X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter One Hundred Four
Author's Word: Hi, everybody! Mother's Day Weekend was so great and it made me wonder a couple questions for you guys. Who is your favorite Rise or Fall Mom and why? Also, which X-Girl do you think would make a great mom someday? Please let me know. Now, enjoy and review!
With his full team gathered and situated in their regular chairs, Charles deemed the meeting ready to begin.
"First order of business," the Professor raised, "the progress of the new students." He glanced across the way at Hank. "Maya's back on track, yes?"
"And performing flawlessly as ever," the younger doctor confirmed.
Erik brought up, "I wish the same could be said for Cody of late. I've noticed his attention constantly wandering elsewhere."
Kayla told them, "He's had that problem for a few years now, on and off. His heightened senses make him pay attention to everything yet nothing specific."
"Happened to me when I was a kid," Logan added. "Goin' from regular to super is an even bigger blow to the system than bein' born blind and suddenly gettin' your sight back."
Charles nodded understandingly. "Perhaps I can work with him to help hone his concentration a bit."
"I don't really see a problem when he's in music class," Trick spoke.
Victor piped up, "Probably soothes him or something."
"Which reminds me," Trick moved on, "and I fully admit this is last minute, but I wanted to take the young ones into the city tomorrow for a field trip. For art and music appreciation." He looked over at Emma. "Since our classes meet at the same time, I thought we could combine them and you could act as my co-chaperone. If you don't mind."
"Of course not," Emma responded favorably. "An outing like that will be good for them."
"Maybe it'll get Frank's mind on something else," Alex threw out.
"What's the problem?" Erik asked.
Alex explained, "He hates having to go through the same training as the other little kids. He says he's been with the X-Men for so long, already on the field, that sort of thing. I have to admit, though, I don't disagree with him. He is getting older."
Logan said, "Kid might have a flappin' mouth on him, but Frank's got what it takes."
"I suppose it is time to consider his advancement." Charles looked at Erik again. "What do you think?"
"I have no doubt about his capabilities," Erik stated. "I only wish I'd had more of his mastering at that age."
Alex smirked. "I forget… how long ago was that, Erik?"
Turning a small glare on him, Erik brought up, "Don't you have midterms to study for?"
The continued cheeky young man took his leave of the room.
"Must you be so vain about the aging process, Lehnsherr?" said Trick.
Erik countered, "Easily spoken by a twenty-something-year-old."
Trick rolled his eyes with a smile. "You act as if you're a century on top of the lot of us. Honestly, Victor's the eldest among us and I wouldn't be shocked to see you take a shot at him."
The metal wielder formed a devious expression while Victor only gave off an indifferent shrug.
IIIIIII
"I am going to dissect Lazaro Yang alive."
"Can I watch?" Alex reclined on his bed comfortably. "Seriously, Kerstin. Don't be mad. I goaded your extension number out of him."
Kerstin brought up, "Aren't you two supposed to have some sort of mutual hatred going on between you?"
"We're dudes," Alex stated plainly. "We punch it out and we're good. One of my best guys tried to strangle me before and I ended up being one of his groomsmen."
Silence fell over the line before she said, "Explain to me the wonders of your universe."
"Does that mean you'll go out with me?"
She groaned. "Alex, I am not looking to get involved."
"You think I am?" he returned. "I'm asking for lunch, not a lifetime. And just to take a little pressure off, I'll get my sister and her husband to double up with us. We'll drive out to New York and you can even pick the place."
Kerstin sighed then said, "Fine, I know a place. Does tomorrow work?"
"Sure," Alex readily agreed. "I only have an evening class, but let me talk it over with the sis."
"Alright. Just get back to me."
"I will." They hung up and Alex sat on his bed thinking a moment before leaving his room with a petition of, "Oh twin…"
IIIIIII
Down in the lower level of the mansion, Scott walked through the two rows of numerous beds that filled the still somewhat in development medical wing.
"Scott," Hank acknowledged, meeting the child halfway. "The infirmary is really shaping up, don't you think? I think Emma will have a lot easier having the new baby right here in the comforts of home. Plus this equipment will help me monitor Alex better as well."
"How is he doing?" Scott inquired.
"His condition has been steady," Hank told him. "Except I'm still waiting for that super glue I ordered to keep him still for five minutes."
"Yeah, that's Havok," Scott said. He looked over towards the bookshelves. "Can I borrow a couple of your medical texts? I'll be careful."
"Of course, Scott," Hank granted.
