lowered his voice. "Oh nothing."
"Ah. Then you don't mind if I go say hello again." Darwin started to turn.
Hank grabbed his arm. "Don't you dare."
Darwin smirked at him. "Knew it. You two going out?"
"Not even," Hank replied grudgingly. "The closest thing we've had to a date has consisted of a banquet of cokes and Twinkies."
"Hey, that's not a bad start. But you better make a real move because girls who look like that don't stay on the market for long."
Hank gazed across the room at the women, the taller one in particular. "Yes."
Raven moved her head in time to see and gave him a wave.
When Hank reddened and hid his face, Darwin next had to work to cover up his snicker. This new team was going to be something else.
IIIIIII
Agitated fingers tapping the top of the thick iron table, Alex waited under the one overhanging lamp in the compact windowless room. At last, in walked two brunette men; one tall and a little overly chiseled and the other short with a bit of extra stomach fluff to him.
"Hello, Alexander," the short one addressed genially.
"Alex," the teenager corrected.
"Right," Charles nodded unmoved. "My name is Charles Xavier."
"Erik Lehnsherr," the other piped up.
Alex stared at them blankly. "And I care because…?"
"We are here with an offer," Charles explained. "What would you say about joining an allegiance of others like yourself?"
"Inmates?" he guessed.
"You know what we're talking about." Erik peered over at him pointedly. "So save your ignorance."
Panic hit him and his heartbeat sped up. Alex leapt up from the table, knocking his chair over in the process.
"Get away from me." He eyed them like devils incarnate.
"Alex, please calm down," Charles tried to soothe. "We are not here to hurt you."
"You won't get the chance." Alex turned towards the back wall, raising his arms.
"I wouldn't do that," Erik advised casually.
"Get bent," Alex tossed over his shoulder.
Alex, do please be reasonable. Charles watched as the boy spun around the room in utter confusion. We mean you no harm. We only wish to talk. You can also stop looking for the hidden microphone. It is I who is speaking to you.
Slowing moving around to face the telepath, Alex could only gape. He then gasped when the metal chair he knocked over came to life and repositioned itself.
"Have a seat," Erik instructed. When the teenager only continued to stare in disbelief, he caused the table to shake. "Did you think that was a request?"
Alex carefully lowered himself back into the seat. "I'm listening."
IIIIIII
Bringing the whipped cream topped strawberry milkshake over to the table at the far back of the soda shop, Erik placed it in front of the sulky redhead.
"Women," the Poland native stated, sitting back down. "Such fickle creatures, aren't they?"
"You got that right." Sean took a long sip from the straw. "Thanks."
"I'm most certain it's her loss," Charles put forward. "And another lovely girl's gain."
"Oh sure," Sean replied dryly. "If my hair turns yellow, my skin figures out how to tan, and I stop falling over myself."
"Nonsense," Charles insisted. "Sean, there is nothing wrong with you."
"He's right," Erik seconded. "Except for that mumble you seem to carry. But we all know why you speak that way, don't we?"
Sean glanced up at them fully.
Charles reached out, putting a hand over the young teen's wrist. "Will something happen if you raise your voice too high, Sean?"
"What?" he responded in a hushed whisper.
"You can tell us," Charles encouraged. "We won't run or turn away from you. We'll never turn away from you, Sean."
"Ya know," Sean folded his arms. "I'm starting to think that story you gave me about being secret agents on a national spy mission may not be true. Are those accents even real?"
"As real as your American dialect," Erik smirked.
"We exaggerated a smidge, but we are working with the government, Sean," Charles told him. "I learned of your extraordinary gift with my own abilities. You see, we need your help. How would you feel about training with the CIA?"
Sean's mouth opened as wide as it would go and for a while only odd indistinguishable utterances came out.
"I think he's choking," Erik put forth.
"You want me to be a superhero?" Sean finally got out.
Charles smiled pleasantly. "Yes, you do love them, don't you? Who is your favorite? The Man of Steel?" Sean jumped slightly when a miniature Superman flew across their table then vanished. "The Dark Knight?"
"Whoa!" Sean flinched as Batman popped up on his shoulder then left just as quickly. He grinned widely at Charles. "Do it again, do it again!"
Charles chuckled and said, "I'm not the only one with tricks to share."
Erik wiggled a finger, raising the spoon beside Sean's glass upward.
Sean saw it, shrugged, and looked at Charles. "Do it again, do it again."
The young professor had to laugh. "So, are you interested?"
"I don't know." Sean leaned back in his chair indecisively. "I mean, it's summer vacation so it's either yet another family trip where I'm yanking out my hair to keep from killing my brother or participating in the coolest thing ever."
