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.

140. Chapter 140 Coming Undone

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Forty

Author's Word: Hey, fam! Sorry this is late but life, mainly monthly cycles, interfere with quality plans. Thanks so much for the feedback from the last round. Please enjoy and review!

"Human judgment and decision making is ubiquitous – voluntary behavior implicitly or explicitly requires judgment and choice. The historic foundations of choice are based in normative or rational…"

Up above and several yards away the ticking clock seemed to pound like an angry drum. On either side of him, pencils writing in notebooks transformed into knives scraping against solid bone. Every voice echoed as he had to constantly blink to make out the blurred forms of all those around him.

Relief finally came in the form of class dismissal. Shoving his unused class aides into his bag, Leon all but pushed through the others to get away. Going over to a clearing, he made use of his mutation to shift him closer and closer to the student union. Once there, he targeted a tall cup of coffee for his first selection.

"Gearing up for Stats?"

Leon glanced over his shoulder, feeling at ease. "Jam." He then responded to the assertion. "More like my reaction to my new psyche professor. He talks about concepts as though they should be revolutionary when I've already written reports on them back in tenth grade."

"They'll learn to keep up with you one of these days," Jam encouraged humorously.

The two finished gathering their lunches and found the rest of their regular group at a table.

Teresa regarded them like stranded island survivor to a helicopter. "Oh thank God. People."

"Alright, alien pods, you heard her," Jam placed his tray down before sitting, "beat it."

Alex merely turned another page in the wide assortment of books he had around him while Raven and Amy continued ogling a catalogue for children's attire.

Teresa stated, "These two are in manic mom mode, as always, and Sexy Lexie has crossed over to the nerd zone."

Leon put forth, "When the very young enter motherhood, it quickly becomes an obsession."

"Hey!" the pair in question protested.

"We're not obsessed," Raven claimed.

Amy said, "It's just nice to have someone else to talk about this stuff with… finally."

Teresa offered, "I'd give you my mom's number if my parents didn't have a night life."

Raven rolled her eyes lightly. "Fine, we'll de-age. But my brother has no explanation."

Alex piped up, "These science classes I'm in are alright. Our next lab on heart resuscitation is gonna be far out." He gave Raven a sharp look. "Do not tell Hank. I don't want him thinking we're colleagues or something."

Raven reminded glibly, "That would strongly imply you're on his level."

"You're on his level," Alex mimicked at her. "Besides, I have a micro bio test tomorrow." He faced Leon. "You ready for this thing?"

Leon raised his foam coffee cup to his lips. "I'm getting there."

IIIIIII

Making her way into the living room, Cordelia scoffed in annoyance at finding the telephone not only still occupied but in use by the same individual.

"Do you mind?" the Bostonian spoke out. "You're not the only one who needs the phone."

"Hold on, Sean- yeah, her again." Maya put a few fingers over the mouth piece and looked up at the other girl. "Can't you use the line in the Professor's office?"

"I could but he's in there and I'm not trying to put him out of his own space."

"But you have no problem putting me out?"

Cordelia gaped at her disbelievingly. "Tell me you're joking right now."

Maya waved her off. "We'll be done in a few minutes."

"That's what you said fifteen minutes ago!" Cordelia urged, frustration growing.

Hearing the tiff, Erik stepped inside the room. "Ladies, please. What seems to be the trouble?"

Cordelia turned to him and said, "She's been on the phone with Sean for almost an hour and I want to check to see how Maury's practice went."

Maya scoffed now. "Oh please, allow me to summarize. Water splashing, people cheering to idiotic volumes, his head inflating further to match his ego…"

"Maya," Erik chided, placing a hand on Cordelia's shoulder before she could retort, "you have spent more than your fair amount of time on the telephone since Sean has been away. You know that line is to be shared between all of you."

Maya returned to the receiver. "I have to call you back. I love you, too. Bye." She hung up and started out by Cordelia. "Enjoy your usual shallow dialogue."

Erik stopped her pacing for a moment and brought her out into the hall. "Have you finished your homework?"

Taken aback, she said, "You're actually asking me that?" His look did not waver. "… No, not yet." She headed for the stairs.

"Maya," Erik called after her, getting her to halt for a moment, "I understand how much you miss him, we all do, but you still have responsibilities here."

"Yes, sir," the girl replied robotically before continuing up.

Erik watched her proceed before making it up to the second floor himself. He knocked on Leon's door but at the lack of answer he poked his way inside. Half the young man's form dangled off his bed.

