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.

164. Chapter 164 The Power Players

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Sixty Four

Author's Word: Fam, I am really sorry for how long it took to get this up. I've been dealing with some panic attacks that more or less came out of nowhere. I hope my head manages to stay clear but as always, I could use praying for. Please enjoy and review!

The blue material pressed in and out at the numerous pairs of bare feet that pushed out against it. Hands aimed as high as they could go, Cordelia twisted herself to the side with shoulder-length strands of black winding around her face. Cody performed an aerial somersault. Joey tumbled multiple times but laughed at every contact.

To the right a bright pink one had been setup, which Becky practically danced on. Raven stood nearby her, taking to the activity with the greatest of ease. Maya kept to simple bouncing on her toes so as not to catch her ankle on something or win The Grand Klutz title doing so. Angel linked hands with Kiki as they seemed to imitate flight.

Hank, Scott, Frank, and Trav took over the far left red piece of equipment. Frank and Scott pretended to be space explorers while Trav imitated a frog. Compliments of his powers, the little boy had a rather simple time hanging on. Still, Hank kept a close watch on his son. Even though he had to contain his feet inside socks due to having a guest present, he found the activity fairly invigorating.

Adrienne, wearing a silk robe with crimson floral print all over it to cover her swimwear, returned from the back of the house with a fresh pitcher of iced tea.

She retook her seat at the patio table between Emma and Kayla, shaking her head a little. "Trampolines. That child stopped aging after five."

"It's all in fun, Big Sis," Emma said, adjusting her white rimmed sunglasses.

"One I wish I could join in on," Kayla placed one hand over her stomach, "but some things are worth small sacrifices."

"Whoo!" Sean collapsed dramatically off the one in use by Cordelia and the boys. "This is a kick!" He went towards the women. "I haven't been allowed on a trampoline since I was twelve. They said I made it too hard for the other kids."

Emma guessed, "Your height?"

Sean answered with a brief cloudiness about his eyes, "My scream."

Emma reached over to give him a squeeze at the forearm.

"It's about time, red." Logan climbed out of the pool. "Move it, kids." He ran for the blue trampoline and Cody latched onto his back the moment he made it up.

Leaving Erik to finish feeding Brian, Charles walked around the pieces of play equipment. "Oh," he helped Joey steady himself at one point, "careful now, little one. Your aunt would be very unhappy if you were to lose an eye on her birthday."

Joey smiled and leaned forward to kiss Charles' head and the man wound arms around him in turn.

The Professor then observed the one struggling to hang onto his glasses. Scott, how does a dip in the pool sound?

Registering the hint loud and clear, Scott lowered himself back onto the grass. As soon as Frank noticed his friend leaving, he got down to follow him into the water.

Leon kicked his way over to where Alex relaxed on an inflated chair. "Pretty lackluster next to the surf, huh?"

Arms behind his head, Alex responded, "Oh the season's on the way. Just wait." Though he himself hardly could.

"Dah!" they both reacted to the sudden spurts of water aimed at them.

Alex's gaze zeroed in on the pair with water pistols. "Twerp, Frankenstein, you're in for it."

Leon stated grimly, "You attacked my hair."

A proud countenance grew on Erik when the older two came at the younger ones like a duo of outraged sharks. Victor took over the lawn chair to the right of him and the metal wielder caught the short wave shared between him and the redhead a few yards down.

"She's a beautiful fire," Erik commented, patting a satisfied Brian's back. "You're a fortunate man, Creed."

"One way of puttin' it," the other male said, turning his unused towel into a head pillow.

Cordelia flipped and hopped down from the trampoline. "Okay, popsicle boost necessary." She wrapped her yellow and orange towel around her waist and slipped into sandals before heading into the house.

Coming her way from his return from the bathroom, Morrie asked, "So what'd I miss?"

She replied, "Me hopefully."

Hands attaching to her waist, Morrie bent to bring their lips together. Cordelia moved her head to the side, hugging him under his arms.

"Honestly. Children today have no decency."

At her brother's voice, Cordelia and Morrie separated in such a way that they took opposite walls.

"Chris," she regarded the two in sudden possession of thief-in-the-night stealth, "Daddy," she immediately went to share a strong embrace with the man, "you're here!"

"Charles left the door unlocked for us." Winston kissed her cheek before returning to his full height, scepter in one hand. "I do hope this is Morrie Bench, otherwise you have a great deal of explaining to do."

"Yes, yes he is," his daughter confirmed, stepping over to the boy in question. "Morrie, this is my father, Winston Frost."

Quickly wiping his hand on the side of his trunk, Morrie next extended it to the elder. "Sir."

Winston accepted the appendage, putting some constriction into it. "So we meet at last."

"And this is my brother," Cordelia introduced next, "he's no one."

Chris made a tickled with delight expression. "Isn't my baby sister simply precious?"

Cordelia batted away at the hands that attempted to pinch her cheeks.

Morrie laughed lightly. "That's how my brother introduces me, too."

"Come on." Cordelia linked arms with her father. "I know Joey can't wait to see you."

The four proceeded out to the festivities.

"Grandpa, Uncle Chris!" Joey darted for them.

Chris shared a quick hug with the eager youth before turning him over to his grandfather. He then joined Cordelia over by where their other siblings sat with Kayla.

"There you are," Emma remarked positively to Chris. "I thought you'd never arrive."

"I can finish the great exam cram tonight," Chris waved off.

Adrienne sipped her iced tea through the straw as she watched Morrie not too far away from Winston. "So Daddy finally meets the boyfriend."

Cordelia turned icy blue eyes on Chris at his snickering. "And what do you think is so funny?"

