X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter One Hundred Three
Author's Word: Greetings and tidings of much love, dear fam. I return to you the picture of solid health. Thank you all for your well wishes and lovely as ever feedback. I love having fam. Now, please enjoy and review!
Birds chirping overhead and sounds of other small animals going on quests for food became drowned out by the deep roars of the manmade devices. The blue one zipped through first with the red not far behind. The silver brought up the rear. Rounding one edge of the woods, the blue mounted a slope with ease. Growing less than enthused, the silver shot beyond the red to catch up with the blue. It succeeded in doing so as they all slowed to a stop.
Removing his helmet, Logan commented, "Not bad, kid."
"Thanks." Alex took off his as well. "God, this was incredible. It feels like the first time I rode all over again."
"Yeah," Victor's blonde hair unearthed at the detachment of his own helmet, "just take it easy, champ. Remember ya just got back in this game."
Alex gazed out over the cliff edge towards the rising sun. He seemed to receive that reminder in some way, shape, or form at every possible moment.
The three formed a sprawled out half circle, each with backs up against their bikes. Logan held a Lager while the other two drank cokes.
"What's it like?" Alex suddenly tossed out.
Logan looked over. "What?"
He clarified, "Being invincible. Knowing nothing can hurt you."
Victor turned around evenly, "Who says nothing can hurt us?"
Alex said, "Not from the inside out."
"Yeah right," Logan scoffed. "You talkin' cardiac arrest? He's had heart attacks," he indicated his brother across the way, "I've had 'em. Adrenaline can pump us up until we're about ready to explode."
"Then you're ready to fight again by morning," Alex emphasized. "Ever since this crap went down, I feel like I've lost everything I ever worked for. Even when I'm "all better" I'll never get treated the same around here again."
"You'll find your way back," Victor told him.
"How do you know that?" Alex shot back.
"Because," Victor looked at him sharply, "I know that. Did you think your life would ever be the same after your parents?"
"No," Alex answered honestly.
"After you got locked up?"
"…No," he repeated.
"You ain't nowhere near the peak of harsh shit you're gonna face, pal," Logan informed him. "Just keep livin'." He started to stand. "Let's head back."
Victor got up and walked over to the teenager. "Show 'em who's invincible." He extended a hand. Alex appeared thoughtful then accepted the offered appendage. "And cut the cutesy stunts, pretty boy. You got squat to prove to us."
A faint chuckle exhaled from Alex's lips. "Yes, sir."
They rode back to the mansion and Alex started upstairs to get ready for his early class when the hall phone went off.
"Hello," he answered into it before the ringing could wake the others.
"Morning, you magnificent piece of mutant."
He smiled widely. "Holly?"
"I spoke to my sweet little flower the other night, who told me you had a bit of a heart mishap. It's a good thing we didn't go all the way. Couldn't have you flat-lining right on top of me, now could I?"
"But what a way to go," Alex remarked, diving right into the fantasy.
Holly's smile could be heard through her end. "If that's how you feel, perhaps another abrupt visit is in order. This time I was thinking you laid up while I prance about in a nurse uniform."
"Thanks a lot. With that image, I won't be able to concentrate in class all… year." His voice softened. "But seriously Holly, thanks for calling. Actually, make that thanks for caring."
"Not hard to do where you're involved, stud," she said. "And regardless of our status, do me a big favor and take care of yourself."
"I will," he promised. "You, too, gorgeous."
After they said goodbye, he hung up and continued on to his room. Going through his book bag, his attention immediately fluttered elsewhere. He lowered onto his mattress, eyes locked ahead.
IIIIIII
Once they made it inside the community center, Cordelia and Jasmine each gave Charles a departing kiss on the cheek before making their way to gymnastics and volleyball respectively.
"Bye, Daddy." Joey hurried into his art class.
Charles looked at the one youth remaining. "You're going to play in the gym?"
Cody nodded. "I want to check out the climbing wall."
"That sounds grand, but be sure not to leave the building," Charles cautioned.
"Don't worry. I'll stay put," Cody guaranteed.
Joey then flew back out, looking frantic. "Daddy, Daddy, I forgot something."
Charles looked alarmed for him. "What is it? I saw you carry your supply case in."
"Not that. This." Joey gave him a hug. "I love you."
Charles smiled and lowered down to better embrace him. "I love you, too, son." He gave Cody's cheek a tickle. "And you. Have a wonderful time, lads." He stood to go.
"See you, Charles," Cody called after him while Joey yelled, "Bye, Daddy."
"Bye, Daddy," someone parroted.
"Aw, look at Daddy's Boy."
Cody glanced over to see two older boys down the hall, laughing and snickering. "Who're they?"
Joey shook his head. "That's just Ian and Luis. They're always saying stuff." He smiled, "See you during my break time," then returned to the room.
Cody started for the gym, his eyes locked on the continuously jeering boys as he went.
IIIIIII
With the near nauseating amount of purple that surrounded New York University, Alex developed a newfound appreciation for the colors his own school had to offer. For going on half an hour, he lingered on a bench, scanning through the faces until they all started to nearly bleed together.
Deciding to try another spot, he got up.
"Alex?"
Seeing the golden haired figure in a blue dress approaching, he returned the acknowledgement with, "Hey, Kerstin."
She stood before him, surprising him by touching a hand to his chest. "How are you feeling?"
"Better and better," he replied.
"Good." She removed her hand. "Now, last I checked Westchester University was still located in- Westchester. What are you doing here?"
"Went for a cruise in-between classes and took a gamble I might run into you. Since I did I thought maybe," he shrugged with a glib smile, "we could grab some not-caffeinated-whatsoever coffee. On me?"
Kerstin immediately shook her head. "That is a bad idea."
Alex followed her movements as she turned away. "Come on, why? Don't tell me your PR gig has you so wrapped up you can't take a coffee break."
"My PR gig isn't the problem," she informed. "You are."
"Whoa, what did I do?" he wanted to know.
"Nothing yet and you won't get the chance." Kerstin walked off with that.
"Crash and burn." Frowning, Alex veered around to see Zaro standing just a few feet behind him. "Then again, that's the story of your life, isn't it?"
Alex let the jab go and instead came back with, "And what's your problem, anyway? Don't tell me you're into her."