"Leon," Erik walked over and shook him at the shoulder, "wake up."

He jarred and stifled a yawn into his hand. "What's going on?"

"Training," Erik saw that he still wore his school clothes, "as you seem to have forgotten. What are you doing asleep at this time of day?"

Leon sat up, cracking his neck. "Very little of it last night. So much studying to do for this test."

"You're going to have to learn proper balance. I'll help you and Alex with your studies tonight."

Leon nodded once. "Thank you."

"Now," Erik pressed on, "change your clothes and meet me in the gym. Five minutes."

As soon as the man walked out, Leon hastened to follow the instructions. He stripped down to his undershirt and slipped into a pair of blue sweat pants.

When he arrived in the gym under time, Erik began immediately. "This is strictly hand to hand. You're to keep your powers reserved."

"Yes, sir," Leon complied, getting into a ready stance.

Erik started things off by swinging his left leg out. Leon ducked the move and performed a forward flip across the mats, stumbling before he could return to his feet. Erik lowered, taking the opportunity to pin him to the floor. As the younger mutant struggled beneath him, the Poland native could practically see his desire to shift away.

"Not even halfway in and you're already prepared to burn away the bulk of your energy?" Erik stood from him. "I'll make it simple for you. Come at me." Leon rushed to his feet then at Erik, who grabbed him by one arm. "You may fight with honor but I can guarantee your opponent will not." He gave him a mild slap to the back of the head.

Leon contained his groan and pushed back the initial anger it brought him. He recognized the gesture as a form of discipline and accepted it from the metal wielder. Yanking from his clutch, Leon next sent out a fist that Erik promptly seized. Gripping the appendage, he flipped him over onto his back.

While Leon collected his breathing, Erik crouched down to him. "It's true you've only been with us a short time but that matters not. I know great potential when I see it and I expect far better from you. Your coordination, speed, and reaction are all down."

"I'm sorry," was all Leon had to say.

"You will improve," and Erik's own belief reflected in the statement. "I will speak with Alex and Victor about lengthening your sessions. Balance," he helped the young one rise to his feet, "and will are all you need."

"Yes, sir," Leon replied diligently.

Erik placed a hand on top of his head and roughed the ponytail bound hair. "Go wash your face."

Leon dipped his head and left the gym. He started upstairs, but bumped shoulders with someone heading down.

"Whoa, kid, watch it, would you?" When the teenager only started silently, Logan's own gaze narrowed. "Got an eye problem or somethin'?"

"Actually, yes," Leon answered. "I occasionally get this overwhelming urge to gauge them out, but only whenever they're facing your general direction."

"… What did you just say?" Before Logan could advance on him, Leon's body faded in a shift.

IIIIIII

Situated in his usual place at the head of the table, Charles watched the rest of the family come in. His attention fell particularly on the little blonde settling in the lap of the bigger one.

"Son, don't paw at your brother while he's studying," he admonished gently.

Alex place an arm around Joey's middle and kissed his head. "He's fine." He closed his book and returned it to his backpack next to his chair leg. "Besides, this stuff is starting to burn my eyes out."

"The Princess' Day Spa," Emma remarked of Becky running a brush through Leon's dark locks.

Leon commented in regards to the smooth locks, "Thank you, Pretty Eyes."

Becky smooched his cheek and took her seat.

"What's the matter?" Kayla took prompt note of her son's less than enthused countenance.

Joey looked at Cody and said, "He's thinking about Sean."

Frank quietly tapped his fork against his plate.

Charles regarded the children with kind eyes. "Has anyone spoken to him today?"

Cordelia remarked, "I think the better question is has anyone else spoken to him."

"Even better question," Maya countered, "can you come off it?"

"Young ladies," Erik spoke sharply, "stop. If I hear any more of this, you can both spend your time after dinner in your rooms." He received two sulky teenage faces but nonetheless compliance.

Hank chose to brighten things by asking, "How are things at school, guys?"

"Very interesting actually," Leon responded first. "Has anyone ever heard of the Napoleon Complex?"

Clearly finding the name funny, Scott chortled, "The what?"

"It's a term used in psychology believed to exist inside those of shorter stature, mainly men." Leon went on with the explanation. "Many scholars believe Napoleon's desire for power and conquest was a reaction to his severe lack of height. It's true to life for many "small" men today. They will often behave will false bravado and a ridiculous attempt at intimidation all to compensate for low self-esteem. Of course, they're also probably out to compensate for their inability to grow inches on certain other parts of their anatomy as well…"

"Leon," Emma eyed him knowingly, "that's enough."