"Sorry, just," he laughed again, "boyfriend, you? You're practically a boy yourself." Cordelia smacked his arm. "And this takes merit from my point how exactly?"

Kayla only looked on at them in quiet amusement.

"Ah, my children squabbling." Winston approached with Joey at his side. "All is right with the world."

"Father," Charles made his way over as well, exchanging a handshake with him. "It's good to see you."

"You as well," Winston returned, "son."

Charles shook with the other Frost male. "Chris, we must go out as soon as your tests are finished. My treat, my insistence."

"My acceptance," Chris replied gladly.

"Come on, Joey. Let's have a dip." Cordelia took his hand to lead the way.

Getting to his feet, Erik walked over. "I believe someone else here would like to see you."

Brian gazed up at them with one eye.

"The little prince," Chris acknowledged.

"You'll have to say your hellos quickly," Emma told them. "He's about ready to be put down."

Winston accepted the tiny child from Erik's clutch. "It's unbelievable how fast they grow at this age. At every age honestly." He spoke the latter portion mostly to himself.

Kiki supported on one hip, Angel cheered, "Go, Cordy!"

Moving gracefully along the diving board, Cordelia turned sharply and executed a backflip into the water.

The rest of the young ones soon became involved in pool antics. Morrie eventually got to pull Cordelia away and they shared a lawn chair side by side.

"So you know I have prom next week?"

She looked up at him. "You do?"

He nodded. "But I got to tell you, it's not really my thing. I mean, I'll do it if you want to but I thought we could do something better. Just us."

"Like what?" Cordelia wondered.

"I can't say yet because I'm not sure. Consider it a late birthday gift."

She smiled, "Okay," and relaxed against him.

IIIIIII

Fingers laced together, the blithe mutant pair walked through the front gardens together.

"It's as if life itself blooms here," Adrienne remarked of the unbelievable variety of flower and plant life offered all around the Xavier property.

"Ain't that the truth?" Victor concurred.

"I have a great deal of work ahead of me this week, but I've arranged for Angel not to fly back until Sunday. I know how much she and Cordelia look forward to these visits."

"Yeah, it's a good thing for them both," said Victor. "Cordy doesn't keep that many gal pals around the house and she's been a big help to Angie gettin' to know the X-Men again."

Adrienne ceased pacing to glance up at him. "I don't recall seeing you in the swimming pool once."

Victor tugged on the white material he wore. "Don't think fur in the water goes over too well with company."

She folded her arms now. "What do you have under there?"

"You've seen it," Victor reminded. "Hot tub?"

"Yes, but that was all too dark. And brief." Adrienne removed her sunglasses to place on top of her hat. "You've nothing to hide here, Victor."

"We'll see about that." Grabbing the tips of his t-shirt, Victor removed the white article altogether.

Adrienne took in the thick wild bushes of gold that seemed to make up his entire chest, abdomen, and upper arm regions. Applying two fingers to it at first, she almost immediately ran her entire hand, absorbing the softness. She detected a resonance near his chest and recognized it as purring.

Victor remained still for her, allowing her the full feel. The pleasured noises within him echoed louder as she reached his jaw and left her hand there. Their blue to brown eyes honed in on each other.

Adrienne felt him inch away and frowned. "What is it?"

"Nothin'." Victor shook his head, placing his shirt back on. "Just… got to get used to that."

"That we do," she said, making him eye her again. "Come back to San Diego with me. Make it a long weekend."

A blonde eyebrow elevated at that. "Didn't you just say you were packed at work?"

Adrienne shrugged. "You can't double as an errand boy?"

Though mildly amused, he set her with a certain set gaze. "You know I work, too, right? I don't feel right bein' away too long."

"Hasn't your brother had his fair share of holidays?" Adrienne reached up to wind arms around his neck. "We could leave in the morning. Have you back at your protectorate by Sunday. Maybe this time we can find that secluded beach."

Victor peered down at her. "This is really what you want? What's Angel supposed to think?"

"That contrary to popular mythologies, it's very possible for a man and a woman to be in close quarters without nudity being part of the arrangement."

Closing his eyes briefly, he thought then answered her with, "Okay. We ain't got a game this week so… Let me work out somethin' with the kid brother and the bosses. But if I clog up your shower with fur…"

She responded simply, "So long as you keep the toilet seat down. Or would you prefer a litter box?"

His eyes narrowed marginally as a short growl sounded from his throat.

IIIIIII

Yellow duckling slipper covered feet waving about in the air from where she laid stomach down on the bed, Cordelia indicated, "Okay Maya, truth or dare?"

Raven gestured with both pointer fingers to the toddler in her lap. "Nothing that will scar or scare my daughter."

Cordelia raised two fingers. "Promise."

"Truth," Maya selected, propped up against Cordelia's headboard and nibbling on a rice krispy square.

Cordelia pondered quickly then asked, "Did you kiss any guy before Sean?"

"All the time," Maya answered easily even under the ensuing gaped expressions. "Whenever John Wayne had a new magazine cover. Don't get me started on my affair with Tony Dow."

After the bursts of laughter calmed, Cordelia glanced across to where Becky and Angel sprawled on the latter's cot "Truth or dare, gem?"

"Dare," the curly haired girl selected.

A glow developing on her face, Maya flipped her legs over the bed. "I've got one."

Sliding down the bench away from the weight, Alex released a breath as he sat up. "I'm so ready for finals week to be over."

Leon lowered his water bottle. "Did you find all your sources for history yet?"

Alex scoffed at the very notion. "I'm short two for that final draft. And we still have to take a term quiz on top of it."