Scott went over and browsed through the shelf a moment. He decided on a pair of books and started out just as Alex entered alongside Raven.
"Cutie bug," Raven acknowledged while Alex called him, "Twerp," and bopped the top of the brown head lightly.
"Jug head," Scott retorted to his brother as he left.
"Anyway," Alex's attention returned to the shape-shifter, "please, Rae."
She replied, "If Hank wants to."
Hank looked at them. "If Hank wants to what?"
"Alex needs dating damage control for tomorrow," Raven explained.
"A date?" Hank turned entirely to Alex. "With whom?"
"Kerstin Harris." Alex hopped up onto an exam table. "She's on Captain America's team as a PR— thingy person."
"An instant connection I see," Hank stated dryly.
"But she's also a total knockout who already knows about the mutant thing," Alex added. "Come on, Hank. If you want, you can pretend we're a less puppy-eyed version of Sean and Maya."
"Ah," Raven nodded, "the dumbed down edition."
Hank said, "If that's what you want. Though your resiliency astonishes me. What happened to Holly Hughes?"
"Holly's in Florida," Alex reminded. "And why is every attached guy in this family determined for me to up and settle down with every chick I show interest in?"
"You know what would help with that assumption?" Raven suggested, giving him a pat on the shoulder. "Not making out in front of your family on the first date."
Alex's lips pursed at that.
IIIIIII
"How did the tiger get its stripes?"
Nestled against her, Cody pretended to look thoughtful. "He didn't take a bath like his ma told him to?"
"Not exactly," Kayla's arms wound around him. "Very long ago, when the earth was still young, the big cats ruled the mountains. They took great pride in their smooth, glossy fur; black as coal, giving them the advantage during the night hunt. At the end of one mating season, though, the oddest thing happened."
Cody watched her curiously. "What?"
Kayla went on with, "One litter bore six beautiful black kittens, but the seventh and smallest came out with orange fur brighter than twilight. As the strange kitten grew, she was shunned by all those around her who considered her coloring repulsive. When her own family eventually turned from her, the kitten fled down the mountains. There she stayed all alone for many years. Then one night while she drank from the waterhole, a jackal tried to attack her. Before he got the chance, a shadow leapt out from the bushes, defending her from the attacker. When the orange cat saw who it was she had to thank for her life, she discovered it to be a rogue black cat from the mountains. He became as entranced by her unique fur as she was by his selfless bravado. The two felines joined as mates and that summer, they bore the first ever litter of striped cubs. And to this day, countless people agree that the striped cat, the tiger, is the most beautiful creature in all creation." To her surprise, her son shook his head. "No? Then what is?"
"You are, Mama…" the boy murmured, drifting off in her grasp.
With pleased smile and kiss to his forehead, Kayla carefully let him go and tucked the covers in around him. She watched him sleep a few minutes longer then clicked off the nightstand lamp and quietly left the room.
Making her way around the corridor, the Blackfoot woman came to a sudden stop at the young girl parked outside her bedroom door with her back against the wall. A despondent expression had taken over her normally glowing features.
"Jasmine?"
"Hey," she acknowledged the older female in a hoarse tone, not bothering to look up.
Kayla lowered to the floor beside her. "Sweetheart, what's wrong?"
"You won't understand," Jasmine claimed.
"I'll still try to help, even if I don't," Kayla promised.
Jasmine let off a sniff, hazel eyes glossed. "My mama's not coming to my volleyball game this week. Daddy says she has a work meeting, but I know the real reason is because Mackenzie still has that cold. I heard them on the phone earlier. Like her stupid dad can't watch her for a few hours. She messes up everything for my family. She's the only thing Ma thinks about."
Both Kayla's arms went around her. "Have you ever heard someone say a mother can have a hundred daughters but a hundred daughters can only have one mother?"
"Mmhmm," Jasmine nodded.
Kayla cupped her chin and made sure they had eye contact as she stated, "That saying is absolute garbage. While it is true that you should be an honor to us, we parents are not gifts for you. To the contrary, you are our highest reward. Whether or not we receive one or one million of you, every single child we have is absolutely and individually precious. Any true mother knows that."
Jasmine formed a small smile and leaned against her. "Thanks, Kay."
Kayla gave her a tight hug. "Come." She stood, holding onto the girl's hand. "Let's wash your face and get you back in bed."
Jasmine nodded and went with her into the designated younger girls' bathroom.
IIIIIII
With a fatigued yawn, Emma walked into Scott's bedroom, finding him engrossed in a thick white textbook.