Charles glanced at Erik in joy then asserted, "Wonderful! We're thrilled to have you along."
"I am so ready for this," Sean assured then saw the claw machine. "Do you have any quarters?"
Charles gave him a pocketful.
Erik watched the boy go play then turned to his associate. "He's going to get eaten alive."
"Oh he will not, Erik," Charles countered. "We'll work with him. He'll do just fine."
Sean yanked on the joystick. "Come on, little puppy."
Getting up, Erik walked over to him. He took magnetic possession of the claw and forced it to drop the stuffed dog down the chute.
Sean took out the spotted creature and turned to the older male. "Do it again, do it again!"
IIIIIII
Shackles tightened around the white clad woman, the armed CIA officials escorted her into their headquarters for questioning.
Are you so proud of yourself? Feel you've done your duty to society by having your own incarcerated?
You are a criminal. Charles stood by the truck, watching them take her in. You are set to help destroy an entire world and you dare to find fault with me for not allowing you to carry through?
Not the entire world, just the part that will inevitably hate and try to destroy us. How blind you are, Charles Xavier.
How brainwashed you are, Miss Frost. Sebastian Shaw has no tie to you or anyone else. If you allow yourself to believe otherwise then I pity you.
Save it, sugar. I guess we'll both soon see, won't we?
Before Charles could respond to her again, he heard Moira call out his name.
The Englishman made tracks for the CIA's plane, finding Erik already there and Moira over by the radio.
"Oh my God." Her voice strained.
"Moira." Charles rushed to her. "What is it?"
"We've just received word." She turned to him, eyes darkened and face repulsed. "There was an attack; Shaw. His men killed everyone on duty."
Charles felt his pulse super speed. "What about my sister?" he demanded.
"She's alright, but the other girl left with Shaw." Moira paused before speaking again. "After they killed Armando."
Charles' eyes reacted in horror.
Erik stepped back a pace. He silently cursed himself. He knew Shaw's capabilities, but had just not seen any of this coming. Despite that fact, he could not help the pangs of sincere guilt that came over him at the knowledge that one of their youths had perished and that the rest would be changed forever.
IIIIIII
Unlocking the front doors to his home for the first time in so long, Charles pulled them open and entered ahead of the group. Raven and the other young mutants followed him with Erik bringing up the rear.
When they reached the end of the main floor, Charles turned to face them all. "Welcome to our home." He looked to his sister. "Raven, could you take everyone upstairs and show them the bedrooms? I'll be along in a minute."
Raven nodded. "Come on, guys. Tour reroutes this way." She walked to the stairs and Sean and Alex went along.
"Do you want to get down?" Hank rubbed Becky's back over her sweater. She nodded, her chin tapping his shoulder. "Okay, here we go." He stood her up, taking her hand now.
Charles smiled and crouched down. "Is it big enough for you, Becky?"
She nodded again, staying close to Hank.
As the bosom pair started up the stairs, Erik observed the crestfallen girl. When they'd reunited with the children, the first thing he'd noticed were her eyes; the passionate green orbs now carried a lifeless dim.
"Five seconds," Erik spoke, gaining Charles' attention. "In that length of time, everything she ever knew was destroyed."
"Yet she is still here," Charles said next. "She still has hope, Erik."
The older man shook his head. "Try explaining that to her."
"Perhaps I'm not the best candidate for that," Charles ventured boldly, capturing Erik's attention
Upstairs, Raven led everyone along the second floor.
"Okay, so the bedrooms are pretty much up for grabs, except for the master up here and my room, which is a boy free zone." Mostly, she added to herself, glancing at Hank.
Alex wordlessly took off down the hall for the furthest possible room while Sean roamed somewhat aimlessly, entranced by the magnitude of everything in the house.
Charles joined the remaining three up the stairs. "Oh, Raven." He put his hand on a specific doorknob. "I think I know just the place for Becky." He opened the door.
Hank brought her into the massive bedroom with equally large windows and a solid oak sleigh bed.
"What do you think, Becca Bear?" Hank asked, giving her a little tug.
"It's nice," she said indifferently.
"No," Charles disagreed. "It's absolutely boring." He bent at the knees to face her. "That's why I thought it would be fun for you and Raven to go into town a little later and pick up a few nice things to add to it."
"Sounds great," Raven agreed, stepping up behind Hank.
"See if the boys would like to go as well." Charles looked at Becky again. "However, I have to impose one rule— you must get anything and everything you want."
"Thank you." The lackluster words came out of her mouth robotically.
Charles gave her round cheek a pinch. "You're welcome."
"Charles, Raven," Hank spoke, "may we have a moment alone?"
