Rise or Fall

by Heiress Mellie

First Class: Charles and Erik have accepted their roles as guardians and headmasters over the young mutants but there is still work to be done for the greater than typical family. This is a familial and discipline, including spanking, centered fiction.

127. Chapter 127 Fight for the Light

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Twenty Seven

Author's Word: Thanks a lot for the feedback, fam. Just remember this is your last chance for peek into the past requests before the next part goes up. Anyway, enjoy and please review. I have an Anniversary Special to work on as well as dinner to get into the oven. Ah, loving every moment, too.

Knees huddled up in a tight lock against his chest, Frank lay across his mattress in a stiff position. His own eyes provided him with lighting inside the presently past-midnight bedroom.

The faintest knock preceded Jasmine entering straight through the door. "I knew you'd be up."

"Who can sleep?" he spoke distantly.

She sat on the edge of the bed, reaching out to touch his ankle. "Frank, I understand this is hard but it's now or never. I'm staying over with my grandparents then that's it. Me, Dad, and your mom are taking off. Are you coming with us?"

After a prolonged silence, he propped up in bed. "Yeah."

"Not if you don't talk to them," she reminded in a sharp hush. "Listen Frank, if you're really not sure… we should probably break up now."

His eyebrows took a simultaneous leap. "What?"

"I'm not even a teenager yet. We shouldn't try to hang onto each other like we're grown if we can't even see each other."

"Jas, we're going to see each other every day." Frank leaned over to take hold of her hands. "I'm going to talk to Erik tomorrow then we're mission bound."

Nodding in the darkness, she formed a smile.

IIIIIII

With a brief peek inside, Sean pushed the already ajar door fully open. There his resigned music teacher loaded his numerous well-tailored suits into plastic zippered bags. Trick's normal breathy humor seemed so replaced by uncertainty with intent and purpose thrown in. It displayed a level of seriousness about the man that the younger Irish male had never seen before.

"Seanie," Trick acknowledged the redhead when he spotted him. "I'll have to beg your forgiveness. I'm afraid I'm a packer most rushed and unorganized."

"No, it's okay." Sean placed the four main fingers of each hand into his pants pockets. "I wanted Maya to drive into the city with us but she didn't get to see her mom on Christmas so…"

"It's alright," Trick assured him. "I bid my farewells to most of the lot yesterday."

Unable to trust his voice for a moment, Sean eventually said brokenly, "This was easier when it still was yesterday."

Dropping the garment he currently held, Trick moved to take the young man into a strong embrace. "This is not about you, Seanie boy. This is something I have to take part in for me. And to help my friend Lannie through this new phase of her life."

Sean nodded against his shoulder. "I know. It was just so great having you and Jas here. You really helped me get into things I never even thought about before."

Trick inched away to look at him. "The pleasure was all mine in having you in the classroom."

"You let me know when you're all done." Sean turned and headed out.

Going to pick up the clothing he had discarded on the floor, Trick paused his hand. Instead he opted to take a seat on the bed and stare forward at nothing in particular.

IIIIIII

Placing delicate hands on the small wooden square, Jasmine developed a beam about herself and walked over to Cordelia.

"Logan made this for me for Christmas." She showed her the music box.

Cordelia traced a finger around the outline of the carved out jasmine on top. "He put little yellow daisies on mine." She looked up at her. "You better add that to your carry-on."

Jasmine nodded and slipped the box into the purple suitcase. "One gorge down."

"No," Cordelia disagreed. Standing, she wrapped tight arms around her. "You're headed straight up, Spirit."

"Thanks, Glimmer," Jasmine whispered.

Turning to grip one bag handle, Cordelia proposed, "We'd best start carrying these downs." On her way out, she passed the head of curls coming in.

"Hey, Becky," Jasmine greeted brightly. "Dad said we can make a stop by Savannah's to say bye to the girls. You coming?"

Walking up, Becky regarded her with an even countenance but green eyes so piercing. "I know what you're up to. Frank isn't going anywhere."

The older child let off a sigh. "I know how much you'll miss him- I really do- but this is still school, Becky. Everybody leaves at some point."

"This is not just some school to us," Becky said matter-of-factly. "If you think our dad is just going to—"

"School dad, Becky," Jasmine cut in briskly. "Frank and his dad may not get along but that doesn't make him an orphan. And he wants to be with his mom."

Rising to her toes with a glower, Becky shot back, "No one here is an orphan. None of us! This is my family, the one I wished for, and no one is taking that away. Especially not some bio." She veered around and stalked off with that.

Jasmine yanked up another suitcase then used her power to forcefully widen the door further as she also fumed out.

II

Lead by his ears, Charles found his way into the despondently barren studio. Equipment, books, posters; all stripped away, leaving behind nothing but seemingly lifeless gaps. All that remained was the piano in the middle of the room and, for the moment, the one going at its keys so masterfully.

Trick concluded with an echoing resonance then noticed the other man.

"The things we take for granted," Charles approached, joining him on the bench. "Soon enough, that sound will be a distant memory." He glanced around at the empty walls. "Like so many things."