"Studying at this hour?" She approached his bed.
Scott replied, "Researching," then looked over at her. "Did you know that sudden limb tremors, usually in the arm, are signs of a serious heart condition? Also, hypertension targets men more than women, but a younger man developing it could be a sign of an even bigger problem."
"Oh darling," Emma gently took the book from him to place on the nightstand, "I know you're worried about Alex, but believe me. Hank is doing all that he can for him."
"But it didn't stop Alex from having an attack the last time," Scott reasoned.
"Scott," she gripped his hands lightly, "I don't need yet another stressed out male on my hands. This mansion's filled to capacity with them as it is. The last time was unpredictable, but Hank has a better understanding of the severity now. And you have to remember that your brother is very strong and has survived far worse than this."
The child knew she had a point in that regard. "Can I stay up and do just a little more reading? I want to know what to do if he ever needs me."
"You can pack it up to read with you on the way to the city tomorrow afternoon." Emma smiled at him. "Trick has a field trip planned out for us."
"He does?" Scott smiled widely. "In the city?"
Emma nodded in confirmation. "You better get some sleep."
Scott settled under his covers. "Good night, Em."
"Good night, love." She rubbed his arm and waited for him to relax before removing his glasses.
Folding the frames together, Emma placed them on top of the textbook on her way out.
IIIIIII
Catching up with Cody in the hall, Joey asked him, "What'd you bring?"
"My usual field trip food." Cody used his thumb to indicate his backpack. "Chips, candy, pop, gum— all the stuff I munch on while Ma and the other teachers are busy talkin' about the old dead people."
Joey looked slightly distraught. "I really hope we're not going to a museum."
Cody found this strange. "I thought you loved artsy stuff."
"I do. Just not…" the nine-year-old tried to think how to phrase it. "Ya know, smart people art."
"Oh," Cody understood. "The boring kind."
A jean clad Becky dashed up. "Come on, you guys. We're supposed to be in the garage."
Cody smiled at her. "Hey Becky, what'd you pack?"
Becky's eyes glinted back at him. "Chocolate."
Cody said, "Oh we are so ridin' together."
When the three made it down to the garage, they saw that the rest of the students had gathered and were busily chattering.
"I love field trip days," Cordelia said to Maya. "The few times a year that carries freedom from dresses."
"I know," Maya agreed. "Especially this time of year. It's too chilly."
Sean asked Emma, "Did Trick say where we were going?"
Emma replied, "He didn't specify actually."
Soon, the X-Van pulled around and a window rolled down, revealing a certain ash blonde behind the wheel.
"Alright, me lads and lassies," he decreed, "hop on. Next stop… you'll see."
Emma joined him up front. Sean and Maya took the two seats directly behind them. The third row contained Becky, Cody, and Joey. Cordelia, Scott, Frank, and Jasmine filled up the far back.
"Seatbelts, guys," Sean reminded the youngsters.
Frank rolled his eyes playfully, "Mr. Responsible," but did as instructed.
Once all belts clicked, Trick zoomed off out of the garage.
As they neared closer and close into the city, the young people practically sat in each other's laps to take in the numerous sights so very different from those found in Westchester.
Trick spoke while they marveled. "Did you know Honk Kong, Chicago, and New York City have the top three most famous skylines in all the world? True one of a kind architecture that can never be replicated."
"I'll say," Frank wholeheartedly concurred. "Just take a look at the Empire State."
"And the World Trade Center," Maya pointed when they moved along a bit further.
"Ah, but we've come for a bit more than mere sightseeing." Trick stopped off outside of a parking garage. "Alright, first stop."
They all climbed out of the X-Van, finding themselves in seemingly nowhere.
"Uh Trick," said Frank, "there aren't any museums or symphony halls anywhere near here."
"Oh I'm aware, Frankie," Trick responded casually. "We're just here to park to car."
Scott wondered, "What for if there's nothing here?"
"Because there's only one proper way to get around this town." Trick led the way towards the subway station.
IIIIIII
Right after Raven's poetry class let out, the trio of mutants ventured forth and arrived at the specified diner one block down from New York University. A blonde haired Raven wore her red WU sweater with khaki skirt, boots, and dark hosiery. Hank had on a white collared shirt with a green sweater over it and tan pants. Brown loafers contained his large feet. Alex had decided on a blue shirt with black pants and the leather jacket he'd received from Charles at Christmas. They all leaned up against the counter with sodas.
"Are you sure she agreed to this?" Raven asked after ten all too lingering minutes.
