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.

196. Chapter 196 The Learning Process Redux

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Ninety Six

Author's Word: Fam, fam, fam, fam…. Fam, fam, fam, fam! First, I'm sorry this chapter has taken so long. This week brought me something horribly unexpected (more details on that later). This has really been one of those times when you all need to fully comprehend what having the Rise or Fall fam means to me. You guys do more for me than you could ever really know. Thank you.

I know it's late, but I want to wish a very Happy Birthday to YebbaDimDay! Love you and be blessed- I mandate it!

Keydazy, I know you don't have an account here for PMing, but I was hoping we could talk. My e-mail is (available for the rest of you to connect also).

Now, please enjoy and review!

By popular youthful demand, lyrics courtesy of the Rolling Stones filled the living room turned barbershop. With each boy lined up on the couch, Logan worked on cutting Cody's hair while Erik and Alex did the same for Frank and Scott. Across the way, Victor blow-dried Leon's freshly conditioned but still dripping strands. Charles and Hank helped things along by keeping the various hairs swept up. Though Hank proved too distracted by his rather energetic six-year-old.

Getting to all fours, Trav crawled underneath the coffee table. "You can't get me, Joey."

"I'll getcha." In a lowered position himself, Joey wormed after him. He seized him by the ankle. "Ha, I got your leg." He then pulled the smaller boy towards him to tickle.

Trav giggled and jumped at the blonde to mock bite his neck.

Sensing his son's growing intrigue in the playful antics, Logan poked him in the back of the neck. "Knock off the squirmin' unless you want me to lop off a chunk of your ear."

"Sooooo?" Cody rolled his head back to peer up at his father. "It'll grow back."

Tapping the head back into place, Logan commented, "Not nearly as quick as this hair."
Erik glanced their way. "He certainly has a mop on him."

"Would you believe I just cut this mess barely three weeks ago?" Logan ran fingers through Cody's dark locks. "Gets that from his mother."

Undoing the white sheet from around Scott's neck, Alex announced, "You're free, twerp. Joe, let's move."

Scott approached Charles, shaking his head a little. "Do you like it?"

"Absolutely. Very charming." Charles rubbed the boy's head before looking towards the two blondes. "Not too short, Alex."

"Relax, Charles. He won't get the skinhead treatment out of me." Alex adjusted the sheet on Joey. "How do you want to look, shrimp?"

"Like you," Joey requested.

Frank threw out, "Like you need a haircut for that."

"Wish it were that easy."

Victor caught the mostly quiet utterance from Leon but said nothing as he moved onto combing out the teen's hair.

Charles reacted to a sudden clamp at his leg and looked down with a small smile. "What do we have here? Seems a little limpet's become fond of me."

Trav smiled back then let go to make a path for the nearest wall.

Putting his broom to the side, Hank mused, "What's my little cub getting into?" Raising one exposed foot, he attached his lengthy toes to the back of Trav's shirt to lift him up.

"Daddy," the little boy laughed.

Cody's eyes locked on the sight. "That is so cool."

"Yes and also one special ability I wish I possessed," dropping into a chair, Charles yanked Scott down to sit in his lap, "to better keep track of my little ones."

Scott smiled and relaxed against him.

Letting his son loose again, Hank knelt down to him. "Now there won't be any sticking to walls tomorrow, right?"

"Right," Trav answered then recited, "No climbing except for monkey bars."

Hank regarded his boy with great approval. "Exactly."

"Your public awaits, boychick," Erik announced after finishing Frank's hair. "Now it's time for my valiant."

"Yay!" Trav hurried over to take Frank's spot on the couch. "My turn, my turn!"

Frank helped secure the sheet around the smaller boy. "You're gonna blow the whole first grade away tomorrow, aren't you buddy?"

"Uh huh." Trav then appeared to wonder. "Daddy?"

Getting to his knees, Hank pressed palms together with him. "Yes, son?"

"Why can't you cut hair?"

Hank kissed his nose. "Because beauty is more your mom's department."

"Oh," Trav accepted then asked, "Why can't you cut hair, Uncle Charles?"

Erik fielded that one with, "Because it takes an army of ten men or more to get him to trim his own."

"That is no joking matter." Charles smoothed fingers through his soft strands of chestnut brown. "The wrong snip could throw off my entire profile."

Logan snorted at that. "Chuck, please. It'd take about fifty rounds of hot coals to the face and twelve ugly stick beatin's for you to have somethin' to worry about."

"Is that what happened to you?" Alex smirked.

"You're lucky I'm busy, pretty boy," the Veteran replied.

"And look who's talkin' about ugly," Frank raised.

"That's not my fault," Alex claimed, parting a section of Joey's hair. "Scott stole all the handsome genes."

Charles used his knuckles to tickle Scott's side. "You naughty little thief."

Scott laughed and squirmed a bit.

Cody rocked in place impatiently. "Daaad…"

"Alright already." Logan pulled back the scissors. "Go nuts."

"Yes!" Leaping down, Cody practically ripped the sheet off his person. "Lee, play with me."

"Though it's my privilege to be at your beck and call," Leon shook out his head, "my hair needs to enter a relaxed state for at least an hour."

Victor crouched to his nephew's height. "Come at me, Mite."

Letting off a mock growl, Cody jumped towards him.

"What's wrong?" Scott asked to Charles suddenly standing him up.

The Professor explained, "I sense Brian crying and it's about time for his feeding. I'll be back in a moment."

"Oh, okay." Scott watched him leave then slumped into the chair.

Alex looked his way. "You okay, squirt?"

Scott perked his shoulders a little. "Uh huh."

Flopping on his back against the hardwood while his uncle pinched at his feet, Cody gazed up at Hank. "I'm sure gonna miss your science class, Beast."

Hank looked away from Trav to stare down at him. "You are?"

"Yep," Cody formed a mischievous grin, "now I need a new place to nap."

"Very droll. Almost as much as this." Hank then took the liberty of pinning the boy's arms down.

"Hey!" Cody wiggled in a vain effort to get free. "Uncle Vic!"

Victor decided to keep his legs at bay. "You asked for it, Mite."

"Quit gangin' up on my boy," Logan came around, getting to the floor, "That's my job."

"Dad!" Cody reacted to the attack on his stomach. "Dad, no!" At the other men releasing him, he tried to crawl away only for Logan to hover over him. The growls of warm breath to his neck caused him to laugh profusely. "Daddy, quit it!"

Scott observed them until ruckus towards the front caused him to look up.

"Gussy up, bubs. The women folk're back." Logan sat up with Cody, naturally, still attached to him.

With Raven leading the group of mutated females into the living room, Hank got up to kiss her and accept Kiki over into his own grasp. "Was my girl good?"

"Maybe." Raven eyed him coyly. "Or did you mean your daughter?" She smiled at Hank's quirked eyebrows and started in Trav's direction. "Hi, Pooh Bear."

"Mommy!" Trav raised both hands to block her view of his hair. "Don't look. It's not nice yet."

Hands raised apologetically, Raven took several step backs. "I don't want any trouble- didn't see a thing."

"Scott, sweetheart, come here a moment," Emma beckoned, putting her wrapped packages down in the one free chair in the room. "I picked up a couple more new shirts for you boys, but I wasn't sure if they'd be too short at your middle."

"Okay, Em." Scott walked over so that she could properly size him up.