"I can hardly believe I got it all shipped out so quickly." One of Trick's hands lingered at the top of the piano. "If it's alright with you, Charlie. I'd like to leave this here. Sort of the equivalent to scribbling my name on the walls. Some proof the Specter once haunted this home."

"By all means, please do," Charles encouraged. "But Trick, you needn't instruments nor monuments. You couldn't possibly be forgotten, mate. Least of all by me. But I have a request of my own." Trick waited expectedly. Charles patted the piano. "One for the road?"

"My pleasure, mate." With a wiggle of his experienced fingers, Trick started up another melody.

II

Loaded with one child per arm, Hank left his bitty bear pair at the kitchen table while he went about gathering breakfast for them. He shared a quick kiss with Raven as he danced around her to get to the stove to scoop some of her warm oatmeal into individual bowls.

"You almost done?" Hank asked with a short glance over his shoulder.

"Just about." Raven set about tying off the plastic wrap.

Done adding in a small amount of honey and brown sugar, Hank placed the bowls down in front of the children. He then jogged over to the refrigerator for the milk.

Trav watched his mother work. "What's that, Mommy?"

"A little care package for the Hughes," she answered him. "A few goodies to send them off."

"We're not going to see them ever again, are we?" Trav surmised.

"Son," Hank addressed, returning to the table with the bottle of white liquid in hand, "why would you think that?"

Trav let off a faint shrug and swirled the spoon around through the oatmeal. "Sometimes people don't come back when they go away. 'Cept Miss Foxy, Wolfy, and Cody. But that's only 'cause they can't be hurt bad."

Hank sat down a moment to get within better eye reach of his son. "Do you know what departure means?"

Trav nodded. "That's like leaving."

"Yes," Hank bobbed his head in turn, "and death is that way, too. However, there is a difference between the two. Death, unfortunately, is forever. Yet no matter how far someone departs, they can always return to you. Do you understand that?"

Trav considered it a moment then answered, "Yes, Daddy."

"Very good." He got up to get a small glass along with a sippy cup. "And Kiki, I want you to drink all of your milk today."

Raven looked back in time to catch their daughter's dramatic face-plant against the table and couldn't help laughing.

II

Palms slick with sweat as the sound of metal rising up and down increased, Frank poked his head inside the gym. He waited two minutes for Erik to pause. The man sat up with an exhale and batted at his damp face with the towel around his neck.

"What are you tired for?" Frank smirked, entering at last. "You're probably cheatin'."

Erik returned the boy's expression and said, "I'll have you know that my own hands carry at least half the might of my mutation."

Frank rubbed meaningfully at his bottom, "Who're you telling?" He then lowered to straddle the bench, facing the man.

Letting loose a snort, Erik gripped him gently at the waist. "How are you doing today, boychick?"

Frank's gaze cast downward. "Trying to hang in there I guess. I've gone without Trick and Jas before but Mom… Erik, I don't think I can go through that again."

"Yes, you can," Erik emphasized, hand going to the young one's cheek. "No matter how grim it all seems, I am here. We are all here with and for you."

"Erik," a small sniff escaped the boy, "Mom and I have been talking." He slowly raised his head again. "It's her I want to be with."

Dark blue eyes stilling, a silent Erik brought his hands back. "If that is what you want… you should ask Charles if he's able to obtain a flight for you this close to the new year."

Trapped in stun as Erik only got back down to resume weight lifting, Frank eventually managed to detach himself from the bench and depart from the gym.

After about ten sets, Erik felt his inner temperature increase along with his breathing until his powers took over him. In a swift flick, the bar darted out, creating a massive hole in the nearest wall upon collision.

II

Another suitcase ready, Jasmine proceeded down the hall only to react at a sudden impact to her temple before she could reach the stairs. She squatted down and picked up the paper airplane then zeroed in on the one who had flung it at her.

"Don't you ever quit, shorty?"

"Open it."

She gave him a look. "What's going to pop out and bite me?"

"Just open it, toe head." Cody headed towards her.

Rolling her eyes, Jasmine unfolded the design and took rapid note of the enlarged letters written there. "Zap?" She turned to him again. "What does that even mean?"

"It's ZAP!" he emphasized with grander enthusiasm. "Zebra and proud. That's us."

Immediately melting into a grin along with giggles, she said, "Zebras and mutts. That is us."

"Yep." Cody extended his hand and they high-fived.

Countenance dimming slightly, Jasmine said, "I better get moving."

Without a word, Cody took possession of her bag and began down with it. Jasmine followed after him in higher contentment.

IIIIIII

"You have to be kidding me!" The explosive reaction rippled throughout Scott in such a way that the fury seemed capable of melting the icy moisture around them.

"Nope," arms crossed over his front, Frank shook his head, "I'm out of here tomorrow."

"Frank, you cannot just go from making plans to build a snow fort to announcing that you're jetting off halfway across the world. No, no," Scott shook his own head, "something happened. Now tell me what's going on."

"Nothing," Frank insisted. "It's just time to try something new."

Scott remained doubtful. "From out of nowhere? I don't believe it."