"Kerst is like a sister to me," the other young man said. "Personally, I'd like to see her do better than some weak chump who can't even handle the excitement of a fight. Seriously, my granddad handles BP better."
"Funny," Alex stepped up, "I'm feeling pretty good right now if you want to pick up where we left off."
"Watch yourself," Zaro cautioned. "Metal man's not here to save your ass."
"How about you leave my dad out of this?"
"What dad?" Zaro shot back. "You don't have a dad." He then had no time to blink as Alex's right fist connected with his chin.
Zaro dropped to the cement ground. He stared up at Alex in disbelief before leaping up to tackle him. Alex put him in a vice-grip and the two tumbled down together. They started exchanging blows and a crowd of on-lookers quickly developed.
IIIIIII
When Cody met up with Joey outside the art room, the former reached into his backpack.
"Look what my uncle snuck me." He retrieved a pair of chocolate bars.
"Thanks." Joey gladly accepted his.
"Bye-bye, Daddy."
"I wuv you, Daddy."
Joey sighed while Cody glared over at Ian and Luis passing through.
"Hey." Cody went after them. "That's the second time I heard ya givin' my friend a hard time. Knock it off already."
The dark haired Luis stepped up. "Or you'll do what?" He gave Cody a hard shove down to the tiled floor of the hallway. "Featherhead."
Glaring, Cody stated matter-of-factly, "You chose to do that to the wrong guy, bub."
When Cody leapt up, Joey hurried over to get between him and the older boys. "Cody, forget them. Just come back to my art class with me."
"Better listen to your friend," the blonde Ian advised, "Co-dy."
"Featherhead," Luis scoffed again before they walked off.
Joey attempted to soothe the seething Cody with, "It's okay. Really."
However, Cody's facial expression proved that he felt less than the same sentiment.
IIIIIII
Passing through the foyer, Hank paused his pace at the presence of the pigtailed little girl skipping down the stairs.
"And where are you off to?" the scientist asked with a smile.
"We're going to play before dinner," Becky replied, indicating the jumping rope she had in her possession.
"Not dressed like that you're not," he informed, taking note of her polka dot t-shirt and blue jeans. Hank took hold of the pink sweater dangling off the coat rack and knelt to help her into it. "Remember, we're not the kind of bears that grow fur." She giggled. "So, Becca."
She moved her hair out of the way. "So, Hank."
"I've been meaning to talk to you about something for a while," he began. "I heard how you initially reacted to Charles and Emma's big news. Would it bother you if Raven and I were to ever really have a baby?"
"No," she answered automatically, facing him.
Not seeing so much as a grain of dishonesty in her face or posture, Hank wanted to know, "Why?"
Becky explained, "Because everything's different now. My dad, where I live, even my name. The only thing I have that's the same is you, Big Bear. You're all I wanted to be the same. No matter what happens, bad stuff or good stuff, nothing can split us up."
Hank brought her into a tight hug. "Only the foolish would try."
Becky leaned on him a moment then pulled back to stroke his cheeks with her thumbs. "I can't wait for you to be a daddy."
"Neither can I. In the meantime," he gave her stomach a tiny poke, "I think I have my fair share of kids to care for around here."
The girl smiled at him then continued on for the backyard while Hank went into the kitchen.
At the stove, Raven prepared the steaks and chattered with Maya, who sat at the island slicing tomatoes for the salad.
"It's the middle of class and Professor Thead is taking up the entire hour to ramble on about h—" The blue shape-shifter squealed as she suddenly found herself a few feet above the floor. "Baby!" She smiled, reaching around to feel him at his jaw. "Cooking here."
"So let it simmer," he dismissed before maneuvering her around in his arms for a long kiss.
Raven's arms went around his neck and she practically melted in his hold.
Hank slowly lowered her back down. "I love you, Mrs. McCoy."
"I love you, too," she returned.
He smiled at her then looked over at their thoroughly swooned audience member. "Maya," Hank went to take a seat next to her, "how's Erik treating you in foreign language?"
"Okay," the girl answered. "I have a mountain of conjugating awaiting me tonight."
As they talked, Raven resumed things at the stove and snuck the occasional smitten glance at her husband.
IIIIIII
"Spirit, Spirit, let's hear it," chanted Cordelia and Becky, who twirled the colorful ropes vigorously while the named one jumped.
When the ball missed the net yet again, Frank gave off a shake of his head.
"Joey, where'd you learn how to shoot?" he tossed out. "First-graders in my old neighborhood can do better."
"Cut it out, Frank," said Cody, picking the ball up. "Just let him play." He threw the ball back towards the blonde.
Joey caught it and dribbled a bit before attempting to hurl it at the net again. It went far off and Scott had to chase after it.
Frank scoffed. "You call that playing? Gimme a break."
"Frank," Scott passed him the ball, "just lay off, okay? Take a shot."
Seizing the rubber sphere, Frank threw and dunked with ease. "Don't worry, Joey. Some guys aren't meant to be athletic. You stick to painting pretty pictures."
Cody could feel heart practically snorting from his nose. "My ball."
Scott picked it up and tossed it to him.
Catching it, Cody made a move of aiming for the net then turned and flung the ball Frank's way. The teenager had no time to react as the sphere collided hard with his stomach, sending him right to the paved ground. Joey covered his mouth in shock at the sight while Scott hurried to check on Frank.
The girls immediately stopped playing as well.
"Hey!" Cordelia quickly approached. "What happened?"
"Don't worry, Frank," Cody folded his arms with a smirk, "some guys ain't meant to be athletic, but we'll call ya if we need a nightlight."
"This isn't funny, Cody," Scott snapped at him as he and Cordelia tried to help Frank up.
"Looks hilarious to me."
"Ya think so, huh?"
Cody froze in place, having become too lost in the event to take notice of the familiar scent. He slowly turned around, finding the tall man towering over him.
"Hi, Uncle Vic," he smiled up at him.
Victor's countenance showed no trace of humor. "So, ya think this is pretty funny, do ya?"
Joey ran over to stand at his friend's side. "It's my fault, Victor."
"No, it's not." All attention went to Jasmine. "It's Frank's fault." She pointed him out. "I heard them. He started the whole thing."
Frank felt his face hit the ground almost as hard as the rest of his body previously had.
"First thing's first." Victor went over and lifted Frank up. "Let's get you inside. You," he spoke to his nephew now, "Eye Spy. Now."
