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.

146. Chap 146 Opposition Before Competition

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Forty Six

Author's Word: I'm sorry this chapter took longer than usual but things became busy on my end yet again. However, I'm hoping it's now looking up. I hope everything is great with you, too, Fam. Now, please enjoy and review!

Row of young men in the stilled ready position, the coach's whistle blow animated them. The divers leapt into the water and began the near machine level strokes. Pushing hands forward, Morrie reached the end first and burst up from the pool. The small gathering of spectators consisting of lingering students cheered at the display.

Climbing out of the water, he grabbed a towel to dry himself as the coach approached.

"That was a five second shave from last count, Bench," the older man commended. "Keep it up and we're going to obliterate next week."

"Consider it in the bag, Coach," Morrie guaranteed, draping his towel around his neck scarf style.

When the man walked off to speak to the other swim members, a familiar voice called out, "Nice moves, Bench."

Turning around, the brown eyes landed on the girl furthest down on the bleachers. "Hey," he started towards her, "what are you doing here? I thought you had a ton of strength training going on."

"We wrapped up and dismissed early." Cordelia stood up on the bench, leaning over to coil arms around his neck. "And I wanted to watch you work."

Morrie regarded her with a countenance of satisfied intrigue.

IIIIIII

Arms behind his back with a facial expression that resembled that of the house's oldest headmaster, Alex paced back and forth across the navy blue matt. Then he heard the light breathing and hastening footsteps. He caught Cordelia in his arms as she all but flew into the gym.

"Sorry I'm late," she said. "I got caught up."

Alex helped steady her to her feet. "Mary I take it."

Cordelia gave him a mild disapprovingly look. "Morrie."

"Right. Mary just rolls off the tongue," Alex commented. "Ready?" Cordelia nodded. "Good. Let's work on your balance."

Mounting the top of the leveled beam, Cordelia began the work of moving across it at a slow but steady pace. Once reaching the end, she turned smoothly on her heel and started back. Alex had her continue with the exercise for several rounds before they went on to other drills.

"Want to tell me what's wrong?" he put forth.

Cordelia let off a grunt as she raised on the pull-up bar. "What do you mean? Am I off?"

"No, you're great," he told her. "With the physical, anyway."

Gripping the bar tightly to flip over, she landed with her back turned then maneuvered to face him. "Have you ever felt held back? With your mutation I mean."

"Yeah," Alex nodded. "Except in my case that's a good thing." He then surmised, "You're itching to use your powers to compete, aren't you?"

"It's just really hard to put in all of this effort with training when I know that I can easily blow apart the competition."

"In your gold form," Alex reminded her. "This is flesh and bone out there, Glim. Not to mention a ton of sweat. Competition is about proving you're the best against the best."

"You're right," the girl sighed.

Alex touched her shoulder. "Come on. Time for the speed drills."

Once they finished, Cordelia made it back to the main level. She went straight for the kitchen in need of water. The phone sounded before she could fully bring the ice cube loaded glass to her lips.

"Hello?" she answered somewhat winded.

"How's it going, Champion?"

"Morrie," she smiled.

"Ding, ding, ding we have a winner," he confirmed humorously. "Listen, think you can get away for about an hour?"

Highly interested, Cordelia replied, "I think I can give it my best shot."

IIIIIII

"And here I thought we were headed for the health spa." The dark haired girl tugged on the bathrobe she'd brought out with her at the male's request.

"Next time, promise." Morrie pushed open the double doors of the middle gym.

Despite the darkness in the room, the water reflected against Cordelia's blue eyes. "We are going to get caught."

"You don't even go to this school," Morrie brought up. "And I'm a senior. Worst they can do is what? Paddle me?"

"And if you went to my school, you wouldn't be sporting a dreamy smile as you said that."

Chuckling, he removed his own robe and lowered into the water in green trunks before holding a hand out for her. "Come on."

Cordelia untied and dropped her robe, leaving herself in her bumblebee striped suit. The moment she joined hands with him, she felt a yank and shrieked as he reeled her right in.

She raised her thoroughly drenched head to surface level again and promptly splashed water at the hysterically laughing male. "Oh you think you're so funny!"

He dipped down so that only his head stuck out of the water. "Only when I'm not trying."

Cordelia bopped the top of his head. "Hate you." She swam off from him.

Smirking, Morrie sped up to get in front of her. "Really?"

The Bostonian claimed, "More than anything." She felt her arms go around her waist and seemed to reconsider. "Perhaps you're one level above scum."

Morrie delved his eyes into hers. "We've been going out almost two months now."

"Glad I'm not the only one counting." She then felt everything still as he came in closer.

Finding consent in her blue orbs, Morrie closed the separation between their lips. Cordelia's hands held onto his shoulders before working upward into his damp sandy hair.

IIIIIII

Not bothering with the peep hole, Adrienne opened the door to the gift bearing blonde on the other side.

"For you." He handed her the package of milk chocolates.

