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.

170. Chap 170 The Steadfast Standing Strong

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Seventy

Author's Word: Hi, fam. How is everything? Currently, I am refreshed (somehow) and having a writing storm. You know what else? It won't be long until a certain anniversary is here…. Please enjoy and review!

Dedication: For my fathers (bio) MH (ado) DLF. Also, my beloved oldest Tiger and his best friend Red, the leaders of the greatest cat colony on earth.

At his regular position before his congregation of a hundred or more, not including those who had gone out of town for the weekend, the cordial rabbi regarded them with a pleasant but fervent countenance.

"As you all know, June is our month to celebrate men. With Father's Day so closely upon us now, I know I should have a formal close-out prepared. However, I'm going to leave my oldest son Ben," he gestured towards the teenager some feet away, "to close us out. But first," Chad faced them with a set expression, "I want to leave you with this. So often, we as parents tend to think of our children as personal chattel; a possession we have somehow earned through our own efforts. But we have not earned them. Ours son and daughters are gifts from God Himself. He has entrusted us to protect, love, care for, and guide the most precious part of His creation. Every day we live we must do right by our children, His children, in His name. Never take them for granted because as easily as we gained them, that is how easily we can have them snatched away." He stepped off to the side.

Ben took over the spot behind the pulpit. "The dictionary as well as most people define a father as a male parent in relation to natural born children. While this is true, it does not begin to touch the surface of what a father really is and certainly not who he is. Though it is often the case, a father is not always the one responsible for paternity. He can so easily be a stranger willing to rise to the challenge of showing a child absolute commitment, support, and unconditional love. Joseph is a fine example of this. Despite all fear and uncertainty, he still took it upon himself to be the best father possible to a child not of his own bloodline. The most important child in all of history. Because all men can be and should be fathers to children who need them. They are the steadfast standing strong, that tall impenetrable barrier of protection, that powerful hand to console as well as chastise, and genuine examples of real leadership. As I grow closer to manhood myself, I hope I can live up to this true definition of a father." The teen paused briefly. "Thank you all and have a blessed Father's Day weekend."

IIIIIII

Though he had to make his way through quite a throng of people and wait for several handshakes to end, the redhead eventually got to approach the youthful speaker.

"Sean," with a wide smile, Ben slapped hands with him and shared an embrace, "Geez, have I told you lately how good it is having you back?"

Sean gave him an amicable thump on the shoulder blade as they pulled back. "That was amazing, man."

"I keep hearing that, but I swear I heard my voice squeak out not even halfway through."

"You're crazy," Sean accused good-naturedly. "You blew it out of the water. If that had been me up there, you'd have needed a mile of mega phones. Not to mention a mop to wipe the puddle of sweat I'd have turned into."

Ben dismissed that with, "Ah, you underestimate yourself."

"I liked it."

Ben and Sean looked over at the teen in gray suit who had just walked upon them and the former addressed him with, "Leon, right?" They shook hands. "Thanks for coming." He noticed the blonde and shorter brunette behind him. "All you guys."

"This place is pretty cool." Alex gazed around, somewhat taken aback by the excited yet at ease and welcoming surroundings.

"Becky told us it was going to be a great service for Father's Day," said Frank. "She was right."

Sean looked about their immediate area. "Where is she, anyway?"

"Becky."

The head of curls turned around and smiled at the boy behind her. "Hi, Josh. Tonight was so great. Are you ready for Sunday?"

"Yep, we're going mini golfing." He indicated an area a few yards away from them. "Is that your brother, too?"

Becky saw that he pointed towards Leon. "Yes, he's new."

The corners of Josh's mouth upturned pleasurably. "Adoptive papas are terrific, aren't they?"

"You said it," the girl wholeheartedly agreed then promptly responded to Erik's call for her over the crowd.

IIIIIII

"D-dr…"

When the toddler trailed for more than a few seconds, Raven supplied, "Dreams. Drrr-reams."

"Dah-reams," Kiki pronounced and pointed to the next word, "and w…"

"Wishes." Raven sounded it out again with, "Wish-es. Wish-es."

"Witches."

Raven suppressed a laugh. "Pretty good. Don't worry." Careful of the book they held, she used her free arm to wrap closer around her daughter. She readjusted her back against the headboard. "Let's keep trying. You're getting better."

Kiki nodded at her and moved on to the next line on the smooth page.

IIIIIII

Thin body turned to one side, he pitched the ball forward then let off a frustrated groan when it completely zipped past the other player.

"Oh come on!" Scott threw his hands up. "You weren't even trying to hit that."

Spinning in a circle with his red plastic bat, Trav insisted, "Was, too!"

"Was not!" Scott glowered.

Trav stomped his foot. "Was, too!"

"Was not!"

"Was, too!"

The back door opening gave way to the Professor's presence. "What the devil is going on out here, may I ask?"

"Just trying to get in a little extra practice, Charles," Scott told him then folded his arms in a huff while glancing the six-year-old's way. "Too bad my batter would have to move up just to be called a rookie."

"Humph!" Trav turned his nose up.

"Now, now. That's quite enough arguing." Charles squeezed Trav's shoulder on his way over to Scott. "And practice for the night."

"But Charles," Scott immediately protested, "it's the big—"

"Father's Day game," Charles filled in. "Yes, I know. And if you want to show that Little League what you're made of, you'll need not exhaust yourself into oblivion."

Scott sighed heavily. "Yes, sir."