Cody dipped his head and started inside.
Cordelia, Scott, and Jasmine followed Victor and Frank in.
Becky went over to a crestfallen Joey and gave him as strong a hug as she could.
IIIIIII
Situated underneath the leg space below one of the control panels in the security room, Cody hugged his knees to his front and stared into the dark wall next to him. Before the footsteps came near, he caught the scent. Letting off a breath, he scrambled out as Victor entered.
"Well?" he got down to one knee to be at eye level with the child. "Let's hear it."
"Frank kept makin' fun of Joey," he started. "Me and Scott tried to tell him to stop, but—"
Victor held up a silencing hand. "Yeah, I caught that part. The part I don't get is how you just up and clobbered him. Frank's run off at the mouth a hundred times before."
"Well, somebody needs to knock him in the mouth," Cody stated boldly. "I can't stand people like him. Joey doesn't do or say anything to him, but Frank's just gotta start crap."
Victor surmised, "So this has been buildin', huh? Look, I understand, Mite, I do. But we- you, me, your daddy- we can't lose it like that. Especially not on one of our own. You could've done a heck of a lot worse than just knock the wind out of Frank and ya know that."
Cody crossed his arms with an expression that matched the gesture. "If Daddy was home—"
"If your daddy saw you dish the first lick you'd be over his knee and bawlin' your eyes out by now," Victor countered matter-of-factly. Cody poked his lips out and turned his head away. "You look at me, boy." Their brown eyes met again. "I know you were ticked back there and you were right to be. Joey's your best friend and a good guy on top of that. But instead of sockin' him, you could've sent a thought to Fairy Girl to tell me or Raven. I know she was in the kitchen."
Cody rolled his eyes. "So he can do his Prince Charming routine every time she, Emma, or my mama come around? Yuck. Besides, all that junk he was sayin'… I just couldn't help it."
Taking one of his small hands, Victor raised it. "Who controls these things?"
"Me," Cody answered softly.
He then knocked on the boy's head. "And is this thing on?"
"I guess," Cody shrugged.
"Then you could've helped it, couldn't ya?"
He nodded. "Mmhmm."
Sitting in one of the black leather swivel chairs, Victor tugged him over by the same hand. "Since your folks won't be back until late, looks like I'm the guy who's gotta remind you." At the darkened eyes that result, the man assured, "Hey. This bites for me, too, kiddo. Trust me."
Watching his uncle grip the wrist portion of his right hand, Cody squeezed his eyes shut then hissed as the back of the appendage received five strong smacks.
Letting it go, Victor then instructed, "Give me the other one."
Blindly extending his left hand, Cody did not have long to wait as that one, too, received the equal amount of strikes.
"There, done." Victor put his hands to the boy's waist. "Mad at me, Mighty Mite?"
He whispered, "No, Uncle Vic," as one tear slid down his cheek.
Victor used his coat sleeve to catch the bit of moisture. He raised Cody up to his chest and nuzzled cheeks with him, letting off comforting purrs.
"Don't worry," the older mutant spoke after a moment. "I'll tell your dad I killed ya good."
Cody smiled slightly then said, "But I ain't sayin' sorry to Frank."
"That parts up to you, Mite." Victor glanced down at him. "But between you and me, I think I know why that kid's such a piece of work." Cody looked back at him curiously. "The only guy around here he really doesn't like is himself."
"Huh? That big head?"
"Trust me on this one." Victor put him down with a soft pat to his blue jeaned bottom. "Go ahead and find Joey. I'll bring you guys dessert."
"'Kay, thanks Unc." Cody ran out of the room.
Leaning back in his chair, Victor held up his hand and studied it in disdain for a moment before putting his gaze on the monitor closest to him.
IIIIIII
"I was only kidding around," Frank insisted, seated on the sofa of the Mag Cave. "Besides, I've known Joey way longer than Cody has. He knows when I'm joking."
"Do you know when you're joking?" Alex challenged from where he sat behind the desk, working on an assignment.
Frank shot a glare his way. "Who asked you?"
"I am asking you," Erik's hand clamped down on Frank's shoulder, "what have I told you about watching the things you say?"
"I said I was sorry to Joey," Frank reminded. "I really didn't mean any harm and I wasn't the one who started hitting out there."
"Your saving grace." Erik reached down to rub Frank's still recovering stomach. "And since you have been here longer than Cody, longer than any of the younger boys for that matter, you must set a better example. I've said this before and I'll say it again, if we make enemies out of each other for ridiculous reasons then there is no chance of our survival."
Alex looked up again at that.
"Yes, sir," Frank nodded. "I really am sorry."
The phone rang then and Alex picked up. "Hello?" He held out the receiver. "Erik."
Erik glanced Alex's way then back to Frank. "Saved by the bell. Go on. And behave yourself for the rest of the evening or you know what to expect."
Frank nodded again and headed out, quietly thanking his lucky stars.
Accepting the receiver, Erik spoke into the mouth piece with, "Lehnsherr. Oh Steve." He frowned deeply. "What?"
Alex immediately tensed up.
"This afternoon? Are you sure?" Erik shot a particular look down at the suddenly so studious blonde. "No, this is the first I've heard of it. Oh, he's just fine… for now. I'll call you back." They hung up and Erik moved around his desk, casting a shadow over the young man. "Did you get into a fight with Zaro earlier this afternoon? A fight that had to be broken up by campus security?"
"Unbelievable," Alex stated. "The rat actually went crying to Cap."
"Considering he needed Steve's help in order to keep from being suspended, I'd say he had good reason," Erik fumed. "Question is, why am I just now hearing about this little matter and what business have you getting into a fight in the first place? Need I remind you that it's only been a little over a week since you suffered temporary heart failure?"
"That's all you keep reminding me about," Alex retorted, getting to his feet. "That's all anybody around here keeps reminding me about. Between sucking down this prescription, monitoring my diet, and Hank poking at me every day, you all might as well be walking behind me waiting on me to drop."
Erik emphasized, "Alexander, you could have died."
"Maybe I should have!" he yelled back, walking over towards the front of the den. He spun back sharply. "Maybe it's better to be six feet under than absolutely worthless to everyone I love. I didn't ask for this, Erik. I tried. I tried to do everything right. My family, training, school, and now you mean to tell me I have to pay for all of that with lousy blood? What's the point of living?"