While the Japanese teen did silence, the same quiet spread across the rest of the table.

Victor darted eyes over towards his seething brother and Kayla placed a hand on Logan's thigh.

Clearly sharing the same thought, the Headmasters exchanged a look.

IIIIIII

"Please, Uncle Alex?" The brown eyes enlarged along with the plead. "Please, please, please?"

"Hmm, I don't know." Alex tossed the scrubbing rag over into the sink. "That was an awfully big piece of pie you had at dinner… were you good today?"

"Uh huh," Trav nodded. "I made an A on my homework, too."

"An A, huh? Well… okay." Alex went to the jar and removed two chocolate chip cookies from it. "But only if you give this extra one to your sister." He bent, handing him both cookies. "Do you promise me, Bugsy?"

"I promise." Trav smiled in delight. "Thank you, Uncle Alex!" He turned to go.

"Just don't rat me out to your dad," Alex called after the departing little feet. He watched Joey enter next. "Hey, you come to cookie con me, too?" He picked him up, sitting him on the kitchen counter. "Why're you so quiet?" Alex looked into his eyes. "Level with me, Eel. You mad at me for playing with Trav so much lately?"

Joey shook his head. "Al, would you ever go away and leave like Seanie?"

"Joe," Alex placed a hand on his cheek, "Seanie didn't really go away. He just found an excuse to lounge around for a few weeks. And even if I did have to go somewhere for a little while, there's no way I'd leave you forever. I'd be too busy missing you, anyway."

"I'd miss you, too." Joey folded his arms around the older one's neck in a hug. "… Can I still have a cookie?"

Alex poked his side playfully and took out another pair of sweets from the jar. "Take one to Cody, too, okay?"

Joey nodded and hopped down to go in search of his friend.

IIIIIII

Emptying his school articles from his bag and onto his bed, the briefest glance out of the corner of his eye allowed Leon to see the adult that had quietly entered his room.

"Erik," Leon looked back over his shoulder, "I was about to—"

Erik cut in, "You're about to stand up straight and look at me." Turning fully, the dark haired youth faced him. "You are a brilliant boy." Erik walked up on him, never separating their gaze. "But that arrogant pride you carry is your greatest downfall. Did you honestly believe that display at dinner would simply float over all of our heads?"

Leon said, "I didn't mean to get so carried away."

"But you did attempt to insult a member of this family and behave disrespectfully towards an adult at the same time." Erik narrowed his vision at him. "Didn't you?"

Head bowed slightly, Leon responded, "Yes, sir. Private Howlett doesn't have the highest regard for me and it just reminded me of… I shouldn't have lashed out."

"Reminded you of what?" Erik wanted to know.

Leon slowly went into the memory. "When I was younger, I met a soldier on the street. An older one. He asked me if I knew how many of my kind he'd killed in combat."

Erik put both hands to his shoulders. "I'm well acquainted with such remarks. If anything ever makes you feel that kind of anger, I want you to say something. Not behave the way you did this evening." Leon nodded and Erik's touch transferred down to one of his wrists. "I think you need a good reminder for that."

"Sir?" a somewhat taken aback Leon followed as he was tugged along.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Erik said, "I'm going to spank you for your misbehavior." He patted his lap. "Lay down."

Feeling the room swirl together, Leon lowered himself face down. He received the immediate memory of being over Alex's knee this way except that had involved a fast yank instead of actual direction.

"I suggest you keep your concentration about you," Erik cautioned. "If you attempt to escape this punishment, those consequences will be far worse than what you are about to receive. So you'd best exercise control over your powers."

"Yes, sir," Leon replied automatically.

"Give me your arm." Once Erik had the handed limb pinned, he used his free hand to deliver sharp smacks.

A heavy breath let loose from Leon's lips. He could not believe the pain a single hand could unleash. Random swats from his friends and a toy paddle had nothing on this man's strength.

Despite his knowledge that the situation did not call for such intensity, Erik brought it, anyway. He aimed for a result he believed Leon desperately needed. By the time he started peppering the thighs, he heard it; a single sniff. Not about to let it stop there, Erik smacked the rear before him harder. Then he smelled the tears and decided it to be enough. He allowed Leon to stand then got up after him, awaiting the reaction.

Hair covering his face, Leon touched the wetness under his eyes. He stood in disbelief over the moisture even more than the spanking he'd just gotten.

Erik tucked a portion of hair behind his ear to better look at him. "Leon?"

"I'm sorry," came the sincere statement.