"I'm behind on history from being away." Sean glanced over from his attempts at push-ups. "I might actually be looking at a B minus."

"Cut the distractions, kid," said Alex. "I know you only did four of those the whole time I was lifting."

Sean groaned but continued with an utterance of, "Getting those eyes in the back of your head like every other grown up…"
Alex wiped a hand down his face. "I'm trapped in the library again tonight…"

Leon's eyebrows jumped at what the older student did next. "This stress is getting to you."

"Hm?" Alex then realized he not only had his thumb firmly inside his mouth but that he suckled on the digit. He practically ripped it off his hand to remove it. "What the—?" He picked up on the giggling and ran out of the gym. "Becky!" The little girl chirped and darted for the opposite end of the hall. "Becky, you- I'm telling Dad!"

Sean looked over and said knowingly, "No you're not."

"Yeah," Alex admitted, "but that's about the only comeback I have with her."

As soon as Becky flew back into the room, Maya shut the door.

"I did it!" the returning girl announced. "It actually made him look cute."

Maya crossed her arms in disbelief. "That's possible?"

"We have to talk to the Howlett-Creeds about putting more cameras in around this place," said Raven.

"How about you, Raven?" Angel put forth. "Truth or dare?"

The shape-shifter decided on, "Dare."

Cordelia's gaze went towards her window. "Speaking of Howlett-Creeds…" She turned back. "How adventurous are you feeling?"

"Try me," Raven challenged.

Odd pieces of lumber tucked under one arm, Logan put out his cigar against his pants leg and pocketed it as he headed for the front way.

"Mr. Howlett?"

At his name, the man paused, squinting at an officer in full uniform having strolled up seemingly out of nowhere. "Depends. What's this all about?"

The policeman said slowly, "I don't know how to tell you this, but we have reason to believe your motorcycle might have been stripped for parts somewhere along route eight."

"No kiddin'?" he reacted. "Well, thanks for the heads up, bub, but I still got a nose," he glowered, "Mystique."

Reforming her natural feminine blue in bright orange pajamas, she darted off for a side entrance into her home like an escaping doe.

When she reached the other five awaiting her at the top of the stairs, she had to catch her breath in-between getting out, "Okay, so my scent masking needs improvement."

"You did better than me," said Angel. "I'd be worried about them claws popping out."

"It's okay. He'd only do that to the boys," Maya reassured.

"Dairy, Mama," Kiki piped up.

Raven regarded her daughter in pleasure. "You want more milk?"

"No, she wants to try a dare, too," Becky explained, holding onto the smaller girl's hand.

"Okay, let me think." Raven then remembered seeing the parlor light on during her sprint.

After some deliberation, Charles chose to send his knight forward.

Erik started to move one then noticed the expression on the Professor's face. "Terribly merry for one so close to defeat."

Charles looked up. "And I have every right to be."

"Why, do tell?"

"For the exact same reasons you are. Cordelia's birthday party was a smash. Angel is doing so well and best yet, she's here with us."

"I have to agree, Lab Rat. It is rather amazing how she's—" Erik glanced down to find several of his pawns suddenly revolted over to the other side of the board. "Charles Xavier, what did you do?"

"What?" Blue eyes casting down again, Charles saw what he meant. "Did your own powers backfire against you? Hmm, cheater?"

"Cheater?" Erik echoed. "That's more laughable than it is ridiculous. What mind games are you playing, Lab Rat?"
"Oh as always," Charles flapped his arms, "it's always the telepath's doing. How many times have you cheated at darts?"

Erik pointed a finger and insisted, "That is not cheating. That's savant mastery."

Both men jumped when the three-year-old materialized in front of their chess board, snickering soundly at their antics.

"Kyra," spoke Erik while Charles bellowed, "Rebecca Lehnsherr, what trickery are you up to, young lady?"

Dashing into the parlor, Becky grabbed Kiki's hand and called back, "All's fair in truth or dare," as they fled.

IIIIIII

When the team finished warm-ups, the players spread out across the community center's field. Gaze on Scott's pitches, Frank pumped his fist and uttered silent encouragement through the air. However, the brown orbs floated just beyond the metal gate as one covered by hood and shades approached. He stared the young teen's way before wordlessly taking off.

With Victor not there, Frank merely hopped up and slinked away with Scott's attention completely taken up by practice.

He made it around to the far side of the building where he discovered the figure again. "Fabian?"

Taking off the sunglasses, the older teen returned the acknowledgement with, "Good to see you again. Frank, right?"

He nodded. "How'd you find me?"

"Magnificent power is never hard for me to locate," Fabian stated. "And that's not only what you have, it's what you are. I can help you; enhance it for you."

"I felt it before." Frank wanted to know, "Can you do it again?"

"Tenfold. Not here, obviously. Why don't you and Cordelia meet me in Hope Park? Six o'clock."

"We're there," Frank said.

"Great. Could you give this to her?" Fabian removed a small box wrapped in glossy yellow wrapping from his jacket pocket. "And wish her a happy birthday for me."

Frank's honey-brown eyes nearly sparkled against the paper. "Sure."

"Gracias, amigo." Starting off on a walk, Fabian tacked on, "Nos vemos."

Frank returned, "See you later," before returning attention to the box again.

IIIIIII

"What is it?" Cordelia hurried up from lounging on her bed.

"I have no idea," Frank answered. "He just wanted me to give it to you and say happy birthday."

Cordelia appeared stricken. "… He remembered."

"Aw, that's so sweet." Standing from the vanity mirror, Angel intercepted the box in Frank's possession only to toss it into the waste can between the two beds. "Now let's get some mozzarella sticks and see what's on TV."

