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.

134. Chapter 134 Baby Overboard

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Thirty Four

Author's Word: Hello, fam. While it's insanely cold outside, I felt inspired to snuggle up with my cat army and write. So as I enjoy the warmth of the indoors, you guys please enjoy this and review!

Secondary rounds of the night completed, the oldest Headmaster departed the second floor. He returned to his den and finished reviewing a few things for the day ahead. Though lesson plans never left him in a state of vexation, he at least wanted to arrive somewhat ahead of the youngsters. After another half an hour, he put his documents away and headed next for the parlor.

Erik mixed himself a small drink. Stilling the hand that held the clear glass, he became lured away by his own thoughts. He walked to the fireplace and set his gaze on the old clock at the center of the mantle. Making use of his powers, he forcibly made the hands cease their rotation.

You'll have to do better than that to slow the effects of aging.

At the familiar voice in his head, the metal wielder turned to the one who had just entered.

"Watch yourself, Lab Rat," Erik cautioned lightly, "you no longer have the protection of a state line between us."

Strolling up close, Charles brought arms around him in a strong embrace. "There are worse things."

Erik hugged him back and ran a few fingers through the chestnut brown strands. "While this unexpected company is as appreciated as ever," he pulled away to face him, "don't you have someone far prettier with whom to enjoy the night?"

Charles' smile created a glow that easily rivaled the fireplace. "She's fast asleep. I've hardly had much myself. It's an absolute chore to take my eyes away from her. And the baby…" His blue eyes twinkled. "I sense him growing day by day. His mind calls out to me; his father."

Erik said, "The mental link you have with your children is something to be envied, Charles."

"Oh believe me, you have one with your own as well," Charles assured. "It simply works differently."

Erik regarded him gratefully. "So is a horrible spell of insomnia the only reason that sent you down here?"

"It's funny," Charles said. "All day long I've been hearing everyone say how much they missed me. While I in turn have been wanting to express how much I missed my elder brother."

Placing a hand to his shoulder, Erik gave the spot a squeeze. "And I missed my little brother. But believe me when I say I could not be happier for you. It's exactly as I predicted. At long last, the woman of your deepest desire is all yours. Still though," Erik led him to the bar for a drink of his own, "it's nice that we can still have this."

"Of course." Charles raised his freshly poured brandy. "One thing among many that I love and appreciate about Emma is the amount of respect she has for the life I lived before."

"Just as you've done with regards to her family," Erik pointed out.

Another smile crossed the Professor's face. "So, tomorrow dawns a new day for the Xavier Institute. Think we can manage?"

"Yes," Erik sipped his drink, "as we have a thousand times before."

IIIIIII

"Oh boy!" Covers flung right off him, Trav bounced all around the other blissfully slumbering inhabitants on the bed. "It's time for school! Mommy, Mommy," he shook Raven at the shoulder, "Mommy, get up."

Kiki stirred from where she rested on Hank's stomach.

"Ugh," Raven groaned, hardly able to raise her head. "What?"

"Daddy!" Trav pounced on top of him next. "Hurry up. It's school time. We have to get ready."

"School time?" a groggy Hank echoed. Cautious of his daughter, he reached for his glasses. Once he had them on, he received a good view of the still dark winter sky. "What time is it?"

"Trav," Raven lifted the alarm clock for his viewing, "it's barely five thirty. Go back to sleep for a few minutes, baby, okay?"

"Awwww!" Leaping onto the wall nearest the headboard, Trav clung himself to it. "But I want to get ready. Mooooommy…"

Rubbing at Kiki's back, Hank gave Raven a defeated look and mumbled, "It's best to encourage this particular excitement…"

Letting off a moan, Raven sat up. "Let's get dressed and I'll get breakfast going."

"Yay!" Trav released his hold on the wall and flopped down to his spot on the bed.

"Come on, jumping bean." Raven took him by the hand to seek out clothing.

"Alright," Hank laid Kiki down on her back and unzipped her footed pajamas, "let's see what he have this morning." He inspected her overnight diaper. "Oh, just a little wet." He smiled down at her. "Let's visit the potty and change you into something prettier."

Kiki only responded by wiping at her eye with her tiny fist.

Hank removed her diaper completely and carried her into the bathroom. He attempted to seat her on the edge of the toilet but her sudden struggling made it difficult.

"Kiki," Hank tried to firmly but gently sit her down, "stop it. No fussing."

"No pot!" she protested, waving her arms now. "Nooooo!"

Hank had to calm his voice from growling as he repeated her name again. "Kiki," he lowered to look into her shining brown eyes, "you're tired. Daddy's tired. We're all tired. But as soon as we dress and eat Mommy's yummy breakfast, we're going to feel much better. Now, will you please do what Daddy says and use the potty?"

"…Kay, Daddy." The little girl performed her business, albeit with a great deal of sulking involved.

Out in the bedroom, Raven finished getting Trav into his thermals and brown corduroy pants

"There we go." She brushed some hair away from his eyes "Now, what shirt do you want to wear?"

"Daddy," Trav petitioned his father as he came back out with his little sister in tow, "what are you wearing to school?"

Hank considered it a moment. "One of my white shirts and my maroon sweater vest."

The boy turned back to his mother. "I want to dress like Daddy."

Raven exchanged a smile with her husband and said, "Sure." She found a similar collared shirt and brighter red full sweater of Trav's. "Is this okay?"

"Hmm," Trav hummed, "Okay."

Hank dressed Kiki in a yellow dress with white tights. However, he reached a few difficulties when trying to put ribbons that matched the dress into her hair.

"Um, Mommy," Hank addressed, getting her to glance over, "would you mind taking over?"

Raven laughed at the sight of the disproportioned pigtails on their completely nonchalant daughter.

IIIIIII

From the bay windows, the rising sun cast a reddish orange glow over the side by side pair. The female telepaths shared an arm chair in the sitting area of the master bedroom with the small round table pushed near to them. Emma sipped on chamomile with a swirl of peppermint while Becky enjoyed a frothy mug of hot chocolate.

"Look at this one." Becky pointed out a photograph inside the album. "It's you and Uncle Charles eating the cake."

Emma indicated another. "And here's Seanie trying to devour a slice whole."

Becky giggled. "I love the dress your sister got for you."

"Yes," Emma gazed towards the closet where the white garment currently hung, "she certainly came through in a pinch." She slipped her arm closer around the curly haired child. "It amazes me how much I missed my dear girl in just a few days."

"I missed you, too," Becky looked up at her, "Kayla can try and try. But you're the best auntie in the world."

Emma sensed something in part of that statement. "Did something happen with Kayla while I was away."

"Not really," Becky shrugged glibly. "I just don't like when she tries that mom stuff with me. Like those moms at the dance studio. All they do is nitpick and they never let their daughters have cookies or anything fun to eat."

"Is that why you decided to stop dancing?" Emma took a lingering sip of her tea.

"A little but mostly, I'm tired of it and I want to try other things."

"That's more than understandable," Emma supported. "A smart, creative girl like you should pursue many interests. As for Kayla, though, no matter how it may appear she is nothing like those other women. To Kayla, motherhood is not only a goal but a privilege. Something she and I agree on. Her family has always valued children above all else. So there are times when those instincts come out in children who are not their own."