The familiar cooing as well as minds made Emma face the entryway with a delighted smile.

"Someone knew his mummy was down here." Charles transferred Brian to his wife's waiting hold. "He wouldn't even accept his bottle from me."

"I can't have my darling wasting away." Emma patted the baby's back as he nestled against her hair. "Let's get your tummy filled, yes."

"I left the bottle in our kitchen, love," Charles called after her.

"Which reminds me," Kayla paused long enough to get more comfortable in Logan's solid but welcoming arms, "did any of you great providers plan for dinner?"

"I can fix something," Angel offered.

"No need," Charles said. "I was actually thinking that with such a big day ahead of all of you, that take-out would be a fine idea for tonight." Immediate cheer erupted from the different aged youths and the Professor regarded them all fondly. "And dare I say ice cream?"

"Uh oh." Cody lowered his enthusiastic raised fist. "Take-out and ice cream? On a Monday?"

Frank threw out eerily, "This sounds like shots territory."

"Shots?" Trav's eyes bulged with panic. "Noooo, Daddy…"

"No!" Kiki seconded.

Cordelia uttered an, "Oh boy."

"Frankie," Raven sighed.

"Oops." The city native clamped a hand over his mouth.

"Calm down," Hank kissed Kiki's head then went to rub Trav's cheeks, "No shots. At least… not for a little while."

Cody folded his arms and mumbled, "Hope it's a little decade instead."

Wanting to tear away from this subject rapidly, Victor brought up, "Package came for you, Angie."

The girl raised an eyebrow. "On Labor Day? Wow, this neighborhood is high sadity."

"Adrienne had it sent over by messenger," Victor told her. "It's on your bed."

Realization filling her deep brown eyes, Angel sped out with enough gusto to nearly leave a smoke trail.

Cordelia commented, "Well, she's going to make it to class tomorrow in two point five seconds."

"I'd best get that food ordered," Charles remembered. "I take it everyone is happy with pizza and Chinese? Erik, the Kosher Kitchen?"

The metal wielder replied, "Mind-reader does not begin to adequately define you."

After everyone finished putting in their personal requests, Charles took to the telephone.

"They're here!" Returning with her previous zealousness, Angel carried what looked to be an oversized hat box.

As the others neared like pack animals, Kayla piped up, "Alright X-Men, let's not be pushy."

"Yeah, quit bein' nosy- before me." Logan then looked over. "Show us the loot, Wings."

"I pitched this idea to Adrienne and she got a couple of our design clients on it," Angel began the explanation, "I just didn't know they'd be ready this quick. It's called Hearts and Stripes Forever."

Becky gazed up at this. "Hearts and Stripes?"

Angel smiled widely. "To celebrate mixed kids. Like," she revealed one long-sleeve garment from the box, "this one for Cody."

When she tossed it his way, the boy caught it with ease and genuinely glowed at the detailed orange and black tiger pattern. "Out. Of. Sight! I'm wearin' this no matter how big I get."

"Oh sweetheart, don't worry about that," Kayla placated. "I'll gladly let out the seams until you're forty."

"Say that again," Logan strongly concurred.

"This one is mine." Angel showed them the zebra print skirt that shined with glittery embellishments then moved on to a smaller dress with short sleeves made up of pink and white. "I thought you'd be a cute little candy cane, Becky."

The younger girl slowly took it for closer observation. "It… it is really pretty."

Beaming, Cody approached her. "So you're really one of us now?"

Becky gave him a look. "Don't get excited. It's rude to refuse a gift." She glanced back. "Thank you, Angel."

"Yeah," Cody squeezed his shirt, "thanks a lot, Angel."

"You're welcome," Angel then said, "But it's Adrienne who put this together. We're hoping to get a photo-shoot together for the start of next month."

"Angel, you are amazing," Raven commended.

Hank added, "If you're this bold and creative in class, you're going to take Westchester High by storm."

Angel only hoped the redness she felt building from the praise could be concealed by her smile.

Soon enough, though not quite quick enough for a few of the grumbling stomach possessed youngsters, the food arrived. Sean came in hardly two minutes after the last delivery man.

"Hey," he waved at the other X-Men.

"What'd I tell you?" Raven pointed him out. "The smell of food works better than any tracking device."

"Sean, at last," Emma came over to him, "I just got off the phone with Ben's mother. I really wish you would call if you know you're going to be late for dinner."

"I'm sorry," the boy said repentantly. "I was just trying to rush home."

Alex encouraged, "Get over here and grab some eats. I can cut your hair after this."

"That's okay. Ben took me to his barber." Sean pulled down his hood, giving them all first glance of his red strands styled into a rockabilly cut.

Multiple jaws neared the floor at the sight.

Cordelia scoffed. "You've got to be kidding. Do you know how much facial reconstruction you would have to have done before even attempting to pull off Elvis?"

"I actually looked into it," Sean replied curtly, "except every plastic surgeon in the state is too busy trying to find a cure for your face."

Charles slapped his hands together at that. "That will be enough squabbling, you two."

"Sean, sit down and eat," Erik directed.

When Sean found a spot near Cody, the little boy commented, "I think it's cool."

"Me, too," Frank seconded.

Angel said, "Maya's going to go nuts for it."

Sean smiled around at all of them and accepted Kiki into his lap while he collected egg rolls and pepperoni slices.

"Now that we're all here," Charles raised, going to stand with his fellow Headmaster, "Erik and I again want to discuss your behavior for your tomorrow."

Cody said, "I knew there was a catch comin' with this grub."

"Hey," Logan snapped fingers at his son, "Zip the lip and unplug your ears."

Kiki took that opportunity to mimic a zipping motion with her own lips, making Sean laugh softly.

"Now," Charles went on, "tomorrow will be no ordinary first day of school. You're all returning to traditional institutions- or possibly starting for the first time- after being in our more sheltered environment. Above all else, I want to make something plain. There will be absolutely no tolerance for intentional use of your powers while you are in school. We understand that accidents will happen here and there, but willingly defying our rules is another matter altogether."

Cody raised his hand before asking, "What do you mean by intentional exactly? 'Cause if I fall down the stairs or somethin', I can't not heal."

"I'm actually glad you presented that question, Cody." Hands going into the pockets of his slacks, Charles made a slow stride towards the young ones. "Intentional refers to prior thought before it happens. To simplify, this means things such as using wings or shifting to get through the halls faster. Using any mutated force in a confrontation with your classmates. Now, these policies are not limited to the more obvious physical mutations. The rules apply to X-Ray scans and most certainly," he dipped at the waist to be hardly inches away from a certain pair of green eyes, "telepathy."

Becky met his gaze with a special smile.

"Make no mistake on this," all attention went to Erik who spoke next, "If we found out you've put yourselves in harm's way by disobeying these rules for foolish reasons, you will be spanked. No arguments, no whining, no pathetic excuses. This applies to elementary, high school," his eyes locked in on the older ones individually, "and university."

Alex sat up straighter, Leon's face remained mostly even, and Raven's yellow eyes darted from side to side as she tapped fingers against her lap.

Emma went to face them all now. "We have to make safety our priority when we leave these walls. I've seen personally what happens when we neglect to do so."

Scott's voice sounded from the otherwise quiet bunch. "We understand."

"Now finish your dinners," said Erik. "We do have ice cream to get to."