"Well," Frank could not think of a proper conclusion, "believe it."

"You're out of your mind," Scott put forth without any trace of jest. "You have to be. So you're just going to walk out on Sean and Rebecca and Er—"

"He said it was A-Okay with him," Frank interjected in an increased tone.

Scott quieted from the shock of that but immediately found his voice again. "No. I don't know what you think you heard but you have to have it wrong. The same Erik who doesn't let us move an inch from the table until our plates are clean or skateboard at night cannot be "A-Okay" with this. And Rebecca sure as heck won't be."

"I know what I heard, okay?" Frank said steadfast. "Becky doesn't need me. Not with you here. Sean's got Cody around, who has cute on his side. With Raven married with her own kids, she probably won't even notice I'm gone."

"What about me?" Scott demanded in a hush. "You're my best friend. The first one I ever made here. I can't be the Eye Scream Team on my own. The Cyclops only has one eye as it is. Now I feel like I'm blind completely."

Staring down at the snow under his boots for a moment, Frank finally mumbled, "You get used to it."

Entirely taken aback, Scott started to walk off but stopped suddenly. "I've always thought the best of you, Frank. Even when you make me mad because deep down I know what a standup pal you really are. Ready to be there when you're needed. But honestly…" He glanced back. "You're just selfish." He kept on for the house.

Getting down to his knees in the snow, Frank remained still for a long while. Clenching a fist, he began punching with all his might at the ground.

IIIIIII

Mental sensory at its highest, Charles stepped forth to discover the one seated before the lake. The chiseled upper body leaned entirely against one knee, absent countenance fixed ahead.

"Erik." Charles walked to him. "Brother, what are you doing? It's frigid out here."

"Feels colder inside," Erik stared blankly.

Charles got down to sit cross-legged beside him. "What is this nonsense about Franklin?"

An ironic smile crossed Erik's face. "Part of me saw it coming but dared pray for otherwise."

"And you're simply going to allow a thirteen-year-old boy to make such a decision? With no discussion whatsoever?"

"He told me flat out, Charles." Erik turned to him. "He wants to be with her. I may be more worthwhile to him than his father but not his mother."

"No," Charles responded adamantly. "Erik, I refuse to believe that Frank has honestly decided this with a clear head. He's most likely under pressure from Jasmine, feeling guilt regarding Alana. We must set things right."

Normally straight laced visage crumbling somewhat, Erik said, "It keeps coming, Charles. Rebecca last year, Alex taken and traumatized, now Frank so willingly wants to leave me. I know I don't deserve any of them," his breathing hitched, "but I cannot lose him. Any one of them."

Charles' arms shot out, taking the thinner body in a protective clutch. "You won't. We have battled so much, faced near-death situations eye to eye. We will find a way here, too." He frowned at Erik's pulling away. "What is it?"

Swiping fiercely at the slight wetness on his face, Erik stood and turned away. "You shouldn't see me this way."

"Erik Lehnsherr, don't you dare." Charles got up heatedly and went around to look straight at him. "If you try to put that wall in place I will tear it apart with a sledgehammer. We started this together. As equals. That included the inevitable sorrow on both our parts. You may play stoic in front of the children and before every other man and woman on staff but don't even attempt it with me."

Both hands running through his hair, Erik said, "So much has changed."

Charles displayed clear concern. "Between us?"

"With you," Erik clarified. "Honestly- you're about to be a married man."

Charles stated, "And I was a brother and father first. Emma knows that and so do I." He thought of something. "Is it… Alana?"

Erik admitted quietly, "I feel alone at times. And I cannot possibly burden you with my absurd troubles."

Charles yanked hold of the initial statement. "You are not alone. Erik," he formed a tiny smile, "you're not alone."

At the words so familiar, Erik dipped to exchange another embrace with the younger man.

IIIIIII

Stretched out over his bed with one arm tucked under his head, Frank at last decided the ceiling would not give him what he needed. Getting up, he left his room and proceeded downstairs until he reached the metallic doors of the Mag Cave.

"Erik?" Frank petitioned, coming inside.

Not turning away from his open book, Leon piped up from his reclined position on the couch, "I believe you just missed him."

Frank let off a frustrated sigh then focused in on the older teen. "You know, just because Erik takes pity on you sometimes doesn't mean you can hang out in here. And for the record, you're not an Erik Kid."

Raising his head, Leon shut the book. "Odd of you to say," he stood, leaving the book in his spot, "because from what I hear," he walked and stopped just a few paces away from the city native, "you're not an Erik Kid, either. Not after tomorrow."

"Why don't you mind your own business?" Frank spat.

Leon remained unfazed as his hands slid into his pockets. "You know what your problem is? Besides possessing an imbecilic backwards name that is." Leon did not wait for him to offer a guess or reply. "You're more transparent than that laughable ability you have. With every little remark you make, you're not being clever. You're stating how you feel about yourself. And you couldn't be more obvious about it."

Glaring, Frank tossed out, "Suck it," and began to huff out.