Not needing him to say anymore, Raven started out. Charles tapped Hank's shoulder supportively before leaving as well, closing the door after them.
As she slowly let go of his hand, Hank stood perfectly still and looked on while Becky took in the room. She climbed up onto the bed, made up with only plain white linens, and brought her knees to her chest in a fetal position. At the trembling her body gave off next, Hank practically leapt over to her.
"Becca. Be still." He clasped both her hands, attempting to bring her out of the attack. "It's alright. Honey, it's alright."
"What's going to happen to us?" she wondered in terror. "Why are we here?"
"We're here because we all have something in common," Hank explained carefully. "And Charles wants to help us." He lay behind her, bringing a long arm over her. "Becca, I need you to calm down or you're going to be very sick. If you get sick, I'm going to be sad. Please, try to relax for me."
Becky rolled over to snuggle into his chest. "Are you gonna go to your mom and dad?"
"No," he answered right away. "I have to take care of you. You're what matters to me." Hank felt her shaking subside. You're what matters to me.
Breathing steadily, Becky kept her eyes open for fear of what would happen if she dared shut them.
IIIIIII
After the little buying spree, Alex moved blankly throughout the mansion, trying to get some kind of feel for the new space. He stayed out in the middle of everything to avoid bumping into and breaking into something he had no chance of paying for. Sure, Charles had been nice to let them get new stuff, but like any rich guy, he would probably raise cane if any of his precious heirlooms got chipped.
The blonde made it into the living room and went over to the record player, running a hand over it.
Sean walked in not long after him. "Think you could get fifty bucks for it?" Alex turned, staring at him in puzzlement. "You know, fence value."
"Nice. Guy does a little time and suddenly he's a big ass thief, right?"
"N-no," Sean stumbled. "I was only— um, what did you get sent away for?"
Alex flopped over into an armchair. "Being a big ass thief."
Sean sniggered a little. "Some house, right?" He sat on the nearby loveseat.
"Yeah, just makes me think: who died?" Alex quipped.
"Our mom." They both discovered Raven in the doorway. "Is that funny?"
Alex sat up. "Hey, look, sorry. Didn't mean anything by it. I didn't know."
"Which is why the 'shut up' option is usually best," Raven suggested with a fake smile. "By the way, start using that more around Hank."
"What do you see in that guy?" Alex scoffed.
"A non-convict," Raven replied matter-of-factly.
Alex glared, getting to his feet. "Well, you won't have to worry about that for too long. Once I get my hands on that son of a bitch who killed Darwin, I'm gone."
"Just like that?" Sean frowned.
Alex shrugged flippantly. "Nothing keeping me here." He walked out by Raven.
"You got that right," the shape-shifter mumbled.
Sean shifted uneasily in his seat. It seemed as if they would all soon disappear.
IIIIIII
A few nights later, Charles walked into the parlor only to find someone already there.
"Erik," he acknowledged. "It seems you've discovered my sanctuary."
The tall man turned around, hands in pockets. "Am I intruding?"
"Certainly not," Charles reassured. "I have my study. Why don't you select an office as well?"
"I'm not exactly a desk jockey." Erik sat in the chair on the right hand side of the room.
Charles took the opposite chair from him. "Becky joined the others for a card game tonight."
Erik folded one of his legs slightly over the other. "Oh?"
"I'm not sure what you said to her, but it's obvious it did her a great deal of good."
You are not alone. "I didn't say much of anything," Erik denied. "I told her to eat. Spoiled child she is, lacks discipline."
"Hm." Charles gazed at him as if he could see directly through every wall in and around him.
Erik then asked, "What's going to become of her, anyway? Are you planning to take her in permanently?"
"Well, according to Hank there is no immediate family. In fact, the mother signed over custody after she was born," Charles said.
Erik's brow creased disbelievingly. "Her own child?"
Charles nodded. "So I very well could take over guardianship. In fact I would love to. Brilliant little one that she is. I can homeschool her right here when the summer ends. Sean as well. Then there is Alex and…" A glow came over him all at once.
"What is that gleam in your eye, Xavier?" Erik asked suspiciously.
"A school," Charles put forth. "Erik, we have the makings to create an entire campus. For mutants."
Erik raised an eyebrow. "You mean a handful of mutants."
"We've already begun work on the new Cerebro," Charles reminded him. "We could locate more mutant children. I know I felt others out there. Just think of it, Erik."
"Charles, climb off these fancies," Erik said dismissively. "We have a mission to complete. That's why we're here. Or is Shaw's nuclear age second to your desire to play professor?"
Charles shook his head in displeasure. "Why do you do that?"
"Do what?"