"I like that," Becky said. "I guess it just feels weird when she acts that way to me. I don't really need her so long as I have you."

Emma looked upon with absolute fondness at the girl as she stood, taking her hands. "Come, jewel eyes. It's near time for breakfast. Let's get into something glamorous to dazzle them all."

Becky grinned and held onto her aunt while moving on her toes alongside her.

IIIIIII

Deep black hair styled into a neat half up, half down do, Kayla stepped away from the wall mirror. She finished her attire off by getting into the gray blazer that matched her calf length skirt. Before she could retrieve her leather shoulder case, a faster hand intercepted her.

Shrugging the bag on himself, Logan offered tantalizingly, "Carry your books for ya, Miss Howlett?"

"Excuse me, sir, but that's Mrs. Howlett," Kayla promptly corrected, finger aimed at his face. "That title involves a little more work than obtaining a teaching certificate."

Logan responded, "I'd shine an apple for you any day," then tried to clamp down on her fingertip.

Kayla quickly reeled her hand back. "Oh no. I just painted my nails." She looked at him meaningfully. "But I haven't put on a speck of lipstick yet."

Not needing a secondary hint, Logan wrapped arms around her as he bonded them in a robust kiss. Kayla maneuvered to press one palm against his back while the other went into his dark hair.

Faster than he would have preferred, Logan's keen hearing picked up on arriving footsteps; one energetic as a jack rabbit and the other dainty as a fawn. The married pair parted lips to gaze at the doorway at another pair. The boy looked on with varying degrees of indifference while the girl practically emitted dreamy heart shaped bubbles from her eyes.

"Kids everywhere around here," said Logan.

"You would think we worked at a school or something," Kayla commented.

"While I hate to interrupt any and all perfection," Maya walked up, "I'm out of green eye shadow."

Logan responded to that with, "Sorry darlin', can't help ya. I'm fresh out, too."

Kayla gave her husband a sardonic smile and gestured with her head towards the vanity. "Check my drawer."

Maya beamed with gratitude. "Thanks." She fluttered over to the beauty table, jade poodle skirt billowing with her movements.

Cody ran for the bed and flipped over onto the center of it. "Hey Ma, you still remember the rules, right?"

"Let's see. Don't call on you for every single question," Kayla ticked off fingers as she spoke, "do not under any circumstances use any "cutesy wutesy" nicknames for you. No kisses or doing that "nose pinchy thing" and basically act as if I never gave birth to you."

Cody formed a pleased smile. "Yep, you got it."

"And you got some kind of nerve." Logan came over, noogying the boy's hair with his fist. "Like you're the only kid walkin' around here with a parent for a teacher."

"Emma's the only other mama teacher and dads don't do cute stuff," Cody reasoned. "They just call you knucklehead, pea brain and junk."

"Hm." Green eyelid makeup neatly in place, Maya spun around on the vanity bench. "I always thought they called you sweetie, darling, angel."

Kayla advised, "Do not try to comprehend the masculine bond."

"How's about you, Smiley?" Logan sat down on the bed, giving Cody the opportunity to clamp onto his back. "You glad to be back in school?"

"Definitely," the girl replied, hopping up to her feet giddily. "Don't get me wrong, though. Not a day goes by that I don't think about trading in this beautiful campus with the best teachers, cool people, and one of a kind unmatched boyfriend in for the dreary halls of Westchester High once again."

"Nope," Cody shook his head, "you're all ours."

Kayla smiled softly towards her son.

Brightly glowing, Maya brought up, "We better head for the table."

"Go ahead," Kayla patted her arm affectionately, "I need to finish putting on my face."

Logan said, "I need to stare at her face."

Cody dashed over, grabbing Maya by the hand. "Come on, Smiley."

As soon as they rounded the corner out in the hall, Maya felt an arm coil her at the waist.

She glanced up at the tall redhead and arched up to hug him around his neck. "Good morning."

Sean pecked her lips. "Happy First Day of Spring Semester That Still Resembles Harsh Bitter Winter." At the sudden head-butt to his stomach, he looked down. "And to you, too," he lifted Cody to hang him upside down, "knucklehead."

There goes that masculine bond again, Maya thought.

Cody waved his arms about. "Quit fightin' dirty, Seanie."

"You call this fightin' dirty?" Sean poked him in the side and righted him again. "If you were Frank, your belly'd be hot pink by now."

Cody folded his arms with faux hostility. "You're just lucky my ma doesn't like me to fool around in my school clothes." He noticed a light on in one room. "Hey, meet you guys downstairs." He darted off from them.

"If you don't hustle down, I get your waffles," Sean called after him before taking hands with Maya.

Joey looked over from tying his shoes when his friend hurried in. "Hey." He watched him shut the door. "What'd you do?"

"Nothin'- well, not today." Cody came and sat near him on the bed. "Okay, remember last night when we were playin' with my dad's shield and you went crazy far across the room?"

"Yep," Joey remembered in delight, "that was fun."

Cody went on, "Well, I didn't want to say anything at first 'cause I wasn't real sure myself, but Joey," he spoke more carefully, "I saw you fly."

Joey's expression dissolved into a mix of astonishment and utter confusion. "Huh? What're you talking about? I was just spinning around."

"No, Joey, I saw it," Cody pressed determinedly. "You were in the air way longer than me and the shield didn't drop from you or anything. And your sparks started comin' out like they were stickin' you straight to the shield."

Joey quieted, trying to absorb the thorough observation. "But I never…" He faced Cody squarely. "Do you really think I- that I can fly?"

Cody nodded eagerly. "I know you can."

Another silent spell passed over Joey but became short-lived as the door reopened.

"Hey One and Two," Alex addressed them, "no hooky business. Food time. Let's go."

"We're coming, Al," Joey promptly complied, getting up.

Alex stepped out of the way, allowing the short duo to scuttle by him.

IIIIIII

Before he could even step inside the library, Frank's sneakers came to a screeching halt. With his arm across Maya's brown turtleneck covered shoulders, Sean practically burrowed faces with her as they conversed lowly. The thirteen-year-old felt a churn in his stomach strong enough for him to place a hand over the spot.

"I know." Frank glanced back to see that an even faced Cordelia had just walked up behind him. "Hardly five seconds in and they're already flaunting."

Frank sighed heavily. "This semester just keeps getting better and better…"

Cordelia's countenance quickly shifted from annoyed to concern. "Hey," she held a hand out for him, "single solidarity?"

Frank perked a little and linked up with her tightly.

"Cordelia, Frank," Kayla received their attention, "would you like to join us?"

"Like to being operative," Cordelia mumbled.

Frank's laughter made her happy as they sat at a separate table from Sean and Maya. Cordelia did not expect Kayla to understand such complicated matters; not with a husband constantly latched onto her. Though Emma and Charles were also now proud ring wearers, they managed to share their love without making a sideshow spectacle of themselves.

II

When the five youngsters arrived inside the small room used for class sessions, they found individual desks. Joey and Cody promptly moved theirs further back. One thing Scott appreciated about not having class with Frank was that it gave him the opportunity to sit next to Becky. Their desks remained in the middle with the girl keeping a constant eye out for her father to walk in. Trav happily nudged his desk closer to the front.