Erik came back with, "Don't you think I've asked myself the same question a hundred times over?" He went over, standing just feet away from the youth. "Do you understand how many times I've wanted to give up? But I no longer have the right to that line of thinking. It pains me to the core to watch you go through this, but you owe it to everyone here to keep trying. Your suffering is not your own but all of ours."
Alex stepped back, pressing his back against the wall, practically trembling. "It's so hard…"
"I know," Erik concurred quietly. "Is that what the fight was about? Letting off steam?" He shook his head. "Then what?"
"I don't want to talk about it," Alex attempted.
"And I really don't care right now." Erik walked up, gripping him by both wrists. "You tell me right this moment why you risked your health along with his academic reputation." At his continued hesitation, Erik barked, "Now."
Alex finally spat out, "He said you're not my father, okay?"
Erik's grip softened at the admittance. "What? You mean you fought because…"
He nodded shakily. "He said it and I didn't think. I honestly felt like I wanted to kill him. At least for a second. I know it's stupid. I'm sorry."
Erik pulled him into a tight hug. "Shh, calm down. It's alright."
"I'm sorry," Alex whispered against the man's neck, going near limp in his hold.
"I have to punish you, boychick." Erik stood back to face him. "You know that, don't you?"
"Yes, sir," he nodded again.
Taking him by the hand, Erik brought them over to the sofa. "Lay on your stomach." Alex followed the directions and Erik began undoing his belt. "I want you to tell me if you feel an attack coming on. I trust you to be honest with me."
"I will," he promised, face pressed against a cushion.
Belt off and folded in half, Erik brought it down with a sharp whack.
Clutching the nearest arm of the couch, Alex exhaled hard several times, having not experienced the implement in some time. Soon enough, the two got all too reacquainted with each other.
Erik gave him ten over the seat of his pants with an additional eight spread out over his thighs. Tossing the belt to one side, he maneuvered himself down onto the couch with Alex now draped across his lap. Erik rubbed the sobbing youth's back then lifted him up to hold near.
"Did I go too far, boychick?"
Alex quickly shook his head. "You don't hurt my heart when you do that. Honestly," he opened his teary eyes, "it feels like you help it." He sniffed. "'Cause I know you don't really want to hurt me."
"Never." Erik kissed his forehead. "I love you, Alex. That is what makes you mine; my first boychick. Don't listen to the jealous words of others."
"I love you, too." One of Alex's arms went around him. "I'm sorry, Dad. About everything. I shouldn't have said that. I'm glad I'm still here. With you."
"That makes," Erik rocked him a bit as he thought about it, "a great many of us actually."
IIIIIII
Going up to his room, Frank passed Jasmine, who promptly headed right by him down the stairs.
"Jas, wait." Frank hurried down after her. "Hold on a minute. Talk to me."
She turned around with a sharp glare. "You'll be lucky if I ever talk to you again, Franklin Tolbert. I can't believe you."
"What?" he reacted. "Jazzy, he hit me, remember?"
"He should've aimed for your head," Jasmine said matter-of-factly. "I heard exactly what you were saying to Joey. Is this the kind of guy you are now? Picking on little kids instead of sticking up for them?"
Frank tried to formulate words at that but found it difficult. "Jas, no. Listen to me."
"I am serious, Frank. Keep it up and I'll tell your mom exactly how you act at school." Flipping her braid of caramel brown hair over her left shoulder, she continued down the steps.
Frank remained in place, feeling as if he'd been slammed in the stomach again.
IIIIIII
Turning the hand over to study the back of it, Joey did not see any residual pink but still winced on the other boy's behalf.
"Spankin' on the hand. That's how Alex punishes me most times," Joey said. "I'm real sorry, Cody."
"It's not your fault," Cody insisted. "Besides, I heal real fast."
Guilt remained in Joey's voice. "But I know you hate getting in trouble with your uncle."
Trying to lighten things, Cody said, "Hey, I was lucky he was there. My dad would've nailed me."
Joey smiled a little. "It's good to have uncles watching out for us when mums and dads are busy kissing and stuff. It feels like yours is always there, even back where you used to live."
Cody nodded. "I think he's that way 'cause of my cousins."
Joey tilted his head in confusion. "You have cousins? Where are they?"
The older boy pointed upward. "With Jaycee. Victoria, Esther, and baby Bliss. I'm supposed to have an aunt, too, Aunt Abigail, but some bad people did things to them."
Before Joey could say come up with a response or another question, he turned his head to the sound of someone coming up the rope ladder.
"Great," Cody rolled his eyes. "I smell trouble."
Scott climbed up, followed by Frank who ordered, "Beat it. This is our tree house. We're the ones who built the base to begin with."
"Oh yeah?" Cody countered. "Well, my dad and uncle made it better."
"With my brother's help," stated Scott.
Joey chimed in with, "He's my brother, too."
Scott looked at him. "I know that, Joey."
"Forget it, Joey. We don't want to be in their stupid tree house, anyway." Cody started to crawl down. "They're just like those creeps at the community center."
"What creeps?" Frank wanted to know. "What're you talking about?"
Cody turned back around. "These bigger kids, Luis and Ian, they were makin' fun of Joey, callin' him names and stuff. I told 'em to stop, but then they started on me. They knocked me down and called me featherhead."
Frank's eyes widened with anger. "What did they call you?"
"Featherhead," Cody repeated.
The older boys exchanged a look.
"Joey, if these guys have been picking on you, why didn't you say anything?" Scott asked.
"I just tried to forget about it I guess," Joey said.
"That only works sometimes," Frank told him. "With jerks this big, you gotta go hard. Just how old are these guys, anyway?"
Joey thought about it. "Maybe your age."
"Or even fourteen," Cody added.
"And they're messing with you two?" Scott sounded outraged. "Ohh, well no more."
"That's right," Frank concurred. "What do you guys say the four of us take a ride down to the community center after school tomorrow? To "hang out". As in hang those guys upside down from a flagpole."
Scott jumped on board with, "Sounds good to me."
"Me, too," said Cody.
"But won't we get in trouble?" Joey brought up.
"Only for fighting our own," said Frank. "If it's kids who don't live here, it's A-Okay. But we better keep quiet about this, anyway. We don't need Emma and Kayla finding out and going all Mom about it."
