X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter Two Hundred Twenty Five
Author's Word: Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry fam! I know it's been forever since the last update. Thank you guys so much for the feedback there. So, my big quiz is over (high B with a cool extra credit opportunity that will make it a complete high A) and now I have my psychology test on Thursday. Please, please, please send encouragement the way of your heiress. Please, please! In the meantime, please enjoy and review!
Attention away from the oven for a moment, the large foot exercised prompt reflexes in avoiding the sleek black creature enjoying his own breakfast. Thanks to Logan coming through earlier on his way out to the backyard, the cat currently lapped up sliced and warmed fish in a thin chicken broth with a bowl of chilled water next to it.
Erik squatted and stroked him at the spine, causing Midnight's tail to rise contentedly. "My brother may have certain opinions about your company, but you're always welcomed as far as I'm concerned."
When the animal glanced up to lick around his mouth, Erik received a flash of the numerous strays that used to wander onto his family's property. His mother would routinely put out leftovers for them, ever grateful to the felines for keeping the rodents out of their home. If only they had been a formidable enough force to keep the real vermin from entering their house…
Blinking away the thoughts so quickly turned dark, Erik resumed his morning duties.
Coming in wearing green turtle themed pajamas, Trav's face lit up and his brown eyes sparkled at the sight before him. Almost certain it had been lifted straight out of Fantasia, he watched his uncle command the tea kettle, pans, spatulas, and other cooking aides all at once.
At Midnight's gentle meow, the wizard of metal peered back at his youthful spectator. "Good morning, little Valiant."
"Good morning, Uncle Erik." Stopping to pat Midnight, Trav stuck palms to the kitchen island and climbed up to sit on its surface. "Mommy's so sleepy."
Approving of the boy lightly exercising his mutation, Erik concurred sympathetically, "Yes, she is. In fact, the women in the family went quite above and beyond for us this holiday weekend. They all deserve to sleep in a bit."
Trav inhaled an aroma most pleasant. "Are those blintzes?"
Erik sprang the tray up and over to place beside him. "I only hope you will have room enough for my chocolate babka."
Trav's arms shot into the air victoriously. "Babka!"
Erik inched in close to him and shushed him lightly. "Indoor voice, Valiant. We mustn't wake the entire house."
"Oops," Trav pinched his lips, "sorry."
"I know you're only excited." Erik gave him a little smile. "Happy it's Monday as well?"
"Uncle Erik, I can't wait to get back to school," Trav told him. "I'm going to see Max and Lily and tell everybody about my first Thanksgiving with my new family." He quickly added, "But I won't tell them anything about my old Thanksgivings. I promise."
"As always, I have full confidence in you." Though he did hate how much Trav above the other children had to remain so constantly vigilant with his words. "Here," Erik handed him over a blintz, "am I doing my mother justice?"
With a single bite, Trav nodded his head in strong confirmation.
IIIIIII
Concluding his inspection with a final gaze into the teenager's left ear, Hank clicked off his miniature flashlight and immediately went to updating the chart.
"Your last bloodwork came back mostly positive, though your iron is still an issue," he reported.
Brenda assured him, "I try to eat as much as I can ever since it happened. I was hungry for so long, but it became so hard."
Hank eyed her kindly. "Is the nausea as bad as before?"
"I only threw up once last week," she answered him. "I thought I had room enough at dinner one night." Her light olive features drooped a little. "My stomach gave me its opinion on that all night long."
"It will get better, Brenda," Hank stated knowingly. He ran a soothing hand through her dark locks. "Your hair is so much fuller and do not get me started on your complexion. Very pretty."
Brenda smiled bashfully. "Thanks, Hank."
He formed a straighter face. "I know this isn't easy to discuss with me, but I still have to ask. Your cycle?"
The girl shook her head, far more forlorn than embarrassed. "Nothing. It feels so weird going all these months without it. Even though I love having a break from cramps, I feel icky regardless. Hank," Brenda looked at him seriously, "it'll be back, right? And I can have kids?"
"Of course." Hank placed a hand on her shoulder and squeezed delicately as he added, "When you're very married and very thirty."
Brenda waved a faux accusing finger at him. "You've been talking to my dad again."
Hank chuckled. "In all honesty, Brenda, you really have nothing to worry about. Recovery from food depravation does take time, but everything will soon return to normal."
Brenda put forth, "Can that word even apply to people like us?"