Erik walked in shortly. After depositing his things on the shared teacher's desk, he looked up to see that his students' sitting formation very much resembled the shape of an arrow head. Nothing he found troubling.

"Though I know we're all still winding down from the plentiful excitement of our holiday break," the man began, "it's time yet again to return to business." He unlocked and opened his briefcase, removing several booklets from it. "Cody and Scott, you're moving on to Italian." He walked over, giving each of them a language book. "Joey, you're going to review French. I'm sure Cody will be pleased to help you."

Cody shrugged, "No sweat."

"I believe you'll find this interesting," Erik said as he handed Becky her book.

She smiled at the cover and gazed up at him. "Polish."

Erik shared a special look with her. "I hope you won't find that too time consuming in addition to Hebrew."

"No, it's fine," Becky assured him. "Especially now that I'm not dancing."

"I thought as much." Erik moved on to his youngest student and knelt beside him. "As for you, Trav, I have this." He placed the colorful book on top of the desk. "Charles and I are working together for your lesson plans. At the same time he's teaching you the basics of English, I'll be doing the same with Spanish."

The highly intrigued boy picked up the book to look through. "Really?"

"Of course we both know it's going to take some time," Erik said. "This workbook is for you to review and practice in. Ask your parents or one of us for help."

"I will." Trav managed to pry his eyes away from the book to look at him. "What do we get to do first?"

While Erik went towards the blackboard to show them, Joey used a pencil to doodle a quick picture in his book of a boy soaring above the clouds.

IIIIIII

Paints and brushes lined up in one corner of the room, Emma went to work covering the specially designed furniture pieces with protective white cloths. She finished with the crib in time for the familiar arms to wind around her middle.

Shouldn't you be working?

I'm on break and besides, Charles kissed her on the neck, being your husband is a full time job I mustn't neglect.

As if you knew how. Emma reclined her head against his shoulder. My classes being at the end of the day free up some time for me.

Aren't you so fortunate? Well, you didn't hear this from me but I believe a certain headmaster has the hots for you.

"I hope it's that cute little one." Emma turned around to look at him. "Because that other one is just creepy."

"Every single day you give me a new reason to love you." Charles indicated the paints. "I hope you don't intend to take on this project all by yourself."

"No, I thought Joey and I could work on it together." Emma gazed about the nursery. "The last strenuous activity approved by Dr. Hank."

"Darling," Charles stroked her cheek to bring her eyes back, "have you slept well? I swear I've heard you murmuring at night."

"It isn't fair that you can witness my unattractive bed habits now," Emma pouted. "You're only supposed to see me after my morning construction job."

"Emma…"

"Entertaining visions of adorable nymph children brushing my hair for me as I slumber…"

Charles prompted, "Emma Xavier."

"That name is more musical than intimidating to my ears, Sugar." She did at last answer him, though. "Sometimes I have that dream where my womb is empty. I've read that's common in women expecting for the first time."

Charles kissed her then bent to kiss her stomach. "Hardly a moment goes by that I don't feel him. Our son is safe and sound within you, love."

"Oh believe me." Her hands pressed against her abdomen. "If the kicking doesn't remind me of that, the rolling about does the job."

Charles laughed softly. "More athletic than his dad already."

IIIIIII

Bright brown eyes observed the heavy books being sorted in-between focusing on the pink dressed teddy bear the little girl held.

"And this one," Raven plopped an especially thick one on top of the coffee table, "is World History. A big fat nightmare that Mommy agreed to take with Uncle Alex and Leon so that we can be with our friends and… stuff." She next got out a smaller book. "This one looks safe enough, right?" Raven shook her head hard. "Wrong. It's only the first of many reading assignments Mommy has for Renaissance Literature. Why did Mommy agree to take that one?" Raven dropped the book and slouched against the couch. "Because she's crazy."

Kiki picked up the stray book and climbed onto the couch beside her mother. "I go to school with Mama."

"Oh baby gorge," Raven linked foreheads with her and held her close, "I really, really wish you could. But you need to stay here to play and have fun and keep Daddy in line."

Hank walked into their private sitting room. "I knew you two conspired against me when I wasn't around."

"Daddy!" Kiki held imploring hands out for him.

Garment bag in one hand, Hank could only bend to hug her with one arm. "How's my Baby Bear?" He noticed the displeased countenance that reminded him of earlier morning. "What's the matter?"

Raven explained, "Someone wants to join the back-to-school club."

"Well, that's wonderful," Hank said proudly. "But I believe I have something else you're going to like."

Going to a chair with it, Hank unzipped the garment bag. He removed the two outfits on coat hangers and held them up. One consisted of a significantly smaller version of their former blue and yellow uniforms while a lime green, lavender trimmed long-sleeved pixie-esque constume hung from the other.

When both females on the couch only tilted their hands in confusion, Hank explained, "This is what I've been working on. This one," he indicated the blue and yellow, "offers multiple layers of padding for Trav to safely exercise his climbing ability. And this one," he brought over the far more feminine outfit, "is for Baby Bear to practice flying. It's padded and warm but has back space to allow her wings to comfortably expand."

Kiki tugged on the tiny uniform. "Mine!"

"Yes," Hank chuckled, giving it over, "it's all yours. But only when Mommy and Daddy can watch you."

Raven took the other to hold against her own body a moment. "Trav's looks a lot like yours…"

"Really?" Hank smirked and adjusted his glasses. "Odd design coincidence."

IIIIIII

At the fist aimed in his direction, Vapor gripped Havok at the wrist and held on to leap straight over him. The moment he landed on the other side, Havok's leg swinging out made him fall from his own down to the mat beneath them. He returned to his feet promptly and delivered a swift kick of his own.

"Vapor's attacks are precise and disciplined," Magneto noted from a distance in the gym.

Sabretooth, who stood beside him, said in turn, "Havok relies on instinct."

Both of the elder instructors could also tell how difficult it proved for Vapor not to make use of his powers while the same restriction seemed entirely simplistic for Havok.

After another minute, Magneto declared, "That is enough. For now."

The young males divided and Vapor extended a hand.

Havok accepted him, pulling him close enough to pat his shoulder companionably. "You're good, man."

"And you're serious," Vapor returned.

"You ever take any martial arts classes?" Sabretooth asked him.

"Nine years," Vapor answered before turning back to Alex. "Did you?"

"I got booted out of karate when I was twelve." Havok then said, "I'll see you in an hour. By the edge of the woods," he started out in a jog, "don't be late."

"Does he ever cool down?" Vapor wondered in amazement of his friend.

"During sleep," Magneto responded, "on occasion."

IIIIIII

Dressed in her pink and purple uniform, Becky made it to the third floor and attempted a mental scan of the normally deserted level.

Auntie? Uncle?

The child stilled as the hardwoods before her morphed into bright yellow bricks. She grinned widely at the display and skipped along the path until it lead her into the empty room that contained the older telepaths.

"Uncle Charles," Becky closed the door after herself, "was that you?"

"I'm afraid I've no idea what you're talking about, Princess," he responded coyly.

Emma shared a certain smile with him then said, "We thought we'd conduct session indoors. That awful cold is certain to distract our minds."

"Right." Becky joined hands with each of them. "What are we going to do today?"

"Try a little something new." Professor X enclosed their mini circle by taking Emma's hand. "But it will take all of us. Concentrate and follow with me."