"You know what I mean. You'll risk it all in freezing water to raise a submarine, but you won't risk the slightest notion of caring for another."
Erik blinked once before standing. "You'll understand the world a little better one day, Charles." He started out. "When you grow up." He summoned his coin from his pocket, magnetically twirling it through his fingers.
IIIIIII
Done with the last snap on her purple jumper, Becky opened the door to her room and took a tentative step out. She really had not seen much of the grand house beyond the dining room, living room, and Hank's new laboratory, which he'd already gotten messy. She made a face at the low lighting and strange old furniture the second floor had to offer.
On the main level, she found the atmosphere a little better, but not the decor. Becky bumped an end table and quickly picked up the frame she'd made fall onto its face. She took a moment to study the elegant couple in the black and white photograph before continuing on her way. Going into the kitchen, she spotted the cookie jar on the counter like a bee to honey. Becky pulled the jar down and removed its lid, finding a mixture of chocolate chips and oatmeal raisin treats within. She took two handfuls, stuffing them in her pockets.
Munching along now, she kept walking until she sensed something outside. Getting the backdoor open, she had to ease her eyes against the direct rays of sun she had not experienced for a few days. After the green orbs adjusted, Becky saw Erik performing different martial arts moves in the football field they had for a backyard.
A chocolate chip cookie in hand, she walked out to him. "How old are you?"
Erik paused at her voice and looked down. "I beg your pardon?"
"How tall are you?"
"Are we writing a book?" Erik countered her.
"I have to ask since I can't read your mind," she brought up.
Erik regarded her in faint amusement. "Six feet exactly. And to answer your previous question- old enough to be your father."
"Old enough to be my brother's father, too?" Becky took another bite of cookie.
"Biologically speaking, yes," Erik answered. He walked to a tree stump and retrieved his towel. He wiped his sweat covered face then noticed the girl right by his leg again. "Haven't you heard that I bite the heads off little children? At least that's the rumor around here."
"Are you going to bite me?" Her voice carried not a trace of worry over the prospect.
"Perhaps I should." He took the oatmeal raisin cookie sticking out of her pocket. "I'm sure you taste awfully sweet after a few of these."
She looked at him for a long while before suddenly darting back inside the house.
Erik stared after her departing little legs in bewilderment before deciding he'd sufficiently scared her off and returned to his exercises.
One minute later, Becky bottled back out. "Here," she panted, holding up the tall glass of ice water for him.
Taken aback, Erik accepted it with a gruff, "Thank you." He took a long drink and started for the house himself.
"Where are you going?" Becky moved alongside him.
"To shower." He looked down when she followed him upstairs. "Stay." She stopped on a step while he continued. Feeling her eyes on his back, Erik sighed and ordered without turning around. "Come." Becky brightened and galloped after him. When they got into his room, Erik pointed at the bed. "Sit."
Becky climbed up on the mattress.
Gathering some clothes, Erik stepped off into his private bath.
Kicking off her shoes, Becky stood up on the large bed and bounced lightly.
"Stop that!" Erik called through the closed door, turning on the water for his shower.
Becky immediately dropped back into a sitting position. She got up after seven minutes and walked to the closet, getting it open. She saw mostly men's suits and nice slacks hanging up. Closing it again, Becky got back on the bed and lay down, reaching for the drawer of the night table.
A fully dressed Erik left out of the bathroom. The moment he saw her fishing through his belongings, he cleared his throat forcefully and approached. He noted how quickly she moved to lay flat on her back now.
"Do you remember what I told you about reading my mind?" He pushed the drawer back in before looking at her.
"You said stay out," she recalled.
"Exactly. So if I don't want you reading my thoughts," Erik sat on his bed, facing her, "what made you think it would be alright for you to rifle through my things?"
"I don't know," she answered honestly.
Gripping her at her waist, Erik stood her. "Go sit in that chair over there," he indicated the one facing his dresser, "until I call for you."
Without protest, Becky went over and took up the designated seat.
Erik put on and tied his shoes then waited another for minutes before speaking to her again. "You may get up now."
She did walked right back to him. "I'm sorry, Erik. I'll be a good girl now."
Erik took possession of one of the delicate hands and brushed her cheek with his thumb. "You are. If anyone ever tries to tell you differently, never believe it." Becky smiled at him. Erik felt something awaken inside him and he pulled her to sit on his right thigh.
"Becca." Hank stopped off in the half open doorway. "There…" He took in the sight of the two of them. "There you are. Um," he kept his gaze on Erik as he spoke, "l was worried when you weren't in your room. Lunch is ready." He extended his hand.
Becky looked to Erik.
"Go on." The man stood her, but she didn't move. "Go. I'll be right down. And here." He picked up her shoes, handing them over.