"Yes, I'm sure she agreed to this," Alex responded pragmatically.
"Let's give her a little more time," Hank reasoned. "We did get here a tad early."
Raven shrugged. "All I'm saying is that if she is a no-show we still have time to take in a movie and call her bad names in the car."
"Shh," Alex hissed as the familiar face walked in through the door.
A flustered Kerstin spotted them and hurried over. "I'm really sorry. My class ran late."
"Oh we totally understand," Raven assured.
Alex gave her a sideways glance before smiling Kerstin's way. "Hey. Thanks for this."
"Thanks for pestering," she returned, taking notice of the other two. "This has to be your sister."
"Oh I know she just has to be," Alex said with a tight smile. "Raven. And this is her husband, Hank."
"Hello." Kerstin shook with each of them. "A husband on top of a full college load? How is that even possible? I feel like such a complete flake next to you."
Raven stroked Hank at his jaw. "His being perfect helps a little."
Hank indicated a booth. "Shall we?"
They all sat down to order.
IIIIIII
The group of X-Men filled up half a subway car by themselves, roaring along through the dark tunnel.
Becky turned to Scott, who looked a little strange. "What's the matter, Scott?"
"Nothing," he replied, facing her. "I've just never travelled by underground train before."
"You're not alone in that regard, dear," Emma told him.
Trick glanced at her. "You mean to tell me you've never used the subway before, Emma girl?"
Cordelia piped up, "Our mother used to say only vermin and vagabonds board trains."
"Most people don't own cars in New York," said Jasmine.
Frank looked at Cody. "Bet this is your first time on a train, too, huh?"
Cody gave him a dry gaze. "I've been to New York before ya know. What'd ya think, me and my family just stayed up in the mountains my whole life?"
Frank shrugged. "Kinda, yeah."
A particularly rough bump made Maya practically jump into Sean's lap. She smiled up slightly bashfully at him and the redhead only held her close.
Noticing something out of one window, Trick announced, "And here we are."
As soon as the train stopped, the adult pair along with nine children filed out together.
Before anyone could ask about their surroundings, something took Becky's attention and she pointed. "Look!"
They all turned to where a trio of Hispanic teen girls in matching outfits danced together in a unison motion.
"Check 'em out," Jasmine grinned.
"They're absolutely smashing," Cordelia commented.
Becky wondered, "But why are they doing it down here?"
Trick knelt down next to her. "This is where girls who can't afford dance studios go to perform. It may not seem like much, but everyone has to start somewhere."
Becky took a moment to absorb that.
"I think it's fantastic," Cordelia stated. "Just look at that legwork. All without professional training. I wouldn't mind trying this."
"Well, don't just talk the talk," Trick encouraged. "You've got two perfectly good legs of your own, Glim. Get on out there."
"Oh let's do it together," Jasmine seconded, joining hands with Cordelia. "Come on, Becky."
"Hm," the curly haired girl considered it then agreed with an, "okay," and went over.
"Maya?" Jasmine invited next.
The petite girl's eyes bulged and she started to back away in a retreat. "Oh no, no, no, no, no."
"Oh Maya, it's all in fun," said Trick.
Maya shook her head. "I prefer a more sit-down fun." She shrieked as Cordelia and Jasmine each took possession of one of her hands, tugging her over. "Help me!"
Sean could not help the grin that came to his face.
"Start us off, Jazzy," said Cordelia.
Thinking of something quickly, Jasmine began in on a routine that went from her hips into a downward squat. It took a moment but the other girls managed to follow the rotation, hair of caramel blonde, deep black, brown, and curly swaying wildly.
Frank yelped and cheered.
"Alright, Rebecca," Scott joined in.
"Lookin' good, beautiful," Sean called out.
Maya sent a bright smile his way as the quad twirled together.
Emma shook her head in amusement. "My kingdom for a camera." She then felt two departing presences. "Joey, Cody!"
Trick saw them first. "Easy, Mama. I'm on it." He hurried after them. "Hey, slow down there, you wee lords. What—" He then saw what had captivated their attentions so.
A mural filled one pillar wall, depicting several different people and poses with a variety of colorings from regular to extreme.
"This is incredible," Joey breathed.
"A true masterpiece." Trick's countenance darkened slightly. "Tis a shame there are those who would deem this vandalism."
"Vandalism?" Cody repeated in disbelief.
"But why?" Joey wanted to know.
"It's what we grownups call a case of red tape. It matters not what the picture depicts. Where we see as fantastic expression, they see as disrespectful graffiti. Want to know what's really funny?"