Erik promptly placed arms around him in a strong hug. "I know, boychick." He kissed the top of his head. "Go on." He rubbed his back. "Release it."

As if obeyed an order, Leon cried lightly against the man's shirt front. It felt so foreign; crying and being awake at the same time. But how could he do it consciously? Perhaps his inward stone could be penetrated… maybe.

"I want you to dress for bed then come downstairs. You and Alex will do a little studying then I want you to go straight to sleep."

"Okay." Leon looked up at him. "Yes, sir."

Erik stroked his hair. "I'll see you in a few minutes, boychick." He gave him one more hug then left him to change.

Collecting his pajamas, Leon operated on auto-pilot as he got into the night attire. It took a deep journey back for him to remember receiving such chastisement from a full grown man. He remembered crying then as well but beforehand, apologizing over and over for whatever wrong he had committed. Then he remembered afterwards, those strong arms around him. Erik's clutch had brought back that same safety in volumes.

But no, he did not have the privilege of seeing the Headmaster that way. No, Erik Lehnsherr belonged to greatness, annoying ones, and enchanted creatures with pretty eyes. Never to him.

Regardless, something compelled Leon to give the man his obedience. Therefore, he knew what he had to do next.

IIIIIII

"That kid, Fox, I'm tellin' you, he's got one more time to flash his ass before I tan it ten shades."

Kayla maneuvered to rest on his chest and face him. "That kid is a nineteen-year-old boy with a host of internal issues. Not every child that joins this institution is going to be a sweet girl with doe eyes or a little boy who follows you everywhere. You have to find a way to make things work with those who make your life hard, too."

Logan hugged her against him. "Easier said than done sometimes, baby. Yeah, I know I'm one to talk."

"Well, I've grown rather fond of you." Kayla danced a pair of fingers along his bicep. "But after what Leon's experienced, it's going to take Leon time to fully trust our kind."

"Canadians?"

She gave him a playful look at that. "Adults." She glanced over at the knock to their door. "Come in."

Leon looked in before stepping inside fully. "I'm sorry if I offended you at dinner, Private Howlett. That was uncalled for on my part." He dipped his head. "I have to study now." He turned to leave again.

Exchanging a surprised look with his wife, Logan petitioned, "Hey, kid, slow down a minute." Leon walked back over. "Look, it's alright. Wasn't even all your fault. We've been bumpin' heads since you got here and I know I haven't been altogether fair to ya. And hey, we're all X-Men in here. Let's save the formal Private stuff, okay?"

"Okay," Leon agreed.

"And honey, we're here if you need anything," Kayla added.

"Thank you. Good night." Leon took notice of the long thin phone cord leading under the bed. "Good night, Maya." He headed out again.

"Good night, Leon!" the girl piped up.

Kayla looked to Logan again. "Should we be concerned?"

"Hey Smiley," Logan hollered down, "can ya breathe under there?"

"Yes!" Maya sent back.

Logan determined, "She's good."

IIIIIII

"You will have until the end of class for completion," Professor Demitris spoke while handing out the test packets face down, "Once finished, you may turn it in and continue on with the rest of your day. Remember, it is better to fail this test today than to face the maximum consequences of cheating." He returned to his own desk. "Please begin."

Flipping his packet over, Alex formed a smile at the entire first page consisting of questions he did not have to think twice about. As he selected answers for the multiple choice, he could not help detecting the limp limb to the left of his own. Glancing his head over slightly, his jaw nearly dropped at the sight of Leon dozing off. A swift kick from Alex made him bolt upright and several other students along with the Professor reacted.

"Mr. Osaka," the man addressed, "is there some sort of problem?"

Shaking his head out, Leon responded, "None at all." He then tried to decipher the much jumbled questions on the paper before him.

By the time Alex moved on to the third page, he stole another peek at his housemate, only to discover that Leon had fallen asleep entirely now.

IIIIIII

After a brief glimpse into the right, Hank repositioned the miniature flashlight to allow him to get a good look into the left pupil.

"Now I can personally attest to the tedium academia can bring," Hank clicked off the light, "but falling asleep during a test? I'm going to conclude that there's a bigger problem here."

Leon glided both hands through his hair. "I had trouble sleeping last night." He looked upon the doctor with ease. "Erik spanked me for… Napoleon."

Hank let off a kind chuckle. "Ah, I understand. I'm also sure you had a lot on your mind after the fact. However, I can't have you falling behind in class." He placed a hand on the younger male's shoulder. "You get some rest and I'll sign a doctor's note for you. That should suffice for a re-test."