"Seems you've mastered a woman's weaknesses," the redhead said, accepting them. "Thank you."

Victor said, "I'm still workin' on a couple of yours," then noticed the teenager in ivory jean jacket over blue and white dress coming their way, "Hey, baby. This guy's for you."

A wide smile came to Angel's face when he presented her with the large brown long limbed teddy bear.

Adrienne cleared her throat. "What do you say, dear?"

"Oh," Angel shook her head of the trance she had entered, "thank you, sorry."

"Sure." Victor then proposed, "How about I take you both out to breakfast?"

"Ooh, just let me get some shoes on." Angel headed back for her room, lanky stuffed animal in her tight possession.

Adrienne walked over to the open kitchen to place the chocolates on a counter. "You're quite the charmer, Victor Creed."

"I don't do much." He leaned over the island, facing her. "So, when you lettin' your sisters know you're here?"

"I'll be by to see them later today." She turned around, taking his right hand a moment. "I just had a very specific preference for my first sight of the morning."

Blue flats in place, Angel practically skipped back out. "So, where are we going?"

Victor turned to her. "You pick, doll."

Angel glowed at that. "We passed a café on the way here."

"Well," Victor linked arms with Adrienne before placing an arm around Angel, "let's do the town."

IIIIIII

As the triple flip followed by backwards landing finished, Morrie clapped enthusiastically.

"You're on fire, babe," he praised.

"I'll say."

The two teenagers looked over to see that another pair had entered the gymnasium and Cordelia immediately recognized one.

"Dri!" She ran over, sharing an embrace with her. "Goodness, what are you doing here?"

"You offend me, Baby Sis." Adrienne rubbed her hair. "Your first major competition of the year is tomorrow, is it not?"

Cordelia realized, "You remembered?"

"So it would seem." Adrienne nodded towards the boy just about a yard away. "Is this your little swimmer friend?"

"Oh yes." Cordelia called him over then introduced, "Morrie, this is my oldest sister, Adrienne."

He reached a hand out. "It's really nice to meet you. Wow, a brunette, a redhead, and a blonde? You're like a matching set."

"Yes, I've said we should get t-shirts made," Adrienne quipped. "Oh, forgive me." She tugged over the girl with her. "I would like you to meet my luckiest find thus far. This is Angela Salvadore."

"Angel," she requested. "You're Cordelia, right?"

"Yes," she shook with her, "hello."

Adrienne then asked, "Think you could spare some time after practice?"

"Sure." Cordelia looked over her shoulder. "Morrie, do you mind if—"

He raised his hands. "Hey, I'm gonna split. You ladies have a good time and I'll see you tomorrow." He patted Cordelia's wrist. "Later, Champion."

As he walked off, Adrienne commented with approval, "Not bad, Cor."

Cordelia only smiled after him.

IIIIIII

Joey looked away from brushing Xander's male when Cody entered the barn. "Hey. I thought you were gonna call Sean."

"His ma said he and his brother went for a bike ride." Cody took a seat on the built-in bench, head in his hand. "You're sure lucky Alex doesn't have any place to go away to."

Joey mumbled offhandedly, "At least Tommy stays at home."

Cody raised his head at that. "What's that mean?"

"Huh?" Joey continued grooming his horse. "I didn't say anything."

Cody countered in sing-song, "Yes, you did." The younger boy then abruptly shot out of the barn. "Hey, you can't get away that easy!"

When he got outside, he saw what had made his friend take off so suddenly; who actually.

"Uncle Chris!" Joey stopped just short of the man.

With a laugh about him, the taller blonde dipped down to hug the boy. "Now this is my kind of greeting. Let me see you." He pulled back, taking Joey's hand to look him over. "I suppose I should do the correct uncle thing and exaggerate how big you've gotten."

"Ha! I haven't even grown an inch," Joey claimed.

"Good." Cody jogged over. "No way do I want to be the only pipsqueak around here."

"Where's Grandpa?" Joey looked around eagerly.

"Trapped in Spain on business," Chris reported. "But I snuck some time away from work and my studies." He held a finger to his lips. "Tell no one and there's a candy mountain in it for you both." The boys made a show of locking their mouths when an invisible key and Chris regarded them fondly. "So, where's your mother?"
In the master suite, Emma rested in an arm chair with the phone receiver against one ear. "When did you get in?"

"Early this morning," Adrienne replied. "I hope you don't mind but my newest model is just a teenager and hasn't really clicked with anyone at school. I thought meeting Cordy would be good for her."

"I agree. Don't worry about it," Emma assured.

"I thought we could all have dinner together this evening," Adrienne put forth. "And don't worry about putting on any pretenses. Angela is one of us."

"A mutant? Well, I know for certain Charles and Erik will be interested to meet her, as will I. We'll see you three about seven thirty, alright?"

"See you then. Take care, Little Sis."
When Emma stood to hang up, she looked back in time to see none other than her brother poking his head in. "Chris?"