"What?" Joey responded while Cody looked curious.
Trick bent and placed an arm around each of them. "Most of these famous artists we study in class started off as nothing more than common street peddlers. But through numerous trials and a great deal of God given talent, they made their way. And paved the way for future generations." He gave Joey a good-natured poke to the nose.
Joey smiled and said, "I'll take graffiti over a museum any day."
"You and me both, lad." Trick stood again. "Come, let's get back before your mother gets to frettin'. And boys," they both looked up at him, "no more wandering."
"Yes, sir," they said together.
The three of them returned to the others just as the girls finished up their impromptu routine.
IIIIIII
"I love Frost's style," Kerstin put forth. "He's so elegant."
Raven put her coffee cup down. "We're studying T.S. Elliot right now."
"Oh Elliot is able to cut right through you," said Hank. "Nevertheless my loyalty remains with—"
"The Bard," Raven filled in. "Ever immortal."
Hank gazed upon her in their unique way. "You know me all too well."
Alex threw out, "You'll never catch me taking poetry as an elective. All these classic guys were trying way too hard."
Kerstin turned to him. "What do you mean by that?"
"Come on," Alex flapped a hand, "what were they writing for? To pick up girls." He pressed a hand to his chest and quoted, "May I compare thee to a summer's day— just tell her she's hot."
Kerstin shook her head lightly. "Just like that, huh?"
"Nah, more like this." Alex focused in on her. "You are insanely pretty and I think I'm totally lucky to be sitting next to you right now."
Kerstin's blue eyes flashed and a redness came to her cheeks that she tried to mask with her long hair.
Raven wondered, "Where is all this brilliance when we're in class?"
Alex scoffed. "Oh yeah. Like I can get a word in with you there." He looked at Hank. "You should see your wife. Every time. Hand up, answers even when Hanson calls on somebody else clear across the room."
"I do not," Raven denied.
"Do, too," Alex countered.
"Do not!"
"Do, too. Do, too. Do, too!"
Hank cleared his throat. "Do I need to separate you two?"
"What, are you crazy?" Alex reacted incredulously.
Raven reached across to clutch Alex's wrists desperately. "Twin!"
Kerstin erupted into laughter. "You guys are comedy dynamite."
Raven grinned and rested on Hank's shoulder. "And also hyper."
Alex chuckled then settled his gaze on Kerstin, who smiled back at him.
IIIIIII
Hands moving so rapidly to the rhythm that the appendages honestly blurred in front of him, Sean worked to keep up with the beat of the other performers. The small band swept the entire park with roaring jazz.
The leader brought them to an abrupt stop and they all remained still as applause from the X-Men and surrounding audience members burst.
He laughed with a whoop and slapped hands hard with Sean. "Ah wonderful, my young brother man."
"Thank you, big brother man," Sean returned, handing him back the small drum.
A widely smiling Trick held up a proud hand. "That's my Seanie boyo."
One of the men with dreadlocks tapped Sean on the shoulder and asked, "Interested in coming on our next tour?"
Sean turned to Emma. "Mommy?"
"Not a chance," the woman turned down without so much as a first thought.
Sean shrugged with a put-on pout. "Sorry, guys."
Maya joined hands with him. "Like I would ever let you go so easily."
"Like I'd let you." Sean slid his circular sunglasses onto her face.
"Alright, my wee ones," Trick spoke, "time for the most important part of the tour. Follow me." He proceeded on.
Cordelia and several of the boys ran ahead down the sidewalk, performing zealous leaps and cartwheels.
Emma said to Trick, "I'm glad they could get out like this."
"Me, too," he concurred. Soon they came upon a record store. "Here we are." He held out a blocking arm. "Oh, it's not in there." Trick walked over to the nearby lamp post. "Here it is."
Becky glanced up and down. "Huh?"
"I don't get it," Scott scratched the top of his head, "what's so special about this light?"
Lowering down until he sat with his back up against the post, Trick went into the details. "Here it was on this very spot many years ago that a scrawny teenager sat out here with his old guitar, singing tired Irish hymns for hours on end. Crowds passing by offered him a few coins here and there but then one day, a five dollar bill landed in his guitar case; the most he'd earned from any one person. So he looked up and there stood a young lady like none he'd ever seen before. Big smile, soft cocoa skin, long braided hair that practically touched the ground. And he's just sitting there staggered, trying to come up with a simple thank you when she says, 'don't stop now. It was just getting good'. So he kept on playing and to this very day, he hasn't stopped yet. For you see," Trick took Jasmine by the hand and tugged her over to stand at his side, "that girl changed his life for the better forever. And he'll never forget her."