"That's my good lad." Charles stroked his hair. "Now, why not give Raven and Hank a hand and get Trav ready for his bath?"

"Okay." Scott started the younger boy's way. "Come on, pain." He glanced back to see the small one not following him. "I said come on. It's bath time." At the continued statue pose, Scott went to stand before him. "I'm sorry. I appreciate you helping me practice. Really."

Lips poking out, Trav finally determined, "Okay," and linked hands with him to go inside.

"Pain," Scott mumbled but affably.

Charles smiled after the pair. He studied the dainty buds planted in one section of the garden before returning inside. When he arrived on the second level, he followed his powers to the merriment taking place within one room.

"Now I gotcha!" Alex cornered his short prey.

"Nuh uh!" Joey moved to worm away between the teenager's legs.

"Oh nice try, Eel-fry." Alex yanked him up by the seat of his pajama bottoms.

"Whoa!" Joey cried out dramatically as he was tossed onto his bed. Alex lowered over him, pinning his arms down. "Oh no, oh no!"

"Nope, not letting you go." Alex pressed their noses together. "It's your own fault for being cute. But I might consider it," he withdrew his head a little, "if you answer one question right."

"What?"

"Who's the best big brother ever?"

Joey replied simply, "You."

"Nope," Alex shook his head, "it's you."

Joey smiled but countered, "Nuh uh! It's you."

"Oh, talking back, huh? Okay, now you have to tell me what I want to hear." Alex signaled it with, "I love you, baby brother."

"I love you, big brother," Joey returned.

Alex sat up on the foot of the bed and raised him up into a hug then at last noticed the Headmaster there. "Charles."

Entering from his spot in the doorway, the telepath said, "I just entertained a very interesting image of Erik doing that to me. Of course, his version would most likely involve that magic trick where you plunge the swords into the box."

"He does love his swords," Alex pointed out. "Okay, he's all yours," letting go of Joey, he stood but added on, "for now," before taking his leave.

Standing up on his mattress, Joey wrapped arms around his father's neck and bounced in place. "We're gonna have fun this weekend."

"That we are, my little jumping bean." Charles picked him straight up. "But if you want to go with Mummy and Cordy to spend the afternoon with your grandfather, I'll understand."

Joey shook his head hard. "Nope. I want to be with you for Father's Day. You, you, you."

"As you would have it, sir," Charles accepted. "You'll have Daddy terribly spoiled at this rate."

Joey rested against his shoulder. "Good."

IIIIIII

The blue and gold clad boys spread out near the benches, performing different simple exercises for readiness and blood flow. As soon as the yellow school bus pulled up, the Jaguars ceased sit-ups, jumping jacks, and all else to look on in close observance together. Coach Dan and Victor joined them, watching the opposing adult sponsor and his collegiate assistant coach file off the bus first. After them, the boys stepped down one by one.

Becky and the other fully pumped girls stepped over, taking in the Little League cheerleaders. At one girl with an all too neat ribbon adorned French braid peering their way, Becky set her with a return unmoved gaze.

Dan patted Gary's shoulder. "Be right back."

"Where are they going?" Scott asked, watching him walk off with Victor.

"They're going to make pleasantries with the other coaches," Gary explained. "Inside, Coach is thinking about nothing but chewing 'em up and spittin' em right back out."

After the handshakes along with affable words and masculine chuckles came to an end, Dan and Victor returned to their own players.

"Alright, it's the Father's Day game," Dan's brow creased significantly, "so let's send them cryin' to their mamas."

"Yeah!" the boys reacted positively.

Victor gave off a deep snigger at their antics.

"Gary," Justin tugged on their captain, "what about…?"

"Relax, I was getting to that." Gary waved towards a brunette woman in the stands. "Hey, Mom!"

"What are you doing?" Dan wondered.

Gary winked. "You'll see." His mother returned minutes later with a wide and tall blue box. She left it on the bench and shared a secretive glance with her son before going to reclaim her seat. "Go on. Open it."

"Go ahead, Vic," Dan invited. "It'll probably blow up."

Taking up the honors, Victor flipped the box lid and let off an impressed whistle. "Sealy, come get a load of this."

Dan approached, getting a good view of the red and white baseball shaped cake. He read the top icing out loud, "For our Most Valuable Coaches."

"On behalf of the whole team," Gary spoke, getting the attention of both men, "this is our way of saying thank you to Coach Dan for another fantastic season. And to welcome Coach Vic and say how much we appreciate everything you've done for us even though you haven't been here that long."

"Thanks, fellas." Victor squatted, opening his arms for a few of the players to come into them.

Dan rubbed the back of his neck and cleared his throat. "You good for nothing scamps… pleasure's been all mine. Now, let's get out there and show these city boys what we're made of."

Bringing hands together, the group of Jaguars and coach pair joined together. They chorused a growl then separated, all of them impressed by Victor's very authentic sound effect.

IIIIIII

"Aha," arriving inside the kitchen in his bathrobe, Charles aimed a mock accusatory finger at the younger male positioned at the island, "caught you red-handed."

"My wife's wily art of pastry making led me into temptation." Hank finished another bite of the blueberry pie. "Please don't tell my children."

"So long as you say nothing to mine," Charles retrieved the bottle of milk out of the refrigerator, "But then," he acquired two glasses from one cupboard next, "that would include you, wouldn't it?" He made a pass at the young man's bedhead, getting a small smile out of him.