"It's a shame you can't be like Joey." Frank's entire form stiffened as Leon only went on. "That sweet creative little joy to have around. From what Alex and Raven have told me, Erik would have done just about anything to earn his trust. Yet for you to get that kind of attention, you have to talk out of butt with every other sentence. Funny because Becky doesn't talk too much but she owns a sizeable portion of Erik's heart. And Alex," Leon grinned, "here I thought he was just an amazing friend but behold, he is a one of a kind son. The kind many men can only dream about. I can always see the pride in Erik's eyes whenever they're together. Both the Summers brothers have a lot going for them actually. It totally astounds me how you can have multiple types of vision yet while you're dishing out temporary strained eye sight, Scott can have a building obliterated."

Frank spun around to face him. "You don't know shit about what I can do. If you saw my mutation full force you'd be on your knees."

"Right, heard about that." An indifferent Leon studied his fingernails. "The alleged mystical light show. Where's that been lately, anyway? Have you ever considered that could've been a onetime fluke?" At the horror that appeared in the younger one's eyes, Leon kept on. "Don't worry. I'm sure Erik will miss having his handy flashlight at the ready." Stepping over closer, he leaned in near to Frank's ear. "I don't care about your blatant and, quite honestly, pathetic daddy issues. I don't care about your weak self-esteem. People around here have been through real problems and come out better for it. If you're not ready to compete, don't try to play this game with me."

Standing to full height again, Leon strolled out of the den while catatonia seemed to take over the one he left behind.

IIIIIII

Rounding the corner, the group moved along like a mini militia but only stopped at the sight of the one who stepped out from the bathroom.

"Cody, have you seen Joey around?" Sean asked him.

"Nope." Cody noticed their expressions. "What's goin' on?"

Raven explained, "We wanted to get the six of us together to talk to him about how he is in no way, shape, or form moving out."

"Scott tried talking to him," Alex brought up, fist rubbing against one palm. "I'm ready to pound him."

Hank said with a wiggle of his frames, "This is one occasion where we are of a like mind."

"I've been trying to reach Joey telepathically but I can't get him to answer," Becky explained.

"He's probably in artsy land," Cody raised. "I'll go find him for you."

"Thanks, Code Man," Sean said appreciatively.

"Let's move," Raven directed.

As they proceeded on, Cody reentered the bathroom.

"Okay," he pulled back the shower curtain, "they're gone."

The huddled up blonde sat in the tub, stroking Bounty. "Thanks."

Banging on the door, Alex spoke loudly. "Look Frankenstein, I don't know what kind of crap you're trying to pull but it ends now."

"Frank-O, it's Sean," the redhead stepped up, "we need to talk about this."

Realizing something, Becky informed. "He's not here."

Raven opened the door, finding the bedroom indeed empty. "Come on. Let's check downstairs."

"No," they all looked to Becky again, "I mean he's gone. I can't feel him at all."

IIIIIII

Headmasters appearing inside the lab in a simultaneous feat, Charles went to the other members of the Triad while Erik did the same with the McCoys.

"How long has he been gone?" the metal wielder wanted to know.

"We don't know," a clearly bothered Raven answered. "He just took off. We tried Alana's but she wasn't home."

"I was unable to hone in on him," Charles said, looking to Emma. "Have you had any luck?"

Emma drew back hands from Becky. "His thoughts are racing at top speed and he's already a solid distance from the mansion. Wherever he's gone, he isn't using his mutation."

Trying the communicator again, Hank petitioned, "Frank? Frank, answer me this instant. Frank!" He groaned at the lack of response and lowered the device.

"What if we can't find him?" Becky threw out in vexation.

"We will, Princess," Charles promised her. "The three of us will combine our powers."

"I'm going to suit up and catch a bird's eye view," Sean put forth.

Alex jumped up from a lab table to go as well. "Brat better hope I don't find him first."

Sharing much the same sentiment, Erik silently left next.

II

"Telepathy, terrible two's, tiramisu, whatever," last boot on, Logan stood and zipped up his leather jacket, "I'll have that glowworm tracked in no time."

"His emotional state is all over the place, Logan," Kayla walked over from the window, "his mother leaving, making these rash decisions- so much needs to be addressed and he's out there by himself."

"Hey, the little punk grew up in New York City," Logan reminded her. "He can handle himself for a few hours. Me and Vic'll sniff him out. Don't worry."

"And you be careful."

"You're askin' too much now, woman." Logan gave her a brief kiss before going off in search of the missing X-Boy.

II

Black ponytail switching back and forth with every shift of her head, Cordelia called out, "Joey! Joey, where are you?"

Footsteps proceeded a soft, "Cordy?"

Turning around, the teenage girl smiled and walked down the hall to him. "There you are. With all this craziness going on, I wanted to make sure you hadn't flown the coop also." She saw the lack of illumination in his eyes. "Joey, it's alright. Frank is probably blowing off steam. Trust me, it's not urgent until he has a fully gassed car prepared to cross state lines."

"Cordy," he gazed up, "can I talk to you?"

Growing quickly seriously, she replied, "Of course," and stuck out her hand. After they were in the safety of her room, she closed the door and sat at the foot of the bed with him. "Now, what's this all about?"