Jasmine beamed down at her father.
Sean held onto Maya tighter and pressed a kiss into her hair.
Cordelia linked arms with Emma and leaned against her sister.
Becky let off a faint sigh and Scott darted eyes at her while Frank attempted to hide a smile.
Cody nodded his head understandingly.
Joey decided to put the collective thought out there. "This is the best field trip ever."
"I'm glad you feel that way." Trick looked around at them all. "But the real reason I brought you all out here is because I wanted you to see and hear beyond what we study in class. Music and art have rich histories that began with the humblest of beginnings. They are more than screeching on a violin or bizarre shapes and colors found inside some museum. Whether it's dance, symphony, art, theatre— the fine arts have the power to bridge all gaps and bring us together as people."
Emma gave Trick a supportive nod while their students stood in silent reflection.
IIIIIII
Sprawled out on the grass of the front lawn of NYU, Raven laid with her head in Hank's lap while Alex and Kerstin sat right across from them.
"So what are you guys up to now?" Kerstin asked.
Raven replied, "I'm done for the day."
"My class is still hours away," said Alex, his eyes on Kerstin. "Since we're in the city, anyway, want to go check out downtown for a while?"
Kerstin smiled and started to answer when a highly audible beep sounded from her purse.
Hank rubbed at one of his sensitive ears. "What is it?"
"Sorry, it's my communication device." Kerstin pulled out the small black device and pressed the red flashing button up top. "Go, Cap."
"Kerstin," the man's voice sounded through the other end, "I'm sorry to disturb your afternoon but we just received word on a matter of urgency. How fast can you move?"
"I'll drive," Hank offered.
"Who is that?" Captain America wanted to know.
Kerstin explained, "I have the X-Men with me."
Not asking anything further, he next said, "Here's our location."
IIIIIII
The heavily wooded area made driving in more than difficult so the group of four ran the rest of the way on foot. They saw several Children of Liberty agents in uniforms of full red or blue. Some fished around in the nearby river while others climbed through the threes.
Kerstin made a beeline for the Captain with the others behind her. "What's the situation here?"
"The husband of one of the women from the Brooklyn safe house tracked her and their daughter down," he explained. "The director contacted us and their trail didn't have time to get cold. We detained him with relative ease, but we discovered he'd hidden several explosives out here in case they were followed. It's clear he's long off his medication." He appeared partly ill for a moment.
"What is it?" Kerstin wanted to know.
"He tied a bomb to his daughter's back," Captain America told her gravely. "It's not too volatile but if she moves the wrong way out of fear, the worst could happen. I need you for this, Kerstin."
"Whoa," Alex stepped up, "I'm going with you. If worse comes to worse, I can channel my power to rip the bomb clean off her."
Raven said, "And I'm going with you."
Hank put a hand to her shoulder. "All together then."
"All together," Captain America agreed, not ready to argue the point.
The red, white, and blue adorned man led them over to where a small girl, no more than six or seven, lay on the ground, nearly catatonic with fright. An agent stood off to the side, trying to keep her more than distraught mother at bay.
"Kerstin," the Captain direction plainly.
Nodding, the girl lowered until she stretched out stomach down on the ground and crawled slowly but steadily towards the child.
"Sweetheart," she spoke gently, a gentle smile on her face. "Hi. My name is Kerstin. What's yours?"
"T-Tina," the dark haired girl got out very faintly.
"Well Tina, I want to help you and your mom get back home. But first, my friends need to take that weird doohickey off your back," Kerstin explained carefully, stopping once she neared as close to the girl as she dared. "I need you to be as still as possible while they do it. In fact, we're going to make a game of it. Stay as frozen as you can and you win." She extended a hand. "Please, Tina."
With a tremble, Tina reached out, taking the older female's hand. "Play now?"
"Play now," Kerstin confirmed with a nod. "Remember, stay as still as you possibly can. I promise I'm going to hang onto you no matter what and as soon as it's over, you and your mom are going home."
"Kay," Tina whispered into the ground.
Once both females turned statuesque, Captain America came over and used clippers to snip off the duct tape keeping the explosives on the girl's back. Once he had it off, an agent approached to carefully confiscate it.
Forming a smile, Kerstin told Tina, "You win, honey. You win," and helped her stand.
Tina's mother ran for her, her cheeks saturated by tears, and lifted the girl up into her arms.