"Good idea." Scott looked around at the others through his ruby quartz. "Tomorrow we are going to show these guys what happens when you mess with the X-Men."
IIIIIII
Rounding one corner, Erik and Alex met up with the other pair right outside the New York University student lounge.
"Steve." Erik held out a hand.
"Erik," the older man returned then looked beyond him. "Alex," he gave his shoulder a gentle clap, "I hear you're getting stronger every day. I hope yesterday's unapproved sparring session didn't do anything to muddle your recovery."
"No, sir. I'm fine," Alex told him. "Thanks. And I'm really sorry about yesterday. I should've known better."
Steve nodded then looked back at his own charge. "Lazaro? Don't you have something to say?"
Sighing internally, Zaro mostly faced Erik as he said, "I'm real sorry. We got outta hand."
"I understand." Erik turned to Steve. "Coffee."
"My treat," said the Captain. They started towards the cashier. "You boys behave and maybe we'll bring you back a couple hot chocolates."
Alex shook his head while Zaro rolled his eyes. They then spotted a four-seater table and sat opposite of each other.
"You okay?" Alex could not help noticing how uncomfortable the other student seemed against the hard plastic material that made up the chair.
"Fine," Zaro dismissed. "Guess I'm still sore from yesterday."
"From the "unsupervised sparring" or from Cap?" Alex gave the astonished one a knowing glance. "Erik laid into me, too."
Zaro gaped at him before letting off a breathy chuckle. "Cap is so old school. He's got this big ass paddle. Even leaves the thing hanging up."
"I've had Erik's belt on bare skin before," Alex confided. "Then because stupid me ran off at the mouth one time, he even made me sit on it."
"Damn," Zaro reacted then quickly lowered his tone to prevent the well decorated solider not too far away from hearing his choice of language. "Look man, I know why you got pissed. I went too far yesterday. Truth is, you and Erik really seem to have your thing together. When you fell out the way you did, I thought for sure he was gonna have a heart attack next. I squirted outta my old man and I can't remember the last time he reacted that way about."
Alex looked at him closely. "You have a good thing going with Steve, too, Zaro. Last year, I didn't have a chip on my shoulder. I had a boulder permanently wedged to my back. If you let him, I bet you guys could be a lot closer than just Captain and Recruit."
Zaro appeared thoughtful then said, "I gotta admit, you've got a clean right hook. I didn't even see it coming."
"You've got some serious defense yourself. We need to schedule a real session sometime."
"You're on," Zaro accepted.
Alex nodded then asked, "So what're you majoring in?"
"Looking at engineering."
"Ah, cool. Can you believe all this arithmetic they throw at us?"
They continued to talk as the men came back over with hot beverages for all.
IIIIIII
The quad of riders, older pair with skateboards and youngers on bicycles, they approached the Westchester Community Center. They moved along the streets like a small pack, scanning the general area.
"If they're not around, we'll find out where they do hang out and take the fight there," Frank declared.
Cody did a sharp turn and started pedaling for the parking lot. "This way!"
The sunlight reflected off Scott's glasses. "You see them?"
"No, but I can smell 'em." Cody stopped inside the parking lot to where the two stood in one corner shooting dice. "There they are."
Noticing Joey's apprehension, Frank assured, "Don't worry, Eel. After this, those guys will think four and five times before they come anywhere near you." They all rode over and Frank spoke first. "Hey retards one and two, I hear you been pickin' on my bros."
Scott rolled up a bit ahead. "Look, let's make this simple. You guys apologize and promise to leave Joey and Cody alone and we'll just forget about it."
Staring at each other for a moment, Luis and Ian burst into sharp laughter.
"What's so funny?" Cody demanded.
"This the best you and Daddy's Boy can do, featherhead?" Ian got out. "Mighty Mouse and Four Eyes?"
Scott scowled under his shades at the remarks and rushed forward with both hands out, sending Ian down. "That's Eye Scream Team to you."
"Hey!" Luis made a move to tackle Scott.
Frank in turn tackled him instead and the two wrestled to the ground.
Ian seized hold of Scott's ankle and yanked him down, making his glasses fall off in the process.
Cody let off a growl and lunged. "Let him go!" He decked Ian's jaw and the boy promptly let go of Scott to clutch his now bleeding mouth.
Joey quickly retrieved Scott's shades and helped them back onto his face.
Able to see again, Scott rushed over to assist Frank.
Intensely angry now, Luis grabbed Cody by the back of his shirt and started to fling him against the gate.
Joey gasped and extended both hands, giving Luis a jolt.
"Ahhh!" he yelled out, releasing his hold on Cody before the younger boy could connect with the metal gate.
Joey stared at his own hands, completely taken aback.
Ducking a blow from Luis, Frank narrowed his eyes and sent a brief flash of light his way. Luis became immediately blinded and covered his eyes.
Things went on until Scott took notice of several approaching adults. "Uh oh. We gotta move."
Once they were all back on their individual equipment, Frank shouted, "Let's get outta here," and they rode off as fast they possibly could out of the parking lot and down the streets.
The group did not so much as stop to catch a breath until they returned to the woods surrounding the Xavier property. Then they finally slowed down, all four hearts beating wildly.
"Whoo-hoo!" Frank yelped. "That was outta sight."
"Especially after you blinded that one guy," Scott said with a smirk.
"Yeah, that was so cool," Cody grinned.
"You call that cool?" Frank let off a scoff. "Your one punch to his face almost sent dude hurling across the street. Here I thought your dad was a prize fighter and you're half his size."
Scott looked towards the quiet one. "You did good, too, Joey. My shades probably would have been smashed if you hadn't grabbed them and you even managed to control your power when you zapped him."
Joey put on a small smile until a voice echoed in all of their minds.
Boys, please come inside, Emma petitioned, we're simply dying to hear more about your little outing.
All four boys turned visibly ill in the face as they continued on for home.
IIIIIII
Frank groaned angrily. "Stu-pid Wes-chest-er. In the city, there's a good two hundred kids passing through the playground in my area alone. Think parents get called? No, because nobody knows who you are." He folded his arms in a huff. "Lousy one-horse town."
"I can believe Charles being so upset," Scott said, "but Emma, too?"
"We're in so much trouble," Joey whimpered.
Both in the middle, he and Cody huddled together. "No we're not, Joey. I'll just explain things to my folks."