Hank blinked under his glasses as if mystified for a moment. "I never imagined Raven and I having a baby so soon after the wedding, but now…" He pieced together his words. "I have six-year-old boy who is completely full of life and curiosity and an angel of a little girl with whom I seem to share this untold oneness. And they both look to me like…"

Done pouring, Charles placed Hank's milk next to his plate. "Like you have all the answers in all the world?"

"Yes," Hank strongly affirmed. He took in his brother-in-law fully. "I suppose you know that feeling better than anyone."

"That's fairly debatable, though I am quite familiar with it." Charles took a short drink from his own glass. "Kiki and Trav are very fortunate children. They'll always know what you did for them."

Hank tacked on, "And what you have done for us."

Charles leaned over to apply a light kiss to the top of the brown hair. "Would you like me to warm that for you?"

Glancing down at his remaining milk, Hank looked back at the Professor with a response of, "Yuck."

Charles' chest vibrated in amusement.

IIIIIII

When the knocking pried him away from sleep, the long haired teenager propped himself up on one elbow.

"Come in," he got out while running a hand down his tired face.

"Sorry, but thought I should give you a head's up." Alex walked in, sitting beside him on the bed. "Becky takes her special occasions very seriously."

Slipping on the cross-star necklace he kept on his stand at night, Leon mentioned, "Like my birthday?"

Alex tossed some hair away from the younger student's eyes. "Especially then." His concentration then went to the ajar door. "Incoming shrimptoids…"

Becky rushed in ahead of a still drowsy Frank, who wore a blue Superman t-shirt with red sleep pants.

Stopping in her tracks, the girl in light lavender summer pajamas zeroed in on the blonde. "There you are, Alex Summers."

"What'd you think, babes?" Alex spread his arms apart. "That I woke up and decided to run away?"

Perking up somewhat, Frank said, "She knows we'll never be that lucky."

"Hardy har har, Frankenstein." Alex accepted a bouncing Becky into his hold while Frank flopped against Leon.

As if ignited by a sudden energy, Leon proposed, "Let's go see if Dad ran away."

Frank peered slightly back at him.

Letting go of Becky, Alex jumped up. "Forward, march."

Leon stood and stretched then glanced back. "Coming, Superboy?"

Shaking his head out as if to clear it, Frank got up as well.

Though her mind gave her a clue, Becky received the full confirmation when they arrived inside the designated suite. "He's not here."

"He did try to make a break for it." Alex put fists on his hips. "If that geezer thinks he can escape this year's gush fest, he better guess again."

Moving out of the way swiftly, Frank and Leon looked on practically mesmerized at the loaded metallic trays floating in.

Erik stepped up behind them, gaze settling on the eldest youth. "Geezer, hm?"

"Lee, you know better than to disrespect our elder," Alex wagged an admonishing finger, "You trying to get your mouth the vinegar treatment?"

Leon stated, "Only this family could turn a salad dressing into an instrument of torture."

"Papa," Becky piped up in protest, "you're not supposed to cook for us."

"Excuse me, Sweet Imp," Erik got down on one knee to her, "if you all insist upon giving me this day, I'll do whatever I like with it." He poked at her stomach. "Even filling this to the brim with latkes."

Frank raised a hand. "I'll eat 'em if you don't want 'em, Becky."

A smirking Becky retorted, "You wish."

The five sprawled around the bed with the trays of potato cakes and orange juice in the middle of them. Erik sat up against the headboard with the younger two each taking up space under his arms. Leon lay to the side facing them and Alex stretched out across the foot of the bed.

Noticing the blonde, Erik instructed sharply, "Stop that before you choke."

Alex raised his dipped head without ever removing fork from mouth.

Erik reached over to tuck Leon's hair out of his face in order to keep the strands from going right into the syrup.

Frank put his plate down. "Be right back."

Going over to the attached bathroom, he wetted a few sheets of toilet paper at the sink and glided the moisture over his face. At the taller reflection appearing in the mirror, he quickly turned around.

"Is something troubling you, boychick?" Erik took a seat on the edge of the tub, gently pulling the child towards him.

"Uh uh. Happy Father's Day," Frank wrapped arms around him and got in close to his ear, "Dad."

Erik placed him in a locked hold. "…That it is."

II

Done testing the formula against his own wrist, Sean gingerly guided the tip of the bottle between the infant's lips. The drinking noises complete with bright blue eyes regarding him made the redhead smile in great satisfaction.

Charles witnessed fondly until he spotted a certain pair of long ears and looked Joey's way. "Little one, please. You know Bounty eats in his crate where he has plenty of room."

Joey stroked the rabbit protectively. "He just wants to wish you a happy Father's Day, too."

Giving in, Charles offered the animal a bit of melon from his own plate. "Thank you, Bounty." He gazed across the circular table of his sitting area at the sole sullen boy. "Come now, Scott. Stop sulking."

"I'm not sulking." Scott stabbed at his fruit salad as he spoke.

"What's that, Bri?" Sean held the baby up higher. "Yeah, Brian thinks you're sulking."

"You should know," Scott sneered the teen's way, "you do speak crybaby."

"Scott," Charles chided mildly.

"Sorry, Seanie," he sighed regretfully.

Charles reached over to take Scott's hand. "A tied game is not as awful as you believe it to be. In fact, it's quite honorable. Especially considering you went against the Little League team."

"Yeah," Sean seconded. "Those guys have intense practices on top of practices. But you showed them the Jaguars aren't just a bunch of small town rookies."