"No fair." He stepped inside fully. "I didn't get to say 'guess who'." He walked over, taking her into his arms carefully. "I came for Cordy's competition. How are you feeling?"

"Better and better, thanks."

"Good. I was worried about dropping in like this."

She looked up at him. "Oh I think your presence is only going to make things that much more interesting."

IIIIIII

"I have entered full-blown British invasion territory!" Cordelia exclaimed, shuffling through the various albums.

Lying beside her bear, Angel wrote into a red notebook. "I can pretty much drift away to absolute peace with The Rolling Stones."

Spotting one in particular, Cordelia carefully held up the black and white case. "Jailhouse Rock?" Angel nodded with a certain smile. "Have you seen Blue Hawaii?"

"Every time it comes on TV. If you don't love the king you're just…"

"Alien, blind, and probably ugly," Cordelia filled in.

Angel laughed in earnest at that. "You know, I'm surprised your sister hasn't made you a model."

Cordelia sincerely scoffed. "Me?" She sat on the edge of the bed, facing her. "A model? Do you know how many hours I have to clock at the gym not to bypass a size ten?"

"So, look how fine Marilyn Monroe is," Angel pointed out. "Besides, you have the height and the bone structure."

"You think so?" Cordelia looked towards Angel's vanity mirror. "Really?"

The other girl nodded. "You're practically built the same as Adrienne."

"Hm." Cordelia glanced back. "So, did your mom stick you in ballet classes to get you ready for the big modeling career? Ugh, my mom drove me crazy with that."

Eyes down, Angel tapped her pen against the paper. "I've lost count of the blue moons since I've seen that woman."

Cordelia's face immediately fell. "What about your dad?"

"I never met him. He was employed by some big time company and he didn't want anybody to know he'd had a baby by a black girl."

Cordelia's mouth formed a perfect circle as she uttered, "Oh."

"Yeah," Angel said, clearly not wanting to delve further there. "So, you stay with your other sister, right?"

"Mmhm. It was a little shaky, adjusting to having each other around all the time again, but I'm glad it turned out this way. My family actually had a holiday season." Cordelia appeared somewhere between thoughtful and amused. "With no funeral involvement."

"What is up with your family, anyway?" Angel wanted to know. "And while we're on the subject, why is it people with money can't ever seem to get along?"

"I have no idea," Cordelia admitted honestly. "But with us, it's pretty much how Mom treated Adrienne and Emma. Like Adrienne is pretty, but Emma's not or something stupid like that. But Emma's always been skinny and Dri feels like she gets things handed to her a lot."

Angel mentioned, "Like Charles Xavier?"

Cordelia nodded. "Chris was always acting up, but he only ever annoyed Dri at worst. Em's always looked after Chris, even though he's older. And most of the time it felt like I was just… there. Not serving any good enough purpose." She looked at Angel again. "But things are getting a little better now ever since Charles and my little nephew Joey came along." Now Angel turned quiet. "Are you okay?"

After a few seconds, the longer haired girl asked, "Have you ever felt like… no matter what you do, you'll never be worth anything. And maybe you feel that way because it's true?"

"Yeah," Cordelia answered, stretching out a little. "I have. I'm not the prettiest one in the room; definitely not the smartest."

Angel said, "At least you do better than me there."

Cordelia then put forth, "But it's not true. No matter how much it feels like it is. I'm not worthless. You're not worthless."

"You know," Angel raised, "your sisters need to leave that bourbon alone if they can't see how good you are to talk to."

"No, now you're thinking of my brother." They shared a laugh at that.

With a light knock, Adrienne came halfway into the room. "Ladies, we should be going."

"You mind if the two of us ride back in my car, Dri?"

"That's fine," Adrienne granted, stepping off to retrieve a jacket.

Cordelia hopped up from the bed excitedly. "You are going to love my brother-in-law's house."

Angel sent her a weak smile as she mentally recalled, I've seen it…

IIIIIII

Ever observant eyes having honed in on the incoming, Victor made it upstairs from Eye Spy to the front entry. Swinging the door open, he found the lightly startled head of copper in position to ring the bell.

"Be careful," she warned glibly. "One might accuse you of appearing overly eager."

Taking her by the hand, Victor gently brought her inside and shut the door before dipping to kiss her. "I been accused of worse."

Adrienne gave him a coy grin, the tips of their noses lingering near to each other. "The girls will be along in a moment. They were right behind me, either grooving to rock and roll or experiencing simultaneous seizures."

Bobbing his head once, he started leading the way towards the parlor. "Look who's here."

At the gathering of adults, Adrienne acknowledged the first one to catch her attention. "Chris. I didn't know you were in town as well."

He said, "I didn't know I'd be able to be here, either."

"So," Emma spoke from Charles' chess chair, "where are Cordy and Angel?"

One hand on her hip, Raven put forth, "Did you send them to pick up Riptide?"

Hank then added, "Or is Azazel still their preferred transport?"