"I suppose you will have to call us the new normal," Hank said simply. "Though speaking of people like us, I would love to take sometime soon to work with you on your foot speed. We have much in common there."
"That'd be great." She then admitted, "I really do miss running track."
Folding his arms, Hank inquired, "Why do you say that as if it's a bad thing?"
Brenda reminded, "It's how they found me. They just grabbed me at the end of practice."
"Brenda," Hank spoke, eyes caring but firm, "you did nothing to deserve what you went through. Between you and I, we can be our own track team."
She smiled his way. "Okay."
"As for now," he removed his stethoscope and lab coat, remaining in his gray slacks and collared shirt, "I have to return to my students, all of whom I'm sure are eager to hear about the wonders of influenza prevention."
"Sounds cool to me," Brenda said sincerely. "My parents are still iffy on all things school and X, but assignments from here aren't too bad. Maya said she'd help me today. I can't believe what a brain she is; so lucky."
Hank wiggled his glasses in a mysterious fashion. "You'll find that particular word to be relative around these parts."
IIIIIII
Prepared for what the day ahead would deposit at his doorstop, the man in navy blue security attire descended the staircase. He stopped on the center step to take in the image of woman with child in her possession. Dressed in her dark trench coat, scarlet red blouse that complimented her hair peeking through the exposed front, and black pencil skirt with matching pumps, she secured the mittens to teeny and mildly fidgety hands. When Brian gently pulled on a small section of her ginger strands, Adrienne formed a small smile that spoke of the solidarity between the two.
"What would a man have to do," Victor continued down the steps until he stood right in her presence, "to convince a dame like you to stay another couple days?"
Adrienne's blue eyes regarded him up and down. "Believe it or not, that uniform is a fine start."
"Knew you rich girls all craved domestics deep down."
"If you only knew what I craved deep down."
Both growing quiet, the next act between their lips came in the joining of the pairs. Brian appeared to watch the kiss with curiosity until they at last pulled back.
Victor said, "You know I wish I could fly you back myself, but I need to get to work. First day back from a long weekend and all."
"Same here," Adrienne understood. "I can hardly bear to think of the load that awaits my return to San Francisco. I already saw the girls. Angel was so eager to have Samantha visiting her in class."
"I think Sammie's getting a kick out of it, too," Victor said.
"Call me if anything flares up with her," Adrienne directed.
The man countered, "And you call me tonight to let me know you got in alright."
"I'll pencil you in. Well," Adrienne hugged her nephew to herself, "we have to meet your mother in the garage."
Victor slipped an arm around Adrienne's waist and went alongside them.
IIIIIII
Ready to round one corner, Carmen stopped abruptly and gripped her books close to her chest. She extended her head somewhat to get another glimpse of the boy who stood talking with the brunette and all-too-blonde females. She resumed movement once Angel and Samantha departed arm in arm.
"Happy late Thanksgiving."
At the voice, Frank turned around his features grew both pleased and surprised. "Car, hi." He reached forward to hug her. "Happy late Thanksgiving. How was yours?"
"Crowded as always," she responded. "Cousins running around everywhere. My sisters and I helped out. I brought some of Grandma's sweets for you guys to try at lunch."
"Oh cool, thanks."
Carmen did brought up, "Was that the girl from Parents Night I saw with Angel?"
Frank grew squeamish and rubbed his neck. "Yeah, that's Sam."
"Is she going to school here now?" Carmen asked curiously.
"No, she's just visiting still and hanging out with Angel here this week."
To Frank's astonishment, her next question turned out to be, "Are they having lunch together? Because it'd be better if she could sit with us. I'm getting a little tired of being the only girl at that table."
Frank's smile developed so rapidly that he had to collect his words. "You mean it? You want her to eat with us?"
"If Angel doesn't mind."
"Don't worry. I'll talk to her," Frank promised. "Gee, Car, I really appreciate this. Mondo and Collin still act so weird around each other. I just want to hang out with all my friends, you know?"
"Oh I know. Me, too. Come on," Carmen used one arm to link with his, "let's go to homeroom."
Frank secured his locker then started off with her before the warning bell could sound.