Cordelia's chin came close to connected to the floor. "Angel!"

"Okay spoiled," Angel rolled her eyes, "we'll get Chinese, too." She groaned as the other girl made tracks for the bin. "Cordelia."

"Angel," she returned simply, removing the lovely package. "What boy do you know wraps anything this well? I could at least do him the courtesy of opening it." She did so by ripping at the foil.

Angel dismissed, "Probably nothing but the same brand of perfume he's seen sitting on his grandma's dresser."

Finding a white box, Cordelia removed the lid and a gasp escaped her. "Look at this." She removed the glimmering band.

"Whoa." Frank came over for a closer look.

"That is not real." Angel snatched the circle of gold only to absorb its full weight. "This is real?"
Cordelia stood and grabbed it back. "And mine."

Angel watched as she glided it down her wrist. "You can't accept this. What are you going to tell Morrie when he sees it?"

Cordelia replied glibly, "If he asks, I'll tell him it was a birthday present."

"Cordy," Frank chimed up, "Fabian knows how to help my powers. He wants us to meet him in Hope Park tonight."

At the consideration that crossed Cordelia's face, Angel interjected sharply, "Wake up, X-Woman. This is the same dude whose little goon crew tore up the mall and tried to do the same thing to us. Now you're slow enough to fall for his Prince Charming routine?"

"Angel, Fabian and his father are extremists, that's for sure," Cordelia began, "but he and I have spent some time talking. They really do want to do right by mutants. They could've done a lot worse at the mall, especially to the civilians. I believe there's a way the Acolytes and the X-Men can find common ground." Suspicion remained in place amongst Angel's features. "Come with us if you're so worried."

Angel shook her head hard. "I've walked this walk and lived this life. I am not doing this again, Glim."

"Angie, come on." Frank placed a hand over her wrist. "I'd never do anything that goes against the X-Men. If this Fabian guy can boost my powers then I'll be a real asset around here."

Angel said matter-of-factly, "All the power in the world won't keep Magneto from taking a spatula to your little asset."

Frank tried to resist a flinch at the mere thought.

Cordelia spread her arms out calmingly. "Relax. It's under control."

II

Maneuvering through the main level, Erik heard a sigh echoing of pure despondence before having one woeful teenage girl attached to his arm.

"And why exactly is the world coming to an abrupt end today?" he asked her, patting her hand.

Groaning, Cordelia told him, "Finals along with my science grade nearing the toilet. Frank is helping me with a big project. We're going to hit up the library. Is it okay if we take in a celebratory movie afterwards?"

Erik reminded, "So long as you mind curfew and see to it you get the work done."

"Oh definitely," Cordelia assured. "Angel, who is being held hostage until my sister returns our Victor, is coming along."

The man bobbed his head. "Good. Your brother-in-law and I have already reminded her that her time here is not simply leisure."

"Right because after all," she grinned, "why shouldn't she wallow in academic misery like the rest of us X-Kids?" She left a peck on his cheek before scampering away.

Erik let off a low amused chuckle as he watched the newly turned seventeen-year-old move with acrobatic precision towards the stairs.

IIIIIII

Dark boot covered feet propped up on the dash, Angel studied the sky blue nail polish that matched her baby-doll top. From the driver's seat of the gold plated vehicle, Cordelia admired the trinket on her wrist. In the back, Frank kept eyes peeled on the far left window.

Angel reworked her restless feet. "I feel like we're on a drug run."

Cordelia shifted her gaze over towards her. "Does my sister have you attending finishing classes because you've gone from wetting the blanket to drowning it altogether."

"And you're acting like another rich kid dumb enough to think the world can't hurt her," Angel retorted. "I know Frank is all about his powers but what about you? Does this Fabian guy really have you this strung up or are you just out to bag yourself a mutant man like your sisters?"

A flabbergasted Cordelia could not concoct a proper refute before Frank piped up, "I think I see him," and exited the car.

"Frank," Angel spoke after him as the females left next.

The three arrived in a clearing in the park as Fabian descended on rocket disc.

Cordelia regarded him in pleasure. "Lost the sweats I see."

"More like burned." Fabian hopped down. "I'm glad you could take up my invitation." He took in the third one with them. "You're that little pixie girl, right?"

She responded flippantly, "It's Angel, A-wad."

An unbothered Fabian said, "The more, the merrier. I brought a few friends, too." He raised two fingers in a gesturing motion.

Cordelia, Frank, and Angel linked together as a sudden wind kicked up. When the gust died down, a brunette materialized out of the air itself. She wore sleek silver pants with a cropped jacket over black tank top. A few feet away a small plane formed and the overhead hatch deposited one large young male and another smaller one.

"You're those other clowns from the mall," Angel recognized.

"Marco," Fabian introduced his accompaniment then said with less gusto, "and Collin- though he likes to be called Cloak. It makes him feel big." Cloak's arms crossed and eyes narrowed at that. "And last but far from least, say hello to," he joined hands with the woman to bring her over, "Miss Misty."

Cordelia promptly honed in on her. "You're Melissa Vitus."

"Oh of course," Fabian smiled. "The X-Men are familiar with you, aren't they?"

Melissa looked between Frank and Cordelia. "You're the children I saw that day. Mrs. Howlett- how is she?"

"She's fine," Frank assured. "It's good to meet you guys. I'm Frank."

"Well, Frank," Fabian placed both hands on his shoulders, "are you ready to experience all that you are?"

"Oh yeah," the boy answered.

Angel warned, "Nothing better happen to him."