Cody bit into an egg roll. "So what happens on the first day at state schools, anyway?"

"First days are a snap anywhere, Code Man," said Sean. "Teachers will probably go over the plan for the year."

Frank added, "And you need to know the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem. The Anthem's pretty hard to memorize."

Cody scoffed at that. "That's an easy one." He placed a hand over his chest. "O Canada! Our home and native land—"

"Boo!" Scott and Frank jeered while most of the others broke out into laughter.

IIIIIII

Done sizing up the white shirt against the adolescent frame, Emma returned the garment to its hanger.

"Thanks Em, but I didn't really need more shirts," Scott said reasonably.

"You're growing much too quickly," the woman's glance went briefly towards the sleeping baby in the crib, "you all are. It's difficult for me to keep track."

Scott frowned at her change in expression. "Are you okay?"

Emma told him, "A certain English gentleman requests a word with you. He's in the kitchen."

Scott followed the direction to the second floor eatery, where he found the Professor seated at the table.

The boy absorbed the man's rather somber expression. "You wanted to see me?"

"Yes," Charles extended one arm, "come here."

Scott came close to him before asking, "Am I in trouble? Are you worried about my eyes tomorrow?"

"No, no, no," Charles promptly reassured, taking the adolescent hands with his. "If you can handle yourself on a baseball field, you can more than do so in a classroom. However, we do need to discuss tomorrow. As I've already said, Victor won't be able to be with you children at every moment. I'm counting on you to try to be there for the younger students as much as possible. Help to keep their powers in line."

Scott stared at him with a partially surprised seriousness. "You want me to?"

Charles nodded. "Erik and I firmly believe it's a responsibility you can handle."

The boy grew a little uncomfortable. "I have to squeal, don't I? If they use their powers?"

Charles squeezed his hands. "Unfortunately, leadership isn't always so glamorous. You have to keep in mind what Emma already explained. Safety is our priority. You know personally what happens when the negative effects of mutation are witnessed by outsiders."

At the unpleasant recollection hitting him, Scott said, "I won't let you down, Charles."

"I know that. My," Charles pulled him into a hug, "you're growing up far too quickly for my liking."

Scott laid his forehead against Charles' shoulder. "So I keep hearing…"

II

"Now remember," Raven finished doing up the buttons to Trav's pajama shirt as she addressed her little boy, "if the other kids ask, tell them you're from Illinois and that your mommy and daddy adopted you. If they ask anything about where you used to live, tell them you don't like to talk about it and leave it at that. And if your teacher asks you to draw a picture of your family, remember to make Mommy look like Goldilocks, not the blue fairy."

"But Mommy," Trav peered up at her, "Joey makes you look blue sometimes."

Performing rounds, Erik arrived in the doorway of the younger boys' quarters.

"Art teachers aren't like regular teachers," Raven tried to explain. "When Joey makes me blue, they think he's just trying to be creative and different."

"Oh," Trav somewhat grasped though curiosity did not fade completely within him. "I still don't understand, Mommy. Why can't you be blue all the time?"

Eyeing him for a lingering moment, Raven bent to kiss his cheek. "Because that's the way it is, baby."

"For now." Erik's voice made them both glance over and he came around to kneel near Trav's bed. "Ready for your big day, valiant?"

Trav nodded. "Don't worry, Uncle Erik. I won't mess up. I don't want you to be mad at me."

Erik captured one of his small hands. "Regardless of anything, I will not be mad at you. I only want you, all of you, to be safe and happy. Though to be honest, I'm more concerned with you astonishing the other boys and girls tomorrow. Try not to make anyone cry."

Trav smiled up at him.

Alex popped in. "Anybody seen Joe?"

Raven replied, "Brushing his teeth last I heard."

Alex shared a look with Erik before going to the third floor bathroom the children most frequently used. "Joe," he pushed the door open, glad to see him only drying his hair with a towel, "let's get a move on."

Nodding, Joey slowly removed the towel. "'Kay…"

At the briefly flickering lights, Alex stepped inside and shut the bathroom door. "Hey, hey, no." He knelt down, gripping Joey at the shoulders. "Easy, Joe. Just calm down."

Joey blinked, returning the fixtures to their normal state. "I-I can't believe I still do that."

"You're only doing it because you're nervous," Alex emphasized. "If my powers had been going off on my first day of college, I'd have blown the whole school and not with my brain. You don't have to worry, Joe." He locked blue eyes with him. "Your old life is over. Who are you now?"

"I don't know," Joey replied honestly.

"You're Charles Joseph Xavier, that's who. You're Charles and Em's son, you're my little bro, Brian's big bro, Cody's best friend." Alex cupped his chin. "You're an X-Man. We've survived too much. This school thing will be cake. Forget all about the then. Focus on the right now. You hear me?"

Joey thought then nodded. "Yes, big brother."

"Good." Alex swatted his bottom mildly to usher him out. "Now go keep Trav company." Getting up himself, he made a path to the younger boys' room, where he found Sean reading alone. "Hey, where're the Eye Scream Cones?"

Sean turned a page in his book. "Last-minute snacks."

"Like they're on the green mile or something." Alex came in closer towards the desk. "Is there something you need to talk about? Because if it's about tomorrow, I know what you're feeling. I was out of my mind when I started college then—"

"You got there," Sean spoke without looking up still, "people lined up to be your friend, girls wanted you, and fraternities were begging for you. Because you're Alex and life just seems to work out that way."

Giving him a disapproving glower, Alex slapped a hand over the inside of Sean's book, getting the younger male's full attention. "You want to remember the fact that I only keep a couple close friends? Or that my relationships tend to blow up in my face royally? How about that those fraternities only wanted me for how I looked and what they thought I represented. So you need to go ahead and curb this bitter attitude of yours."

Sean tossed his book to one side before folding his arms. "I don't have an attitude."

"Could've fooled me- not to mention Lee." At the silence, Alex turned to go. "Just get to sleep soon." He stopped walking when he reached the door. "Seanie… I've been where you are now. It's not worth it."

Sean mumbled, "You saying that as my brother or my instructor?"

Alex said simply, "I'm always your brother, Sean. Whether you like me or not," and left the room.

IIIIII

The telepath made his way into the second floor living room, not at all surprised to find the metal wielder already there.

"I thought I sensed you." Charles took a seat on the sofa.

Erik used his magnetism to undo the lock on the end table that currently doubled as their liquor cabinet. "Don't you have an early day tomorrow?"

"Don't we all?" the Professor countered glibly. "I wanted to make sure Brian had enough formula prepared for in the morning. Emma and Kayla have enough to see to around here without the babes fussing."

"Yes," Erik concurred, mixing their drinks. "You're meeting with the representatives at eight?"

"Nine." Charles accepted the martini handed to him. "Then I'll be popping in on Ignacio's court proceedings. You'll be overseeing the construction at the mansion tomorrow?"

Erik nodded, taking the arm chair across from him with his own drink. "Though I wonder what grand renovation will be necessary for Becky to see it as home again."

"Yes, I wonder as well." Charles gazed upward in thought. "About Joey handling tomorrow. About Sean completely of late."

"It seems as if," Erik fingered his glass, "there's a storm brewing within him. Though, this simply could be a matter of adolescent rebellion."

"Well, we did survive Alex," Charles stated positively.