IIIIIII
Finding that neither nibbling on her nails nor eraser cleared up the equations before her, Brenda raised her head to take in the numerous people within the café. Though the place had been basic ghost town territory only a half hour before, she assumed the closeness to noon accounted for the surge. Brenda still experienced particular strangeness at being among so many at once after the rotation of mutants at the facility and being surrounded by the same "medical professionals" on a day to day basis. Even though she found it freeing as well, part of her searched those inside the small café. Were more of them watching them, waiting for their powers to emerge? Did they have cameras in there? Around town? Around the world.
Most eager to abandon that particular train of thought, Brenda refocused her gaze on the girl sitting right next to her. Maya had hardly looked away from her notebook the last few minutes. Even when she sipped her coffee, she simply slid the wide green mug over and drank with hardly a need to move her lips.
"Do you have a lot left to do?" Brenda asked.
"Not with this," Maya responded. "Mostly reviewing for the tests Kayla and Emma are planning."
"Okay, as far out as this is, does it feel weird at all to be having cappuccinos while everyone's in school?"
Maya said, "I got used to it in Buffalo. I still have things I need to catch up on, but this is nice. Since I'm doing it independently, I don't have to worry about being stuck in a classroom if my mom needs me." Maya rubbed one eyelid. "I wish I could concentrate better."
"Maya," Brenda spoke again, slower now, "I'm really sorry."
Facing the younger girl, Maya's expression reflected confused amusement. "Brenda, what are you talking about?"
"I'm sorry if being around me is making you think about that day. That night…"
"Brenda, what happened to Tricie had nothing to do with you. You're the one who had to be in that horrible place and you think you need to apologize to me? I'm the one who's sorry." Maya sat up straighter. "I don't mean to be so distracted. With Sean, Raven, and everybody in school it's nice to have another kid around who isn't in diapers or out to puncture my eyes the way Kiki is."
Brenda laughed a little. "But she's so sweet."
"Because you're not guilty of stealing her Sean."
Brenda asked covertly, "How do you even function between him and being surrounded by so many cute guys? Hank, Leon, Al—"
Maya shot up a hand of protest. "Okay, I was following until that last one."
"I have to agree." Stepping forward from the crowd with Styrofoam cup in hand, she concluded with, "Blonde gets really old really fast."
"Hi, Melissa," Brenda grinned.
Maya invited, "Sit with us."
Deciding to settle in a chair, Melissa said, "We have to stop meeting this way."
Maya asked, "Any covert operations on the horizon?"
"Maybe," Melissa replied noncommittally. Taking a drink of her coffee, she noticed the way the other girl ate her muffin by plucking little bits from it. "How are you?"
Brenda swallowed and said, "Still ten pounds under. I swear, people look at me like I'm some kind of freakish…"
"Mutant?" Melissa supplied, wearing a countenance that dared anyone around them to question her wording.
"Skeleton," Brenda stated. "And I swear they're all chanting, 'eat a sandwich'."
"Nice bones. Where's the meat?" Maya threw out in recollection.
"Haven't you girls heard?" Melissa put forth. "Skinny is defined as starving-by-choice. I've heard it all before, too. Just forget people. You're better off."
"At least you have Leon," Brenda said. "How long have you guys been going out, anyway?"
Melissa immediately lowered her cup. "Whoa, whoa, hold on. Going out? Before the facility, I believe the extent of our time together consisted of our teams reenacting the Civil War."
Brenda's expression slipped into that of utter confusion. "What? You're kidding."
Melissa stated, "I am dating no one."
"I don't believe it," Brenda attempted to comprehend. "At the facility, it seemed like you would've taken turns dying for each other."
Maya reacted to this with eyes darting upward.
Melissa shrugged, "Mutual enemies," she drank at her coffee, "band together or let them pick us off one by one the way they did Caitlyn. The way they're going to keep doing us if we let them."
Out of the corner of her eye, Maya hardly had time to register the one departing customer bumping into the waitress as her hand lifted sharply. The tumbling platter along with its beverages promptly up-righted in her hand. Taken aback at first, the server shook her head and continued on to deliver the drinks.
As the hustle and bustle only resumed, Maya shared surreptitious gazes with the other two present at her table.
IIIIIII
At the next two to enter the cafeteria, Tony acknowledged them first with, "Hey, Frank. Hi, Sam."
"Hi," the pink sweater and white skirt adorned girl returned with a wave to the three gathered.
"Sam, I know you remember Tony." Frank then properly introduced, "This is Mondo."
He raised a saluting fist. "How you doing?"
Frank went on with, "And this is Carmen."