Frank rubbed his chin in thought. "I might be able to talk Erik out of it."
Scott glanced at him. "Out of tanning us?"
"You kiddin'?" Frank immediately dismissed. "I meant talk him into grounding us for a month instead of a year."
At the sound of the adults returning, the four sat up straight with eyes focused ahead. Charles entered first with Emma closely behind, followed by the Howletts, while Victor silently lingered in the living room doorway.
Hands folded behind his back, Charles stood before the gathered youths. "Alright, young men. I'd like you to imagine for a moment, simply a moment, my surprise when I received not one but three telephone calls in succession from mothers in the neighborhood informing me that several of my boys were involved in activities that very closely resembled gang behavior."
"Gang behavior?" Frank echoed in disbelief. "Charles, it wasn't anything like that."
"Try and understand our side," Scott attempted.
"Your side?" Emma repeated, stepping forward. "All I understand is that each of you, on some small level, decided to make your powers public out there. And if you'll recall, Scott, that's how you and I met in the first place. Except this time, I would not have been there had an angry mob resulted. Your side? We are your side. And with this little incident, that side could have been severely damaged. Are you capable of understanding that?"
Scott failed to come up with any sort of rational response.
"Scott didn't even use his powers," Frank defended. "And we were out there together. No one had a chance of hurting us. Besides, no way could either of those clowns have figured out what we really are."
"What if they thought you were something else?" All eyes went to Victor. "This is a small town; crazy rumors get started at the drop of a hat. Had any grown person seen you, they would've tried to hurt you. The kind of hurt that they don't want you to come back from."
Logan shared a significant gaze with his brother then looked to his son. "Didn't you already catch it for fightin' just yesterday?"
"This was different," Cody stated.
Logan then put forth, "How?"
"Because we weren't fighting each other." Frank got to his feet. "We were fighting for each other. Those guys have been picking on Joey and yesterday when Cody tried to get them to lay off, they shoved him around and called him a featherhead."
The other adults glanced among themselves quietly.
Kayla's eyes widened. "What?" She walked over, kneeling in front of Cody. "Why didn't you tell me?"
"Or me?" Logan chimed up.
"I just tried to let it go at first," Cody explained.
"Son," Charles spoke to Joey, "if these boys have been causing so much trouble, why haven't you said anything?"
Joey opened his mouth but not so much as a syllable sounded from it.
Cody got up next. "It's my fault. I made it worse by getting mad at Frank yesterday. I should've just left it alone."
"No." Scott stood. "I was the one who knocked the first guy down. Besides, I'm older and I never should have let things go this far."
"Well, I'm oldest," Frank raised. "I'm the one who got you guys all fired up about it. And I only made it worse by upsetting Cody yesterday. Me and my crummy mouth."
"It's none of your faults." Every glanced at Joey as the youngest stood and walked towards his parents. "Don't be mad at them. I didn't want to fight at all 'cause I knew it was wrong and you wouldn't like it, Daddy. And I'm the one Ian and Luis were messing with, anyway. This is all 'cause of me." Tears spilled over from the blue eyes. "I ruin everything."
Charles lifted him up right away. "Hush, my little one. Let's calm down now."
Emma rubbed his back. "It's alright, darling."
"Scott," Charles placed the small blonde back down, "you and Joey go up to my room, please. I'll be there shortly."
Scott nodded and took the sniffling Joey by the hand to lead them out.
"Charles?" Frank spoke somewhat timidly. "Could I please wait on Erik?"
The Professor nodded. "He'll be home shortly. Go wait in his den."
Frank started that way.
"Cat," Logan pointed with his thumb, "move it."
Cody got up and left out.
Victor headed straight for the front door and walked right out of it.
Kayla stood straight up again and said to the others, "Get used to that."
IIIIIII
After a fifteen minute wait that gave Frank plenty of time to think on just how many excruciating levels his punishment would detail, the double doors to the Mag Cave opened magnetically. Erik stepped in and shut the doors in the same fashion.
He faced the young teen seated on the couch. "It would seem my boychicks need leashes when I allow them out to play."
Frank sighed deeply. "Guess I can count out seeing daylight for a while. So long, mutation."
"Bite your tongue." Erik came toward him, lowering down to be eye to eye with him. "I want to make something very clear. I'm not altogether happy with what you did, but I more than understand the reasoning behind it. You wanted to go into battle for the honor of your own, even if it meant being reckless in the process."
"I know I give Joey and Cody a hard time," Frank admitted. "But no matter what, we're X-Men and we gotta look out for each other."
"How right you are." Erik stood back up. "Which is why the X-Boys should have come straight to the X-Men with their problem."
Frank put forth, "But Charles would've tried to make us have a tea party with them or something."
Erik said with a twinkle in his eye, "I don't think you know the ways of the Professor as well as you think you do. Do you honestly believe that if you'd gone to him last night and explained about Joey that he would not have used every possible resource to see to it those boys were disciplined?"
Frank thought then said, "Yeah, he really would have."
"As he, as we, would for all of you. Now, while I do understand, you are still going to be punished. None of you are to go into any battle, big or small, without our knowing."
With a small sigh, Frank nodded. "Yes, sir." Though he knew for sure he would receive one of "those" spankings, he stood up with some glint of bravery.
Erik sat down now and pulled the boy over his lap. Getting his jeans down, he started in spanking firmly over his briefs. He knew this situation required discipline, but not necessarily harsh punishment. He gave him eight on his behind with another eight harder ones spread out over his bare thighs. Pulling the jeans all the way off to prevent irritation, Erik lifted him up to hold.
Frank had tears going and wept most of them into the man's shoulder as he took in all the comfort offered him.
Erik pulled back to nuzzle noses with him. "This does not happen again, little boychick. Or else the next occurrence may involve you going out back to cut your own switch."
Frank's eyes enlarged for a moment. "No, sir— I mean yes, sir. I mean- it won't happen again, honest."
Erik nodded then asked, "And just so we're clear… you won the fight, didn't you?"
"Oh yeah," Frank assured with a grin.
IIIIIII
For a moment, Cody considered putting on an additional pair of underwear for padding. Then he quickly dismissed that notion, as it would prove futile with his pants guaranteed to come down. Also, if his father saw he was trying to pull a fast one, things would become much worse very soon.