Taking them, Becky hurried over to grab Hank's hand.
As they went, Hank regarded Erik warily. The metal wielder only stared back evenly.
IIIIIII
Sean, are you here?
From one corner between two shelves in the library, Sean called back softly, "Over here."
Charles walked over, kneeling down to where the lanky individual sat on the floor. "It's lunchtime."
"'Kay." The bulk of Sean's attention stayed on the novel he held.
"Seems you always have your nose buried in a book," Charles noted positively. "Do you like to read?"
"I love it," Sean told him.
"What do you like to read most?" Sean brought the book up for Charles to examine the title. "The Haunting of Hill House?"
"Yeah." Sean bent an upper corner of the page to save his place and closed the book. "I love scary stuff. I mean, I'm not a freak or anything. I read the Bible almost every day. This stuff just gets my blood pumped."
"I don't think you're a freak, Sean," Charles said sincerely. "We have a fairly nice stock of horror fiction in here. And if it isn't enough for you, we'll just pay a little visit to the bookstore."
"Thanks," Sean smiled softly.
Charles touched the side of his face, rubbing the strands of hair with his fingers. "How are you doing these days?"
"Okay," Sean sighed.
Charles stared at him with kindness. "I've sensed some sleeping problems from you at night. Would you like to talk about it?"
Sean stayed quiet at first and Charles refused to rush him. "I know I said I didn't want to go back home. And I meant it. But it's not because I feel like I have a job to finish. After everything that's happened, I can't go back right now. Home may be the same, but I'm not. Still, I'm not sure if I'm any good to you here."
"You're every good to me," Charles stated resolutely. "I'm so happy you're here, Sean. As for the rest, I would love to help you continue to grow." Charles moved some of the red strands from in front of his eyes. "How would you like to stay and study here with me, even after Shaw?"
Sean turned to face him. "You mean that?"
"Yes." Charles' expression turned a touch more serious. "I won't always be so easy on you, but I will be right here for you every step of the way. What do you say to that?"
"I'm in," the boy replied. "Again."
With a smile, Charles patted his arm and stood. "Come, let's join the others. Hank has some interesting new developments concerning the capabilities of your mutation."
Fully intrigued, Sean placed his book down before jumping up to follow after the man.
IIIIIII
Launching forward violently, Alex fell straight out of bed as the horrific images seemed to discard him roughly. His door flung open, startling him again until he blurrily made out the face and form of the Professor.
"Alex, what happened?" He hurried to him, dropping down to check him over. "Are you alright, lad?"
Shaking his head to get a grip on things, Alex pushed away. He unsteadily got to his feet and ran right out of his room. Making hard contact with something in the hall, he glanced up and saw Erik, who did not speak or react at all. Staying quiet himself, Alex took off down the stairs.
Not stopping the rapid pace until he made it into the weight room, he snatched up a pair of gloves. Hands now covered, Alex attacked the dangling punching bag with every ounce of force he had within. He kept going until the red gloves blurred in front of him. Delivering a roundhouse kick to the bag, Alex collapsed onto the mat below his feet, his breath gone from him.
A hand reached down to him, surprising the teen. Seeing Erik's even countenance, Alex slowly extended one of his own appendages back. Erik took him by the wrist to pull up.
"Better?"
"No," Alex replied immediately.
Taking off his bathrobe, Erik stood in pajama bottoms and an undershirt. "Perhaps you would prefer a living target." He nonchalantly dropped the robe onto a nearby bench then made a "come" motion with his hand.
Alex remained still for a few seconds before an angered utterance jumped from his throat and he lunged a blow to the man's chest. Erik ducked and spun behind him. Turning quickly, Alex attempted a kick next.
Erik grabbed his ankle. "Try that without shoes on and you'll be limping away on a broken foot. Use your head, boy."
Glowering, Alex snatched his foot away and sent out two punches now. Seizing the thin arms, Erik reeled him in and gave the top of the blonde head a mild slap.
Alex grunted and wanted to know, "What was that for?"
"Hurt me all you want. Right now, you're only doing harm to yourself." Erik released him. "That I won't allow."
Taking a moment to concentrate, Alex managed to finally connect a blow to Erik's stomach. He looked up to catch the man's reaction, only to find a mostly straight face. Alex had to wonder if the metal wielder was also made of iron and steel.
Though he had been stricken, Erik had to grab hold of Alex when weakening seized control over the boy. Erik gathered him and went over to lean against one wall with him. With Alex's back to him, Erik gave soft pats to the youth's stomach as a soothing technique.
"Better?" Erik repeated his earlier question.
"Yeah," Alex answered now. "Gotta say, beats you wailing on me like last night."