"Well done as always," Captain America said to Kerstin.
A disbelieving Alex glanced back at the equally stunned McCoys.
IIIIIII
Inside the pizza parlor, the residents from the Xavier Mansion filled it in both capacity and conversation. Trick carried an order of bruschetta bread over to the adult occupied table he shared with Emma.
"Spoils of field trip survival," he said.
Emma took a hearty bite of one piece and sighed deeply. "Delicious but not exactly the highlight. This was wonderful, Trick, for all of us."
Trick put forth next, "Would now be a good time to admit I had a bit of an ulterior motive behind all of this?" The telepathic woman looked at him curiously. "I've been trying to find a free moment to sit down and talk to you but between classes, my time at the club, and these sudden symptoms you have to deal with, there hasn't been much in the way of opportunity."
"What's going on, Trick?" Emma asked gently.
"Thing is, Em, where you and Charlie are right now, I've already been," he started. "And I know in these situations, the lady takes on a large amount of grief. But darling, no matter what anyone says or thinks, this baby is a cause for tremendous celebration. From now until you're sick of me and even after, you and Charlie have my full support and congratulations. Don't think that obligates you to name her Patrice or anything along those lines of course."
Emma gave off a light laugh then put her arms around his neck in a hug. "Thank you, Patrick. Thank you so much."
"Unnecessary," he told her, returning the affection.
"It's really funny, though." She pulled back, looking at him.
"What?"
She rubbed her stomach and said, "The way everyone is bucking for a girl."
IIIIIII
As the agents finished their cleanup detail, Alex went around the side of a van and found Kerstin there at the back of it.
He took a seat and started at her for a long while before speaking. "You call this PR?"
Her lips upturned a bit. "More like HH." She looked at him. "Hand holding. These guys are all trained in defense, offense, and vigorous military stratagems. Calming bystanders really isn't their specialty."
"This is what you do?" Alex asked her, trying to get a grip on things.
"Not always so exciting, but pretty much," Kerstin responded. "I know it's not exactly super powered, but someone has to do it apparently."
Alex touched a hand to her back. "Do you have any idea how much respect I have for you?" Her eyes flashed in surprise. "Helping that little girl, being there for people, it's more important to me than all the raw power in the world."
Kerstin smiled sincerely. "That respect is mutual."
Hank and Raven rejoined them just as Erik's sedan pulled up a ways down. The headmaster pair along with the three Canadians climbed out.
"Are you alright?" Charles called out to them.
Raven held open her arms for him to rush into. "Yeah, we're fine."
Erik gave her a small hug from behind before kneeling in front of Alex. "How are you feeling?"
Alex slid down to embrace him. "Pretty good about now."
Arms folded, Victor looked to Hank silently. The young scientist looked back at him with both reassurance and thanks.
Changed back into his civilian clothing again, Steve walked up. "Erik, I—" He instantly stopped speaking when he noticed the others. "Vic?"
"Steve?" the tall blonde returned, eyebrow shooting up.
The Captain then placed narrowed eyes on the shorter one. "Lo…"
Logan crossed his arms. "Steve- heard ya hadn't aged by about more than ten seconds."
"You're one to talk," Steve observed.
Charles turned around. "I see you meant it when you said you knew him."
"I'm sorry." Steve looked at him. "And you are?"
Erik got up and introduced, "This is my adoptive brother."
"Charles Xavier." The Professor smiled and held out a hand.
Steve shook with him. "It's a pleasure. I've heard wonderful things about you."
Kayla stepped up. "Hi. Wife of Lo here."
Eyes honestly bulging a moment, Steve wordlessly pointed out Logan. Victor nodded at him to confirm it.
Steve clasped Kayla's hand. "Bless you, good woman." The others laughed and he looked at Logan again. "Did you ever get around to those anger management classes I recommended?"
"No, I didn't get around to those anger management classes you recommended," Logan replied matter-of-factly.
Steve shook his head. "I see you're still bullheaded and ill-tempered with the social skills of a hermit crab."
Victor glanced upward in dismay. "Here we go…"
Logan countered, "And I see you're still the same stiff shirt, pompous pretty boy with a shield wedged up his ass."
Steve then suggested, "We should catch up over a cold beer."
"Hell yeah," Logan supported. "I'm buyin'."
The other adults looked back and forth between themselves while Victor held up a pair of "don't ask me" hands and Kayla smiled delightedly.
IIIIIII
Alex glanced up from studying, not that he had been able to concentrate much with the day heavy on his mind, when Scott walked in.