Leon formed a small smile. "Thanks, Hank."

"Think nothing of it." Hank patted his shoulder. "But I have noticed you seem far more fatigued than normal. I think that while you're still adjusting to school and your life here, I'll prescribe some vitamins for you. I'll take some blood as well to make sure something more serious isn't at work here."

Leon inched back on the exam table. "Is there any way we can wait on that? I'm already so tired. I don't want to be any more out of it. Besides, I really don't like the idea of taking pills unless completely necessary."

Hank nodded. "Alright, but if you start feeling any stranger, I expect to see you in here post-haste."

"Absolutely." Leon jumped down from the table. "Thanks again, Hank."

"Get some rest," Hank reminded.

Returning to his quarters, Leon closed the door and took the liberty of collapsing onto his mattress.

IIIIIII

Locating the first possible adult she could spot, Maya stepped inside Charles' study.

"Hi, going over to my mom's. Be back later on." She made to dash away with that.

Without even looking up, Charles beckoned, "Maya," the girl performed a turn to look back, "I thought you mother always worked during the week."

"She does, but I thought I would go over to," she searched for an explanation, "straighten up a little. She's so scattered when it comes to house work sometimes."

"And while you're "straightening up"," Charles looked to her, "you and Sean can talk on the telephone for hours on end without interruption."

Maya attempted, "Just to pass the time."

"Miss Patterson," Charles indicated the chair in front of his desk, "sit down, please." Sighing lightly, she did so. "Dear, please believe me when I say I know what you're dealing with right now. Especially in regards to Sean. You don't want him to get too comfortable where he is so you're hanging on as tightly as you possibly can. But, love, you must feel secured in the relationship the two of you have. And as difficult as this situation is, you must remember that you are of value to the rest of us as well."

"I know," she claimed.

Charles studied her face. "Yet it doesn't make it any easier, does it? And I am not saying that as your professor but as someone who knows what it means to be in love."

"Love isn't easy when you're only seventeen," Maya stated. "Adults have it easy there."

"Do we? Hm, no one told me." He received a tiny smile out of her.

Her face deflated again. "I didn't want him to leave, but I couldn't stop him."

"That's exactly how I felt." Getting up, Charles moved around the desk and took her hand. "He will come home to us, Maya. That I can promise."

Rising as well, the petite girl leaned on him in a hug.

IIIIIII

When the third member of their homebound trio made it to the student parking lot, Raven hopped up from roosting on the hood of the Lincoln.

"Hey, how'd your test go?" she wanted to know.

"Nailed," Leon confirmed. "Apparently, alertness is a key factor to surviving college. Who knew?"

"Alright, man," Alex commended, tossing an arm around his shoulders. "Knew you had it in the bag. Come on. Let's get out of here. You have training to make up next."

Raven threw Leon her car keys while Alex mounted his motorcycle. The blonde male floored out and Leon followed after him.

IIIIIII

Unable to locate the intended item under his desk, either, Hank crawled out and stood up. Then he took note of his daughter hugging a certain brown object.

"Kiki…" Hank maneuvered around the desk. "Do you have Daddy's clipboard?"

"Mine, Daddy," she claimed.

"No," he came closer towards her, reaching out one hand, "that belongs to Daddy." She darted away with a giggle. "Kiki!" With the use of his agility, he snagged hold of the tiny body and gently pried the clipboard from her clutch. "Kiki McCoy," he gave her bottom a little pop with the flat end of the board, "what am I to do with you?" She arched up to kiss his cheek and he could not help smiling. "That's your answer to everything."

After bringing the toddler upstairs to her mother, Hank changed into the more winter friendly version of his X-Men uniform and headed out back. He stood beside Sabretooth and Magneto chose his presence to begin things for the four young men present.

"Let us see if we can get those times down." That stated, he shot forth a variety of metallic objects.

While Lighthouse ran ahead, Cyclops used his optic blast to keep all materials off of him.

"Nice going, Cyc." Havok looked towards his right. "Keep your eyes up, Vapor."

Sabretooth spoke, "You hear that?"

Beast turned away from his papers. "What?"

Magneto looked to the blonde man for explanation as well.

Sabretooth said, "That kid's breathing too heavy. It's taking all he's got to just keep up."

Vapor bent at the knees a moment and, unknown to him, several of the incoming metals around him faded.

Havok instantly panicked when they reappeared right on top of the younger boys. "Get down!" he hollered before unleashing twin red flares from his arm to incinerate the parts.