At the woman's stunned countenance, Erik said, "The next time you wish to drop a whammy at someone's feet, try not revealing all to X-Men Security. Even if he happens to be smitten by you."

Adrienne whipped her head back. "You knew?"

"From the get go," Victor confirmed unapologetically.

Logan threw out, "Got to love them new employee memos."

Kayla said, "Especially the ones that detail corrupted mutants."

Cordelia's breathy laughter signaled the arrival of the girls. Angel's face went from deeply dreading to absolutely stony upon taking in the group before her.

"Hi, everybody." Cordelia glanced around. "Where are Joey and the others?"

"Upstairs." Alex marched over. "You have some kind of idiot nerve showing up here."

Taken aback, Cordelia reproached, "Alex."

Sighing deeply, Angel looked to Adrienne. "So much for the gentle break. I knew they'd find out."

Adrienne dismissed, "The truth would have come out one way or another."

Alex pulled Cordelia over near to him. "Stay away from her, Glim."

"What are you taking about?" She took her arm back, completely flabbergasted. "What is going on here?"

"Cordelia," Erik spoke with clear venom, "this girl aided in Rebecca's abduction. Snatched her up."

Emma tacked on, "At Shaw's orders."

Turning to her new acquaintance with an utterly dazed expression, Cordelia realized, "You were with Hellfire?" With shining eyes, Angel gave off a slow nod and Cordelia looked back at Emma. "She's the one who took your spot."

"Cordelia," Charles started.

Emma, however, answered somberly, "Yes, she did."

Alex informed angrily, "She's also the reason Darwin's dead."

"I'm the reason he's dead?" the formerly silent girl shot back. "It wasn't my powers that killed him, Havok. If you two hadn't been trying to play hero—"

Alex jabbed a finger at her. "We were playing hero for your dumb ass!"

"Okay, stop!" Cordelia shouted suddenly, all eyes instantly going to her. "Stop this! Seriously," she touched fingertips to weary temples, "Do any of you understand the pressure I'm under? This is the day before my first huge completion of this year and you choose now for all this?" She aimed accusing eyes at Adrienne. "I should have known you didn't really come here to support me. You just wanted to mess with Em. God," she formed an ironic smile, "I am so stupid." She glanced her brother's way next. "Guess you're in on this, too, huh?"

Chris attempted, "Now wait a minute—"

"Forget this."

"Cordelia." Charles hastened after her when she attempted to go.

She looked back. "I just need some air, Charles." The irate girl then headed off for the nearest door leading outside.

Angel said to Adrienne, "That goes double for me. I'm about to choke in here," and walked off next.

"And I desperately need scotch." Adrienne gazed around with a tight smile. "How I enjoy visiting family. But please, I insist on hosting the next aggressive display." She shot Victor a cold glare as she departed.

The tall blonde started after her but Chris jogged over and passed him.

"Adrienne," he called after his quickening sister, "stop this."

Adrienne waved a hand back without turning around. "Do take a very long hike, Little Brother." She made it out front to where she'd left her car parked and got in. Before she could get the key into the ignition, Chris seized the entire set from her hand. Gaping at him, she wanted to know, "If you have a death wish you want me to carry out, you only needed to ask."

"Get out of the car, Adrienne," he ordered, pointing outward. "Now."

"Get shagged, Christian," she shot back.

Glower in place, he lowered to get in closer to her. "Get out of the damn car, Porky."

Smoke practically billowing from her ears now, Adrienne detached herself from her vehicle and slammed the door. "Did you just call me… Porky?"

Unmoved, Chris crossed his arms. "As you so often enjoy reminding us, you are the eldest child in this family. Act like it as opposed to storming off like an irrational shrew." He flicked her leather jacket covered shoulder with his finger. "And you called me Dimwit Daffy all through grade school."

"You call those insults?" The siblings turned to see Victor a short distance away. "You rich brats know nothin' about name callin'." He focused specifically on Adrienne. "Can I have a word with you, Pork-O?"

Adrienne faced Chris again, who promptly stuffed her keys into his jacket pocket and declared, "If I can't get toasted, you're not getting toasted."

Releasing something of a growl from deep within her throat, Adrienne marched Victor's way. "So you warned my sister and your precious X-Men about the wicked little fallen Angel I hired."

Before speaking, Victor glanced over her head and Adrienne followed his gaze until it fell on her brother.

After another second, he asked, "Is my presence bothering you?"

Adrienne replied, "Only since the day they brought you home from the hospital."

As he walked back, Chris stopped to tell Victor, "I don't know what you see in her," before continuing on for the house.

Now alone, Victor refocused on the woman before him. "You really think after what Emma's been through that I was gonna let you bring a bomb this big in here? Did you take Angel on just to use her for this?"

"No," Adrienne answered sharply. "I hadn't the slightest idea who she was until I happened upon her. It was only after she learned of my sister's marriage to Professor Charles Xavier did she confess all to me. Naturally, I knew this would create a conflict of interest eventually, but I thought I would have more time." Her countenance tempered. "Then you arrived in San Diego. And you were… I ignored all instinct to send you on your way. Because," she groaned, "damn you."