Some luster returned to Scott's features and his shoulders relaxed. "I guess you're right." He faced Charles. "So long as you liked seeing me play."

Charles brought the boy's hand up to hold against his own cheek. "Every single moment."

II

"They're the modern stone-age family. From the town of Bedrock…"

Hank returned to the sitting room as the trio on the couch concluded their chorus. "Here we go." He uncapped the milk to pour.

"Tank you, Daddy," Kiki said to his refilling her cereal for her.

A grin resided on Hank's face. "You're welcome, Baby Bear." He sat down and transferred her over to his lap to help her eat, as the girl often caused spills when distracted by cartoons.

"Look, Gorge," holding onto Trav, Raven indicated the image on the screen. "It's Pebbles."

"Pebbly Poo!" Kiki squealed.

Trav said, "I like Bamm-Bamm."

Raven dipped her chin to touch cheeks with him. "I like the way Betty and Barney got him."

Hank shared a brief smile with his wife then had to go to work wiping off the front of Kiki's pajama top.

II

Sunlight washing over the grand gardens, the birds and other bustling creatures provided the only sounds to be heard. Though they kept their eyes closed, the duo in sweat pants and undershirts with legs crossed faced each other. Extending appendages, their hands met and Cody felt his own two slip safely inside his father's larger set. Logan offered a slow, gentle squeeze and Cody felt himself grow lighter from the wrists onward.

"Breathe," Logan instructed, "easy now." He listened to his son's faint intakes of air. "Let it out." Cody exhaled like a muted whistle. "There we go." Opening his eyes, he asked, "How's that feel?"

"Good," the boy replied earnestly, revealing his own brown orbs. "Thank you, Daddy."

Logan bobbed his head and watched Cody pick up his glass of iced tea before taking a long sip from his. Cody savored his father's special brew, the orange and subtle traces of lime in it providing the most delight for his taste buds.

He lowered his drink to admire the violet tulips beside him. "These sure are comin' in tall."

"Yep, now that the last of the chilled nights are out of here." Logan pointed across the way. "What do you think of puttin' in some azaleas for around that tree there?"

"Yeah," Cody supported sprightly. "With some hydrangeas."

"That's a deal." Logan got to his feet, cracking at a portion of his lower back that had gone stiff from the extended time at ground level. "You still hungry or do you want to wait until we're there?"

"It can wait." Cody took his glass to start for the house but looked back with a toothy grin. "Maybe even for a whole hour."

"Bottomless pit," Logan mumbled, going after the lively fireball that carried far too much of his DNA.

IIIIIII

Reacting to the abrupt bell, the teenager in cropped jeans and oversized white button-down over green t-shirt met with mild surprise.

The woman's warm welcoming countenance greeted, "Hi, honey."

"Hi, Kay." Maya placed a hand in her pants pocket. "What are you- is everything okay at home?"

"Other than our usual unique chaos, I'd say so. Listen," Kayla stepped forward, "this day hasn't been the easiest on me for some time, outside of celebrating the magnitude of man that I married, so I was hoping you had a few hours lying around that you don't mind me borrowing."

Maya opened the door wider for her entry then brought arms around her. "It's good to see you, Kay." She buried her face into her front.

"Great minds," Kayla smiled, stroking the girl's lush hair, "I was about to say the same thing."

IIIIIII

Once he had the individual hotdogs divided up, Victor started distributing beverages until he honed in on the fact that two of the four had a pink coloring to them.

"What's the matter, Coach?" Larry inquired.

"Just a sec." Victor showed the tell-tale drink to the vendor. "Hey, this was supposed to be vanilla. One of my guys is allergic to strawberry."

"Oh I'm sorry." The man dressed in red and white went to prompt work on replacing it. "Here we are, sir."

"'Preciate it." Victor handed over the tall foam cup to the blonde haired, glasses adorned child. "There ya go, Lar."

"Thanks, Coach," the boy said gratefully. "I'd have missed out on the whole game if I'd taken a swig of that."

Brody joked, "Not to mention you'd wind up about as red as a strawberry."

Justin gazed up. "Can we go in now?"

"Yep, let's move." Repositioning out of the way to allow the three to walk ahead of him into the ballpark, Victor kept eyes and ears keen to their surroundings.

IIIIIII

The purple circle of plastic cut through the air rapidly. With a mighty leap, Alex seized hold of it. On his feet again, he turned his back and whipped the disc out high over his shoulder. When Leon ran for it, his body dissolved. He rematerialized several feet up to grab the Frisbee by its tip.

"Oh real fancy, Mister Vanishing Act," Alex ribbed. "Using power play, huh?"

Leon offered up casually, "You can always blast it out of the sky."

"Next time you're up there I'll work on my aim," Alex smirked fiendishly, "Though you'll probably wind up with a haircut." He did not miss the abrupt cloudiness passing over the younger teen. "Lee?"

Yanking himself away from his inward recollections, Leon claimed, "Sorry, spaced out." He flicked the disc out. "Go for it, Pretty Eyes."

Becky jumped up, but it only went over her head.

Frank simply reached to catch it. "I swear, Becky, you're still the same height as when we first met."

"Good," Erik piped up and Becky sent him a smile. "Now, let us see just how high you're able to throw."

Summoning up some electricity while commanding the metals in his clothes, Erik took to the sky.

Frank marveled after him as he launched the disc with full gusto.

Erik seized it with ease then released his hold on it immediately.

Becky caught the falling Frisbee and felt an idea come on as soon as she did so. "Here, Alex."