Cordelia also wanted to know, "It won't hurt him, right?"

Fabian scoffed at the suggestion. "I would never. A little trust, ladies, please." He concentrated on the one before him again. "Relax, alright?"

Frank nodded, easing off as best he could.

As the area around them went silent, the energy transferred straight from Fabian's hands into Frank. His eyes enlarged as the force worked through his bloodstream rapidly and gave his heartbeat a life of its own. Cordelia, Angel, and the others looked on while his skin shined and developed a glow. Fabian had to break their bond suddenly when Frank slowly inched off the ground and started up higher.

"I… I don't believe it," Frank examined his hands, a similar glow forming his smile. "I'm back! Whoohoo!" He sprang upward like a rocket.

"Yes." A marveled Fabian gazed on in satisfaction.

"Frank, be careful," Cordelia called up after him.

"I doubt if any of these meager beings would dare come near any of us. But my, doesn't that look fun?" Fabian hopped back on his disc and extended a hand to Cordelia. "Up for a flight?"

Cordelia glanced at Angel who shrugged grudgingly. Linking up with him, Cordelia smiled wildly as the disc shot them high into the sky. Angel removed her jean jacket to bare her back and tied the garment around her waist before unleashing her own wings. Melissa became one with the air again and appeared ghostly in the sky.

"Unfair head start," Marco called after them, getting back inside the jet with Cloak.

"Frank," Cordelia spoke when they managed to catch up to him. "Are you okay?"

"Okay?" Frank performed an aerial loop. "I'm everything! Everything I've ever wanted to be."

"Everything you always were," Fabian said. "It only needed to be unearthed."

Frank faced him in full sincerity. "Thank you."

"Let's see how thankful you are after you eat our dust." Gripping Cordelia tightly, Fabian shot ahead.

"Hey!' Frank laughed and picked up speed.

"Oh, we'll see about that." Marco tuned up the plane's gears.

Melissa flew alongside Angel. "I don't know how I ever had fun before them."

Angel offered up a small smile. "I heard about you. What you went through. I can relate."

"I have no regrets," Melissa stated.

Angel said, "Wish I could relate to that, too."

In what seemed like mere moments, the group found themselves stories above the New York City skyline. Seizing hold of one pole, Frank spun around it in rapid succession before launching himself off again.

"Get a load of this." At Marco's voice, Cloak made the plane vanish and they popped up again on the other side of a building.

Smirking, Angel flew sideways in between the narrow space of two structures.

"You flying show-offs," Cordelia accused. She then chirped when the disc turned them upside down.

At her arms winding around his neck, Fabian dipped in close to her ear. "Then let's see your greatness. If you're so daring…"

"Cordy!" Angel shouted when she abruptly let go of him.

Transforming into gold, Cordelia landed on the edge of billboard before flipping up and over onto a tower. Fabian zoomed in and scooped her up into his arms and they shared a long gaze.

A little later they settled on the roof of a high-rise. The plane returned for a landing along with Marco and Cloak.

"Alright," Marco said as they carried loaded boxes over, "we've got your pepperoni, cheese, supreme, and veggie for you lightweights."

Cloak handed out various sodas to everyone.

"Thanks, man," Frank accepted. "So how old are you?"

Cloak squatted down beside him. "Fifteen. You?"

"I'll be fourteen in a few months," Frank answered. "You can turn invisible, right?" The other boy nodded. "Yeah, that's one I would've abused in my own neighborhood. I'd be lifting comics and candy all day long."

"That's what my folks used to have me do," Cloak said. "Except with safes and banks. It wasn't too bad. Until they left me to take the fall on our last job."

The Coke paused at Frank's lips at that.

Legs dangling over the side of the building, Cordelia took another bite of supreme. "Am I really eating pizza on top of the world?"

"Get used to it," said Fabian. "We're going to own the world someday."

Cordelia noticed Melissa perched over on one corner of the roof. "She seems like Miss Together."

"My father took a specific interest in her case. And she might be together but we're not." Cordelia faced Fabian and he clarified, "Together. She and I."

"Oh." Cordelia shrugged a shoulder. "What do I care?"

"You tell me," he countered. "You were the one with the horrified expression when you saw us."

"Was not," Cordelia denied, slapping lightly at his shoulder.

Fabian caught her wrist. "I see you like my present."

Cordelia slowly slid her hand away from his, touching the bracelet. "Yes. Thank you."

"You know you can eat for a model," Marco observed of Angel, who lay back on the nose of the plane.

"Where I come from, anorexia is associated with poverty," she stated, "not fabulous."

"I'm with you on that," Marco concurred. "I've been there."

"I cannot believe this." Walking towards Fabian and Cordelia, Frank became aglow and flew up a bit. "All of this has been so incredible."

Fabian looked up at him. "Just wait for tomorrow night."

Frank grinned. "Are we doing this again?"

"Bigger and better," said Fabian. "We're going to leave a little message. To the Fifth avenue shoppers."

Frank promptly came to his feet. "What do you mean?"

"You remember Jersey," Fabian said to Cordelia. "This one will be even better. Especially now that we've branched out the team."

"Wait," Cordelia raised a hand, "you're talking about an attack on Fifth Avenue. What does that have to do with helping mutants?"

"Yeah," Frank seconded. "We'll look like terrorists."

"This is what we do," Fabian urged. "They have to be taught to fear us. You have no idea of what these humans are really capable."

"They're not all the same," Cordelia said.

Fabian replied simply, "Then this will weed out the ones that are." He stood, going to Frank. "With your powers, you can see to it that we get the word out without completely maiming the simpletons. You want to be able to stay this way, don't you?" He laid a hand over his cheek. "Trust me and you will."