"Hi, Sam," the other girl smiled. "Come on, sit down." Carmen showed the wide container she had with her. "You're just in time. I brought this for everyone. But we have to wait for Collin."
"Okay, help me out," Mondo said. "What exactly is bizocho de ron?"
"It's chocolate rum cake," Carmen explained. "But don't get too excited. Abuela makes the calmed down version for the kids."
"Hey, chocolate is chocolate," Tony reasoned.
Frank rubbed his hands together. "Thank you, Abuela."
"While we're waiting on Collin, can you nice boys grab some more plastic forks?" Carmen requested. "And extra napkins."
"That's women for you," Mondo commented. "Always want you singing for your supper."
Frank and Tony laughed as the three of them went off in search of the supplies.
"So," Carmen aimed her gaze across the way to Samantha, "I saw you on Parents Night. Just for a minute, though. I was so busy with my parents. And my teachers refused to stop talking about how great I'm doing. It was so embarrassing. Um, help me out here." Carmen snapped her fingers to aide recollection. "You're Angel Salvador's friend, right?"
Samantha stated with a smile, "Angel's my sister. I loved Parents Night. It was so much fun."
"Yeah, it was," Carmen concurred plainly. "But I'm confused. How are you Angel's sister? Tony said you live with her boss or something. Like a foster child?"
Samantha opened her mouth but could not really respond. "We… she's my…"
"Oh, I'm sorry. I'm in your business too much right now," Carmen determined. "I just really want us to get to know each other. You know, because of Frank. Isn't he the sweetest dream? He opens doors, pays, and everything whenever we go out. He's not like any other boy." Samantha continued in silence. "But try to be patient with him. I know there are times he probably doesn't understand your condition. That's only because he's used to being around honor students."
Not making a sound, Samantha reacted to the returning males and smiled.
"Okay," Mondo spoke as they deposited the necessary goods, "you ladies can quit talking about us now."
Strolling up, Collin said, "Thought my ears were ringing."
"Hey, man," Tony greeted while Frank slapped hands with him.
Mondo developed a sudden interest in his own lunch tray.
IIIIIII
Hand running along the soft brown fur, her fingertips eventually reached the wet nose. The animal sniffed, making her go stiff while he inspected her. At receiving nothing but a gentle neigh, Brenda calmed and continued to rub him.
"He is so handsome, Joey. I haven't been riding in years. You are so lucky to have your own horse."
"Yeah, he's the best," Joey continued to sweep up the excess waste in the barn, "except for this part. I love riding with my friend, Fred, from school."
Brenda looked over at him. "So, you can fly, too, right?"
Joey nodded, going over one particularly annoying corner. "Uh huh, but I have to use a metal disc. It's really fun, though. Except for that time I tried it out by jumping out the window."
Jaw dropping, Brenda shook her head with disbelief. "You didn't."
"After how mad my dad got? I wish I hadn't."
"Hey, people who like food, let's move it."
Brenda veered around, as if searching for divinity. "Was that Raven?"
"Yep." Joey put down his shovel, grateful for the break. "With this." He showed her his wrist. "Our communicators. Uncle Hank made them for us. You know, since we're not all telepaths and stuff."
Somehow feeling like she had landed in Oz, Brenda said, "That is so- Hank is insane, Frankenstein-in-the-basement smart."
"I know," Joey said with less of a grand impression in his voice. "Let's go. I have to wash up."
They exited the barn in time to see Cody zipping by. "Race you!"
Joey went after his friend while Brenda smirked, "Oh yeah?"
Building a momentum within the flats she wore, she shot forward like a precision arrow from its bow.
At the wind she picked up upon passing them, Cody regarded her in awe. "Wow! Hey, that's cheating!"
Laughing, Brenda threw back, "I know." She came to a halt outside a side entrance of the mansion. "But I still win."
Cody caught up first. "Okay, I admit it. That was cool."
Brenda happily exchanged a high-five with him before the three of them continued inside.
Joey scrubbed his hands, changed his sweatshirt for a nicer sweater, and hurried down to join the others. He arrived downstairs in time for the front door to fling open.
"Why all the hurry, Kangaroo?"
"Uncle Erik, Daddy," the child greeted with a big smile. He went to hug the legs of the latter. "You're home earlier."
"And not a moment too soon, little one." Charles bent to kiss the top of the blonde head. "How was school?"
Joey shrugged. "Okay."