The blonde merely raised a hand to catch her throw. His eyes enlarged when he went from seeing one piece of flying purple to about twenty or more coming his way. They all disappeared, except for the genuine one, which bopped him on the head.

"That tears it, babes." Alex shot after her.

Becky let off a shriek and darted across the grass. "Leon!"

The aforementioned one swept her up and maneuvered his body to one side to keep her shielded. "I'm honor bound to protect these eyes. And the curls if there's time."

Alex shook his head at the ebony haired pair. "Yeah? How about toes?" He reached down and tickled her through the open portion of her sunflower shoes.

Becky giggled, "Alex," and buried her face against her defender's neck.

Leon took in the warmth of the smaller, far more delicate body. He still found himself adjusting not only to the close contact but the surprising comfort that accompanied it. He watched Erik walk toward them and by the man's face, Leon could only wonder if he somehow knew his thoughts on any minute level.

Erik waved an arm out in Frank's direction and the boy followed the unsaid order to come to him. He latched on at Erik bringing him nearer to his side.

They headed away from the woods. As they often did whenever a casual day greeted them, Alex and Leon had gone out in dark athletic pants with the former in a crimson t-shirt and the other in navy. Frank wore a plain white T and blue jeans with a lengthy hole at one knee. Erik had decided on jeans as well in addition to his "Dance Dad" shirt. Becky had on light blue shorts and baby pink short-sleeved top with her curls partly pulled back by a sunflower clip.

When Leon placed Becky down, she hurried to run alongside Frank towards the backyard.

Erik hastened after them. "Imps on the loose!"

Alex seized hold of a branch below the tree house and executed a flip with it.

Leon lowered to sit at the base of the tree, watching Frank and Becky speed in a circle around Erik.

Alex let go of the branch and stayed in the squatting position he landed in. "You genius bros drive me nuts. Always thinking."

Leon said, "If you have a way to turn it off, I'm open to suggestions."

Grabbing him in a headlock, Alex applied a mild noogie. "How's this?"

"Oddly soothing," Leon replied. He held onto the blonde's lower arm. "Did you ever think you'd have a dad like him?"

Alex loosened his hold and faced ahead. "What, somebody to constantly tell me what to do? Yank me by the collar, ream me out, and light a fire over my butt? And my actually appreciating it?" He shook his head. "I wouldn't have bet lunch money on it. You?"

Leon cupped a hand around the emblem to his necklace. "I wouldn't have wagered on ever being wanted."

"Why?" With Erik and Frank in tow, Becky came nearest to him with quizzical eyes. "How could anybody say they don't want you?"

Leon turned to her with slightly upturned lips brought on by her round face. "People have said a lot of things about me."

Frank ran a hand down his left arm. "I know how that goes."

"Definitely," said Alex.

Leon looked to him, as if having to grasp anyone maintaining such a bitter sentiment about the older teenager.

"Only the most fortunate of people have ever said such things to you." All four youths landed vision on Erik. "Because they never uttered them in my presence."

Becky beamed then glanced to each of the boys. "Let's play something else."

Alex flopped down, looking at her from upside down. "Like what, babes?"

The girl exclaimed, "Castle invasion! I'm the princess."

"Oh darn," said Alex with false ire then he wiggled his eyebrows. "Guess I'm stuck playing the dragon."

Leon held up one finger. "Knight."

"Fine, I'll play the prince." Frank then tacked on seriously, "But I get a sword, too."

"And it appears I get a wand," Erik put forth. "I'll be the wizard... who as it would happens, also carries an enchanted sword."

While the males divided up to forge makeshift weapons, Becky started up the ladder to where the tree house would act as the castle.

IIIIIII

Bright brown eyes staring into antennae, neither curious creature made a move for several seconds. She discreetly inched short fingers forward and the monarch butterfly fluttered for to take roost on her pinky. Kiki raised her hand for closer inspection but the orange and black flapped away amongst the wildflowers.

"Come here, baby."

At her mother's summoning, Kiki hopped up to stand at her feet. "What, Mama?"

Reaching into the white paper bag she had with her, Raven gathered a handful of dried bread and threw it down. Kiki grinned at the cluster of birds that seemed to pop out instantly, all wanting part of the treat.

"You want to try?" Raven held the bag out at her.

Kiki used both hands to gather as much as she could and sprinkled it down. "Look," she pointed, "they eat it, Mommy."

"I know," Raven put an arm around her daughter's shoulders, kissing the top of her head, "They must be hungry. Now they get a whole picnic."

"Daddy!" Trav ran around the pond to him. "I caught one. See?" He raised his folded hands, showing only the head portion of the small animal he'd managed to capture.

"Oh very nice." Hank knelt down to examine closer. "But this isn't a frog, Cub. It's a toad. Do you remember the difference?"

Trav nodded. "Toads have dry skin and lots of warts."

"Yes, though kissing one won't give you any," Hank assured, "but don't try it." Trav laughed. "There's a special kind of frog called a Darwin's frog. Do you know how the father keeps his babies safe?" Trav shook his head but his expression clearly craved an answer. "He swallows the eggs and keeps them in a special vocal sac until they mature and hop right out of his mouth."

Trav's own mouth formed an astonished circle. "Are you serious?"

"I couldn't make up such a thing if I tried," Hank responded.

"Kikiko!" Trav made tracks towards his mother and sister. "Guess what, guess what!"

Hank sat back on his heels, listening in utter amusement to his son's attempt to explain the phenomenon to his daughter. However, she proved more fascinated by the blue jays at her feet.