Frank brought his eyes up to meet his gaze squarely.

IIIIIII

Playing with one paw of her large teddy bear, the silence within the dark room soon became too much. Taking hold of one pillow, she flung it over onto the other bed.

"Hey!" Cordelia reacted.

Angel dismissed, "You know you're not asleep."

Moaning, Cordelia sat up and turned on the lamp between their beds. "What do you want to do?"

"Slap you," Angel responded without thought.

Cordelia hugged her knees to her chest. "How did this get so out of hand?"

"I didn't slap you earlier." She laid flat on her mattress.

"Angel?"

"Just… wondering what Adrienne and Victor would think of all this. Of me."

A knock brought their attentions to the door. "It's me."

"Come on in," Cordelia invited. Frank slipped inside, shutting the door promptly. "Can't sleep, either?" She placed an arm around him when he took up the space beside her.

"My head feels so crazy," Frank said. "I can't believe I found somebody who can honestly help my powers. But why is he like this?"

Cordelia nodded understandingly. "Fabian is so… he's not like anyone I've ever met."

Rolling over to her side, Angel brought up, "You two know there's no backsliding out of this, right? I've lived the bad life before. Can you two hang?"

Quiet returned to the room with the question.

IIIIIII

At the rustling footsteps, Cloak leapt down from on top of the branch he roosted on. "There you guys are."

Fabian's features grew with delight. "Cordelia." He took hands with her when she came near enough. "You will not regret this. Once I give a full report to my father, he'll be eager to welcome you into the Acolytes. But first," he walked towards Frank, "let's get you fired up."

Angel gripped Frank's shoulder, pulling him back. "Keep your hands to yourself."

Fabian raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"I really thought you were one of a kind." He looked back at Cordelia's voice. "But you're exactly like another guy that almost broke up my family with his grand talk of mutant superiority. Now that we're finally back on track, I won't let anything come between us again. And like I said before," she removed the bracelet and held it out to him, "I have a boyfriend."

Remaining in place at her words, Fabian's arm reanimated and he took the bracelet into a locked grip. "I see- that we won't be going yachting." He used his free hand to control her mutation, making her topple over.

Fabian then cried out when he experienced a sudden impact that made him collide with a tree.

A diamond cased Emma appeared. "More than your heart will be broken if you come near my sister again."

"Magneto, Professor Xavier," Melissa recognized next.

Beast and Havok turned up next.

Marco scoffed, "Should've known."

"I will work to keep any outsiders away," Professor X said.

Magneto replied, "Leave the rest to us."

"Are you okay?" Emma helped Cordelia to her feet.

"Yes," her sister nodded.

"That won't last long." Livid and back on his feet, Fabian sent out energy waves to Marco and Melissa.

Marco grew to the height of the trees and Melissa turned into a forceful wind.

"Look out." Beast forced Havok down as the giant Marco threw out a fist.

Magneto kept arms around Frank and Angel and used all metals on them to keep them from being blown away.

Holding onto Cordelia, Emma returned to flesh form. She honed in on Melissa and attacked her mind as sharply as she could, though it proved difficult in the younger female's current state. Melissa quickly became distracted enough to turn down the wind.

Magneto and Angel took to the air to help Beast combat Marco.

Havok's attention went right to their enabler. "So you're Fabian Cortez. About as big a pansy as I pictured."

Summoning his hover disc over, Fabian leapt on it and withdrew the oversized gun on his back.

Havok went down before the beam could connect. "What do you think of mine?" He sent a red flare out, knocking Fabian off.

New anger birth in him at the sight of his thoroughly singed disc. "That. Was. A. Gift." He ran out to tackle Havok.

Flipping over one bicep on Marco, Beast jumped up to punch him in an oversized eye. With that distraction, Angel unleashed her acidic spit.

Magneto hovered in place a moment. "The bigger they are…" Using the full force of his magnetism to control him, he made Marco lose his balance with a solid crash.

Emma came to stand over an equally fallen Melissa. "I know what you've gone through and I understand it completely. But I'm telling you, staying with these mutants will only lead to destruction."

Melissa looked up. "I prefer to go out for my cause."

The telepathic woman shifted back into diamond form to combat Cloak before he could attack her next. "You can't shield your mind, young man."

Fabian reacted to a kick he received that did not come from Havok and glowered up. "You."

"I don't care how flashy you are," Frank said, "you're not making a terrorist out of me."

"You will be sorry." Raising his hands, Fabian commanded a reversal.

"Frank!" Before Havok could move to do anything, an intense glow emitted from the boy.

Frank and Fabian let out a simultaneous outcry as a force overtook them both. Fabian flung back hard while Frank dropped to the ground. Havok dropped down to gather the young teen into his grasp.

Rising to her feet, Melissa hurried over. "Fabian?" She patted his cheek and looked towards her team. "He's barely conscious."

A thoroughly wiped Marco ordered, "Get him back to the plane."

"Angel," Magneto called after the girl, who wanted to give chase to the departing Acolytes, "leave them." That said, he went to collect Frank into his arms.

Angel returned to her feet.

Professor X regrouped with them as well. "No one caught sight of this little exercise." Emma linked arms with him. "We were fortunate."

Emma glanced over towards Magneto. "Is he alright?"

Beast came to hover over the boy and promised, "I will see to that."

IIIIIII

Seated before the large heavy desk, Cordelia glanced around every so often and realized she had never found her brother-in-law's office so small and encroaching before.

She dared to dart attention to the one beside her. "You can slap me if you want."