Removing his coat, Charles decided, "That's a step up from "blah", I suppose."
"Small favors, brother." Erik hung up his hat and other outerwear.
Father and son joined hands and followed the metal wielder into the dining room.
"Guys," Raven acknowledged her brother, "sorry dinner isn't gourmet tonight. I have a lot of homework."
"Don't you dare apologize," Erik said, readying his arms for Becky to fly at him.
"We appreciate whatever you conjure for us, Raven," Charles told her. "Besides," he kissed Emma and pinched Brian's cheek, "I think your chicken soup will help keep the cold bug away from our lot."
Logan said, "Gave Midnight a taste, too."
Kayla put forth, "What do you have planned for him tomorrow? Caviar or shrimp?"
Her unbothered husband replied, "I picked up some fresh salmon cuts for him."
Samantha reacted to that with, "Oh thank you."
As soon as Erik settled in his seat, Trav left his own chair to climb into the man's lap.
"Son, Uncle Erik has had a long day," Hank lightly admonished. "He needs to be able to eat."
Erik bounced the boy lightly on his knee. "He couldn't be trouble if he tried. Now Brenda," he looked at the girl seated across the way, "how did today's visit go?"
"Okay, seriously, I have to know," Brenda started. "If I pick a random door in this house, will I be transported into a land of fairies and bubbling golden streams?"
Raven said in a mock tease, "We're not telling."
Laughing, Brenda said, "Maya rescued me with homework land."
"Ah, so you girls managed to get some work done," Charles said approvingly, accepting the bowl his wife took the liberty of filling for him. "I hope the material wasn't overwhelming."
Brenda considered that. "Actually, in a weird way, it felt good to just sit and do homework again."
"Whoa, whoa, Bren, watch what you say," Alex cautioned.
Sean further advised, "You do not want to give Kayla or Charles any ideas there."
Leon told Brenda, "Instilling fear into potential X-Men is a sacred ritual here."
Erik piped up, "Normally conducted by me." He then felt the tiny fingers in his hair and smiled down at the child he currently held. "I'm fully aware I need to visit the barber. I will get to it as soon as time allows."
At her son's continued digging through the man's hair, Raven chided, "Trav, cut that out. No monkey business at the table."
Growing somber, Erik gently took hold of the little hand. "Valiant, what exactly are you doing?"
Trav spoke with, "I knew you didn't have any."
Erik raised an eyebrow. "Any of what?"
The moment the word, "Horns," left the boy's lips, an immense quiet engulfed the table.
Though they also joined the quiet, Becky, Samantha, Joey, and Cody exchanged confused glances. Kiki mostly paid attention to her father's suddenly stony expression.
"In school today," Trav started to explain, "we were talking about what we ate on Thanksgiving. Everybody had turkey and potatoes and things and I wanted to talk about something different. I told them about the stuff Uncle Erik makes for us and how we celebrated Passover and Ros…"
"Rosh Hashanah," Becky assisted.
"Yeah," Trav nodded. "Then at recess, Kenny Nolan said anybody who celebrates those days and eats that food has horns on their head. I told him I don't have any and he kept saying Uncle Erik did and he hid 'em under his hats." Trav peered up at the man in question again. "I knew you didn't really have horns."
"I don't understand," Becky shook her head. "Why would he say that?"
"Children," Emma smiled at each of them, "how would you like to finish your suppers upstairs in front of the televisions? We'll bring dessert up to you."
Before any of the younger ones could say anything, Alex jumped up, "Let's go, guys."
Cordelia stood next. "Sounds like a plan to me."
As they gathered their dishes and started out, Brenda whispered, "Is this part of that fear ritual thingy?"
"No," Leon answered her, "just one of life's little rituals."
IIIIIII
Pacing the distance of the Mag Cave until he reached one antique sword that inspired him too greatly in that moment, Charles insisted, "We need to bring this to the school board."
"Charles, be reasonable," Emma urged. "Do you honestly believe those civil servants will pencil in the time of day for this matter?"
"Emma, I will be damned before I simply shrug this matter off as simple schoolyard teasing," Charles practically seethed.
"So will I," Raven seconded, seated on the sofa. "I have a light day tomorrow. I'll go down and talk to Trav's teacher myself about this kid."
Hank watched the den's owner magnetically move the silver balls inside his newton's cradle back and forth. "Erik?"