He raised an eyebrow. "What?"

She folded her arms huffily. "Every moment with you was good." She rethought that. "No, more in the neighborhood of wonderful. Then your time over at my house," the slightest trace of a smile grew on her face, "Angel seemed so genuinely content."

"Adrienne," Victor looked at her closer, "you care about this kid. Don't you?"

Shaking her head, the woman crossed her arms. "Well, you needn't worry about either of us troubling you any longer. I'm staying for Cordy's competition then we'll be off straightaway."

Touching strong hands to her upper arms to grip, he said, "Don't do this."

"What exactly?"

"Don't run from us," the man illuminated. "'Cause I don't plan to." He noticed a certain light appear in her eyes at that. "But you need to make things okay with your family."

Adrienne exhaled through the nose. Yet again, wonderful reared its dastardly head.

II

"Father, brother, uncle. Hm." Leon paused to think. "Possibly all of the above."

Maya glanced back from doing her homework at the desk to where the older student sprawled out over her bed with his own books. "What are you talking about?"

"Girls like this Angel Salvadore don't just, for lack of a better expression, fall out of the sky," he stated. "Appearing in "Gentlemen's Clubs", latching onto men who promise her the world, most likely involving a great deal of whoring- that typically adds up to unwanted pre-pubescent touching."

Unable to formulate any immediate response to that, Maya played with her eraser as her gaze went down to the carpeted floor.

II

Wings or possibly spirit having grown tired, the flight enabled mutant came to a landing in one of the side gardens where she'd left her jacket. After she had her chilled back covered once more, she squatted before one bush where peonies had begun to bloom. Gliding a finger along one of the delicate buds, she silently studied the developing flowers.

From the far left window of the recreation room, a pair of brown eyes honed in on her. "Gee, she looks sorta like," Cody squinted, "Jasmine."

Frank blinked rapidly at the distorted image of Becky disappearing right before his eyes re-playing in his mind. "She's nothing like Jasmine."

Joey watched as Becky removed herself from their board game to join Cody at the window.

Scott's attention went right to her as well. "Rebecca?"

"Scott," the curly haired girl walked to him, "will you come somewhere with me?"

Putting his book down, the ruby quartz adorned boy, replied, "Only anywhere."

"Angel."

The petitioned one returned to her feet as the sparkling figure jumped down from the treetops. "Glimmer."

"Stellar flying skills." Cordelia golden body highlighted despite the limited lighting around them. "And far more of an instant dazzle."

Angel laughed lightly as the shimmering one began to leap about short distances. "I'll take yours over a backless dress in the middle of winter." Cordelia stood in front of her again and returned to her regular flesh. "Are you actually still talking to me after all that or did they just put you in charge of the tar while Banshee or somebody dumps the feathers?"

"'Kay first, Banshee is off in Normal USA somewhere," Cordelia began, "and two, no chance. Look, the way I see it, if the nightmare nazi hadn't clamped onto you my sister would still be amongst the hellish ones. Then no amazing brother-in-law or adorable nephews for me. I also happen to know what it's like to go mad for a time, let me tell you."

Clearly not expecting such a response, Angel said, "So you're not writing me off as slut trash?"

"Hmm," Cordelia pretended to ponder, "not today."

"Can I cast a vote in the slut department?" In their conversation, neither had noticed Raven's arrival. "And two for trash."

Cordelia looked at her. "Raven…"

"Over here, Cordy, now," Raven indicated the spot beside her, "I'm serious. Do not let this girl fool you. One minute she's your friend, the next she can't find a knife big enough to stab your back with."
"Mystique." Angel attempted to step towards her.

Raven held out a halting hand. "Exactly how much of your ass do you want kicked in this moment?"

"You know what?" Angel threw up her own hands. "Not gonna bother. I don't have to listen to this."

"Do not," Angel screeched as Raven gathered up a sizable portion of her hair to yank on, "try the victim BS with me."

"Raven," Cordelia got in between them, "stop it."

"He killed Darwin," Raven emphasized through clenched teeth. "And before that they slaughtered all of those men right in front of us. Do you remember that? Or do they not count for anything because a couple of them cracked a few jokes at us? Who knew professional tramps could be so sensitive?"

"Damn it, what do you want me to say?" Angel erupted. "I already know I'm a five star selfish bitch. I always have been. It's the only way I knew to be to make it out here." Her voice hitched. "God Mystique, I wish I could be like you and morph into a pretty blonde chick. But no, mutation made me a fucking bug."

Raven shook her head blithely. "Charles and Erik gave you a chance. Why did you walk away from us like that?"

"Why did you leave?"

The females blinked at the evening lighting up around them.

"Lighthouse?" Cordelia recognized.

When they got close enough, Frank turned off his mutation. Scott, walking ahead, stopped short of them.