"Hey, twerp."
"Hey." Scott stood at his feet at the desk. "When I saw you shaking that day at my birthday party— you already knew you were sick, didn't you?"
"Scott, I am not sick," Alex emphasized.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Scott wanted to know.
Alex responded simply, "Because it wasn't something you needed to know about."
"How can you say that?" the dark haired child demanded. "If something were to happen—"
Alex cut in with, "Erik, Charles, and Hank would handle it. It's my job to look out for you, not the other way around. I don't care how big you think you are. Now go get ready for bed." When his lips parted to argue again, Alex barked, "Go."
Letting off a deeply angered breath, Scott turned and stormed out.
IIIIIII
Relaxing against her satin pillows, Jasmine hugged her snow leopard plushy and lay quietly while her father pulled the blankets over her.
"Thanks for today, Daddy," she said.
"Ah, it was pure selfishness on my part. I just wanted to cut class." He smiled then sat near her, putting an arm over her. "You know, whenever I feel a music lull coming on, I visit that same lamppost on that same street. No matter how things turned out, I'll never forget the effect your mother had on my life. I still love her," he kissed her nose, "and we both love you like nothing in this world, Precious."
"I love you, too." Jasmine laid her head on his chest and closed her eyes.
Trick rubbed her back as he began an old Irish hymn.
IIIIIII
Furiously flipping a page in the medical text, Scott brought his flashlight over it to make out the words. Feeling fresh rage come over him, he slammed the book shut and flung it to the ground.
"Ow!" a disgruntled voice cried out, startling the boy.
Scott's eyes widened and he glanced down. "Oops. Sorry, Victor."
"Shades?" Victor tilted his head back to look at him. "What're you doin' up there this time of night, kid?"
"I just wanted some air."
"At this rate, you're gonna catch a cold. Now get down here."
With a sigh, Scott climbed out of the airplane attachment Logan held built onto the top of the tree house for the boy's birthday and carefully made his way to ground level.
Victor remarked, "Twelve years old, always walkin' around here with a face like ya got grandkids and a bad back. What's got you so ruffled, anyway?"
"That doofus big brother of mine," Scott mumbled.
Hiding a smirk, Victor picked up the book that had fallen on him. "Come on, kid."
When they made it back inside and down into the empty security room, Scott asked him, "Am I in trouble?"
"Trust me, kid." Victor took a seat in one of the black chairs. "If ya ever get in trouble with me, you'll know it. Now, what God awful thing did Havok do to ya? Sit on your head for too long?"
"No," Scott responded. "But he goes around here acting like I have to tell him everything, but he never has to be honest with me when he has a serious problem."
Victor listened then put forth, "Know why?"
The glasses adorned child held out a defensive hand. "Don't say he's right just because he's older."
"Wasn't gonna." Victor lifted him to sit in his lap. "The reason Alex gets all tight-lipped about himself is 'cause he knows what it's like to lose sleep every single night, so busy wrestling with worry. And he doesn't want you feelin' like that. He just wants you to be a happy, carefree kid."
"How can I be carefree?" Scott rationalized. "I lost our mom and dad and my memories on top. It was so scary hearing he got sick from this problem I didn't even know about. What if dies from this, Victor?"
Victor blew out a dismissive breath. "He ain't stupid enough to do that. He knows he'll get his a— butt kicked all through this joint. Cyc, you ain't gotta worry about being left in the dark. The rest of us got eyes out there for you. Heck, where are we right now?"
"Eye Spy," Scott smiled.
"Right." Victor dipped his head to offer him a nuzzle at the cheek then stood him. "By the way, Alex is older than you are."
Scott rolled his eyes in humor as he turned to go. "Knew you'd say that."
"Pfft, throwin' books." Victor used the text to pat the small bottom. "Act like ya got home trainin'."
"Yes, sir." Scott took it and scampered out.
IIIIIII
With the elated humming floating up into his ear, Charles combed fingers through the long blonde hair, the flames from the fireplace emitting serenity over the entire living room.
And just what are you so happy about, hm?
Emma smirked, head in his lap with hands folded together under her cheek. If you don't know after all this time, I'm certainly not going to tell you.
His eyebrow went up. So then you do know…
She sat up with an innocent smile. Know what?
Emma Frost…
Charles Xavier…
Fine, he sulked slightly, hand going to her stomach. I'll confess if you will.
Agreed, his lady accepted.
Then with a unison mentality they announced, it's a boy.