They both swallowed down the remains of their glasses and Erik immediately put forth, "A double?"

"Please," the Professor promptly responded.

IIIIIII

The normal tranquilities that came with sunrise now also carried with them the motor of lawnmowers, an elderly couple's argument over the coffee and burnt toast, the paperboy's bicycle bell, and others that proved difficult yet not altogether impossible to ignore. Cracking his eyelids a bit, Logan observed his son's silent progress. The boy's shoulders seemed to ease despite the energy the Veteran could nearly see boiling in his belly. Logan reached over to touch the top of Cody's head.

At the signal, the child's own eyelids peeled back and he released a yawn. "Why do we gotta do this so early?"

"Because I'm headed out early," Logan reminded him. "And you need it to keep in mind." He led them over to the small table he had setup in the backyard and poured the iced tea for them. "Besides, you need to keep your calm later today."

Cody lowered his cup after a long sip. "Dad, you know what I do can't show."

Logan shook his head. "That's the way it used to be. Things are different now. No fightin'."

"I don't start fights."

"You need to avoid 'em as much as you can," Logan urged. "In the heat of action, them scratchers are goin' to come out. It's happened to me before. It's an instinct that's too hard to control."

Cody ran fingers over his right hand knuckles. "I'll watch it."

"Good. Come on." Logan started up the steps. "I need to get ready to head out."

Cody rushed to move in tune with him.

IIIIIII

Arching her back in the full mirror, Cordelia got a good view of her yellow collared dress with orange belt and boots. She decided to add to the look with the equally bright orange headband.

"Angel, come on," she called out. "Expose the gorge."

"Okay, hang on." Emerging from the bathroom across the way, Angel stood in near floor-length zebra skirt, sleeveless white top, black fashion scarf, and the ends of her hair styled into fat curls. "How does it look?" She performed a short spin of the skirt.

Cordelia's reaction consisted of, "Gorge exposed."

Angel started to smile until the abrupt scream pierced the entire second floor and quite possibly the entire western world. "Becky?"

Cordelia ran after her.

Spinning in a circle until she made herself entirely too dizzy, Becky collapsed in the middle of her bed. Her fists and feet pounded against the mattress.

"Becky!" Angel rushed inside.

Cordelia looked in. "Are you okay?"

Raising her head, Becky yelled out, "My hair!"

Angel absorbed the frizz fest that had consumed the formerly flawless curls. "Oh Lord- we can fix this, we can fix this." She went around the room, collecting hair aides. "Don't worry."

Charles came to stand next to Cordelia, appearing frazzled. "Ladies, what in the world is happening?"

"Hair crisis," Cordelia explained.

"Under control," Angel assured.

"Ah, I see," the man comprehended. "Cordy, can you please get Brian changed? I need to look in on Joey."

"On it," Cordelia said, heading for the room the baby shared with his parents.

After getting the thoroughly frazzled girl seated at the vanity, Angel applied the detangler sprays and coursed the brush through. "That humidity must have shot through the roof today."

"This always happens to me," Becky vexed. "My hair is the worst."

"Babe, please, your hair is too hot to trot." Angel went to work styling it into a long French braid. "I'm the one whose head needs to take chemical baths every couple of months."

Becky said, "My dad doesn't want any chemicals in my hair."

"Wish somebody would've told me that at twelve-thirteen-fourteen." Angel pulled over the box of various ribbons. "Which one of these do you want?"

"Hot pink," Becky selected, head supported by fist and still somewhat sullen. "I wish my hair could be as easy as Auntie Em's."

Angel tied it into a bow at the top of the hairstyle. "Blonde chicks pay a fortune for curls like yours. All women do. Most of them can't even carry them the way you can."

Becky gave her a small smile. "Thanks, Angel."

Angel cupped one round cheek on the younger girl. "Ready to go eat?"

"Hang on." Becky went over to her night table to slip back on her prized bracelet.

II

Clad in his new tiger shirt with dark pants to compliment it, Cody took the seat near his mother.

Frank took immediate notice of the backpack the younger boy carried. "Is that a real combat bag?"

"Yep," Cody replied, hanging it on the back of his chair. "My dad's."

"Hi, hot stuff," Raven greeted Hank, who walked in wearing a dark blue suit with orchid tie.

Alex looked him up and down. "You're going prom date to coach gym?"

"Alexander," Charles piped up matter-of-factly, "a gentleman always has to make an impression."
"Don't get Daddy sticky," Raven cautioned Kiki, who eagerly reached for him.

Hank took her into his lap after he sat with a kiss to her head. "If she does, I have some experience with a napkin."

Trav lowered his fork. "Isn't it time to go yet?"

"Trav, sweetie, I promise we have time," Raven assured then looked over at Cordelia. "You and Angel have the same home room, right?"

The teenage girl nodded.

Emma put forth, "I understand Frank is younger, but I'm surprised all three of you weren't placed together."

Sean ate a bit of egg before he said complacently, "Frank and I are also honor students."

Charles set him with a look. "There's nothing honorable about a boastful attitude."

Sean only shrugged to that.

Scott reacted to the striped clothed girls entering. "Rebecca."

"Good morning," Angel greeted them warmly.

Becky went around to cheek kiss Erik, Charles, and the other older males.

Leon pecked her head when she came by him and acknowledged her with, "Pretty Eyes. Love your hair."

"Thanks," Becky touched the braid, "Angel did it."

Leon flicked at his own. "Victor did mine."

The aforementioned man made his way into the dining room next. All eyes landed on him, but mainly his navy blue ensemble. The jacket came complete with a badge, name plate, and white wording on the back the read Security in bold.

"911 X-Men," Frank remarked.

Kayla grinned. "Your brother is going to be miserable for missing this."

Victor unfolded and pocketed his shades. "I know."

When breakfast finally came to a close, everyone made a path for the cars while Cody helped bring in dishes to the sink.

Switching off the water for a moment, Kayla reached out to stroke near his ear. "Are you sure you don't want Mama to come with you?"

"No, I got it," Cody told her. "I'll see you when I get home." He gave a kiss to her stomach.

Kayla straightened his shirt for him. "You're going to do great, my little tiger." She tickled his nose.

"Thanks, Ma." Cody dashed off from the kitchen. "Love you!"

"I love you," she sent after him.

In the garage, Frank put a hand on Joey's shoulder before he could climb into the X-Van. "No matter how scary it feels, don't cry. I'm serious. Stay tough."

Joey nodded quietly at him before getting into the large car.

Hank finished buckling Trav into his booster seat. "Alright, Daddy has to leave for work now, but I'll see you at home. Mommy's going to take you in to meet your new teacher and everyone. Is that okay?"

"Mmhmm," Trav responded surely. "Daddy, are you okay?"

Hank had to smile. "I'll do my best." He pointed a pseudo-firm finger at him. "Be good, little cub."

"Yes, Beast," the child replied cutely.

"Frank," Sean tossed their bags into his backseat, "let's cruise in style."

"All of you be certain to come straight home after school," Charles reminded.

"No problem," Cordelia piped up from where she and Angel rode in her gold vehicle.

Erik slapped a hand down on Sean's hood as he went to start the BMW. "Did you hear Charles?"

"Yes," Sean evened out his tone, "loud and clear."