"… I don't want you to hate me."

She blinked twice then said, "Did the rivers and the seas dry up? Joey, you're more important to me than the air. You'd sooner hate me."

He looked up immediately. "No way!"

"Well, ditto then." Cordelia smiled slightly and nudged him playfully with her arm. "Now, please. Tell me."

"Earlier, before they knew he was gone," Joey started, "Uncle Hank, Aunt Raven, Alex, Sean, and Becky wanted my help to convince Frank to stay. Becky tried using her power to call to me but I kept singing the Sword in the Stone songs loud in my head so she couldn't find me."

"Why did you do that?" Cordelia asked gently, though she already had a fairly good hunch but allowed him to explain at his own pace.

"'Cause I…" Shame covered the boy's entire face. "I was kind of glad when I heard he was gonna go. Sometimes he's nice to me but other times he just doesn't like me and says mean things. But now Uncle Erik, Becky, and everybody are sad. I feel awful, Cordy."

"Hey," Her arm went around him, "I left my brother high and dry and he hardly talked to me at all, let alone enough to say mean things. You're so kind at heart, Joey, but you don't have to be crazy about everyone."

Joey whispered, "I wish he could be nice more. Like when he went to fight those boys at the community center who were picking on me. Why can't he always be like that?"

Cordelia told him, "I've wondered the same thing about Adrienne. I used to do it with our mother as well. Hot to ice cold those two. Honestly, though, I believe Frank is simply unhappy. I know what that feels like. If not for you and Charles, I still would." She smiled at him. "So it's okay to not always be perfect, no matter how close Xavier men come to it."

Joey hugged her at the arm. "I want to help do something."

Cordelia suggested, "Let's go put on some tea and hot chocolate."

Joey agreed and they departed for the kitchen together.

IIIIIII

"Franklin!" the man's voice bellowed with volume enough to cause a scattering of birds from overhead. "Frank!" At the snapping of a branch from behind, Erik immediately veered around with flashlight in hand only to discover a different bundled up boy. "Scott?" He went to him. "You shouldn't be out here. Get back inside the house this minute."

"I can't," Scott claimed, tone soft and worn. "I can't do anything but think about Frank. He said he was leaving straight out of the blue. And now he's run off. Something's really wrong. I want to help him, but… I just can't see out here. He's the one who can see when it gets dark. Not me."

Firm countenance fading with understanding, Erik held out a hand for him. "Stay close."

The twelve-year-old nodded and linked together with the man before they resumed the search through the woods.

IIIIIII

Various echoes of doubt, frustration, and deep rooted fear chased throughout his head relentlessly. Laid out on his back, the boy hitched breaths against the absolutely frigid atmosphere that offered nothing in the ways of remorse for his present mindset.

You're not just a fluke, he raised clenched hands as though sheer force could travel through them, you're still in there.

At the roar of twin engines approaching, Frank sat up on his knees and spread apart the bushes beside him. He right away recognized the pair of motorcycles screeching along.

Making a decision more sudden than any other he had made that day, Frank flung himself out onto the road.

A wide eyed Victor shouted, "Lo', look out!"

"Shit!" hissed the younger brother as he performed a rapid swerve.

Throwing himself off the bike before it collided against a tree on the other side, Logan took no recovery time.

Seething, he made his way over to the missing child. "You little idiot," he hauled him up by yanking on the sides of his hood, "what the hell is wrong with you? I could've fucking killed you!" When quivering soundless lips seemed the only response from the youth, Logan forced him down against the shrubbery. "About time you had some sense knocked into ya."

Frank paled and fell back at the man's hands going straight for his belt buckle.

"Logan!" Victor snatched his arm back, making the irate one look to him. "Don't." He glanced down into the terrified brown eyes. "Not like this."

Registering his brother's expression, Logan said, "Kid deserves it," but lowered his hands despite.

"Wolverine." Frank's shaky tone made them both eye him. "I… I'm sorry. But I had to. I thought that if I was gonna be hurt then the light- it'd come back."

Logan proved utterly incredulous. "You put all of us through hell and risked your neck to show off your damn glitter effect?"

"I just wanted to feel it again," Frank urged in desolation. "You didn't see it but it was real. And if I could have it again, I'd be worth something. Worth wanting."

"Damn it, Frank, you don't need a light show to be worth something," Logan told him in an iron laced voice. He squatted, taking him by the shoulders. "Don't ya know that, you dumbass brain?"

Frank's head dipped. "Not anymore."

Stepping up, Victor dipped and collected the growing teen up. "You're gonna be reminded real quick." He raised him a little for a nuzzle at the cheek. "Time to go home, 'House."

As Logan got up next, he gave the boy one good swat, though he knew it would only warm him against the night air.

IIIIIII

Even after residing there for more than a year, Frank found the parlor overwhelmingly large. Of course, it could have also been that he felt particularly small that night. Changed into thermal pajamas, he waited near to the fireplace on one of the loveseats.

As expected, Erik and Charles arrived inside before too long.

Frank somehow met eyes with the older of the Headmasters and Erik stayed in place for a time before rushing forward. Picking the adolescent mutant up into a tight grip, he embraced him fiercely.