Entering the room, Logan pulled out the desk chair and took a seat. "C'mere, Codicat." Cody got up from the bed and walked towards him. "Seems to me that you hit the off button on that bitty brain of yours. Since when are me and your ma the last to find out something's wrong with you?"
"I really did try to forget about it, Daddy," Cody said. "But Frank being mean made me mad all over again. Then when the older boys talked about fighting, I just got so excited. When the one pushed me down before, I wanted to sock him but I knew Joey didn't want me to."
Logan told him, "You should've said somethin' the second that happened."
"Would ya have called their folks?"
Logan scoffed. "Yeah right. If those punks had any decent parents they wouldn't be actin' like that. No, I'd have gone down there and wailed on their backsides."
Cody smiled at that. "Even harder than ya do me?"
"He— heck yeah. And trust me, there wouldn't have been any love behind it, either." His son laughed and Logan gave his shoulder a tight squeeze. "Alright, alright. Ya know why we're here. Let's get this over with."
"Yes, sir," Cody whispered then started undoing his pants.
Logan raised an eyebrow and batted his hands away. "Did I tell ya to do that?"
Cody glanced up in surprise. "No, but—"
"Don't go doin' stuff unless I say so." Logan brought him across his knees. "You're in enough trouble already."
So shocked and relieved, Cody very nearly had a mental celebration. Then the first smack came down across his covered behind and he quickly remembered his father's mutated strength.
Logan gave him twelve fast and hard strike on his bottom right down to his thighs. He stopped and started lowering the small pair of pants down.
At Cody's whimper, he said, "Relax. I just need to check." He tugged the underwear back, seeing only a dark pink coloring. "Ah, you'll live." Redressing and standing the lightly crying child up, Logan called out, "Fox! Your son wants you!"
Almost instantly, Kayla entered their child's bedroom.
"Mama." Cody went straight to her.
"Baby." Kayla lifted her growing boy and carried him over to the bed to lay down with him. "Are you okay?"
"Mmhmm," he sniffed.
A knock came to the balcony door and Logan looked over. "Get in here, Vic."
The tall blonde let himself in through the glass sliding and sat on the floor near the footboard wordlessly.
"Sweetheart, what were those boys saying about Joey that upset you so much?" Kayla asked, wiping his face with tissues from the pocket Kleenexes she always had available.
"They made fun of the way he talked." Cody wiggled his face as it was cleaned. "And called him Daddy's Boy."
Logan piped up, "So? Joey is a daddy's boy. So are you last I checked."
"For some reason," Kayla added humorously.
"They made it sound like a bad thing," Cody said. "Just 'cause Joey hugged his dad and said I love you. So what if he did? It ain't their business."
"Mite?" Victor petitioned, getting his nephew's eyes up. "You say these two have been hasslin' Joey for a while?" Cody nodded. "Yet he hugs Charles and says I love you right in public where they could easily see and hear him?"
Cody thought then responded, "Well, yeah."
Kayla said, "It sounds to me like Joey is a lot stronger than any of you boys realized."
"Yes, but I don't like when people mess with Joey," Cody said in a frustrated tone. "He's so nice and he's my best friend and what if… what if they make him try hurtin' himself again?"
"Shhh." Kayla hugged him tightly. "Oh honey, that will not happen again."
"That's right because that's what we're here for." Logan came over and sat at the foot of the bed. "To make sure you kids don't get hurt. Unless we're doin' the hurtin' then it's okay."
Cody gave off a little laugh then remembered one thing. "Mama? Does featherhead mean something else besides having goofy hair?"
Kayla touched the side of his face tenderly. "I'm afraid it does, baby."
"What?" Cody wondered.
Logan filled in, "It means if anybody, anybody calls you that again, you come tell me. I'll take care of it."
Cody nodded and snuggled against his mother.
IIIIIII
"I'm real sorry, Scottie." Joey currently leaned against him.
"No," Scott shook his head, wounding arms tighter around him, "don't be. I should've looked out for you better." Alex would have…
Charles poked his head into the master suite before entering fully, closing the door softly after himself. "Well boys, today was one for the books, wouldn't you agree?" They both nodded quietly. "Even with the noblest intentions, you must never disregard the rules we have in place for you. Joey, your power is very dangerous and yours even more so, Scott. What if something completely dreadful and irreversible had taken place? Would the fight had still been worth it."
"No, sir," they responded in unison then Scott said, "I take full responsibility, Charles."
"No, me Daddy," Joey insisted.
"There shall be plenty to go around," Charles told them. "Now Joey, I want you to go stand in the corner until Scott and I are done, alright?"
"Yes, sir." Joey detached himself from Scott and walked to a corner across the room.
With some level of bravery, Scott managed to look up into the Professor's eyes. "I know you're really ashamed of me and I don't blame you."
Cupping his face, Charles knelt to establish very direct eye contact with him. "You could never bring me shame, dear boy. You behaved very naughty today just like all lads, mutant or otherwise, are known to do. For that, you're going to be punished so that I can make sure nothing like this happens again. Then after, I want this entire ugly matter behind us, alright?"
"Alright," Scott agreed.
Charles sat on his bed next to him then gently placed Scott over his legs. He got the youth's pants and underwear down then administered seven swats to his bare bottom and an equal amount to the thighs.
Once done Charles readjusted his underwear and gave him a quick hug. "I love you. Now please go stand in the corner while I take care of Joey."
Wiping his eyes, Scott got out of his jeans and walked to a free corner.
Without being called over, Joey turned around and walked back towards his father.
Charles saw the tear streaks and knew hearing Scott's punishment had caused them. "Alright, Charles," at his first name, Joey looked at him closely and Charles took his hand, "do you understand why Daddy has to spank you?"
"Yes, sir," he responded softly.
"So if I read your mind right now I won't hear any nonsense about how I'm doing it because I'm angry or because you "ruin everything"?" Charles gave his boy a knowing look.
"But everybody got in trouble 'cause of me," the child insisted.
"No," Charles said firmly. "You forced not one of them into any of this. What you did wrong was not telling me then choosing to go along with it. And using your powers in such a way. You know how I feel about that, don't you?"
Joey nodded. "I'm so sorry, Daddy."
Charles kissed his hand. "As am I, son."
Letting go of the small hand, Charles undid and took down Joey's pants then draped him across his knees. Moving the underwear out of the way, he raised his hand then brought it down with a sharp slap. Waiting a few seconds, he gave him another and continued at the same rhythm.