Glancing up at last, the older Headmaster said, "It's worthless to come down on the child. He no doubt learned it from home. Believe me, I've heard worse." Rising from the desk, he dismissed with, "Let's forget the whole thing."
Charles jumped on this instantly. "Erik-"
"Charles," Erik aimed eyes his way, "it was only directed at me, therefore unimportant. If this boy were doing anything specifically aimed at Trav, he would have me in the flesh to answer to. I do not want any more attention brought to this insignificant matter and upsetting Becky."
The Professor softened at that. "Yes, you're right."
Hank sat down and gave Raven his arm.
Emma walked over to press fingertips against Charles' front. It seems as if we're always faced with this in some form or another.
Charles sighed internally. Always.
II
Inside the lounge, Alex and Leon shot pool against Sean and Frank. From around the circular table, Cordelia, Maya, Angel, and Brenda played Go Fish. Samantha sat at the table with them, but kept her attention on the movie on television. Midnight purred contentedly from her lap.
Leon aimed for the next ball. "Ten bucks."
Sean noted, "Pretty sure of yourself to put that much on the line."
"I'm talking about this Kenny kid," Leon poked the white ball, causing it to roll the green one into the side pocket. "I'll wager ten he learned this from his father, most likely a man who believes in swapping out the morning OJ for a tall glass of whiskey. Or grandfather. Older brother is likely, too." Leon stood, leaning chin against his stick. "That's all it takes to turn kids into morons. Just repeating some moronic sibling or…" He trailed at Sean making a very obvious throat cutting gesture. "What?"
It dawned on him as Leon glanced back to a suddenly rigid Alex gripping his pool stick.
"Uh oh," Frank uttered.
"Ooh… sorry, Lex. I didn't mean…"
Alex waved an easy hand. "Forget it. I know, Lee."
"Wait, what's going on?" Brenda wondered.
"You got me," Angel shrugged.
Maya selected another card from the deck as she explained, "Alex taught Joey how to call Erik a certain bad word."
Alex turned accusatory eyes on the redhead in the room.
"What?" Sean gestured nervously. "We were on the phone and- ugh! Thanks, Maya."
Growing sheepish at her own realized error, Maya looked over apologetically. "Sorry, honey."
"Whoa, Erik?" Angel wanted to know, "What word?"
"Joey told me the story, but he only said it started with a K," Cordelia recalled.
"One we're not going to repeat," Alex said pointedly. "Unless whoever says it wants his mouth washed out with vinegar and a visit from Charles' ruler."
Brenda started to laugh. "Okay, you guys have to stop with the fear tactics." Her cheerful exhales promptly slowed at the looks she received from those gathered. "Um, guys?"
"Bren, babe, he's not kidding," Angel informed.
Brenda's mouth formed a tight circle. "... I should have known when I heard Charles' accent."
"Well, me and Sam had a great time at lunch," Frank brought up. "Carmen's being really cool. They got along great. Right, Sam?"
At last tearing attention away from glowing screen, a wide smile grew on the blonde girl's face. "Right, Frank." She stroked Midnight's stomach and he stretched out his front paws comfortably.
IIIIIII
"Okay, okay," Scott walked towards the younger boy's room, "before you start buggin' me, let's get this over with. How are your numbers?" To his surprise, he found Trav on his bed with his stuffed animals instead of at his desk. "You're done already?" Opening the blue homework folder, Scott discovered nothing but blank worksheets. "Whoa, Trav, what is this? You haven't touched any of this. Usually you're done with spelling alone long before now." Scott glanced his way. "You sick or… Trav?"
Hugging his ape toy, Trav said, "I just know I said something bad. I talked about the things in school we're not supposed to say. Now, Mommy, Daddy, Uncle Erik, and everybody are mad."
"Trav, hey," Scott came over to the bed and knelt to his level, "you got it all wrong. No one's mad at you. Not even a little bit. The grownups just sent us away so they could talk about this horn thing."
"But I still don't understand, Scottie." Trav's brown eyes reflected helplessness. "Why did Kenny keep saying that? Uncle Erik doesn't have horns."
Sighing through his nose, Scott moved to take a seat on the bed. "Come here, pal." Trav crawled over and cuddled against him. Scott placed arms around him. "I need you to listen to me, okay?"
"'Kay," Trav whispered back, gazing up attentively.
IIIIIII
Restraining a portion of her hair with a jeweled butterfly clip so that the remainder of the strands hung loose, Samantha next fished through her assortment of bracelets.