"You took years off my life, boychick," Erik said to him.

"I'm sorry," Frank replied in a near whimper.

Charles pressed a hand to the young back. "Were you trying to hurt yourself?"

Frank looked back at the Professor. "No, I swear. I just wanted my light, my real light, to come back. So I could be good for you to want me to stay."

Erik frowned deeply. "Want you to stay?" He stood him up. "That's exactly what we want. More than you can believe."

"But you didn't say that earlier," Frank reminded.

"I thought you wanted to be with your mother," Erik rested a hand on one side of his face, "That you would only resent me if I forced you to remain."

"I didn't want you to care about my feelings," Frank stated matter-of-factly. "If I want that supportive stuff I can go to Charles. Erik, I wanted you to say no chance. I wanted you to yell. To tell me I'd be grounded for a month if I ever mentioned it again. For crying out loud, you and Raven camped out at a hotel when I went to New York for the weekend."

After an prolonged silence on the metal wielder's part, Erik came back with, "You're right. I became so overwhelmed by my own grief at the thought of you willingly walking away that I ignored my true instinct. Never again." He then contorted into a fierce expression that caused the child before him to visibly clench up. "You are not going anywhere except straight up to your room where we will continue this conversation in great length. And for this disgusting display from tonight, you can count out bike riding, skateboarding, comic books, and allowance money for the next two weeks."

"Furthermore," Charles tacked on, "you're not allowed to use any of your new Christmas presents during that time. I'm certain Logan will be happy to hold onto your sled."

A wide open mouth Frank gaped at him. "Charles?"

"Not the support you anticipated, hm?" Charles reeled him over by the boy's right arm. "Since you've clearly forgotten, young man, I will remind you that I am the one who sought you out on that basketball court that night. You were my first recruit when Cerebro actually decided to function here. If you thought I was going to put you on a plane and bid you a blissful cheerio, you were grossly mistaken."

"Charles, I… I didn't mean to," Frank shook out his head, somewhat trying to clear it, "I'm sorry. I should have known better."

"Though I don't argue that for a bloody moment, I do accept your apology." Charles tilted his head towards the hall. "Now, I believe Erik said something about your room. Go on now."

"Frank," Erik spoke after the marching boy, making him turn back briefly, "pull this sort of foolishness again and you will be grounded for three months."

"But I only said one month."

"I said four," Charles raised.

Frank continued on with a light mumble of, "Man will be on the moon before I get out."

Once he left their sights, the Headmasters found a moment's rest on the opposite facing sofas.

"I don't think my chest stopped pounding until they walked in through that door," Charles confessed.

"Mine is still winding down," said Erik.

"Our boys," Charles shook his head, "they'll lead us right to our deaths before our time, I'm certain."

"I knew we should have stopped after Hank," Erik quipped, getting a chuckle out of the telepath for the most untrue remark.

IIIIIII

Stroking fingers through the brown hair, Cordelia asked, "All warmed up?"

"Mmhmm," Scott nodded, handing over his now empty hot chocolate mug. "Thanks a lot, Cordy."

Emma came inside. "What a day."

"I stayed in Boston far too long." Cordelia stood up with the mug. "I'm going to go pick up in the kitchen. You should get some rest, sis."

"I will soon." Emma exchanged a cheek kiss with her as she came by. "Thank you, my sparkling golden rock."

Cordelia smiled and continued out.

"Emma?" Scott spoke. "Is Frank still going to go away?"

Sitting alongside his bed, the woman replied, "Absolutely not. That entire notion came from a place of sadness and confusion. But we don't have to worry anymore and neither does he."

Scott got comfortable against his pillows. "Just feels like everything is changing and so fast. Do you think we'll be okay?"

"The X-Men may be thinned out," Emma tucked blankets in around him, "but today proved yet again that we can handle whatever comes our way." She lowered to press a kiss to his forehead. "You have sweet dreams, love."

With newfound contentment, Scott rolled over to his side to settle in for the night.

IIIIIII

Head popping up the moment the door creak sounded, Frank stayed put on his bed but kept eye contact with the purposeful adult.

Summoning the door shut with his power, Erik first asked, "Do you understand why you're being punished?"

"For being stupid, reckless, irresponsible," Frank considered another he had heard earlier that day, "and totally selfish."

Erik seemed impressed by the astute response. "I'd say you comprehend this situation well. Now, there is something I want to say." He walked to the bed and took a position on it that allowed him to face the young boy. "I am sorry if, even for a moment, I made you believe I did not want you. You're my little boychick and you're always going to belong here with me and the rest of our family."

"I know but I want to be a good boychick for you."

"You are, albeit a naughty one at times. Though, I have ways of correcting that." He gestured with his head towards the desk. "Bring me your ruler."

With an internal wince, Frank got up to follow the order. Fishing through one desk drawer, he picked out the instrument in question.

Erik accepted the implement when he came back over with it. "Take your pants down."

Lowering the pajama bottoms, Frank situated himself in a ready stretch across the man's lap.