Angel acknowledged the one sandwiched between the boys. "Rebecca."

"I want to know, Angel," the youngest girl said. "Why didn't you stay? Why did you go with those awful men?"

Having thought this over and over again, Angel took a moment to formulate an answer. "The Professor and Erik talked a good game, but I thought Shaw talked a real one. I just didn't want to end up somebody's lab experiment or dead." Her eyes developed waves of sincerity blended with shame. "Rebecca, I am sorry. I know there's no excuse, but I wasn't going to let him hurt you. I swear to God."

Scott scoffed. "And we're just supposed to believe that?"

"She's telling the truth, Scott." Charles, with Erik at his side, came upon the young people now. "That I know for certain." He zeroed in on the dark haired girl behind Cordelia. "Angel, our first discovery with Cerebro. I thought you'd never return to us."

Angel's expression clouded with astonishment. "Don't you want me gone?"

Erik walked until he stood only a few inches away from her. "You are a child of which a madman took full advantage. Not the first time for him. While it does not completely excuse what you did and certainly trust will take much time, I believe some discussion is necessary here."

When Frank released his hold on her shoulders, Becky wordlessly approached. She laid a hand over Angel's forearm. "We should go inside."

"Yes," Erik seconded. "Before these winds grow cooler."

Charles gestured grandly towards the house. "Shall we?"

With the Professor leading the way, Raven caught up with the Eye Scream Team and slipped an arm around each of them. Cordelia smiled and gave a kind squeeze to Angel's wrist to prod her into movement. Hoisting Becky up into his arms, Erik followed closely behind the pack of young mutants.

IIIIIII

Finding her adult siblings in the living room, Adrienne entered with a feeble wave directed at them. At the sight of her, Chris removed himself from the sofa to the coffee table. Adrienne took the space beside Emma.

"So," the redhead reclined a little, "small world."

"Miniscule," Emma concurred, placing her teacup back onto its saucer. Facing her sister, she wanted to know, "What exactly were you trying to do with this evening?"

"My attempt was to lay all cards on the table," Adrienne said.

"With you in possession of the upper hand," spoke Chris knowingly. "Now all things mutated and- more so- Hellfire aside, what I want to know is when are we going to cease playing these games with each other? I would try Cordy's running away method, except for the fact that it would only lead to much celebration."

Adrienne claimed flippantly, "Only for the first few days." She grew slightly more solemn. "But honestly, there was no game intended here." She looked Emma's way. "I thought if I brought her over here and explained things to you, we could settle this without ruffling many feathers. However, it was foolish on my part to doubt the deductive capabilities of one Victor Creed."

Emma stated, "My husband and his brother only hire the best; my resume excluded."

Adrienne continued with, "I know the reservations with Angel, including what she's done. But when I stumbled upon her, beautiful but incredibly lost and disregarded…"

"You wanted to help her," Chris understood. "It's alright, Big Sis. We won't mock your show of compassion."

"Certainly I won't," Emma agreed strongly. "I can easily play superior here, but the truth of the matter is that where Angel was, I was there long before her. Most likely still would be if things had turned out differently, though I'd rather not think about it." Her hand went to her enlarged abdomen. "At least she has the impressionable young girl excuse. What's my reasoning?"
Chris raised, "I alternate blame between Mommy and Daddy myself. A very popular scapegoat among AA attendees."

A small smile played on Emma's features. "I believe I've milked that one for all its worth." She glanced up when her sister's hand joined hers on Emma's stomach.

"I did not come here to upset you," Adrienne told her. "I hope you can believe that."

Emma nodded at her then faced Chris. "You're the one I'm interested in probing for validity. Especially after tonight."

"Yes, I'm curious myself," Adrienne folded her arms with a raised eyebrow, "Who is this nobleman that has replaced our perpetual rapscallion brother?"

Chris shrugged lightly. "When it comes down to it, I either need to straighten out or find a very tall ledge to leap off. But whatever the case, Cordy needs us. Because personally," he eyed the two on the couch earnestly, "I do not want her to follow the paths we chose at her age."

An unspoken concurrence spread across the three of them.

IIIIIII

Done seeing to it that Joey actually settled down to get ready for bed, Alex came to stand in one wide open entryway at the French doors of the Mag Cave. Charles glanced over from where he perched on one arm of the sofa while the room's owner stopped studying a sword to acknowledge the blonde.

The youngest instructor said, "I saw Sabretooth's motorcycle leaving earlier."

"Yes," Charles shifted to better see him, "he wanted to make sure they arrived at the hotel safe and sound."

Alex then raised straightforwardly, "You want us to help Angel."

Erik sheathed his sword and asked him, "Does that bother you?"

"You weren't there." Alex came in closer proximity to the Headmasters. "Neither of you were. She saw what he did to Darwin and she still left with them. Even after she took Becky, Sean said he tried to talk some sense into her, but she still went on attacking them in Montana. Now that Shaw's dust, she's resolved to be some sweet little junior model? No," he shook his head, "not a chance. This chick is a total turncoat."