IIIIIII

Destination reached, the black and blue motorcycle came to a stop outside a stone wall. As soon as he had his helmet off, Cody let off an eager whoop and shot forward in a near blur.

"Tryin' to beat me, huh?" Logan chased after him. "We'll just see about that."

"Can't catch me, old man!"

"Oh yeah?" Increasing his speed, Logan wrapped arms around the boy from behind before he could near the cliff's edge too much. "You lookin' to crack your skull?"

Cody smirked up at him. "Yep."

Logan gave him a moderate thump. "Next time just ask."

Cody made a move to pull on his father then fully absorbed the lush area below them, highlighted magnificently by the sunlight. "Wow. It's like bein' back in the Rockies, huh Dad?"

"Mmhm. I remember when me and your uncle used to go off explorin'." Logan lowered to his son's level, remaining behind him with head forward as he spoke. "We easily stayed out all day in the summer."

Cody suggested, "We should come out here with him. How 'bout next week?"

"We'll see." Logan moved on with, "Yeah, despite all the bad, we always had some good thrown in- me and Vic. I used to wonder what it'd be like if I was the oldest, barkin' out the orders."

"Like you do with me?"

Logan snapped his teeth at the boy's neck then gripped his shoulder affectionately. "Havin' a pint-sized brother of my own. Pal around with, show things to…"

Cody spun around with a small jump to it. "Lucky you then 'cause you can do all that stuff with me. Oh hey, Dad," he reached into the deep pocket of his sports pants and fished out a fat paper wad, "got this for you."

"Nice." Logan took it out of the smaller hand. "This better not be your bubble gum collection." He peeled back the paper to find a folded white handkerchief inside.

Holding it up by the tips, Logan read the large black marks printed on it.

"I found that when me and Maya went thrift store hoppin'," Cody told him. "I remembered you tellin' me about Japan. That's the perseverance symbol, right?"

"Yep," Logan bobbed his head. He tucked the handkerchief away in his own pocket then tossed at his son's soft hair. "Thanks, Cat-Cat."

Cody bopped him at the stomach with a head-butt.

IIIIIII

After ensuring Brian's security within the cushioned pack carrier attached to his front, Charles led the mobile three inside Central Park. Joey stayed close to them. Scott walked ahead a little, captivated by the activity around. Spotting a suitable tree stump, Sean removed his case and took a seat. He unzipped the bag and took out his guitar, starting up a few chords. The members of the Xavier household along with a few other on-lookers paused to watch the performance.

Joey tugged on his father's polo shirt. "Look, Daddy!" He indicated the big colorful sculptures a short distance away.

"Look at that one!" Scott pointed out a tall spaceship.

Charles formed a smile. "What say we have a closer look? Does that sound good, Brian?" The baby's response consisted of suckling on his fingers and the Professor took that as an affirmative. Charles turned towards the playing teenager. "Don't wander off, Seanie."

Fingers preoccupied by strings, Sean dipped his head in a deep show of obedience.

Charles strolled behind the excited two making a path for the unique artwork.

"I like this one." Joey ran a hand along a blue painted horse with red mane and green eyes.

"Come check out this one." Scott discovered a hollowed out opening inside the yellow and black checkered space craft.

"Ooh!' Joey rushed over to climb in with him.

Unzipping the side pocket on Brian's carrier, Charles brought his camera to eye level. "Smile, boys."

Scott looked up, thankful for his glasses at the flash that only Charles would use in broad daylight. "You have to lug that thing along everywhere, don't you?"

"Yes," Charles replied matter-of-factly. "And I shan't stop until every single one of you ceases being adorable."

"Now that we have Brian and the new baby coming, that means never," Joey deduced humorously.

"Speaking of," Charles placed the camera around his neck to take Brian out of the pack next. "Hold your brother." Joey gladly took the tiny boy to cradle. "Now, now close together. All three of you." Scott scooted over, placing his arm around Joey and leaving one hand at Brian's leg. "Smashing." Charles raised his camera again. "Say cheese."

"Cheese," they chorused and Charles captured them twice.

Sean had come up behind him but paused movement. "Well, I can see you're busy here." He hastily turned to go.

"Oh no." Charles clapped a hand down on his shoulder. "Not until I get a few shots with all of you."

"But I'm wearing my bad face," Sean insisted. "The one I was born with."

Charles gave him a small yank at the ear lobe. "I won't have such talk today or any day for that matter. Now, come along. All of you, let's go."

Careful of his little bundle, Joey climbed out of the ship ahead of Scott. They each stood on either side of Sean, who bent to give each an arm. Charles snapped the camera three times, including the last that consisted of funny faces.

"Excuse me." Charles turned to see a young college-aged girl at his side. "I give tours on weekends. Would you like me to get one of all of you?"

"Why certainly." Charles handed over his camera. "Thank you." He went over, kneeling to lock Sean in a hold from behind.

She pressed the button twice before returning the camera. "There you go."

"Thank you again, dear," Charles said.

"No problem. Happy Father's Day." She walked off to explain the significance of the sculptors to her group.

At the sound of a bell, Sean looked back to see a man pushing a frozen treat cart. "Who wants ice cream?" He showed them the pocketful of change he'd collected from his passing audience members.

"Yeah!" Joey and Scott reacted together.

"Brian, too," Joey put forth.

"Well," Charles took the tiny one to kiss and resituate in the pack, "just a taste."