Becky shut her eyes and experienced the exhilaration of leaving the physical plane. At the distinct sound of gunshots, her startled reaction nearly broke their link.

It's alright Princess, Charles assured her, we're perfectly safe.

But look where we are, Emma invited.

Becky saw that they had somehow made it to the lower levels where Wolverine conducted target practice for Maya and Silver Cat. How did we get down here?

They did not get a chance to answer as they shot up to the second floor. Banshee ran straight by them, chanting about how late he was going to be. Next they wound up inside the gym.

"Papa!" Becky beamed.

Shhhh, Professor X gently hushed, you'll give us away, love.

"What's up?" Sabretooth asked when Magneto suddenly turned away from speaking with him.

"Hm." Magneto looked back. "Could have sworn I heard my daughter's voice."

I know the feeling, thought the older mutant.

The Telepathic Triad disappeared again and now returned in full form to the room on the third floor.

"That was an excellent trial, ladies," Charles proclaimed.

"Yes, we'll be able to use this to better collect our stray family members," said Emma. "So that the horrible business Alex went through doesn't happen again."

"We'll have to work on how far the range can go," stated Charles thoughtfully.

"What did he mean?" Both adults looked to Becky. "Knight Victor said he knew how Papa felt about hearing his daughter's voice."

"He mostly likely meant his lost niece," the Professor offered out. "They're only the next best thing a man can have to a little girl of his own."

Becky beamed delightedly at him.

IIIIIII

Going into the gym, Frank walked over to where Logan also stood in workout clothes.

"What'd you want to show me?" the young teen asked.

Logan said, "Fox tells me you weren't all there in class today. I know school's nothin' but a breeze for ya but she got the feelin' you had other stuff goin' on in your head."

Frank sighed. "She mad at me or something?"

"Hardly. Here," Logan grabbed a pair of gloves from off the bench and threw them at him, "put these on."

"Cool," the boy reacted, slipping on the accessories.

"Here." Logan next gave him a head protector before putting on his own.

Frank gaped at him. "You need one?"

"Can't have the Prof strollin' in and catchin' me as a bad example." Logan lightly collided his own gloves together. "Alright, come at me." When Frank rushed forward, Logan easily absorbed the blow aimed at his chest. "Come on now. You can do better than that."

Frank aimed for the man's shoulder next. "How 'bout that?"

"Better," Logan batted at him, "except you left yourself open. Watch this." He raised the front of his wrists just above his face. "Always guard your money-maker. The face is the main target."

"Oh that's why you look like that," Frank smirked.

"Ooh, city boy's got jokes. Okay," Logan got into a ready stance, "make your move, smart guy."

They exchanged several more blows before stopping for water.

"Remember that match of mine you caught back in Canada?"

"Yep." Frank grinned at the recollection. "When you went up against Taurus. That guy was huge and you nailed him."

"Somethin' to remember if you ever face off against somebody bigger than you," Logan advised. "They get tired a whole lot faster so let 'em wear themselves out. By the time they're huffin' and puffin', you're still good and ready to go in hard. That's how I survived the playground before my mutation really kicked in."

"Got it," Frank nodded.

"You won't need it for long." Logan tapped the top of his head. "Keep growin' at this rate and the little guys'll be comin' after you."

Frank smiled eagerly. "Can we go another round?"

Logan replied, "Get your gloves back on and quit flappin' your scrawny butt in the air like a dazed chicken."

II

After he had the small device situated between them on the outdoor bench, Charles said calmly, "Alright, now we're out here amongst the very heart of X-Men activities. However, I want you to concentrate entirely on the pendulum."

The young Silver Cat stared at the swinging object. "Okay." His eyes remained on it until voices behind him in addition to the animals in the trees overhead brought his gaze up.

"Now, now," the Professor chided mildly, "you mustn't break focus."

"But it's hard." Silver Cat placed his hands over the portion of his mask that covered his ears. "I can look at one thing but I keep hearin' and smellin' other stuff, too."

"Yes, but if you don't to hone your senses now, they're always going to be nothing more than a distraction for you," Professor X explained carefully. "When I was your age, I had to teach myself to drown out the thoughts of others. Otherwise, I would have gone mad from the mental clutter."

"Wish I could teach myself." Silver cat quickly thought better of that. "I mean so I could get better- I like learning from you."

"Don't worry yourself," Charles assured kindly. "I know well what you mean. Now little kitten, will you try again for me?"

The boy nodded and locked brown eyes on the miniature pendulum again. He observed its swing for a little over thirty seconds before pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Sorry," he moaned.

"No, that's progress," Charles told him positively. "Don't worry. You will get there."

The young mutant rubbed his head and glanced upward in time to see a squirrel bound smoothly from one tree to the other.

II

While dodging every metallic sphere shot her way, Glimmer glanced over to the one who ran alongside her.

"So I've been meaning to ask, what's with swapping blue for perma-blonde?"

"Call it exercise in form holding." Mystique ducked one disc.

"Tell me this isn't all about Leon coming to live here," Glimmer raised. "As if gossip is going to ignite among your WU-mates."

"Okay," Mystique paused the face the all too haughty younger female, "I may have to bring school here, but I do not have to bring my home life to school. I don't have to disclose anything about myself that I don't feel comfortable sharing in that world."

Glimmer flapped out shimmering golden arms. "I don't see why you don't love your mutated form the way I do mine."

"And it's a real easy to talk when people react to your gold form with "ooh, pretty"," Mystique pointed out. "My blue usually gets "ew, gross". Plus yours is just one big on and off switch. I have to live this way so if I want to use my powers to change myself to be blonde or anything else, I will. It's not your concern."

"Ladies," Magneto approached, "we are in the middle of something here."

"Right." Glimmer ran ahead.

Magneto turned to his sister. "She did have something of a point. You should not hide yourself."

"Shut up!" she spat at him. "Just shut up, Erik. I'm sick of this." She started off heatedly towards the other direction.

Magneto had to pick up speed to get in front of her. "I only meant because staying in a mutated guise takes away from your concentration. I don't want to see you hurt. In any way."

Mystique took a breath. "I'm sorry."

Dipping his face, he kissed her forehead. "Shall we continue?"

Mystique nodded and broke off into another sprint.

Magneto used his magnetism to send another series of objects out for the female pair to dodge.

II

Under the darkening sky, heavy breathing and rapid footsteps sounded from the woods. Not monitoring his own pacing, Banshee slammed his arm into a tree. He let off the deepest silent 'ow' he could.

"You okay?" Lighthouse's optical radiance gave him away before his voice.

"Yeah, I'm good," Banshee grunted.

Vapor rematerialized before them. "What's the word?"

Cyclops, who's limited vision caused him to cling near to Lighthouse, explained, "Havok wants us to wait on a signal." He recognized the bright red flare above them and pointed. "There. Let's go!"

The four males charged forward.

"You thinkin' about tryin' it again?" Silver Cat whispered.

"Not sure." Eel lingered thoughtfully among the shrubbery they crouched by. "I want to."

"Eel, Cat," Havok spoke through the communicators, "do you two need a nap?"

"No," the boys replied in unison.

Havok's tone changed to one far more annoyed. "Then wake up and move it."