Angel said, "It's not the same when you stop being stupid." She looked back at her. "Listen, Cordy, whatever happens you're my best friend. And you do have an unbelievable family. For God's love, don't blow it."

Nodding, Cordelia reached over to squeeze hands with her for mutual comfort.

The Xaviers returned shortly, causing both girls to tense up significantly. Charles sat behind his desk while Emma stood at his side.

"Is Frank okay?" Cordelia asked.

"Yes," Emma answered. "Hank figured it out to be the equivalent of an extreme sugar crash. Some rest will do him good."

Charles folded his hands together as he spoke next. "We want you young ladies to know that you did well today by coming to us. Not only did you come to your senses but you prevented a crisis that would not have ended well where mutants are concerned. However," his countenance grew grimmer, "that does not erase your behavior of late, especially how much danger you've placed yourselves in."

"Charles, this is all my fault," Cordelia put forth. "I'm the one who was in touch with Fabian Cortez, I'm the one who got Frank involved, got Angel involved, convinced them to go along with yesterday. I can't describe how sorry I am."

"I believe you," said Charles, "and I'm happy that you're willing to accept responsibility, though this is far from the end of it. You should move on to Erik's den." At her initially surprised expression, Charles mentioned, "He did not appreciate your deception from yesterday. He will handle your misbehavior while Miss Salvador and I have a conversation."

Emma informed her sister, "Then you and I will be having a conversation."

Completely dread soaked, Cordelia stood to leave out. Emma went over to lay consoling hand on Angel's shoulder before taking her own leave.

Angel fidgeted in her chair as she said, "I know what you're thinking, Professor."

"My, that's certainly not something I get to hear very often." Standing, he went around to lean back against the front of his desk. "Do tell me what I'm thinking."

"You're thinking you're not surprised that I got into this," Angel surmised. "You're only surprised that I'm not the one who started this whole thing with the Acolytes."

"I see." He eyed her closely. "Would you like to know what I'm really thinking?" She nodded. "I think I see a young girl," he took her hand, bringing her to her feet, "doing everything she can to turn things around after past mistakes that in no way define who she is. A girl who wants to do right but find belonging at the same time by being a loyal friend in a difficult situation."

Angel replied with some small trace of humor, "I guess that's why you're the mind-reader."

Charles flicked her chin playfully. "You understand I still have to punish you, love, yes?"

"Mmhm."

"Mmhm," the man mimicked her sound.

Reaching one hand back, he seized hold of his ruler then led her to his couch. Never letting go of her, Charles brought her across his knees. Wrapping one arm around her small back, he raised the ruler and brought it down over her dark jeans.

At the reaction from her feet, he gently chided, "Mustn't kick, love."

"I'm sorry," she apologized, attempting to stay in place.

Charles used the ruler over her bottom and thighs for twelve strikes. He then laid it down and used his hand to finish the spanking, though she had already started crying with the implement. Once he felt significant heat radiate off her thighs, he picked the petite girl up to hold in his arms. She proved a soft crier and sent most of her reaction quietly into his shirt.

Charles rocked with her and even cooed into her ear. "There we are now. Shhh, it's alright, pet." He kissed her throbbing temple. "I love you, my little Angel and I'm so happy to have you here."

That seemed to work against his intentions as she only cried harder at hearing that. Charles never ceased comforting her until he felt her fully relax. Smiling at her nodding off, obviously from the fatigue and stress of the last two days, he only laid back with her while she seemed to drift away contently against him.

II

The moment the metal wielder returned to his den, Cordelia stood from her chair. "Erik—"

"Stand in the corner."

Taken aback, she reacted, "What?"

Making a stapler rise and fall with a harsh clatter on his desk, Erik reiterated, "To the corner, now."

Not uttering another word, she scuttled over to the nearest one and attempted to stand perfectly still. That proved difficult after the first two minutes passed but she did not dare speak again. While she lingered there, the teenager tried to think of the last time she had been punished in such a way.

One occasion stood out when she was possibly three or four and very nearly pulled down one of the many large, heavy objects to be found throughout the Frost house. She could remember her mother practically snatching her away from the housekeeper and clutching her close to her chest. Then Cordelia saw herself placed before the wall, making out her mother's admonishment about her nearly killing- or cutting or crashing- herself; the details proved fuzzy. A faint smile crossed Cordelia's features at the recollection. Though the aching developing in her feet countered it.

She felt Erik's hand on her shoulder a few minutes later and an order of, "Look at me," went into her ear. She turned around. "Tell me, Cordelia. Haven't I always been fair to you? Listened to you when you've wanted to venture outside of here?"

"Yes." Cordelia then reiterated, "Yes, sir. All the time."

"Yet you chose to lie to my face in order to romp about with Fabian Cortez, son of the Acolyte leader?"

"Yes," she whispered.

Erik wanted to know, "What could you possibly have to say for yourself?"

"I really hoped we could find some common ground with them. I didn't think it was right for mutants to be divided like this. I knew I was wrong but I kept feeding myself these idealistic thoughts. But I do accept full blame."

"And that's the most right you've been in some time," Erik stated. "I understand that you are used to being the youngest in a family but you just made seventeen years old. You never should have gotten Frank or Angel involved in this. What if something far worse had happened to Frank? To any of you?"

"I don't know," Cordelia replied in a choked tone. "I did everything so horribly. I know that. Maybe something should have happened to me. Maybe the X-Men were better off before I darkened your doorstep."

Erik honestly scoffed. "Do not attempt to play martyr, Cordelia Frost. We do not order trampolines for children we loathe. You know very well how loved you are otherwise I wouldn't bother coming down on you this way."