To the young man's surprise, Charles responded, "You're right. Angel has no sense of loyalty." He then went on with, "Because she's never experienced it herself."

"The loss of Darwin was a major blow for you." Erik walked Alex's way and left a hand on his shoulder. "For all of us. But I can understand where Angel has been. Before we all came together, I used whatever heinous mean I had to in order to get what I wanted. All I saw was my own bottom line. In Angel's eyes, she had no reason to remain with us; to trust us."

Charles said, "Shaw gave her what she thought was an opportunity or a chance at survival at the very least."

Alex crossed his arms as he glanced away in ponder. "You know, sometimes I wonder if I'd have stuck around." His eyes went to Charles. "If you hadn't found Joe." The Professor sent him a small knowing smile and Alex felt Erik's arm go around his shoulders now. "Okay. We'll see how it goes."

"Be certain to keep both eyes open," Erik cautioned.

Alex nodded with certainty.

IIIIIII

Coming into their son's quarters, Logan remained by the dresser while his wife finished her nightly tale. She concluded the story and bent to peck her drifting boy's forehead. Turning around, Kayla headed in Logan's direction.

After they exchanged a kiss, she encouraged lowly, "Don't be afraid to wake me up when you're off duty."

Logan let off a minor groan as she slipped away from his grasp and out of the room, silently cursing the hours that separated them. He went over and knelt at Cody's bedside. When the child made a ginger move of reaching for him, Logan clamped his large hand over the smaller appendage.

"Go to sleep, baby boy," he brushed a few forever-growing strands away from his face, "Go to sleep."

"Night, Daddy," uttered so faintly that only ears so sensitive could register it.

Logan raised Cody's hand to nuzzle against his face and pressed lips to the palm before covering his boy up to the neck. Clicking off the reading lamp, the man started out and did not cease motion until he reached his regular chair in Eye Spy.

Taking one brief spin in the seat, Logan slid it over to the miniature refrigerator to select a beer. Nose and ears working together, his attention went to the entryway and his brother's arrival.

"Hey, back already?"

"Next to zero traffic," Victor told him, tapping an open hand against one wall. "All good around here?" Logan nodded and he gave him one back. "See you in a while."

"Big brother," the dark haired male called after to receive his attention again, "look, I know I ain't been gung-ho about you and Miss Ritz. But it's because I- you deserve—" Logan rolled his eyes and snagged the beer he wanted. "Court the snooty broad if that's what you're goin' for."

"Ah, cram it, Runt," Victor waved him off, "I'm gettin' all choked up over here." He rapped his knuckles along the wall for a moment. "But you know what I still can't figure?" Logan eyed him expectantly. "What the hell am I doin'?"

IIIIIII

"Cordy?" He gave her another brisk shake. "Cordy, wake up."

Stirring with a moan, the brunette made out the image of her brother beyond her shoulder. "Chris, stoooop," she rubbed at her face as she sat up, "what's wrong?"

"I want to see you downstairs." He hopped up to his full height. "Throw on some sweats and meet me in the kitchen. On the double." Vague instructions given, he left out of the room.

Quietly deciding where to aim a gold plated punch to his face or possibly a kick somewhere lower, Cordelia managed to detach herself from the inviting linens. Getting into gray stretch pants and a yellow t-shirt, she snagged the first hoody she could find and groggily slipped it on as well. Once socks and sneakers dressed her feet, she stopped off in the bathroom before continuing down to the kitchen.

Some fatigue left her at the presence of French toast, sunny side up eggs, a bagel with strawberry cream cheese nearby, and a tall glass of orange juice nicely arranged on the table.

"Chris," she came over in near awe, "what is all this?"

"You have a big competition ahead of you in mere hours," he reminded. "You have to start the day off right."

She took her seat. "I can't believe you did all this."

Chris sat across from her with his own breakfast. "I can't believe I went without burning down the stove or vital body parts. Now, hurry up. There's more to do."

Appetite only growing, Cordelia started in on the meal and received another surprise at the delighted taste buds that resulted.

After they finished, Chris guided the way out to the back of the house. "On days like this, there is nothing like a nice long sprint to kick start the rest of your system."

Smiling, Cordelia got into position next to him. "Ready when you are."

"And," Chris signaled, "we're off."

They broke off into a jog at that, which soon developed into a rapid run. Cordelia grinned as the sun reflected in her face, small birds flew upward to get out of their way, and her black hair batted against her upper back. She then promptly halted when her brother stopped to clutch his knees.

"Chris!" She rushed over, taking hold of his arm. "Are you okay?"

"I still remember," he spoke in between pants, "what this used to do for me before my track meets. Early morning, nothing but me and my own two feet, receiving the reminder of why I loved this sport more than any other." Chris glanced her way with a weak smile. "Until I decided I loved boozing it up more." His sister flashed sympathetic eyes at him. "Cordy, if you listen to nothing else I say to you, please, heed this. Never turn to emotional crutches. They'll only require you to need the real thing in the end."