"If you call those toddler strikes I gave you wailing then we have a great deal of pain tolerance training ahead," said Erik. "Now, what happened up in your room to bring you down here?"
"Dreams," he replied plainly.
Nightmares. "The attack?"
"And stuff," Alex added vaguely.
"Wide open book I see."
Alex scoffed at that. "You should talk, dude."
"Touché," Erik conceded. "Think you can try to sleep again?"
Alex nodded tensely. "Probably."
Feeling him going limp, Erik took one of his arms and draped it over his shoulders. "Let's go."
Not arguing, Alex walked along, partially leaning against the older mutant.
Carrying most of the weight burden for them both but not at all minding, Erik brought them upstairs and into the teenager's bedroom. He lay him down on the bed and watched as Alex seemed to absorb right into it, exhaustion hitting him from the late night workout. Erik spotted the discarded blanket and took hold of it to cover the boy. Extending his hand, he started to rub Alex's back in a massaging gesture. It surprised him when the technique actually provoked him into a faster slumber. Erik pulled away, studying his hand, as if searching for sparks of enchantment.
Leaving out, he noticed the bedroom belonging to Sean with its door open. He headed towards the center of the hall and lingered in the doorway. He observed Charles at the redhead's bedside, two fingers on his own temple and a hand across Sean's forehead.
Erik waited until the Professor removed both hands before asking, "Is he alright?"
Charles glanced over his shoulder at the older man, his normal cheer coming onto his face. "Oh, just fine now. He'd had trouble sleeping earlier and the excitement stirred him. Speaking of," his tone turned knowingly, "how is Alex?"
"He's strong, possibly more than he should have to be," Erik responded. "Can I see you for a minute?"
"Certainly." Charles got up and walked off with him.
The men wound up downstairs in the parlor. Taking separate but facing chairs, neither spoke at first.
"You're ready to start the school," Charles finally stated.
Erik sent him a glare. "Stay out of my head, Lab Rat."
"Strange," Charles noted evenly. "I didn't hear a denial in that sentence."
Sighing with a level of annoyance that the young man always seemed to bring out in him, Erik said, "These kids are more than a fledging army we've put together. They are ours; the developing young and future of mutant kind."
"That they are," Charles agreed.
"The world beyond these walls will not be their friend, Charles," Erik urged him. "It is up to us to train, educate, and discipline them."
"How do you propose we do that?" Charles asked. "Discipline, I mean. I know what my beliefs are there, but what are yours?"
"Do you remember my telling you about my run-in with Alex last night?" At Charles' nod, Erik went on. "I swatted him to prod him back into the house."
Charles looked thoughtful then leaned forward. "May I tell you something?" Erik nodded now. "Before the attack took place, I'd planned on putting each of them across my knee for that wretched display."
Erik seemed impressed. "Perhaps we have more in common than I previously thought." His face changed to a far more somber expression. "Charles, as the elders in this group, I believe we have a responsibility to each other as well as the children. Meaning, we have to hold each other accountable for our actions."
Charles nearly snorted. "With your foolhardy nature to take unnecessary risks? Absolutely."
The older mutant gave him a pointed stare. "Not to mention your tendency to poke about in others' minds without consent."
Charles rubbed the back of his neck and his eyes darted around. "Yes, well, I was getting to myself. I suppose I could benefit from the occasional correction." He looked at him closely. "You do realize that by agreeing to this, you are laying down an honest commitment to this institution? Meaning your days of thinking of yourself as one are long over." He pointed upward. "These children have been through more than their fair share. Were you to turn on your back on them, they would never recover. They matter ahead of ourselves, the CIA, and Shaw."
Erik took that in then stated, "This is the mission now. They are the mission now."
Holding a hand out, Charles waited until the metal wielder accepted the solidifying shake.
"I'm going to put on a large pot of tea." Charles got up, heading out. "This is going to be a long night to say the least."
A few seconds after his friend went into the kitchen, Erik stood and returned upstairs. He opened Sean's door, finding him cuddled with a pillow. The man next went to Raven's suite, seeing her sleeping state had reverted her back to her much better blue form. Going to Hank's room, Erik discovered it empty. Moving on to the room right beside it, he saw the house's youngest inhabitant clutching her porcelain doll. Erik walked in, watching her a moment before running a hand through the soft curls. As he left out again, Becky's eyelashes fluttered and her lips turned up.
After he found Alex still in a restful position in bed, Erik went around the corridor to the laboratory. Opening one of the French doors, he saw Hank asleep over several research logs at the desk. When the young scientist began to stir, Erik hastened out of sight. Hank blinked a few times, wondered for a moment when he'd left one of the doors open, and fell back to sleep.