Erik eyed him a moment then went to get into the X-Van. With the Xavier couple up front, he and Raven took the second row. In the third, Becky and Scott sat with Trav buckled in between them. Alex, Joey, and Cody lined the fourth row.

Various vehicles and motorcycles flooring away, they all took off for their individual destinations.

IIIIIII

After locating a space in the student parking lot, Sean and Frank waited for the girls to move into a spot. The quad then walked together towards the throng of students.

Fortunately, it did not take long for Sean to zero in on one familiar face. "Hey, man."

Ben exchanged a hand slap with him. "Hey, welcome to the torture chamber."

"Don't go luring us into a false sense of security now," said Cordelia.

"Oh Ben, this is Angel," Sean introduced. "I don't think you guys have officially met."

"Hi," Angel greeted with a small smile.

Ben shook hands with her. "It's a pleasure."

Frank's attention lingered on a bus pulling in that released a collection of teenagers that had next to no resemblance the majority of students around them. "Who are those guys?"

Ben looked to see who he meant then explained, "I think they're the ones from the city. They're part of a busing program for scholars. Of course, I'm pretty sure the administration cares more about the funding they're getting for splashing a little color into the mix."

Angel shook her head. "Figures."

"Let's head in." Sean started them for the doors.

As if sensing a gaze on him, one broad-shouldered black boy glanced over with a challenging countenance. "Eye problem?"

Frank's lips curved upward as he followed the others inside.

IIIIIII

Arriving in the section of the somewhat maze like building that housed kindergarten and first grade, Raven held onto Trav's hand as they entered the correct classroom. They approached the teacher, a woman who appeared to be in her mid-thirties with brown bob hair-do.

She noticed the two of them first, turning away from her learning aides. "Oh, hello."

Raven formed a wide smile. "Hi, I'm Raven McCoy. This is Travis- Trav."

"Hello," Trav waved.

She smiled at him. "Why hello, Trav. It's very nice to meet you. My name is Miss Davis." She held out a hand for Raven. "Carly."

"I'm sorry we missed the introductory orientation," Raven said, shaking with her. "But my husband and I had him enrolled kind of last minute. His father and my brothers have been teaching him at home all this time and this is- this is kind of new territory for all of us."

"That's okay," Carly assured. "I've worked with homeschool before. I know how unsettling this whole thing can be for parents and children alike."

"Lily," Trav spotted and made a path for the girl.

Raven watched him as she said, "Mostly parents."

Carly laughed lightly and they talked for a few more seconds before Raven stepped out of the way to make room for other parents.

She took Trav's hand again, pulling him over to one corner. "Alright, honey. Mommy has to get to school now. If you need anything, ask Miss Davis. She seems really nice. And remember, Kitty isn't far away if you need him. And Becca's here and Scott's here, they're all here for you."

"I know, Mommy." Trav leaned in to hug her. "Don't be late for school."

Raven squeezed him tightly as she promised, "I won't."

After they let go, she watched him return to the table with Lily Dukes. Though it took another minute, Raven finally left the class. Though it took a bit longer when she got out into the hall.

II

"Joey!"

The boy had no time to react as he felt the arms thrown around him. "Laci!"

She pulled back with a gasp. "I don't believe it," she bounced on her toes, "we're in the same class."

"Alright," coming up, Fred high-fived Cody, "we're all got the same room."

Cody pumped a fist. "Yes! This is unbelievable."

"Hey cool, you and your pals are together," Alex said to Joey. "That's major luck."

"Yes," spoke Charles, "… luck."

Emma shared a knowing gaze with him.

"Let's hurry up and grab some desks," Cody said, leading the way into the classroom.

"Yeah," Fred seconded. "We'll have our own group before anybody else."

Laci noticed Joey remaining in place. "Aren't you coming?"

Joey put on a smile. "Just a minute." While she went in, he turned to face his family. "What if I can't do this?"

"Hey," Alex crouched to his level, "get that out of your mind right now. That's an order."

"Your brother is right, son." Charles came over, finger combing his hair. "Mrs. Andrews is a very nice woman and you'll have your new art class later."

"Not to mention a certain young lady who is all too glad to see you," Emma brought up.

Joey smiled between them. "Okay. I love you." He shared a hug with each of them, including a stomach tap with Alex, before going in to join his class.

"Raven," Charles held an arm out for his incoming sister, "is everything alright? Was Trav very upset?"

Sulking against him, the presently blonde female replied, "No."

Alex laughed. "Relax, he'll need you the next time he gets hungry. Now we better get to class ourselves."

Charles glanced around then, wondering what was keeping his brother.

II

Almost as soon as they ventured into the seventh grade room, Scott became pulled away by a few of his teammates. Despite the presence of Megan Braunstein, Becky's proved preoccupied with her father.

Erik touched his temple then glanced down. "Your aunt and uncle need to be off. Do you want me to wait with you? I can walk back."

Becky thought then shook her head. "No, Papa. I'll be fine." She raised her arms.

Erik bent to hug her. I love you, ladybug.

I love you, too.

Erik sent a wave over to Scott before gradually easing out of the room to find the other X-Men.

Becky sat at the desk to the direct right of Scott.

Another couple minutes passed before a pair of long legs found their way inside the classroom. Wearing a brown suit with matching tie, the tall individual unloaded his briefcase, pink bakery box, and suit jacket onto the desk. Though clearly a little worn, he ran fingers through his chestnut hair before facing them all. He regarded them with dark but warm eyes and a growing smile.

"Catch-22." After a few seconds of pause, he went on with, "Not only a fairly recent novel by Joseph Heller but also a state of logic. For example, often to get a job in today's world one needs prior work experience- a little difficult to obtain one without the other. In a more recent case, I knew I was running late this morning. So in order to make it up to my brand new class, I stopped off for donuts- a move that only made me later. However," he maneuvered around his wide desk, "every single one of you are held to this school's punctuality standards. I don't believe I should be exempt from those standards. To the contrary, I should be held to them even higher, not only because I am your teacher but because I possess the nifty ability to drive." At the resulting laughter his last statement produced, he smiled and raised the bakery box's lid, revealing the numerous donuts. "Single file line-up, please."

IIIIIII

Paused from wriggling foot into left shoe, the girl somewhat hopped over in response to the raps at the door.

A smile took over her face at the one she discovered out in the hall. "Hey!"

Logan caught the excited teenager in a strong hug then remarked, "Really, you don't so much as ask who it is? You know better than that."

"I also knew it was you," she informed.

"Oh yeah?" He lowered her back to the floor and closed the door after them. "How?"

"The vast wonders of female intuition." Maya then admitted, "Or Kay might have mentioned it." She hugged him again. "Oh it is too good to see you."

"You, too, Smiley." He kissed the top of her head then indicated the black messenger bag slung across one shoulder. "And I come bearing gifts."

"Ooh." Maya hopped over to sit on the center of the couch in anticipation.

Resting the bag on the coffee table, Logan began removing its contents. "From your beau," he handed her a small ribbon tied pack, "for his MVP."

Maya inhaled the chocolates contained beyond the soft pink material. "Incredible. Just like him."

"I'll tune him into that memo. From the Cat-Cat," Logan took out a green pencil with attached frog eraser, "pretty sure that came in the pack we got him for school."

"Awww." Maya used the frog end to nuzzle against her cheek.

Logan next helped up a casserole dish covered by plastic wrap. "Because Fox is convinced you're starvin' to death."