Helping him stand fully, Cordelia wrapped arms around his middle. "You can get back to where you used to be." She arched her head back to peer up at him. "I know it."

Chris gathered a portion of her hair into his hand. "Cordy, I can't tell you how unbelievably sorry I am. For what I've done and all the things I should have done."

"Chris," Cordelia broke into a smile, "it's okay." She rested her head against his chest. "We're okay now."

Closing his eyes a moment, Chris enveloped her into a strong squeeze.

IIIIIII

Early arrival proved to be quite the advantage that afternoon as the arena filled to the near brim. In the center row of bleachers Victor, Logan, Cody, Joey and Kayla lined up. Just below them sat Alex, Leon, Maya, and the McCoys with their children. The furthest down bench contained Charles, Emma, Chris, Frank, Scott, and Becky in Erik's lap

At a particular sighting, Cody stood up in his seat and waved his arms. "Miss Frost, come sit with us! Move it, Dad. She wants to be near Uncle Vic."

Logan rolled his eyes but followed the instructions of the young cupid.

Adrienne headed up, handing Victor her jacket. "I'll be back in a moment."

Holding onto the leather garment, he said, "I'll be here," and moved so Angel could sit as well. "How you doin', doll?"

She smiled somewhat shyly at him. "Okay I guess."

"That Angel girl sure is pretty," Cody whispered to Joey and the blonde could not help nodding his agreement.

Overhearing them, Kayla shook her head in amusement.

Clad in a long sleeve orange and yellow striped leotard, Cordelia finished confining her hair into a bun. She went to check her wrist band then her ears picked up some sort of unusual… monkey noise? It grew to gorilla levels when the pitch increased.

A girl re-entering the locker room informed, "I think your boyfriend wants you."

Cordelia exhaled a breathy laugh and she hurried up and out of the changing space. "Hey."

"Hey." Morrie stood up straight from where he leaned against a water fountain. "Just wanted to give you something before you go out there."

She tilted her head with a flirty countenance. "And what's that?"

Leaning in, he joined their lips for a brief kiss then eyed her again. "Before you get gross and sweaty and all."

Cordelia slapped his arm good-naturedly before deja vu hit at someone else coming upon them. "Dri."

"Wow, you are everywhere," Morrie marveled.

"I also see all." Her blue eyes burrowed into his face. "Remember that."

"Your family is scary." Morrie winked at Cordelia. "See you out there."

Cordelia followed his path happily before his visage landed on her sister. "Is Angel here?"

"Out among the rest of the Cordelia Frost fan club," the woman confirmed.

"I'm still baffled by the fact that you came to one of these for the first time in forever."

Countenance unreadable, Adrienne rested hands on the shoulders of the youngest Frost female. "We both know I do not believe in making promises I cannot keep. I also want to make it plain to you that I mean what I say. And I certainly meant it yesterday when I said I came to see you here today. A winner."

Cordelia promptly reminded, "I haven't even competed yet."

"But you've already won," Adrienne stated matter-of-factly. "Despite the troubles of last year, here you are today participating in what you love. Showing kindness to Angel, who you've only just met. You're becoming everything I believed you could be- only keep an eye on that Bench boy and those hands."

Laughing softly at that, Cordelia said, "Thanks, Dri."

With a kiss to the girl's hairline, Adrienne encouraged, "Crush them all in a very devastating fashion," before taking her leave to re-claim her seat.

Soon enough, the final call sounded. Cordelia lined up among the other girls from the community center. As they filed out, the bright overhead lights of the arena radiated down upon them, bringing them into the realism of the event before them.

Almost immediately, Cordelia's attention landed on the packed audience. All others seemed to fade away except for those she zeroed in on. Joey, Cody, Frank, Scott, and Becky had leapt up from their seats the moment they saw her. Morrie pumped his fists in a show of pre-triumph. She could practically hear Alex and Hank silently coaching her. Raven whooped out loud along with Kiki and Trav. With a glow about his features, Charles sent out all the encouragement in the world; as did Erik but with a far more set expression. Though Maya and Kayla kept their decorum about them, Cordelia still detected the positivity in their posture. Leon faced forward with eyes sharp, as if he feared missing even a moment. Victor and especially Logan made several "Yeah!" gestures that others around them may have considered some sort of jungle ritual. Difficult pregnancy and all, Emma had made it as she'd vowed to and sat with keen eyes and her husband's arm around her. Chris kept his hands clasped near his mouth both in anticipation and highly pensive. The corners of Adrienne's mouth upturned in a covert confident expression. Angel waved and Cordelia returned it.

The knots of anxiety that had formed over the last few hours began to dissolve one by one. She did not know whether she would leave there a champion or not, but she had it on good authority that she was and would remain an X-Man. And that was worth its weight in gold.