Cyclops tumbled to the ground, bringing Lighthouse along with him. "You okay?"

The New York native sat up a bit. "Yeah… what was that?"

"Vapor, are you out of your mind?" Havok raced over to him. "That was too many at once. You— Dad!"

Magneto made it to them in a blink and his eyes widened at Vapor's seemingly fading form.

When he solidified for so much as a moment, the metal wielder grabbed hold of him. "Control it! You must stay with us..."

While trying to keep the youth together, he mentally called out for Charles.

IIIIIII

Sight and sound slowly returning to him yet all at once, Leon made a move to sit up right. A pair of strong hands took hold of him almost instantly.

"Easy, lad," Charles soothed while Erik helped prop him up a bit. "It's alright now."

Leon touched his forehead. "What happened?"

"I only needed to make you sleep to keep you stable," the telepath patted his hand, "Do not make use of your powers for the next twenty-four hours at least until we're sure this problem is contained."

"In the meantime," Hank approached wearing a rare-for-him angered expression, "you can explain how large traces of lorazepam wound up in your blood stream. Something frequently used to treat anxiety disorders."

At the young one's telling expression, Erik chimed up, "If I so much as suspect you are lying, I'll gain the real answer by my own means."

Entirely wedged between a rock and rhino, Leon admitted, "I've been taking it. To treat my anxiety spells."

"What anxiety spells?" Erik pressed.

"They happen during difficult situation or sometimes if I think too much. I had one on campus before I spotted Alex. With so many people in on the truth about me, I knew I would have a hard time getting through school unless I could silence my nerves."

"But that makes no sense," Charles asserted. "You're under no psychological or therapeutic care. How could you have gotten a prescription for any sort of anxiety medication?"

Leon's eyes met with Hank's, who knew immediately. "He stole a sheet from my prescription pad."

"What?" Erik reacted, growing livid.

Hank walked upon him. "Do you have any idea of what you've done? No, better question. Do you've any idea," his voice carried a snarl, "how utterly stupid you are?"

"Hank," Charles put a hand to the irate scientist's arm, calm yourself.

Taking over, Erik asked Leon, "Can you stand?" Nodding, the teenager managed to get to his feet. "Go straight to your room and change into your pajamas. I'll be there shortly."

Hank's icy countenance made Leon keep his own to the floor as he departed.

"Henry," Charles started to speak.

Hank stepped back from them. "I need to check on my children." With that, he turned and started for the stairs.

Erik released an ironic snort. "We never even saw this coming. He completely pulled the wall over our eyes."

"He is a clever boy," Charles stated. "He's made a mastery and art form of taking care of himself, by whatever means that requires. However, it's time he learned the accountability that comes with being one of our children."

Erik concurred with, "I'm going to see to that now. Can you let Alex and the others know he is alright?"

"Yes." Charles offered his brother a consoling hand to his upper back.

Erik accepted the touch then prepared to move forward with what was to come.

IIIIIII

Another tree limb gripped, Hank somersaulted and landed on large feet to the snow dusted ground below. He cared not what the cold moisture did to his bare appendages as he stared ahead across the grounds.

"Hello, Victor."

The acknowledged man stepped up behind him. "Gettin' pretty good at this, kid."

Hank stated dryly, "Yet I cannot detect what is right in front of me."

"Vapor's got you pretty sore, huh?"

"And I honestly thought I was reaching him. An autographed football, a few games together, empty smile," Hank scoffed, "and I had the audacity to think any of it was sincere."

"Who's to say it wasn't?" Victor came around to face him. "Look, Hank, I know what you're feelin' right down to the core. The kid used you, lied to you, and almost made your name mud. But even more than that, he stepped out of his place with you. And every instinct is tellin' you to break him in half for it. You can't go there, Hank."

"I know that," Hank insisted.

"But you still want to," Victor knew. "Listen, rake him across the coals. Bend him over your knee and blister his hide. But don't cross that line. And I'll tell you another thing. I got a feelin' that kid's more good than anything. He just lives in a crap of a world."

Taking in the older man's words, Hank retreated into his own thoughts once more.

IIIIIII

Not bothering to knock, Erik walked into the designated room and found its inhabitant standing before the desk wordlessly.

"Leon," he addressed him plainly.

Leon did not turn around as he asked, "What is this called?"

"What do you mean?"

"Doing something for yourself that negatively effects another," Leon tried to explain. "Unable to brush that fact away no matter how much you try. Left with a heaviness in your chest that won't shake."