"Oh." Silver Cat hopped up and used his nose to help them catch up with the others.

"Whoa!" Eel shouted when he fell forward over a rock he did not see.

"Easy." Vapor went around to check on him. "Are you alright?"

Banshee joked, "It's not a crisis without tears."

"There's the next one." Cyclops spotted another plasma ray and they continued on.

They made their way out of the thick of trees where Havok stood waiting on them.

"That was a decent time for the first day back to training." Havok then promptly added, "But it could have gone better. You're not that rusty."

"We're sorry, Havok," Cyclops spoke up. "I should have—"

"You and 'House hung together pretty well," his older brother cut in. He turned to Vapor. "And I hardly would've known how big a rookie you are. It's like you were made for this team."

Vapor dipped his head graciously. "You would know."

"Banshee," Havok addressed next, "we need to work on your scouting."

"Of course we do," the redhead sighed.

"But you two," Havok spoke to the youngest pair, "I don't want to see anymore of you getting distracted out there. This isn't a game."

"Yes, Havok," responded Eel while Silver Cat said equally contrite, "We know."

"Alright, that's it." Havok gestured towards the house. "You guys head in."

The younger six made tracks for the indoors.

IIIIIII

"Cow… vaca." Trav placed his pencil down and looked up. "I'm done, Daddy."

Turning away from reviewing that week's planned assignments, Hank went around his desk to where his son sat at a table.

"Let's have a look." Hank scanned through the boy's paper. "Dog is perro yes, bear is oso, duck pato, frog rano…" He read it until the end. "Very good. The only problem I see is with cat. Gato is spelled with two T's in Italian, not Spanish."

"It is?" Trav squinted his eyes in wonder. "How come?"

Hank said, "Oh probably for the same reason my name is pronounced Henri in France."

Trav laughed. "On-reeeee? That sounds funny." Raven entered the lab with a tired Kiki attached to her hip. "How do they say Mommy's name in France?"

Hank looked to his wife and responded, "Belle."

Raven faced him in adoration then asked, "What are we doing?"

"Mommy, Miss Foxy gave me a book about families around the world," Trav told her excitedly. "Will you read it to me?"

"Sure, Pooh."

Kiki tugged on Raven's shirt. "Me, too."

"Yes," Raven kissed the top of her head, "you, too." She looked at Hank. "You coming?"

"I'll be up in a moment," Hank promised.

Taking Trav by the hand, Raven guided their children up the stairs to their quarters.

IIIIIII

Dear Mom, Dad, and Tommy,

So it's the first day of the new semester and I guess it went pretty well. Things are great between me and Maya. Not that you care because we're just a shallow teenage romance.

Sighing, Sean started erasing then glanced up when Cody walked into his room.

"Code Man," he closed his notebook, "hey."

"What're you doin?" Cody climbed up onto his lap, propping up to face him.

"Working on big kid stuff." Sean left his hands at the boy's thin waist. "What're you doin'?"

"Just wonderin', what's it like to fly?"

"Terrifying," proved Sean's first response then he thought further. "Then you get good at it and it's like the angels are carrying you. Never more free in your entire life than when you're up in the air."

"Wow. And you put your arms out like," Cody spread his bird style, "this, right?"

"Yep." Sean took the opportunity to tickle his armpits, making him laugh. "I'll take you up with me soon. If you're good."

Cody stuck his tongue out and claimed, "I'm not good," then scampered down and out of the room.

Sean started to return to his notebook but decided his science text to be the easier option.

IIIIIII

Finished trimming the edges around the door with a delicate light blue, Emma looked back to see her son involved in a far more detailed painting.

"What are you working on?" she asked him.

"It's an airplane." Joey pointed out the red and navy design to her. "Me and my brother are going to use it."

"Oh?" Emma lowered her brush and headed towards him. "And I suppose you'll take to it visit Grandpa."

"And Uncle Chris if we have time," the boy smiled cutely.

Emma laughed softly, settling down to sit on the plush carpeting. "I really am a lucky mother." She took Joey's hand and intertwined fingers with him. "Two wonderful boys to call my very own and so many other children I get to love and care for."

Joey got down next to her to hug her arm. "I think we're luckier kids 'cause we have you."

Emma touched the side of his face, observing the numerous paint stains. "What you need right now is a bath. It's about time for you to get ready for bed, too."

"But we're not done."

"We'll finish this week."

He sighed, "Aw, Mum…"

"You go on and I'll be there shortly," she instructed. "Your brother is eager to hear the book your father is going to read tonight."

"Okay," Joey complied.

Getting up, he made his way out of the paint scent heavy nursery with a yawn.

IIIIIII

Book bag prepared for the upcoming school day, Scott left it to dangle by one strap on his bed post while he straightened things up at his desk.

Alex poked his head into the room. "Hey, squirt. Got a sec?"

Scott looked over at him. "Oh yeah." He walked over to the older Summers. "Is it about training today?"

"You guessed it," Alex confirmed. "Remember when I told you I want you to start leading during a few field sessions?"

Scott's eyes enlarged under his glasses. "You mean…?"

"Tomorrow, you're on."

"This is so cool! I don't believe it. I'm going to—" He managed to calm his excitement a bit. "I- I won't let you down, Alex."

"Fat chance of that." Alex placed a hand on his shoulder. "We'll go over strategy after lunch tomorrow, okay?"

"Okay," Scott agreed, hardly able to contain himself.

IIIIIII

At the chill that seemed to settle into his den, Erik went to work on lighting a new fire. As he poked at the embers, his thoughts went to Leon and the young man's stilled reaction and brown eyes that seemed to blaze as brightly as the flames themselves. He continued the hope that he would mention it himself without prodding but Erik did not count on that occurring soon.

Picking up on a faint sounds, the metal wielder glanced back to see another brown eyed boy.

Frank spoke first with, "It's cold."

"Winter is not the friend of a house so old." Erik moved to the sofa and gestured for the adolescent mutant to join him.

Frank came over and snuggled beside Erik, under the fleece throw the man wrapped around him. "Erik?" He reclined his head back against him.

"Yes, boychick?" Erik sent an arm around him.

"… Do you miss Mom?"

Erik dipped to get closer to his ear. "Yes, I do. I know you do. And Jasmine as well, yes?"

Frank nodded. "Last semester it felt like life was going my way. Now I don't know…"

"Are the rest of us so cruel to you?" Erik nuzzled cheeks with him.

The boy laughed lightly. "Not that much. I want to be here with you more than anything, Erik, really. But all day I felt kind of blah I guess."

"I understand that," Erik said honestly. "You have the greatest family imaginable around you yet something still feels missing. You might even feel a little guilt on top of that."

"Uh huh," Frank concurred. "Does it get easier?"

"It does." Erik brushed at his hair with his hand. "Though you are still too young for the greatest satisfaction. Kids of your own."

"I only want girls."

"Excellent thought. Boychicks only cause you to rip out large amounts of your hair and grind your teeth."

"Hey!" Frank protested. "We're not that bad. Are we?"

"Constantly." Erik held him nearer. "And the most fun I've ever had."

Frank gave him a toothy grin and lowered to lay comfortably on his lap.

IIIIIII

After he retrieved a not entirely bent lid, Cody situated it in a nice spot in the snow then jogged back over to his friend.