Erik brought his briefs down then dished out the first harsh snap of the ruler.

"Geez!" Frank cried out already unable to suppress the small squirm that also resulted.

Winding his free arm around his waist to keep him in place, Erik continuously rained wrath down on the behind. When it grew sufficiently red enough, he moved on to the bare thighs. The change in direction created heavy sobs and mattress pounding on Frank's part.

When it seemed a reprieve was in sight, his hopes got just as quickly dashed away. Ruler finished, Erik picked things up with his own hand. After the thirteen-year-old's cries became all too miserable, he stopped. Careful of the blazing bottom, he readjusted his clothes for him.

"Alright, little boychick," Erik ran a soothing hand up and down his back, "it's over." He patted the back twice. "Papa's done."

At the second to last word, Frank relaxed into sniffles and despite the pain, raised himself up to hug the man.

Erik gladly returned the gesture, unprepared to release the hold for a long time to come.

IIIIIII

Positioned on her bed with a lapful of little boy, Kayla looked over as her husband walked back into their suite.

"How's the bike?"

"Too beautiful for this world," Logan began tugging off his shirt, "but fixable." He kicked out of his boots. "According to Chuck, the glowworm's fun is over for a while. Probably have him help me work on it to keep him busy."

An incredulous Cody reacted, "He made you wreck it and now you're gonna let him help fix it? You should've whipped him."

"Did I ask for Cat Commentary?" Logan got into a pair of sleep pants.

Cody scowled. "If I'd done that, you'd have whipped me good."

Logan gave him a pointed look. "I still can."

"Fine," Cody crossed his arms, "then I'll just try walkin' in traffic."

Kayla placed dual vice grips on his arms. "Don't you even joke about a thing like that."

"Yeah," Logan supported. He came over, flopping down beside them to have eye contact with their son. "That's not funny, Codicat. If you're feelin' down and out, you come talk to us or your uncle or one of these stooges walkin' through here."

"I know. I wouldn't do that for real," Cody assured. "But I still say Frank Tolbert is full of it."

"Look, you're a sweet kid," Logan bumped foreheads with him lightly, "when you want to be." Cody smirked. "But Frank is one of those kids who gets into trouble because it's the only way he knows to get noticed. Or he might have a hard time findin' the words. I was like that a lot of the time after my," Logan's blue eyes dimmed for a moment, "-before your uncle showed up."

Kayla shared a knowing look with him.

"Okay, so don't whip him," Cody shrugged. "Just hit him in the head real hard with your bike next time. Bet he'll learn to talk after that."

Leaning in to him, Logan growled, "Smart aleck," and bit at him playfully, creating immense childish laughter.

IIIIIII

"So what are you going to do when you get to Germany?" Frank laid out on the couch, watching his mother organize her luggage by the door.

"We're partnering with several churches," Alana explained. "Lots of fellowship and connecting."

"Think you'll make it to Ireland?"

"I await the antics Trick and I sure to participate in."

Frank tried to keep his countenance together. "Will you write to me?"

Standing straight, Alana's hands went to her hips. "I know you did not just ask me that question." She sat on the coffee table, facing him. "Sweetheart, I am going to flood the post office along with the telephone company every chance I get. You'll get plenty sick of me asking if you're eating alright, trust me."

"I just…" Frank's voice lowered. "Dad's got Jeff, now you've got Lin. I don't want you to start doing all these great things and forget about the monkey in the middle."

"Frank, you're talking about something that is absolutely impossible. If I thought for a moment that you would not be alright in my absence, I would not leave you here," she stated resolutely. "To be honest, of my boys, you're the one I've always had to worry the least about."

"What do you mean?" a confused Frank wondered.

"I had such a difficult time with Linny's delivery- though I'd go through it again in a heartbeat if I had to. Then he stayed so on and off sick. It hurt so much to see him go through that then later with the cancer." She paused a moment to recollect her words. "When you were born, it was basically a lucky break for me. You were active, playful, energetic, and so bright." Alana cupped his cheek tenderly. "It's like I could see the light in the back of your eyes." Frank smiled widely. "Linny's always been smart but I think the illnesses effected his school performance. That's something he and your dad have in common. He always struggled so much in the classroom. I think your father was even a little intimidated by you."

"Dad? Intimidated by me?" Even as he spoke the words, Frank could not believe them.

"You've always flown through school," Alana pointed out. "I think watching you sent your father's head into a spin. He couldn't really help you with your homework, not that you needed much of that."

Frank wanted to know, "Why is he always biting my head off, though?"

Alana enclosed his hands inside of hers. "Sometimes parents can see what they wish they had in their children. It's sad but it can make them very envious."

"Guess that's the part me and him have in common, huh? I'm always jealous over something."

"Don't be that way," Alana encouraged strongly. "Frank, you never have to doubt your own value. I know it, your father knows it but won't admit it, Erik and the others certainly know it. And honey, God knows it."

Frank said, "I think I need to work on listening to Him a little more."

"So do I," his mother concurred.

Shoulders trembling all at once, Frank threw arms around her. "I love you, Mommy."