Sean offered Joey a piggyback ride and Charles left a hand at Scott's back as they made their way for the cart.

IIIIIII

"See you tomorrow, Coach." Brody thumped fists with him.

"I'd better," Victor returned pleasantly.

Watching her son head inside, the dark haired woman faced Victor once more. "I really appreciate you for doing this. His father lives out in Arizona now and…"

Victor raised an easy palm. "Trust me, I got a bigger kick out of it than they did."

She smiled. "Would you like to come in for some coffee?"

"Thanks, but I need to be getting back," Victor turned down. "We're having a little something at my place."

Mrs. Phelps nodded her understanding. "Drive safe now."

Victor bobbed his head back at her cordially before going to return to his waiting vehicle.

IIIIIII

A thick wave of smoke billowed up from where Erik and Hank jabbed at each other over cooking utensils by the grill. Becky, Scott, Kiki, and Trav raced through the sprinklers together. Cody and Joey spun about inside the former's wooden contraption. Cordelia remained latched onto Alex's back while he veered wildly with her. Frank yelled 'uncle' for Sean to release him from a pin, only to take another swipe at the redhead the moment he let go of his arm. Raven took the opportunity to coo over Brian while the Xaviers snuggled together in a lawn chair.

"They should be in the Alps by tonight," Emma detailed.

Charles looked into his wife's sunglasses. "They're vacationing together?"

"Daddy's going to see to some colossal business negotiations. Chris will no doubt be lingering around the slopes to negotiate with a few snow bunnies."

Charles chuckled at that. "Oh the key to the strongest relationships. No time spent with one another."

Emma got further comfortable in his clutch. "You understand my family greater than any psychiatric scholar."

Skipping towards the adult telepaths, Becky hugged Charles' arm and smooched his cheek.

"What's this?" Charles brought her in close to his opposite side. "Two beautiful women in my grasp?"

Happy Father's Day, Prince Charles.

He raised her hand to peck. Thank you, Princess.

"Oh Hank."

Looking over one shoulder, the scientist saw Leon standing with the football and he narrowed eyes at Erik. "Touch so much as one of these patties and I will poison you with pork brine."

Erik put a hand on his hip as the younger man walked off. "Hm, boy becomes a father and decides himself fully grown."

Joey popped up beside him. "Can I do something, Uncle Erik?"

"Appreciated, Kangaroo. Could you bring out the buns for us?" the metal wielder requested then called out pointedly, "Someone forgot to retrieve them from the kitchen."

"That someone doesn't knows your legs are far from broken!" Hank sent another pass Leon's way.

Joey laughed and went inside through the back door, going by Victor as he did.

Barely with one foot on the lawn, he felt an impact at his shoulder and move quickly to catch the assault weapon. He observed the spotted feline attached to miniature plank, both made out of wood.

At Logan striding his way, an even faced Victor held up the ornament. "What the hell is this?"

Logan stared back at him. "That's your little mascot, ain't it?"

"Yeah, so?" Victor gave him a look upon realization. "Quit givin' me—"

"Shit for Father's Day," Logan recited with him but kept it low for all small ears present in the backyard. "Why don't ya make me?"

Victor waved him off. "You ain't worth the time, Runt. Here," he pulled a small box out of his pocket and tossed it, "before I change my mind."

Catching it easily, Logan flicked back the small box's lid to find a silver time piece underneath. "Well, look-y here at Mr. Priss. Your lady take you shoppin'?" He faced his brother again. "I hate it."

Victor punched his shoulder and Logan countered with a backhand slap to the chest.

"Uncle Vic!" Cody's voice sounded for practically the entire globe to hear.

When the boy came close enough, Victor grabbed him up with one arm. "Hey, Mighty Mite." He exchanged a nuzzle with him.

"Head's up, Daddy!"

Hank hardly had time to turn around. The moment he captured what appeared to be a makeshift football, it completely collapsed in his large hands.

"What?..." He then realized the assortments of snack that had been contained inside the papier-mâché creation.

Trav hurried up to him with a wide smile in place. "I made you a piñata ball. I even remembered to put mostly healthy stuff in it. Do you like it?"

"Son," Hank grinned, "this is inspired! Thank you." Putting the collection of goodies aside on the grass, he lowered to give his boy a strong hug.

Listening to Cordelia's enthused recounting of her afternoon, Alex's attention fluttered in the direction of the McCoy males.

At the tug to her top, Raven looked into her daughter's eyes and immediately got her unspoken meaning. She went to deliver Brian to Emma's arms then returned to pick Kiki up.

"Okay, people," the blue woman rang out, "everybody quiet down... Right now would be good!" When their activities and conversing ceased, Raven carried Kiki over to stand before Hank. "Go on, baby." She wore a proud smile.

With the expectant people and specifically her father watching, the three-year-old parted her lips.

Hugs and kisses.

Big or small.

Dreams and wishes.

I love you most of all.

Hank's jaw dropped at the near flawless recitation while the others clapped. "Kiki…"

Raven stepped up to explain, "We worked on this all week. It's the one from the children's poems you always read together."

Hank nodded slowly. "I recognized. I just can't believe…"

Raven said, "She wanted to say it perfectly for you."

A resounding, "Aww," seemed to sweep the backyard.

Hank lifted Kiki, kissing her cheek twice. "Thank you, Baby Bear." Lowering once more, he gathered Trav in his spare arm. "Two of the best possible Father's Day gifts." He squeezed them both. "And I don't simply mean the presents."