"Okay, try it now."

Joey walked up, stepping on the lid. "You sure about this?" He looked back.

"Of course." He then added strongly, "I know you can do this."

With a small sigh, Joey faced forward again. Shivering a little, he waited until full body electricity emitted from him.

"Uh, Cody?"

"What's wrong?"

Joey said, "I think I'm stuck."

"Oh boy." Cody jogged over. "Here, I'll help." Careful of the sparks the other mutant let off, he gave him a little nudge.

Joey started to slide forward until he gained momentum enough to hover more than a yard above the ground.

Cody grinned from ear to ear. "You're doing it!"

"I don't believe it!" Joey tried another area of the backyard. "Cody, I'm flying. I'm fly—!"

Joey!

The mental petition caused him to tilt straight over and off.

Cody ran right over to help him. "You okay?"

"Yeah." Once back on his feet, Joey dusted the white power off his night clothes. "Hurry," he started for the house, "my dad's calling."

When he watched the pair come in through the back door in their pajamas and robes, Charles wanted to know, "What on earth were you doing outside?"

"Taking out the trash," Cody answered, shaking his boots out on the rug.

"That was Sean's chore tonight," the Professor brought up.

Cody filled that one as well with, "We wanted to make sure he did it right."

"Well, it looks to me like a bit of snow hijinks were had as well." Charles brushed off Joey's robe a little. "Didn't your mum tell you to get ready for bed?"

"Yes, sir," Joey responded. "I was coming right back."

"Good and Cody, your mother is looking for you also." Charles gestured towards the stairs with his head. "Go on, lads."

As they scuttled by him, Charles could not shake how much they reminded him of two fledging rats with a wedge of cheese between them.

IIIIIII

With a heavy yawn, Hank proceeded downstairs from his lab. Before he even clicked on the light, he detected both scent and movement. Under the illumination, he found another crouched behind his desk.

"Leon?" Hank adjusted his glasses. "What are you doing in here so early?"

"Attempting to save face." He held up his uniform with a severe rip on one shoulder. "And only after the first day. I thought I could track down a sewing kit on my own."

Hank went over, taking the garment for examining. "Erik and Alex must have worked you to the limit. Normally, these suits can take significantly more damage."

"Oh trust me, it's just me." Leon stood up straighter. "I wanted to fix it without having to bother you. It floors me how much you do around here. I don't think I could keep it straight."

"No matter how hectic it gets, there's not greater than having purpose come morning," Hank said sincerely.

"It's also great knowing Raven is married to a guy like you."

Hank gave a clap then a squeeze to his shoulder. "Why don't you head back to bed? Something tells me you're going to need the rest."

"Okay." Leon started to leave then looked back. "Maybe we could throw the ball around later. If you have time."

Hank promised, "I'll make time."

Departing from the lab, Leon arrived in the hall and patted his right robe pocket before continuing on to his room.

IIIIIII

Hey, I forgot to tell you. Alex is letting me lead a run today.

Becky smiled and looked to him. Really? By yourself?

Yeah, can you believe it? Only Cody and Joey are younger than me and he's letting me do it. I am real nervous though, Scott admitted, I have to get this right.

You will, Scott. A glint cross Becky's eyes. Maybe I can sneak away to watch you.

Hmm, maybe we can…

Ahem! Charles shot them a scolding glower that made them return to their books.

"And cat is gato." Trav finished writing both words out on the blackboard. "And they both have one T unless you're in Italy."

Charles watched him in delight. "I'm amazed at your work after one night. This is very impressive, Trav."

"Thanks." The child then mentioned, "Uncle Erik says I might be ready to do sentences over the weekend."

"I believe he's right," Charles agreed.

"So tell me again," Cody whispered to Joey. "Was it as good as you thought?"

"Even better," Joey replied, voice equally hushed. "Scary but then amazing. How'd it look?"

"Cooler than anything, even in the dark." Cody smiled secretively. "Wait until everybody sees ya."

"Alright." Charles turned around to face the rest of his class. "If I hear anymore conversation, you will be taking home a hundred lines to write out in addition to your regular homework. Am I clear?"

"Yes, sir," the very sheepish four recited in unison.

IIIIIII

As soon as the others filed out of the living room, where Emma had shown a comparative film about early psychology to notion of the mutated mind, Cordelia somewhat tentatively approached her.

"Sis, can I talk to you?" the teenager ventured.

Emma turned away from shutting off the television. "Absolutely. Is anything wrong?"

"Depends on your definition of wrong. Okay first, I'm really glad you're back." Cordelia shared a hug with her.

"How big is the dent in your car?" Emma asked humorously.

"No, really." Cordelia faced her. "You remember that party I said Erik let us go to?"

"During his spell of benevolence, yes," Emma recalled. "How I wish the moment could have been filmed."

"Well, I kind of met someone."

Immediately intrigued, Emma prompted, "Name?"

"Morrie Bench."

"Eyes?" she raised next.

"Chocolate brown," Cordelia responded. "His hair is lighter and yes, there is potential for losing a hand in it. He's on the swim team."

One eyebrow went up on Emma. "As in towel boy?"

"As in captain," Cordelia readily clarified.

"As in dreamboat," Emma surmised. "Nice work, baby sis."

Cordelia smiled in earnest. "Do you think Charles and Erik will say the same thing?"

"You know what?" Emma put an arm around her and began leading them out of the room. "Let's cross that bridge when we absolutely have to."

IIIIIII

Making his way across the yard, Magneto ceased movement at Vapor hurrying his way.

"Magneto," the young man slowed, panting lightly, "I hate to ask but could I leave early?"

"What's so important?" the metal wielder asked.

"Something I need for school finally came in and I don't want to chance missing it."

"Ah. Go on then," he granted. "Call if you run into any trouble. I'll come down to help sort it out."

"Thank you." Vapor turned on his heel to jog away again.

Magneto watched him a moment then continued on his way as well.

When he arrived at the satellite dish, he found Professor X talking to Mystique, who wore a jacket over her winter unfriendly uniform. Beast, a little less effected by the cold, concentrated on his clipboard. Banshee sat down cooing over Kiki.

"There you are, Magneto," the Professor acknowledged his brother. "Banshee, we're ready to begin now."

"As soon as you are done playing with the baby," Magneto added.

"So never basically." Banshee pressed palms together with the little girl. "Aw, alright."

"Come on, sweetie." Mystique picked Kiki up and held her close. "We're going to watch Seanie then we'll go down where it's safe your turn."

Walking out to the ledge, Banshee screamed before launching himself with ease.

II

Pacing back and forth in a displeased motion, Havok wanted to know, "Where are my guys? I know Lee needed to take off but where are the others?"

"Sean's finishing up his flight," Lighthouse said, getting a view of the airborne X-Man.

"That doesn't explain about Eel and Silver Cat. Geez, Becky was on time," Havok held a hand out towards the girl, "and she's not even in this exercise."

"You're just lucky I guess," Becky said with a cheeky grin.

"I'll try their communicators again." Cyclops held up the wrist containing his own. "Eel, Silver Cat, come in. This is Cyclops. We're supposed to meet at the woods again. Come in." He dropped his hand at the lack of response.

Havok shook his head angrily. "You've got to be kidding me."