IIIIIII
"Did we do something wrong?" Becky asked, reclining against Raven in the plush armchair they currently shared.
"Of course not." Hank reached over from where he sat on the arm of the couch by their chair and flicked her little nose.
"Charles just wants to have a talk," Raven cajoled, braiding a section of Becky's long hair. "He couldn't be mad at you."
Becky's tone carried greater worry as she asked, "Is Erik mad at me?"
Alex blew out a dismissive breath, seated beside Sean on the couch. "You're the puppy in this litter, kid. You're safe and sound. Only mutts have to worry."
Sean tried to lighten the mood with, "Maybe Erik wants to throw me off the satellite dish without my flight suit this time."
Hank stifled a laugh at the recollection from the previous day. "And you said you didn't trust me…"
"Forgive me," Sean quipped. "I was blind, but now I see."
"Dead but now I live." The quote from Erik proceeded the two adult mutants entering the living room.
"Hello, everyone," Charles greeted warmly. "We've gathered you here for a very exciting announcement. Erik and I have decided to return to our efforts of recruiting other young mutants like yourselves and turn this house into a school for children with such gifts."
"A school?" Sean reacted brightly.
"A school?" Alex repeated sourly.
"Really?" Hank said in intrigue.
Raven stayed silent, having not expected this.
"Yes, really," Charles confirmed.
"It sounds like a wonderful idea, Charles, but the new Cerebro is still very volatile," Hank reminded. "The recruitment won't be near the level we had at the facility."
"It's a start," Charles said positively. "That's all we need. In fact, Hank, how would you feel about taking on a teaching position as our science instructor?"
Raven smiled widely and Becky clapped supportively.
The young man glowed. "I'd be honored."
Erik spoke next. "With this new development, comes the rules and regulations of the compound."
Almost every young face deflated at that.
Sean dared to venture, "What kind of rules?"
Erik began to rattle them off. "None of you are to leave the grounds for any reason unless we know exactly where you are going. Curfew is at ten o'clock on weeknights and eleven on weekends."
"Curfew?" Alex said in disbelief. "You're kidding me."
"Do you see a smile present on my face?" Erik countered.
"Do we ever?" Alex returned flippantly.
"And Mr. Summers has brought us to another fine point of all of this," Erik moved on. "Consequences."
"Should any of you break the rules Erik and I set forth for you," Charles continued from there, "there will be a variety of penalties, including loss of privileges, additional chores or assignments, and—"
"Spanking," Erik interjected straightforwardly, receiving shocked faces from the five before them. "It's the punishment you'll face most frequently. As powerful as all of you are, as intelligent, as strong, you are still children. We're here to remind you of that fact."
"Wait a minute." Sean raised his hand. "When you say spanking, you mean as in Euro or American style?"
"We are not going to beat you, Sean," Charles promised, hiding his amusement. "A simple spanking on your bums. Though depending on the offence, we may use more than our own hands to correct you."
"Why?" Alex wanted to know.
"For survival," Erik answered. "We've already lost two of our own. Never again."
A solemn silence fell over the group.
Becky raised her hand.
"Yes, love?" Charles pointed to her.
"Does this mean we're all going to stay together?" the little girl asked.
Charles looked to Erik, who said, "Yes. We are."
That reaffirmed, they spent the next twenty minutes going over more rules about going out, about times to go to bed, assigned chores and getting them done, but they spent the most amount of time discussing training and power misuse.
"Any questions?" Charles asked at the conclusion.
Sean raised a finger. "If we break a rule who- um, who do we get into trouble with?"
Able to sense the boy's uneasiness, Charles said, "That is dependent on a number of factors. Certainly we will consider your comfort levels. Only understand that Erik and I both care for all of you very much and mean no harm in correcting you."
Looking toward the girls, it amazed Erik how icy Raven appeared while Becky carried much more of a warmth his direction.
"Can we go?" Alex asked glibly. As a second thought, he tacked on, "Please?"
"Go," Erik dismissed after glancing at Charles.
Raven stood first, leading Becky out by the hand with Hank following. The younger teen boys came up behind them.
"That was mixed emotion if I ever felt it," Charles stated. "But I'm most confident we can do this, Erik."
"We will," responded the other man. We have to.
IIIIIII
"Hey, Raven." The redheaded male tossed her the bag of unshelled walnuts from the cabinet.
"Hey, Seanie," she returned, catching it to add its contents to the brownie mix she busily stirred together.
"You've lived here the longest." Sean went over to stand near her at the counter. "How serious is Charles about the bad behavior thing?"
"He's not a tyrant," Raven stated.