"Skinny girl stereotypes," Maya waved off, "It's my fault for existing."

"And in case you get any ideas about loungin' around all day," he lastly presented her with a thick manila folder, "Hank and the Headmasters thought this would keep you busy."

Maya flipped through the load of assignments. "Only from now until the end of the year."

"Well, they want it post marked by the end of the week. And so do I." He gazed at her intently. "Got it?"

Maya bobbed her head. "Loud and clear. And darn-it, there go my plans to hover back and forth between the vending machines."

Logan took a seat on the coffee table to better face her. "How's your ma doin'?"

"She's had a couple overnights at the hospital lately. Her energy's been really drained and they've been wanting to monitor it." Maya tucked a portion of long hair behind her ear. "There's only so long I can hang around and watch her lay there before the walls start closing in."

Logan nodded his understanding then patted her knee. "Come on. I hardly glanced at food this morning. Let's grab some breakfast." She smiled and went over to an end table to add her keys to her purse. "Eh-eh," Logan stood with a finger aimed at her, "where's your taser?" Opening her bag wider, she made the rhinestone decorated weapon visible to him. "And that's my Smiley."

Far more aglow than when she'd started off that morning, Maya grabbed the casserole to hurry and stick inside the refrigerator.

IIIIIII

At the conclusion of their home economics class, Angel and Cordelia gathered their bags and filed out amongst the others.

"So, what do you have in mind for your first project?"

Angel considered it. "I think I'll try stitching a skirt."

"Oh, Kayla can probably help you with that," Cordelia suggested. "I think I'll go with pastry baking."

"And just like that, we'll have husbands by the end of the year," Angel declared glibly.

"Ask and ye shall receive, my queen."

The pair glanced over to see a tall brown skinned male with thick dark hair bound inside a ponytail heading across to them from auto shop. "Okay, now I know you're new because there's no way in the world I could forget anybody half as foxy as you."

Cordelia shook her head and hid a snort.

"I am new, but your lines are old," Angel stated matter-of-factly. "And we're late for class."

He blocked their path before they could step away. "Hold on, hold on. I'm Noah. Can I get your name, sweetie?"

"Really?" Cordelia raised an eyebrow. "That's your magnificent approach?"

"Seriously," Angel concurred. "And if you're looking for somebody to go two-by-two with, Noah, I'm not the one."

"Is there a problem here?"

The three looked to the teacher who had just walked up on them without so much as a squeak to his shoe and Noah quickly assured, "No, there's no problem, Mr…"

"Dr. McCoy," Hank filled in, fists on hips. "Let's get to class, people."

As Noah headed on his way, the girls shared a brief look with their instructor before continuing on.

Having found a second row seat next to Ben, Sean peered up as another entered the class. "Angel?" At the sound of his voice, she started their way. "You're in AP History?"

"Hey," Angel removed her shoulder bag before taking the seat next to the redhead, "I'm shocked, too. History was my one automatic A last year. I really liked World Studies."

"Really?" Ben piped up. "I floundered a little there once we got out of Europe. We have to get a study group together."

"Definitely," Angel gladly concurred.

IIIIIII

"We're going to spend a good deal of time discussing personal health and how it relates to people your age." Slowing his pace, Hank leaned back against his desk to gaze out at his gathering of students. "One pitfall of youth is that we have a tendency to believe ourselves indestructible. However, the habits you practice now will ultimately influence your long-term wellness."

As Hank continued, the words somewhat minced together in Frank's ears with his main attention on the desk directly in front of his. In it sat a girl with wavy cinnamon brown hair and a gently sun cherished complexion. When she pushed some of her hair back, Frank noticed the emerald studs that complimented the green dress she wore so well.

At the bell sounding, Hank pronounced, "That's time for now. I'll see most of you in the gym later. Remember, I also offer science and math tutoring. You can find me either in here or in my office just off the small gym."

While everyone else started out, Frank took his time then approached Hank. "So, how's it going?"

"It's," Hank thought for a moment, "certainly an adjustment dealing with large class sizes, not to mention so many new faces. What about you? Excited about our new unit?"

"Oh yeah, for sure," Frank replied.

"Yes, the growth rate of ringworms is a topic that's always fascinated me."

"Same here," Frank nodded.

"Too bad I just spent the last ten minutes discussing personal health." Hank's eyes gleamed from under his glasses.

Frank's mouth formed a taut circle. "Guess I zoned out for a sec."

"Or more," Hank tacked on meaningfully. "Let's not make a habit out of that, alright?"

"Got it," Frank said with a head bob before taking his leave of the room.

IIIIIII

"And there's the lunch bell." Mrs. Andrews turned a smile on the young ones. "As soon as you're back from recess we're going to group your desks into tables."

One boy with light brown hair asked, "Can we pick who we want to sit with?"

Mrs. Andrews informed, "We're going to go by alphabetical order."

All with sour expressions in place, Joey, Cody, Laci, and Fred made it out into the hall before speaking.

"Alphabetical order?" Cody grimaced. "We'll be scattered all over the place."

"I know," Fred grumbled. "It'll probably be last names, too and I'm a D."

Laci mentioned, "I'm a C."

"I'm H." Cody turned to Joey. "And you're an X."

Joey claimed, "I'll be across the planet from you guys."

Dragging his feet as they started for the cafeteria, Fred stated, "This is the pits."

"Yeah, I like our group the way it is. Oh, I'll see you guys at lunch," Laci went to go around one corner, "I have to take my medicine in the nurse's office."

"We'll save you a seat," Joey called after her, attempting to retain some small bit of cheer.

II

Zeroing in on his housemate, Scott squatted down the first-grader filled table to get near to Trav's ear. "Hey, pain."

The younger boy looked away from speaking with Lily. "Hi, Scottie."

"Hi," Lily acknowledged.

Scott smiled at her before putting attention on Trav. "You doing okay?"

"Uh huh," Trav nodded. "Except I already know most of the new words."

"Well, we still have another half to go," Scott said reassuringly. "I'll see you at recess." He walked back to find his own classmates.

Honing in on the incoming fifth graders, Becky took Joey's hand to pull him away. "Are you okay?"

The blonde boy nodded. "Yeah, it was going okay until…"

Becky frowned urgently. "Until what?"

Joey explained, "Mrs. Andrews is making us sit in alphabetical order. I won't be anywhere near my friends."

Absorbing that, Becky said, "Don't worry. It'll be okay. Come on." She guided Joey and the others to come sit with her, Scott, and the three Braunstein siblings.

Coming in, Mike found Fred. "Hey, where's Lily?"

Josh explained, "The little kids have to eat with their class."

Fred indicated a spot for him, "Sit down, string bean."

Mike lowered into the available space. "Hey, Cody."

"Hey, Mike." Cody started digging through his lunchbox. "So, what're your teachers like?"

"Pretty nice I guess," Mike said indifferently.

"Mr. A is really cool," Becky stated.

Josh looked up. "Mr. A?"

"Mr. Ashton," Scott clarified. "All the girls are gushing over him."

Megan emphasized, "He is so sweet. He brought donuts for the whole class."

Rachel gaped at her sister. "He did?"

Megan and Becky nodded with highly content expressions.

"Wow, he sounds way better than our teacher," commented Cody. "She won't even let us sit where we want."