The punishment moved along at such a slow pace, Scott could honestly count the swats and felt bad for Joey that it was being drawn out.
Joey's tears quickly started up again as he lay there thinking about what he had done, mainly the part where his powers had come into play.
At twelve strikes, Charles called it done. He replaced Joey's underpants only and sat him up on his lap.
"Scott," the man called over, free arm extended.
Scott practically rushed over to join the embrace and sit on the spare thigh. While he hugged Charles, he also extended an arm for Joey as well.
"Have my boys learned their lesson?" Charles asked.
Just as before, they said together, "Yes, sir," though this time involved a few sniffles.
Charles kissed each of their heads. "Very good. Because I love you both so much and I hated doing that. However, I hate the idea of something terrible happening to you in the outside world even more. I don't want to keep you locked inside to prevent that but, so help me, I will if I have to."
"No, Charles," Scott spoke. "We understand. It won't happen again."
"Promise, Daddy," Joey added.
"Good lads." Charles held them a while longer then moved them to lay on their stomachs on the enormous bed. "I'm going to check on the other boys and fix your supper plates. I'll be back soon." He stood and left out with that.
Getting rid of any further residual moisture built up under his frames, Scott moved closer until he could pull Joey close to him and kept both arms around him. Joey in turn clutched at Scott's sweater tightly.
IIIIIII
"Frank!"
The urgently petitioned one removed his hand from his doorknob as the girl sped his way. "Jas, what's up?"
"I heard what happened." She gave him a hug. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," he hugged back then sighed, "but I guess you think I'm pretty stupid for getting into this mess."
"Are you kidding?" Jasmine pulled back with a serious expression on her face. "I hope you curb stomped those guys. Having the nerve to—" She exhaled furiously. "If I had seen them come anywhere near Joey and Cody yesterday, they'd have been over with. Frankie," she wrapped arms around him again and placed her head on his shoulder, "I'm so glad you looked out for them like that. It reminds me of when we were growing up and people would make cracks at me. You never let anybody bother me."
"Pick on mine?" Frank waved a hand. "Not a chance. Ah Jazzy, I wish you could've seen us in action."
The highly interested girl clamped onto one of his arms. "Tell me all about it."
Frank did so, embellishing just slightly in parts to offer her the full effect.
IIIIIII
Walking into the youthful bedroom, Logan reached over the bed and pecked his son's forehead.
"Time for Dad to start duty. I'll see you in the mornin'."
"Okay. Good night."
Logan sniffed the air. "Donut?"
Cody held out the treat in question. "Fritter."
"Your uncle?" Cody nodded in confirmation. "Gimme bite." He nipped at a small section of the fried sweet then took his leave.
Returning to his own room, he gave Kayla a kiss before sitting next to her on the bed to put his shoes on.
"Mm," she licked her lips from the crumbs he'd left behind, "you might as well admit it, by the way."
He glanced over his shoulder. "What're you on about, woman?"
"You've had this proud glow radiating off you for hours," Kayla noted. "Just say it. You're happy your son kicked butt today."
Logan shrugged. "Ain't ashamed." He finished with his laces. "That's what happens when folks mess with other folks. Get their butts handed to 'em."
Kayla turned another page in her novel. "He is definitely his father's son."
"Oh bull." Logan gave her a look.
She turned back to him. "And what do you mean by that?"
"At his old school, you remember Cody always had a hard time. Kids calling him short and pipsqueak- but he never let it get to him. At his age, I got into fights if a guy so much as looked at me crazy. Cody's blood only boils when it's about somebody he cares about. That's all you."
"My blood stays perfectly room temperature, thank you," Kayla said.
"Really?" Logan appeared thoughtful. "I seem to remember Maya mentionin' not long ago something about her mother claimin' you acted like some sort of dragon lady that day you went over to their horse." He shrugged one shoulder. "Of course, Smiley just thinks her ma's exaggeratin' the whole thing." He stared at his wife knowingly. "Is she?"
Guilty brown eyes darting about, Kayla decided to take a dive, right underneath all of the covers. "Don't you have to go to work?"
"Ooohh, nice try." With a growl, he pounced on top of her lightly.
IIIIIII
At the soft footsteps coming into his room, Scott looked up to discover his visitor.
"Hi, Em." He put his comic book on the night table.
She sat on the side of the bed facing him. "I just wanted to check on you again."
Scott turned slightly saddened. "I'm not used to seeing you so mad."
"You still haven't," the blonde woman informed with a tiny smirk. "What you witnessed earlier was a strong case of motherly worry."
He said, "Then give me fatherly worry any day of the week."
"You had better hope that this baby starts slowing me down soon." Emma leaned in and kissed his head. "Otherwise next time, you'll see that the worry can go well beyond words."
Scott moved over to speak to Emma's stomach. "You hear that? Help me out here, kid."
Emma laughed and hugged him. "I love you, my little Cyclops."
Scott smiled, remaining careful of her abdomen. "I love you, too, Em."
IIIIIII
The rabbit nuzzled against him, Joey rubbed between his ears as they watched Charles finish conducting a proper monster investigation.
"Daddy?"
"Yes, little one?" Charles shut the closet door and headed towards the bed.
Joey said, "Bounty wants to know if we were too naughty to get a story tonight."
"We?" Charles repeated with a raised eyebrow, laying down beside his son.
"Okay, me," Joey admitted. "Bounty didn't do anything."
"Except leave a few "bounties" on the rug earlier." Charles smiled. "Of course you still get your story. Your punishment is long over with now. So long as the lesson remains."
"I understand the lesson, but…"
Charles put an arm around him. "What is it, son?"
"It just felt really good," the child confessed. "Even though I knew it was bad, they were all doing it for me. It made me feel so important."
Charles asked secretively, "May I tell you something?" Joey nodded in intrigue. "I wish very much that Uncle Erik and I could have been raised together the way you boys are now. While I love your Aunt Raven very much, having an elder brother looking out for you is wonderful."
"It sure is," Joey concurred.
"Now," Charles got up and went towards the bookshelf, "ah, how appropriate." He removed the chosen text and held it up. "Wouldn't you agree?"
Joey grinned and nodded.
Returning to the bed, Charles sat close to his son then opened the first page of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.