"That," Erik walked closer towards him, "is called guilt. Let's just say I am familiar with it. Is that what you're feeling?"

Leon nodded. "Especially towards Hank. This wouldn't be the first time I've manipulated situations with so-called medical experts but this is the first time I… care."

"Perhaps because you know Hank genuinely cares for you," Erik offered out. "Which is why you are going to go to him in the morning and accept whatever punishment he deems appropriate, physical or otherwise. Is that understood?"

Another nod and he turned now. "Yes, sir."

Erik extended a hand. "Give me the pills." Leon reached into his desk drawer and got them out before handing them over. Erik studied the label. "How did you pay for these?"

"I still have a prescription card for psychiatric medications," Leon explained. "It only costs me ten percent."

"All bases covered I see." Erik shoved the bottle into his pants pocket. "Except the effects they would have on your health as well as your mutation."

"It's worked in the past," Leon told him. "But it's been at least a year since I've been on anything. I thought coming here, leading the "new" life…"

"Until the truth came out to your friends," Erik surmised, "forcing you back into a past you wanted to escape." He patted the pocket that contained the pills. "These were your new way out."

"Best laid plans," Leon stated quietly.

"While I understand your reasoning entirely, you lied, manipulated your household, and worst of all, endangered your own health. The consequences of your foolishness could have been irreversible." He put a firm hand to the young X-Man's shoulder. "And I have had more than enough of your reckless behavior, Leon Osaka."

Blinking at the use of his full name, Leon said, "I am sorry, sir. Maybe this isn't…"

Erik's eyes narrowed. "You think you should leave here."

"I only meant—" Leon released a breath and getting yanked forward so fiercely.

"It seems you have more to learn than I thought." Erik brought him to the bed and sat. "Take your pants down." At the surprised face, he slapped his thigh. "Now."

Leon promptly pushed down his pajama bottoms, too taken aback at the whole thing to feel humiliation.

Erik pulled him down to lay over his lap with both ends of the young body supported by the bed. Despite what he had done, he knew the youth still did not have his full strength and did not want him too uncomfortable.

"I want you to count how many I give you and tell me that number when we're done," Erik instructed him. "If you miscount by even a single digit, you're going to get more. Do you understand me?"

"Yes, sir," Leon replied immediately.

Directions given, Erik lowered his underwear next. He unleashed hard strikes in rapid motions right after each other.

Doing his best to keep up with the count, Leon found that he had no retreat, mental and certainly not physical, from the punishment. At least the last time he had been able to burrow inside his own mind somewhat. Now, though, such a luxury was lost to him.

With the knowledge that he did have to keep track of the numbers, Erik did not bother scolding him. He moved on to his thighs and ensured sitting would be non-optional for the boy at least until the next day.

Leon felt his tears go and quickly grow. They, too, were different from the previous time. Instead of a mere reaction to pain, he wailed out like a small child.

The sound pierced Erik's core, but he fought to continue.

At last he called it done but did not redress him yet. "How many did I give you, Leon?"

"F…" Leon took in some more air. "Forty, sir…"

"That's right." Erik rubbed his back for a minute then fixed his clothes for him. He carefully maneuvered him to sit on the edge of one of his thighs. "Anymore reckless behavior out of you and I'm going to give you a whipping. And outside of meals, you are going to spend this weekend in your room. Your behavior during that time will determine what comes next. Am I clear, young man?"

"Yes, sir," Leon nodded hard.

"Good." Erik brought him in near and kept a comforting hand up at his neck down to his back. "I do not enjoy this, Leon, but I must keep you safe, even from yourself." He brushed his hair back to kiss his temple. "I love you, boychick and you're not going anywhere."

"I'm sorry, Erik." Leon managed to look at him. "I want to be able to feel that, for real, and… I don't want to lie to you."

Erik shook his head and held him tighter. "Never feel as if you have to say it back for me to give it to you. Your requirements are to behave and stay alive for me."

Leon pressed his forehead against Erik's shoulder, wondering if he had indeed just lied to him. Perhaps he did feel that, but he had no right to speak it. No, because even if they were the same, Erik belonged to them, not him.

IIIIIII

Turning away from her textbooks as one of the lab doors creaked open, Raven acknowledged, "Leon."

"Hey," the robe adorned individual stepped inside, "I saw the light on. I thought Hank may be working late."

"He's upstairs with the kids, but I get the feeling he's wide awake." She walked around, giving him a hug around the neck. "I'm so glad you're okay, Leon."

Leon returned the gesture somewhat feebly. "Not exactly the reaction I anticipated."