"Laci, over here!" Joey called upon spotting her.

"Hi, everybody," she greeted, coming over and putting her lunchbox down.

"It sure is weird not eating lunch at home," Joey said. "My Uncle Erik's not here to bug me about my vegetables."

Fred watched him take out the bag of chopped celery, broccoli, and carrots. "Uh, then what are you doing with that?"

"Oh," Joey realized. "I'm just used to it. At home we can't even smell dessert before we finish everything- and I mean everything."

"Well, you ain't at home now," Fred stated importantly. "Put that down." Joey slowly lowered the bag. "That's it- dowwwn. At real school your folks ain't here to tell you what to do. You can eat all the candy and junk you want to." He revealed the tall tin container he'd brought in along with his lunchbox. "Like my mom's back-to-school triple fudge brownies."

The others became a near babbling mess at the offered treat.

After they finished eating, Scott went to catch up with Becky. "Hey, aren't you coming to recess?"

She looked back at him. "I'll be there in a minute."

Scott nodded then went with the others out into the sunshine.

Journeying to the fourth and fifth grade area of the building, Becky located the classroom with Mrs. Andrew's name plate. She poked her head into the open classroom, finding the middle-aged woman seated at her desk.

"Excuse me, Mrs. Andrews?"

The teacher looked over with a little smile. "May I help you, honey?'

"Yes," Becky walked in, "I'm Rebecca Lehnsherr. Joey Xavier's cousin."

"Now would that be," she flipped through her attendance book, "Charles Joseph Xavier?"

"Yes, ma'am," Becky nodded. "You see, he's really nervous about our new school. It helps to be with his friends, though. That's why I was hoping they could stay sitting together instead of doing alphabetical order."

After listening, Mrs. Andrews replied, "I really appreciate your concern for your cousin, Rebecca, but Joey's never going to get out of his shell that way. This will be a good way for him to get to know the other children."

"But Joey isn't exactly… like other children."

"Again, your concern is admirable. However, I think I know best in this case, dear."

Planting one hand against the top of the desk, Becky locked a focused gaze on the woman. "Joey and the others don't have to sit in alphabetical order. They can sit wherever they want, right?"

Shaking her head as if to clear it, Mrs. Andrews responded with a prompt, "Yes, yes of course. Wherever they want."

Smiling widely, Becky said, "Good," and left out with a skip to her step.

"Hey, Tink," Victor stopped before they could bump into each other, "I'm surprised at you."

She glanced up at him worriedly. "What do you mean, Knight Victor?"

"Figured you'd be out playin' about now."

"Oh right." The pleasant expression returned to her face. "I'm going now." She continued on in search of the playground.

At her rapid movements, Victor had to wonder exactly how much sugar the girl had consumed during lunch.

IIIIIII

Small baby comfortable against her shoulder, Kayla better adjusted the fleece throw around him. Her lips sent him a gentle lullaby that calmed him while he applied gentle tugs to her long hair.

At the sound of the front door unlatching, Kayla stepped out from the living room.

"Erik and the guys went to go wait for the kids to get out." Raven came closer, giving Brian a smooch on the back of the head. "Where's Kiki?"

"Up in her room." Kayla caressed Brian's back. "We had a bit of an issue earlier when she launched an anti-naptime protest."

"Oh boy." Jogging up to the second floor unit, Raven peeked inside the bedroom her daughter shared with Becky. "Hi, baby gorge."

Rolling over on the mattress, Kiki raised her arms giddily. "Mommy!"

Joining her in the bed, Raven took hold of her to kiss both her cheeks. "Look what Mommy has." From out of her bag, she revealed the package of gummy worms.

Kiki's eyes sparkled. "Gummies."

"Yes, but first I want you to tell me something." Raven held her to make them eye to eye. "Were you a good girl for Kayla today?" After a very long pause, Kiki shook her head. "Why not?"

Kiki rocked her body back and forth. "I missed you and Daddy."

"Oh baby," Raven hugged her tightly, "we miss you, too. I know it's really hard with Mommy in school and Daddy at work now." She felt the toddler nod against her. "But we still need you to be good when we're gone. That means no fits or fussing with Kayla or anyone else we leave you with, okay?"

"'Kay, Mommy," she replied. "I'm sorry."

"Good," Raven cuddled cheeks with her for a bit before moving back a little to rip open the top of the candy bag. "Two worms now and we'll save some for Trav."

Kiki grinned excitedly and Raven laughed when she used the two pieces of candy as makeshift fangs dangling out of her mouth.

IIIIIII

Upper shelf of locker situated with the books he would not need, the redhead stuffed his history text and reading sheets for English into his bag.

Noticing the girl with yellow folder hugged to her chest, Sean acknowledged her with a short, "Hey," then raised an eyebrow when she walked by him. "You're either deaf or have taken a vow of silence. Please, please tell me it's the latter."

Veering back with stony glare in place, Cordelia put forth, "Isn't it dishonorable for you to be seen conversing with a Jill Regular like me?"

Quickly realizing what she meant, Sean let off a small sigh. "I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean to be a jerk at breakfast. With everything going on, I guess I just have a lot on my mind."

"Nice work, man."

Sean glanced over his shoulder at the short haired blonde behind him. "Huh?"

"You're Maya Patterson's boyfriend, right?"

An automatic smile came to Sean's face. "Sure am."

"Way to get Minute Maya to give it up," he smirked secretively, "Did she really change schools because you knocked her up?"

Cordelia's jaw dropped and her blue eyes almost passed for crimson. "What? How dare—" She jumped at the way Sean's arm protruded next.

The irate Irish boy shoved him into the locker next to his. "You trying to call my girl a slut?" Sean's teeth clenched. "Are you?"

"Whoa, man, ease off." The blonde pushed away from his cautiously. "I'm not the one who said it."

"Then who did?" Sean demanded.

Cordelia took him by the wrist in the tightest grip she could muster without going gold. "Sean, forget him. He's just a stupid git."

Tension far from subsided, Sean nonetheless moved back. The other male teen walked off with smug glower in place.

Cordelia rubbed Sean's lower arm a little. "Let's go find Ang and Frank, okay?"

In a rage filled silence, Sean slammed and secured his locker door before departing with her for the other end of the hall.

IIIIIII

Crouching up behind the boy who meticulously put his supplies away inside his school bag, Erik whispered, "Hello, little valiant."

Spinning about with a big grin in place, Trav's arms went right around the man. "Uncle Erik!"

Erik chuckled deep in his chest as he lifted him.

Turning away from speaking with Carly, a large man approached with Lily in his arms. The little girl appeared attached to him in such a way that possibly not even the jaws of life could so much as nudge them.

"How you doin'?" He held out a hand. "Rick Dukes. You Trav's father?"

"Uncle, actually." Erik accepted his hand in a shake. "Erik Lehnsherr. I've heard a lot about you from the boys. You must be thrilled to be home for a while."

"Up over the moon." Rick planted a kiss near Lily's temple. "Come on, bud. Let's go round up those bonehead brothers of yours." He looked back to Erik. "Good to meet you."

"You as well," Erik said after them.

"Bye, Lily," Trav waved.

"Bye," she smiled back.

After talking briefly with Carly, Erik moved on towards the upper grades' building. Standing outside the door a moment, he looked in to see the last of the seventh graders filing out. Becky and Megan stood near the chalkboard conversing with a young brunette man.