"What's the matter, kid?" Alex took the gallon of milk out of the refrigerator. "Shaking over the thought of getting your—" He noticed Becky out of the corner of his eye. "—butt beaten?"
The little girl paused her pencil to look up at the blonde knowingly.
"Noooo," Sean said in reply to Alex. "But I'm surprised you're not bothered by all this."
Alex splashed some milk into the mixing bowl.
"Not too much," Raven cautioned.
"Sorry, sorry." Alex put the cap back on before speaking to Sean again. "It doesn't bother me a lick. First of all, I'm out of here first chance I get. Second, there are worst things that can happen to you besides getting your hide tanned. Charles doesn't exactly have the sadist vibe."
"What about Erik?" Sean brought up.
"Respect him," Hank piped up, lighting the oven. "But watch yourselves at the same time."
Becky glanced back at him then her eyes went to Alex, who slouched uncomfortably but said nothing. She closed her notebook and stood from her seat at the table, slipping out of the kitchen. She kept walking until she got to the stairs and stooped to sit on the lowest step.
A pair of black shoes stepped up on her. "If it isn't the sweet imp." She sent a smile up that gave him invitation enough to sit down beside her. "What are you writing?"
"Stories and things," she answered vaguely.
"Ah." Erik reclined against the steps, watching her. "Is that how you made the A's in creative writing and reading this past semester?" Becky turned to him with perplexity on her face and he explained, "We obtained copies of your last few report cards. You seem to do well, except for certain recurring comments. Little concentration, daydreaming, drawing in class. Sound familiar?"
"I guess," she replied indifferently.
"Did your—" He watched his tongue. "Did you ever receive any help at home with homework?"
"Just from Hank. He's the smartest man in the world."
"You just may be right," Erik said. He took a few strands of her hair into his hand to play with. "Do you know what I think?" A mischievous giggle bubbled out of her. "Yes, silly question on my part." A slight smile tugged at the man's lips. "Well, good little telepath, what I think is that your last school was terribly boring and unfit for a mind such as yours. I also think there are a great many things I could teach you."
Becky moved closer, looking at him. "Like what?"
"You say that one doll of yours is from France, yes?" The child nodded. "How would you like to learn French?" At the sparkle of genuine interest that came to her eyes, he went on. "Or read books about girls not much older than yourself through history?"
"Oh yes!" Becky replied enthusiastically. She let go of her journal in favor of pouncing on him.
Not used to being tackled by babes, Erik had to fight not to deflect the attack. He carefully sat her up on his stomach, taking a moment to examine the endearing face of his species' young. He found his arms going around her in a way that would prevent another from snatching her out of his clutch.
"Erik?"
He left his thoughts at her voice. "Hm?"
"Why do people say bad things about other people?" she asked.
Trying to figure out the best yet simplest way to answer, he said, "There are many reasons why. Sometimes people talk as a means of feeling bold without having to act. Other times, people say bad things about others because those things happen to be true."
She traced with her finger over his turtleneck. "Not all the time. Right?"
"No." He remained still, trying to adjust to the physical contact of another life. "Not all the time."
A gentle relaxed hum soon echoed from the girl as she lingered on him.
IIIIIII
Raven came into Charles' study and dropped off the saucer containing two fudge treats. "We made brownies. Now, choke on 'em." She turned to go.
Frowning, Charles got up to move around and block her path. "Pardon me, Raven Xavier, but might I ask what is upsetting you at the moment?"
She folded her arms and stared at him crossly. "Just trying to figure out when our home became your home again. First, you don't say two words to me about inviting all these people to stay here then you and Erik turn around and create whole new rules without talking to me again."
Charles sighed. "Raven, I'm sorry. With all the excitement of late— you're right. I should have asked you how you felt about all of this. Come here, love." He put his arm around her and walked them both over to sit on the sofa. "Are you angry about the idea of the school?"
"Of course not," she answered without hesitation. "I think it's a great idea. I'm glad they're here, but everything is happening so fast." Raven placed her head on his shoulder tiredly.
"I know, it certainly is." Charles put a comforting arm around her. "But Baby Blue, regardless of the changes we're facing, this is still our home. Nothing can change that much."
She smiled then socked his arm lightly. "If you ever call me that sickly sweet kid name in front of anyone else, you are dead."
"Sorry, what was that?" Charles yanked her onto his lap and started tickling her without mercy. "I didn't catch it."
"Charles!" the presently blonde shape-shifter screamed in laughter. "Stop!"
The man did, but only to hold her. We have something wonderful here, Raven. We're going to change mutant lives everywhere by inviting them into our home.
Great. But I have a request.
And what might that be?
Enough with the boys already.