Raven pulled back to face him. "I know you're probably dodging stones around every corner, but seriously, you're not going to get any of that from me. I know what you're feeling. That desire to hide and just be normal."

"Because of your mutation?"

The hazel eyes flashed. "Exactly."

Leon nodded. "Thank you, Raven."

"No problem. Hold on." She started for the stairs. "I'll grab the husband."

Leon waited over by the desk until the heavy footsteps descending announced the scientist's arrival. "Hey… Erik said in the morning, but I…"

Hank looked him up and down. "Have you washed the residual stickiness from your fingers?"

"… Yes," Leon answered honestly. "And I know you won't believe this because this is the biggest line, but I'm sorry, Hank. Ever since I came here you've seen me as an individual and treated me kindly. I knew that, but I tried to convince myself you were just another doctor. A stupid adult who doesn't know anything about life."

"I gathered that." Folding his arms, Hank approached him a bit more. "But do you understand that had these side effects been more severe, besides the possibility of you exposing mutation, I could have lost my license to practice medicine? Either that or allow you to face imprisonment for prescription fraud, which I could never live with." He gave him a certain look. "No matter how much you deserved it."

Leon pressed a hand against the top of the desk. "I don't know what I'm doing, Hank. Being here, feeling, caring… how odd."

"I can't begin to connect with what you've been through, Leon," Hank admitted. "Certainly not the mental damage it's done to you. I sincerely wish there was a wonder drug I could prescribe for you. To take it all away."

The younger mutant bowed his head. "You're supposed to punish me."

Hank picked up on the difficulty standing brought him. "Looks as if Erik already did. Do you think you need more."

He responded, "I deserve more. Anything to- to make this right with you."

"I already forgive you, Leon," Hank informed. "And I mean all that comes with it. I'm not going to keep a second pair of eyes on you every time you enter this lab. Just know that if you do make the same mistake again, I will punish you. And it's something I will make sure you remember. Understand?" At the nod, he brought him into a little hug. "Good." He gave his bottom a pop. "Now, back to bed."

Finding similar strength in Hank's hold, Leon still let go, giving his behind a brief rub as he did.

IIIIIII

"Are you sure Leon's okay?" Becky wanted to know.

"Babes, he's fine," Alex assured, loading in the last piece of ice. "Now, you'll see him later." He stroked her round cheek. "Don't worry."

The green orbs watched him depart from the kitchen.

Tray in hand, Alex tapped on the door. "Lee?" He poked his head in. "You up?"

Rising in bed a little, the dark haired one recognized, "Alex."

"Hey." Alex placed the tray on the night stand. "How're you feeling, man? Here," he handed him the glass of ginger ale, "drink this."

Leon took a long sip to the straw then answered, "Hazier than usual but alive."

"I figured you wouldn't want too big a crowd this morning." Alex sat at the head of the bed and showed him the toast with sausages. "But you might want to use this first." He held up the next thing.

"An ice pack?" Leon squinted. "Isn't that a violation of some sort of suffering clause?"

"Yeah, well, I'm an instructor. I'll do what I want. Come here." Alex indicated his lap. "And don't bother playing bashful. I already spanked your ass before."

"I know." Leon crawled over to lay his head on his friend's legs. "And you were not exaggerating Erik's… gusto."

Alex gently lowered the cooling pack onto the clearly still sore rear. "You put yourself in danger. You're just lucky you can move." He messed the long hair vigorously. "You better not scare the crap out of me that way again."

"You sound like him, too," Leon noticed. "You're definitely Erik's."

"Yeah?" Alex poked his back. "What do you think you are?"

Leon replied, "Anything but."

"What? Lee, how can you say that. Dad is—"

"Your dad," Leon interjected. "I'm the buddy intruding on your life."

"Lee," Alex tapped his chin to make him look up, "no, I don't get to play that card. When the first five of us got here- I should've been better towards Erik, but I wasn't. Because of my own stupid issues. If anyone has a right to the claim thing, it's Becky. She's always stuck by him. And according to her, you've been an Erik Kid since the first bite of latke. You're our brother, Lee; my brother." He ran fingers through the locks. "Even with this chick hair."

As something in him swelled, Leon said, "Lex, you know I… I know what you're saying, but I'm not good at returning."

"Hey, don't worry. You're just preaching to the choir there." Alex rubbed a hand along his back. "Relax, it's all okay."

Between the chilled consolation on his behind and the caring touch to his back, Leon felt something break inside but not in a bad way for once. Could it be that the stone had started to chip?