"Maybe they just forgot to put their communicators on," Becky suggested. "Or one of the adults wanted to talk to them. They know to be here."

"Yeah." Havok crossed his arms, glare developing on his face. "They do."

II

"Why can't you tell your dad?"

"He might not let me do it," Joey explained, toying with the stray garbage can lid. "He just started letting me get on rollercoasters last year."

Cody's eyes widened. "Are ya kiddin' me?"

"Told you I'm not allowed to do much," Joey reminded. "'Cause I might hurt myself or my powers'll do something bad. But if I can show them how I can fly, they'll see I can do it."

"I asked Sean about flyin' last night," Cody brought up. "Maybe they'll let ya if you get a uniform like his." He watched as Joey wordlessly got up and started up the stairs they currently sat on. "Hey, where're ya goin'? We got to get ready for training."

Joey rounded the corridor into the empty lab. "I wasn't here when Sean was learning to fly. But…"

"But what?" a clueless Cody questioned.

Going over, Joey raised one of the windows. "I know how he first did it."

"Joey…" Cody watched as he put the lid on the floor. "What're you doin'…?"

"It didn't work for him," Joey hopped onto the lid, "but maybe it'll work for me."

"Oh you better not!" Cody rushed at him. "Joey!" He felt a leap in his chest as his friend charged up and jumped all at once. "No!" He ran for the window. "Joey!"

"Here I am!" Lid attached to his feet, Joey hovered up.

"You…" Cody formed a slow smile. "You're doin' it…"

"Yeah, watch this." Joey took off like a lightning bug. "Whoo!"

Picking up on the tremendous outcry, Havok glanced around. "Wasn't that Eel?"

Becky used one hand to cover her gasp and pointed up with the other.

While Cyclops' jaw dropped, Lighthouse uttered disbelievingly, "Oh my God…"

"Whooooo…" As soon as the lid dropped out from under him, Joey's excitement became replaced with sheer terror. "Ahhhhhhhh!"

Electrical pulses burst from him as he fell closer from the ground, near enough to light up the entire area around him. It ceased the moment he felt himself supported and uplifted once again.

"Seanie?" Joey recognized.

"I've gotcha," Banshee assured into his ear. "Don't worry. You're okay now."
When they reached ground level, a panicked Professor, Magneto, along with the McCoys awaited them.

Cody came out from the house as well. "Joey, you're okay."

"Son!" Banshee immediately released Joey over to a very pale Charles' awaiting arms. "Oh thank God!" He held him as close as he possibly could. "Thank God…"

Mystique gripped Beast's wrist. "Can anyone else breathe?"

Magneto handed Kiki over to her father and approached. "Is he alright?"

"I'm okay now, Uncle Erik," Joey told him.

"How did you…" Charles managed to pull away to look at him. "What did…?"

"Did you see me?" Some eagerness returned to the boy. "I flew, Daddy. I really did."

The rate at which Charles' concern morphed into unmatched anger caused Joey to still. "You…" Charles walked off a few paces with him then started swatting him hard when they neared the house.

"Ow, ow!" Joey felt tears growing in his eyes from the blows.

"You go," Charles put him down at the back entrance with another strike, "straight to my office and stand in the corner." He gave him a stronger swat to force him along.

A completely crying Joey obeyed and ran right for the designated space.

Charles lingered outside the door. Sliding down to the floor, he ran both hands through his hair then had to clutch his right wrist when the pressure there began to pound like a drum.

Sugar?

At his wife's presence, Charles hurried over to where she stood just away from him. "Oh my love…" He threw his arms around her. "He could have been killed!"

"I know." She laid her head on his shoulder. "I sensed it all."

"Are you alright?" Charles asked her.

"Are you?" she demanded in turn. "Charles, there are tremors coursing all throughout you. Not just physical ones."

"I saw him jump. From where I was on the satellite dish. If Sean hadn't been there… God, Emma…" Charles bowed his head, sending a sob against her neck.

Emma kissed his cheek then his lips. "You must calm down. You'll make yourself ill at this rate. Come sit down." She linked their hands and brought him into the living room and over to the couch.

With Emma against his side, one hand on his chest, Charles reclined back against the sofa. It took a few minutes but a mildly relaxed spell finally fell over him.

"You know I have to punish him for this, darling." Charles put a hand over hers. "And not at all lightly."

"I couldn't agree more," Emma assured. "He is not to do this again, period. That has to be made clear. Now you go on and I'll draw you a hot bath. I believe you'll need it."

Charles hugged her again, "I love you," then resolved himself to his upcoming duty as he got to his feet.

Joey's tears slowed down just slightly and he brought his hands back to treat the stinging in his bottom.

When Charles came in, he walked right to him. "You will stand up straight." He moved his hands and swatted him at the center of his behind. "Do you hear me, young man?"

"Yes, sir," Joey sniffed then made his best imitation of a soldier.

Charles sat behind his desk and after two minutes called him over with, "Come here, Charles Joseph." Not about to make him angrier, Joey rushed to stand right at his feet. "If Banshee had not been practicing his flight, you would have been killed or at best, injured severely." Charles looked at him. "Do you understand that?"

"Yes, D- y-yes, sir." Joey kept his eyes on his shoes and his voice low. "I wanted… I wanted you to see…"

Charles tilted his chin upward then directed, "Now speak up. What possible explanation could you have?"

"I…" Joey raised his voice some. "I wanted you to see me fly."
"From where did this nonsense arise?"

"Me and Cody were playing with his daddy's shield and I stuck to it and flew a little bit when I tried to ride it. And last night when you saw us- I was using the garbage lid to practice and I stuck to it, too and I flew a lot better."

Charles frowned. "Why have you kept this from us?"

"I just found out yesterday I could do it," Joey went on. "And I thought maybe you wouldn't let me 'cause my powers were just being bad and… I just wanted you to see me. So I jumped out the window in the lab the way Seanie did."

Charles put a hand on his shoulder to better lock their eyes. "When Seanie did that he was better protected and whenever he does fly, he always has Uncle Erik nearby in case anything goes wrong. What you did was reckless, dangerous, and thoughtless in every way."

"I'm sorry, Daddy."

"Well, sorry, I'm afraid, doesn't come close to being enough this time," Charles informed him. "You… you scared me. I was one breath away from losing you."

"I know, but you…"

"But I what?" Charles nudged.

Joey tugged nervously on his shirt sleeve. "You still would have my brother. Maybe he'll be a good boy for you."

Frowning deeply, Charles picked him up to sit in his lap. "I already have a very good boy. And nothing in this world will ever take your place, no matter what. Yes, your brother will be here soon enough but what am I supposed to do without my Joey? What about your mother and the others? We all love you. Do not forget that."

Joey nodded. "Yes, sir."

"However," Charles grew firm again, "you still have to be punished. And next time you decide to participate in any "self-training", you're going to feel a switch across your little bum. Is that quite clear, Charles?"

"Yes, sir. I won't do it again," the boy vowed.

"No, you most certainly will not." That said, Charles stood him up again.

After he got the boy's pants unfastened, he brought then along with his long-johns down. He placed his son over his lap now and lowered his underwear. Then taking hold of the ruler on his desk, Charles brought it down with a crack to the exposed bottom.

"Owww!" Joey howled immediately, not at all familiar with implements. "Ow, Daddy!"