"And what is it called?"

"MT. Westchester," Megan named. "My parents can't wait to get the first service on now that it's all fixed up again. I think it's better than ever."

The man commended, "That shows a great deal of courage and perseverance on your mother and father's parts."

"A lot of people helped out." Megan smiled towards her friend. "Like Becky's family. They really contributed."

Becky toyed with the strap to her bag somewhat absently. "It was nothing."

"Well, I better go catch up with Rach and Josh. See you tomorrow, Becky," Megan started out, "Bye, Mr. A." She stopped before jolting into someone outside the door. "Oh hello, Mr. Lehnsherr."

"Goodbye, Megan," Erik said behind the passing girl then entered the class.

"Papa!" Becky raced over to accept a one-armed hug from him while he used the other to hang onto Trav.

Smiling, the other man in the room neared them. "How are you, Mr. Lehnsherr? I'm—"

"Aaron Ashton," Erik filled in. "If I'm not mistaken, this is your first year here."

Only able to gape at first, he eventually came back with, "Yes. Wow, I didn't know I had reputation enough and here it has preceded me."

"Uncle Erik knows everything," Trav stated proudly.

Erik gave the boy in his lock a squeeze. "I like to stay informed when it comes to my children."

Aaron nodded. "I wish more parents would."

Erik stood Trav up. "Becky, why don't you meet up with the others at the car? I'll be right there."

"Okay." Taking Trav's hand, the girl formed a big smile. "I'll see you tomorrow, Mr. A."

"See you then," he sent after her before returning attention to Erik. "I'm actually glad you came by. I've reviewed Becky's file and I must say, you've left me feeling quite intimidated."

Erik appeared mildly intrigued by this. "Is that so?"

"Yes," Aaron affirmed. "You've had her study and excel in concepts and foreign languages I myself was not introduced to before college. Scott as well. That's why I recommended an independent study period for both of them instead of taking language requirements they've more than fulfilled already."

The impression reflected on Erik's features. "If you've been able to read them this well after only a single day, I look forward to whatever else you may have to offer them." He dipped his head cordially. "I'll be seeing you."

"Take care." Classroom now entirely empty, Aaron went through to straighten out the desks and collect any random paper accumulations left behind by his students.

II

Instantly spotting the unmistakable pair, Alex put forth humorously, "Hey, who's that?"

"Al!" As soon as he lifted his arms, Joey felt himself elevated and tossed over his brother's shoulder.

"Whoa, what's that?" After briefly spinning with him, Alex lowered Joey into his arms to face. "Is that a smile? Are you the same guy we dropped off this morning?"

"Yeah," Joey then added mysteriously, "at least I'm pretty sure."

Leon stood still for Cody to administer several mock punches to his abdomen. "I take it you did not have to endure the wrath of teachers' sassy looks."

"Nope." Cody glanced up with a smirk. "But gimme a couple days and I'll get there."

From where he leaned against the X-Van with Becky, Trav pointed out importantly, "Here comes Uncle Erik."

The Poland native rubbed at Cody's hair and tugged on Joey's ankle, making him chortle. "So apparently Victor is monitoring detention. Where might our Cyclops be?"

Alex gazed over to where Scott spoke with Gary and some of their teammates. "Hey, Summers!"

Wrapping up his conversation, Scott approached his collective housemates. "Hi."

Alex tossed at his hair. "Let's get going, cool kid."

"Where're Mum and Dad?" Joey wondered.

"Your mother went to pick him up from the city," Erik explained.

As they loaded into the car, Alex said while helping Trav into his seat, "So, let's hear about the big day. How was it?"

To no one's surprise, Trav proved the first to field that question and with the longest amount of details.

IIIIIII

At the sound of the man returning from emptying the trash, Maya stood prepared with cool beverage.

Making his way into the kitchen from the back door, Logan accepted the glass of lemonade. "Thanks, Smiley." He propped against the sink. "So what're you doin' after this?"

Maya sat at the table. "Probably go through my homework and sneak some of Kay's casserole over to Mom later."

With a short bob of his head, Logan's blur irises darted from the window to the doors. "You remember to lock up at night, right?"

"Oh definitely."

He eyed her seriously. "You're sure?"

"Wolverine," the amusement on her face could hardly be shielded, "I've stayed in an entire house alone before, remember? If I don't know standard safety procedures by now, I need to watch more horror pictures with Sean."

"I'm not kiddin' around, Maya," Logan stated soberly. "This ain't Westchester. I want you to watch yourself every time you walk out that door. Be back in before it gets dark out. Bring that taser—"

"Everywhere." Maya stood again, peering somber brown eyes up at him. "I know. I'm being careful. You don't have to worry over me so much."

"It's what I do." Logan tugged gingerly at a section of her hair. "And I'm the best there is at what I do."

Not about to dispute that, Maya presented her smile his way.

IIIIIII

Clear round bowl in his possession, Cody initially paused in the doorway until his mother waved for him to come forward.

Hanging up the phone, Kayla told him, "Your dad will be home in about half an hour." She took the popcorn he handed her and inhaled the cheddar salt. "Ooh, thank you."

Cody climbed up to lay beside her on the bed. "Do you want some of Daddy's tea?"

"Not right now. I just need this." She sent her spare arm around him, pressing a kiss to his hairline. "So, tell me the truth. Do you like what you see of your new school so far?"

"Yeah, it's okay," he replied indifferently. "It's better being there with Cody and the guys. We're all new. Even Laci kinda still is."

"I'm so glad you all have each other. I know it definitely means a lot to the Dukes since they only just moved here." She felt something in his expression. "CoCo? Is there something else?"

"Not really. Just that…" Cody gazed up at her. "It's kind of weird not having you there."

"Oh I know," Kayla concurred. "I must have looked up ten times today expecting to catch you in the halls."

"Mama, can I stay with you until Dad gets home?"

"I'd love that." While he settled in and nibbled on a bit of the popcorn, Kayla stroked his hair and began recalling a folktale to him.

IIIIIII

Two fingers gently caressing the cheek of the sleeping little blonde, he found himself unable to pull away for a few minutes. Charles eventually pried himself but not before leaving a kiss on Joey's nose and another on Trav's forehead. The Professor smiled when the younger of the two wiggled his face a bit and quickly eased off again.

Passing through the third floor, he next entered the teenage quarters. After looking over Scott and Frank, he went to Sean's bed. Though the notion entertained him a moment, the telepath decided against exploring the young man's thoughts. He did, however, brush strands of red hair away from his face and plant a thought of his own.

I love you, Seanie.

Finally making it back down to his own level, Charles caught the psyche of one returning from the bathroom.

Oh, Princess.

Prince Charles, she smiled up.

Charles got to one knee before her. I'm so delighted you had a nice day. I have to admit I was quite worried about your powers for a moment.

Becky's eyes widened. Why?

Being surrounded by all of those minds for so long today. I thought the mental strain would get to you.

Oh, she shook her head, no, it didn't bother me.

Certainly not I imagine, Charles regarded her proudly, with your dance recitals and baseball cheers, you've come leaps and bounds with your telepathic disciplines.

Thanks. I better get back to Kiki. Becky came close enough to peck his cheek. Good night, Uncle Charles.

The Professor watched her scamper away. Good night, Princess.