Trav leaned on him. "You're our gift, too, Daddy. You and Mommy."

Letting go of Frank, Sean pointed to a separate patch of grass. "I'm gonna go over here and not cry."

Frank pumped triumphant fists. "Yeah, that's our X-Dads. The best ever."

Simultaneous concurrences filled the air at his statement.

The brothers Howlett-Creed moved to casually preoccupy themselves.

Charles touched his chest. "Lambs, you're far too kind."

"Brats," Erik magnetically repositioned the meat with a spatula, "Grateful, grateful little brats."

IIIIIII

Another trash bag loaded to capacity or possibly more so, Alex grabbed the tops of each plastic sack. He stopped upon detecting an incoming tyke out of the corner of his eye.

"Hey, Bugsy," he acknowledged the child, "fishing for another popsicle? I'll grab it as soon as I'm done."

"Uh uh," Trav shook his head hard. "I have something for you, Uncle Alex."

"Me?" Putting the bags down, Alex turned to him in full.

Trav moved his hands from behind his back to show the clear plastic bag filled with various sweets and tied by a red bow. "I forgot to give it to you 'cause I was so busy with Daddy. I gave you the yummy stuff. Happy Father's Day."

"Aw Bugs," Alex accepted the package in one hand, "this is great, buddy, thanks. But you didn't have to get me anything."

"Yes, I did," the boy countered importantly. "Becca says uncles count today, too. She knows about these things you know."

"Oh yeah," Alex concurred.

Putting the candy down on the table for a moment, he used his now free hands to grab the six-year-old up. He dangled Trav over one shoulder, resulting in an galvanized laugh.

IIIIIII

Draped face up across his father's belly, Cody poked his own full stomach. "I'm fat as a pig."

Logan snorted. "You could eat a whole hog to yourself and not come close." He sat up on his elbow, making Cody roll over to his side on the bed. "Ya know, this'll be our lost solo Father's Day."

"I know," Cody said quietly. He fingered the pattern on the bedspread. "I think it's good, though. For Mama, too. Everything'll be like before."

Logan took his chin, bringing the brown eyes up to gaze directly into. "Nothing will ever be a hundred percent like before. But I swear to you, boy, I'll never stop trying to make it better. For all of you."

Cody said with equal resolve, "I won't, either, Daddy." One door to the suite worked its way open and he whipped his head back. "Maya, Mama!"

"Hi, Cody Wody," Maya greeted gently, making steps towards the bed. She held the potted Chrysanthemums out. "Happy Father's Day, Wolverine."

Kayla sat near Cody, sending soothing fingers through his hair.

Logan received the yellow buds with, "It's feelin' that way." She moved around to his side of the mattress to sit by him and he sent an arm around her. "But I'll give you one guess what I've been dyin' to see." Her face brightened as her mouth corners raised. He brought her closer to kiss her head. "Thanks, Smiley."

Noticing something about his left arm, Maya silently admired the gleaming watch on his wrist.

IIIIIII

"Straight down I went," Erik slapped his knee for emphasis, "It's a marvel I walked away from that oak with only a sprain and several aches to show for it."

Charles lowered his wine glass, looking at him with put upon sympathy. "Oh my poor little Erik. Did you catch a thrashing?"

"No, they decided I suffered enough torment." Erik then recollected, "But Papa assured me that if I ever tried to scale such a height again, he would demonstrate another way parts of a tree can inflict pain."

Charles could not help snickering. "And to think you had the nerve to get cross with me for my minor climbing incident."

Erik raised an eyebrow at that. "A tree is no comparison to trying to scale a mountain on recovering legs, Lab Rat. Besides, I was fully in control of my situation."

"Oh yes," Charles barely resisted an eye roll, "Would that be before or after your rude reintroduction to terra firma?"

Erik nudged the younger man's foot with his own. "You're on."

Ready with his tale, Charles began, "Once Daddy took me to the dentist for my cleaning. I was so terrified I-" His attention went to the doorway at the hand in hand pair entering the parlor.

Becky and Joey could only stare at the sight of the men in their night clothes on the sofa with feet propped up on the coffee table.

"What are you doing?" Becky wanted to know.

"Unwinding," Erik answered his daughter. "We do that under every blue moon. Now, we have a question. What are you two imps doing out of bed, hm?"

"We're not sleepy, Papa."

Joey chimed up, "Can't we stay with you? Pleeease, just for a little while?"

The men shared a look before opening up space between themselves on the sofa. Smiling, the children went to settle closest to their individual father. Charles brought the nearby blanket around them.

The male telepath then told the young ones, "We were actually sitting here dishing about our days with your grandfathers. When we were still small."

"Nope," Joey shook his head to that, "You and Uncle Erik were never small, Daddy."

Erik reached over to ruffle the child's yellow hair. "Oh, you don't believe so, Kangaroo? Once we were even as bitty as Brian."

Joey squinted his eyes thoughtfully. "I see Uncle Erik as a little baby still telling everybody to eat their vegetables."

Becky added, "And Uncle Charles in his crib wearing a suit."

"Well, we had to practice very early," Erik claimed, "in preparation for our own future children."

"Because we've always been your fathers," Charles stated, blue eyes displaying no jest, "even when we did not know it."

Joey grinned and an equally glowing Becky got comfortable against Erik.

She then asked, "Will you tell more stories?"

"Of course, Princess." With his audience of three, Charles went into the full account of the dental experience complete with squirming, kicking, and a near successful escape.