"I'm sorry, son," Charles continued with the ruler, "but you misbehaved too dangerously. I have to do this."

Joey did not protest him but did exclaim with pain at the top of his lungs.

Having to ignore his desire to stop the punishment, Charles finished with the ruler at eight but went on with his hand.

Unable to so much as kick, not that he dared, Joey cried in place and clutched his father's pants leg.

As the small bottom developed a dark red color, Charles decided it enough and instead used his hand to resituate the child's underwear and long-johns. He took off Joey's shoes and got him out of his pants, which would only irritate his blazing behind. Charles got up with him and began pacing in a circle with his wailing little one. He whispered hushes into his ear and kissed his wet cheeks.

When the crying slowed down to regular sobbing, Charles carried him out of the office and upstairs to the boy's own room. He carefully dressed him in soft pajamas then wrapped him in a blanket to bundle and rock.

"Do I love my little one?" Charles asked him.

Joey wiped at his eyes. "Uh huh."

Charles looked into his face. "Does he love me?"

"Of course I love you, Daddy," he answered.

"Good." Charles kissed his forehead then sunk down to better hold him. "I think you need to stay in your room for the rest of the evening. And no art class for the rest of the week, either."

"'Kay." Joey's eyes shined a little. "Do I still get to help Mummy with the nursery?"

Charles replied, "You can ask her about that yourself.

"'Kay," he repeated. "Will you stay with me for a little while?"

"I certainly can." Charles rubbed his back through the blanket, not at all ready to leave him just yet.

IIIIIII

The brunette consultant appeared through the small window and said, "Mr. Osaka," Leon looked up at her, "your prescription is ready."

"Oh thank you." Leon put down his wellness magazine and approached the window.

The pharmacist came up next. "This is an extremely high dosage for a first time user. Be sure to take only one a day."

"Got it." Leon accepted the carefully wrapped white package. "Thank you."

Bag in hand, he made his way through the waiting area of the drug store.

IIIIIII

When his bedroom door opened, Joey expected his mother but in walked a shorter curlier haired female.

"Here." Becky climbed up on the bed and handed him a warm napkin covered donut. "Raven made them at dinner. I wanted to make sure you got one."

"Thanks, Becky," Joey smiled then, cautious of Bounty in his lap, turned to hide it in the drawer of his night table.

"I'm glad you're okay now." She hugged him around the neck. "I love you, Joey."

"I love you, too," Joey returned.

When Emma stepped inside next, they acknowledged her with a bright, "Hi, Mummy,", "Hi, Auntie," respectively.

"Hello." Emma walked in fully, tray ahead of her. "Rebecca, could you give us a moment, please?"

"Okay." Becky looked at Joey again then slid off the bed and left the room.

"Are you feeling up to dinner?" Emma asked her son.

"A little." Joey placed Bounty back in his crate so that she could place the tray on his legs. "Mum?" He faced her. "Are you mad?"

"I was never mad, Joey," she informed him. "But I was terribly frightened. Now though," she brushed a hand down his cheek, "I'm only relieved you're here with me."

Joey clutched her hand a moment. "I won't ever scare you that way again, really."

"I hope not, but to be sure, no recess for the next two days."

"Yes, Mum," Joey replied obediently though he clearly felt disappointed.

Emma then added, "You can use that time to help me finish your brother's room." She received a small smile from him. "Go on and eat your dinner. When you're finished, Alex would like a word with you about missing training today."

Joey nodded but started eating with very little enthusiasm.

IIIIIII

"You're not going to be mean to him are you?" Cordelia burrowed her face against his arm.

"No, I'm not going to be mean to him," Alex answered.

"Everybody's been mean to him," she claimed.

"Look, I don't like that he got spanked, either, but I don't like that he leap-frogged out of a window even more."

Sean walked in then and said, "Hey Cordy, there's a guy on the phone for you. And I got to say, he must have major guts for admitting that alone."

"You mean like Maya whenever she's seen in public with you?" Cordelia started to rise.

"Whoa, whoa." Alex took her wrist. "What guy? Calling you? Why?"

"No one you know," the girl brushed off. "Probably just an old bloke from Boston." She walked out to snag the nearest receiver.

"Old bloke?" Alex raised an eyebrow. "Guy could be a drug head for all she knows."

"Probably," Sean shrugged then left out past the slumped shoulder pair coming into the living room.

Alex stood from the couch and folded his arms. "So you guys didn't pay good enough attention yesterday and today you thought it'd be okay to skip out on training altogether, huh?"

"It's my fault," Cody put forth. "I was draggin' my feet first."

"No, it's my fault," Joey disagreed. "I messed up everything. I had no business going out that window."

"That's right," Alex immediately agreed, "but it doesn't matter who's fault it is. You both owe me a makeup hour. In the morning. At six. And you still owe Scott because this session meant a lot to him."

Cody groaned loudly. "Six?..."

Alex shot him an uncompromising look. "You have something else to say, Cody?"

The boy in question shook his head. "Just that we better go… get some sleep." Shoulders even heavier now, he turned to go.

"Joey," Alex called after him when he started after Cody. He sat down. "Come here a minute."

Head bowed, Joey made his way to the older blonde. "Yes, Alex?"

"Okay, instructor time over. Now as your big bro," Alex lifted him up onto his lap, "why didn't you tell me about this flying deal?"

"I wanted to," Joey said honestly. "But I thought you'd tell Daddy and he wouldn't let me because it's too dangerous."

"I would've helped train you on it and we could have shown him together." Alex gently gripped his chin to fix their blue eyes. "Don't you trust me?"

Joey nodded hard. "I just didn't know 'cause you only let Scott and Frank do any fun stuff at training. But I'm really sorry and I'm gonna say sorry to Scott, too."

"Yeah, you better. But here's the deal. You start acting a little better than you have been and I'll see about giving you some new responsibility. That sound okay?"

"Yep," Joey agreed. "I promise I'll do better, Al." He then thought about something. "… Did you see me fly today? Just for a second?"

Unable to contain the truth, Alex admitted proudly, "I did and you looked great. But I guess I shouldn't have been too shocked." He wound close arms around the smaller body. "What can't you pull off, kid?"

A more contented Joey tucked himself in under his brother's chin.

IIIIIII

The moment Charles made his way into the parlor, Erik handed him a drink and remarked, "If it isn't my weary Lab Rat."

"Thank you," Charles indicated the drink, "but I'll be more grateful if it comes with three of its friends."

"We'll see," Erik said noncommittally. "So, not even a full week in and already we've entered heart attack territory." Charles nodded wholeheartedly at that as he sipped. "Yet you cannot deny his potential, Charles. At so young, Joey wields tremendous power that needs to be carefully honed."

"I know." Charles lowered his glass and faced him. "That's why I want you to be the one to train him on this flying endeavor."

Erik's eyebrows raised together. "Me?"

"If his powers lend him the use of metals to engage flight, then there is none other more perfect to teach him."

Erik could not deny the reason there. "Alright. I'll gladly take him on."

Charles bobbed his head and managed some small form of humor. "After today, I suppose the remainder of the semester can only get easier. Wouldn't you say?"

After staring at him blankly a moment, Erik turned back towards the bar. "I'll fix you another drink."