"I know," she got out in a low voice.

"Then you'd best remember it." Erik set her with a look at the statement. "Come here, young lady." He took her wrist and marched towards the sofa with her.

The man moved swiftly and Cordelia had to quickly adjust to being over his lap. However, she proved unprepared for the sudden breeze she felt on her behind when Erik lowered her yellow running pants in addition to her underwear. A screech echoed at the back of her throat as he began to spank with much gusto.

Though he did not use the same force that he would with one of the boys, Erik knew he did not have to be as careful as he would with Becky. He concentrated on Cordelia's sit spots, ensuring that sitting would be non-optional well into morning. He then retracted his hand at the harsh impact it experienced and shook it out.

"Oops," Cordelia released her gold form, "I'm sorry! I- I wasn't thinking…"

"That seems to be an ongoing problem." Erik tightened his grip around her. "You know better than to misbehave during a spanking, young lady. And I know you can practice control when Charles punishes you. Seems we'll be here a bit longer." He resumed things.

Cordelia regretted her slip-up along with everything else as the pain intensified.

When her behind became a medium red, Erik worked her clothes back up for her. He allowed her to continue laying down while he rubbed her back and attempted to get her cries under control.

"Alright," he raised her to hold against his shoulder while his hand continued up and down her back. "That's enough of that."

She sent one arm around his neck and whispered, "I… I'm so-sorry, Erik."

"I said enough." He hugged her tightly. "You are forgiven, but I am grounding you for the rest of the week. You're to study, read, and nothing more."

"O-okay." She cared not as she only clung to him.

"We are all susceptible to temptation, Cordy." Erik kissed her cheek. "The important thing is to resist it. I never want anything to happen to you, certainly not over some whim."

"Yes, Erik," Cordelia nodded.

"That's a good girl." Standing with her, he started out of his den. "Let's get you to bed."

After he brought her upstairs, he laid her down under her covers. Once they said good night and he left to check on Frank again, Cordelia shimmied out of her pants altogether.

She expected Angel at the one who arrived next in the room but instead found Emma. "Hi, Big Sis…"

Emma sat down facing her before speaking. "Looks like my baby sis is all worn out. I want you to know two things. One," she tucked some hair behind her ear, "I love you very much."

"I love you, too," Cordelia returned.

"And two, I'm glad you turned out better than I did."

Confusion came over the teenager's face. "What?"

"The call of seduction came, you answered, but you hung up far quicker than I did," Emma said. "You might have stepped onto it, but you didn't go down that road. I'm very proud of that."

Cordelia propped up as best she could on her elbow. "This was the best birthday I've ever had. And not because of the trampolines or the gifts or any of that stuff. It's because this is all I've ever wanted. Our family together. I won't let anything jeopardize that again."

"Neither will I." Emma leaned over to peck her cheek. "Get some rest, darling. I'll see you in the morning."

"Good night, sis." Cordelia laid down again.

"I'll have Charles bring Angel up so the two of you can commiserate mutual misery."

"I really do love you."

IIIIIII

With a murmur on his lips, the thin boy rolled over to one side only to realize he was not in his own bed or room. Familiarity wrapped around him when he figured out who the space did belong to.

Erik walked back in. "There's my little boychick. Drink this." Frank took down half the glass of water Erik handed him. "How do you feel?"

"Okay, I guess." He placed the water to the side before daring to bring eyes up. "I'm… I'm so sorry, Erik."

Dipping down, Erik enveloped him closely. "Shhh, I know."

"I don't know what's wrong with me." Frank rested against his shoulder. "Sometimes I feel like I'm going to burst if my powers don't develop faster."

"They're a part of you. Clearly itching to come to the surface. But boychick listen," Erik looked him directly in the eye, "I don't want you using another source like Fabian Cortez to magnify them. From what I saw last night, I don't believe they can be forced. Not by our hands."

Understanding, Frank nodded. "Yes, sir… Erik, are you gonna whip me?"

"No," Erik shook his head, "but Papa does have to punish you."

"I know," Frank said softly.

Sitting down, Erik brought Frank over upright in his lap. Working the boy's pajama bottoms down, he gave him ten strong swats over his underwear. Frank flinched at each one but enjoyed being able to hold onto Erik throughout.

Pulling his pants back up, Erik laid back with him. "Now, are you hungry?" He felt Frank shake his head against him. "Not even for latkes?"

Frank smiled. "Can we wait a few minutes then have latkes?"

Erik rubbed his back and said, "We can wait as long as you like."

IIIIIII

"Hey, Glim!"

At Alex's bellow, the girl in question arrived in the kitchen. "What's wrong?"

"It's Mary." Alex held the receiver. "Two minutes. You're still grounded."

Cordelia gave him a grateful smooch to the cheek before taking over the phone. "Hello?"

Taking possession of his pop tart, Alex made tracks back for the library.

"Hey, babe. What're you doing?"

"About six to seven days of hard time with potential for good behavior."

"Whoa, you got busted?" Morrie surmised. "I was just at your birthday party. What'd you do that fast?"

"You're dating a very dangerous girl," Cordelia said mysteriously.

"Ooh," he reacted. "So you're not under lock and key for next week, too, are you?"

"No, why?"

"Because I managed to land that birthday present I was telling you about. Tickets to Elvis live."

Cordelia felt her heartbeat come to a sudden stop. "Morrie, do not spout such vicious lies. It's not good for me."

"Oh I am dead serious, babe," Morrie assured. "Fourth row center serious." He heard the other line enter silence and he feared they'd been disconnected. "Uh, Cor?" He then nearly dropped the receiver at the ensuing scream.