Alana held onto him as tightly as she could. "I love you, too, baby." Her voice dropped and she had to take a breath. "I love you, too."

IIIIIII

In response to the knock, Trick unlocked and opened the door, not all surprised about who he found out in the hall.

"Frankie boy," the man acknowledged.

"Specter," Frank smiled at him.

They shared a one-armed hug and Trick said, "Just a moment, laddie."

The ash blonde went back in and a moment later, Jasmine stepped out. She closed the door, leaving them alone outside the apartment.

After a brief quiet spell, Jasmine deduced, "So this is really it."

"Jas, after you came back I asked you to go steady because I think it's ridiculous how guys and girls feel that way about each other but don't say it. That's just dumb to me," he stated flat out. "And I'm telling you, even if this is "really it", I don't regret going with you for a minute, babe. I was happy. You made me happy."

"You made me happy, too," she told him. "That's why I tried to get you to pack it all up and come with me. But I know I was wrong. That house could never be just a school and those people are not just teachers and classmates that we're going to forget about in a week."

Frank studied her face closely. "So there's no hard feelings here?"

"Hey, I dated an X-Men." Jasmine grinned brightly. "I was an X-Man. I'll always remember my time with you guys but it's the Spirit in me I guess. I can't stay put too long." She moved in closer to place her head on his shoulder. "But I'm going to miss you, Lighthouse."

"I'm going to miss you, too, Spirit." Frank wound arms around her. "Please take care of yourself. And watch out for Trick, Mom, and Linny."

"I will," she shut her eyes for a second, "promise."

They remained that way before pulling back to clasp hands. Eventually, Jasmine turned from him and walked her entire body through the nearest wall out of his sight.

IIIIIII

Before full entry into the mansion could be established, Frank felt himself yanked down into a headlock.

"Oh look who's home. Figured you'd probably get lost." Alex roughed up his hair. "But I guess Frankenstein always finds his way back, huh?"

Frank jerked about. "Hands off, paste face!" He continuously struggled. "Erik!"

"Be careful you don't break his neck, Alex," was all the metal wielder has to say before slipping into his den.

"Seanie, Hank," Frank implored as the two headed down the stairs. "A little help here."

"Most certainly," Hank granted.

"Yeah," Sean seconded, "we'd love to help Alex."

Eyes widening, Frank repeated over and over, "No, no, no, no, no! Guys, wait a sec."

Alex pinned him against the floor by his forearms. "What do you guys think? Stop hitting yourself or pink belly?"

"He'd look so cute in pink," Sean cooed.

"Agreed." A smirking Hank lowered to keep the boy from kicking. "Ready and able, Sean."

"Seanie, no!" Frank wriggled.

The redhead got on his knees. "This is gonna make me laugh more than it does you, Frank-O." With that he pulled up the younger boy's sweater and started drumming palms against the exposed stomach.

"Sean!" Frank laughed in earnest. "Cut it out. Quit it!"

"This'll teach you, you little brat," Alex taunted. "Give it to him, Seanie."

After another few seconds, Hank declared, "I believe that's a lesson learned for now."

"And look how cute his tummy is," Sean commented before promptly blowing a raspberry on it.

"Gross!' Frank hopped up, straightening out his clothes. "Oh I am so gonna get you guys."

"Yeah, we'll all be sleeping with one eye open," said Alex dryly. "Hey, Lee." He greeted his friend as the three of them walked on down the hall. "Up for some football before dinner?"

"I'll be out in a minute," Leon replied, eyes fixed on the youngest teenager.

Frank's shoulders sagged. "How long have you been standing there?"

"I came in between 'cut it out' and 'quit it'."

Frank rolled his eyes. "Go ahead. Get your shots in."

Leon instead walked towards him. "I'm not a resident expert in regards to physical torment- though apparently there are men who make quite the mastery of it- but here's how my normal functionality works. Rubber to glue. Whatever you dish out will bounce off me and stick to you, only multiplied."

Frank followed along. "So what's your point?"

"Having an enemy to toy with gets old very fast. In fact, I believe we could be fairly amicable, or at least useful to each other." He extended a hand. "Cease fire?"

Considering it, Frank held out his own hand. "But I still reserve the right to point out your ugliness."

"Terms accepted." Leon shook with him. "Now, if you'll excuse me…" His body broke into particles in a rapid shift.

Frank's eyelids jumped for a moment, not completely used to the sight yet, then he started back towards the kitchen.

"Hey, Travvy," he acknowledged the five-year-old coloring at the table. "Hi, Ki-Cutie." Frank kissed the top of her head and she waved a crayon at him. "Maybe later."

Raven turned around with a smile. "Hey, Frank." She gave him a hug. "I'm so glad you're home."

"Me, too." He smiled at her and nodded towards the stove. "Need some help?"

"What are you, amnesic?" she grinned. "Let's get going."

Taking over her place at the oven so that Raven could gather necessary supplies from the refrigerator, the two went to work getting dinner on the table. The sounds of Trav quietly singing, and mixing up quite a few lyrics, from the Sword and the Stone songs and Kiki's eager scribbling completed the quaint ease in the eatery.