"Angie!" she bellowed. "Ready?"
Leaving her spacious closet, Angel adjusted the waist belt to her dress. "Sammie, calm down. It's enough you practically clawed me out of bed. School's not going anywhere."
"I'm so excited. I love your school. Everyone's so nice." Samantha tugged and bounced on the ends of her hair while staring into the mirror. She stood and turned for Angel to take in her outfit. "How do I look?"
The older teenager saw beyond the lavender skirt and white silk top to the full-face makeup. "Uh, you look like the little girl Victor is going to skin if you don't get some of this mess off you." Collecting a few tissues from the box, Angel went to work dabbing some of it away. "I know you like it and everything, but you've been to the school before. I promise. Nothing's changed since yesterday."
A glint about her reddish brown eyes, Samantha quietly thought otherwise.
IIIIIII
Their discussion of that morning's agenda came to an immediate stop when the presence of the young scientist with shoulders sagging made it into the Professor's study.
"Hank," Charles stood from his desk, "what's the matter?"
"I was unaware I would be venturing into the Twilight Zone this morning." Hank then told them, "Trav doesn't want to go to school this morning. As a matter of fact, he doesn't even want to get out of bed."
Charles shook his head in refusal. "Not Travis."
Erik frowned. "Is this all about yesterday?"
"It is about the fact that Scott felt the need to tell him in detail what Kenny Nolan's little comment really meant," Hank said in clear displeasure.
"Alright, enough is enough. I'm going to talk to Trav myself." Erik took his leave of the other men.
"Henry," Charles touched Hank's shoulder, "don't be angry with Scott. You know how much he values honesty."
"It was not his place to try to explain this to Trav," Hank emphasized. "That should have been left up to Raven or me or Erik."
"I know," Charles agreed. "And believe me, I am going to speak to him about this." He applied a comforting hand to his back. "Don't worry. We'll keep your boy on the crimson path to Harvard."
Hank managed a fragment of a smile at that.
II
When she spotted her oldest brother in the doorway of her son's bedroom, Raven left a kiss on Trav's cheek and got up from his bed.
Aiming a finger at Erik, she mouthed lowly, "I am going down to that school," on her way out.
Not about to argue with her or even finding it remotely necessary in that moment, Erik focused all attention on the small one still in bed in his pajamas.
"I hear my little Valiant doesn't want to go to school this morning," He sat on the mattress facing the saddened face. "Now, since he's much too good to be possessed, something else must be afoot. Are you sick?" Trav shook his head. "Then why in the world does Travis Xavier McCoy of all people not want to go to school, hm?"
Trav held his ape man close, trepidation in his voice. "Please, Uncle Erik. I don't want to go to school with kids like that."
Erik laid a hand over his covered stomach. "You mean like Kenny Nolan?"
Trav nodded. "Scottie told me. They said you have horns 'cause they think you're evil and that God hates you, too." The moisture in his eyes spilled over into tears like a broken dam. "But you're not evil and God doesn't hate you, does He?"
Erik became still. The question had flashed on and off throughout his own mind for years that no words came to his mouth immediately.
"Uncle Erik?" Trav continued to sob.
Returning to the present, Erik answered the beseeching child. "No, Trav. No," he collected the boy into his arms and let him cry into his shirt, "He doesn't." He kissed Trav's ear and hairline. "Shhhhh, it's alright, Valiant. Try to calm down now. Can you do that for Uncle Erik?"
Sniffling, Trav wiped at his eyes. "I- I don't w-wanna go to school with anybody who says bad things about you. 'Cause I love you, Uncle Erik. I love you so much."
His own chest ready to burst, Erik laid back with the small boy on top of him. "I love you, too, Valiant. I'll talk to your mommy and daddy. Would you like to stay with me today?"
Trav nodded hard to that. "Uh huh."
"Thank you," Erik said to him for more than one reason.
IIIIIII
With their homeroom teacher yet to arrive, the freshmen students lingered about the space in their various chattering clusters. When Frank stepped in, Tony and Mondo waved his way. Carmen turned to smile at him until the girl appeared alongside him.
"Hi, Tony. Hi, Mondo," Samantha sent back to them and especially brightened at the other female, "Hi, Carmen. I'm glad to see you."
Carmen flapped lethargic fingers. "Hi…"
"I better get back to Angel. Bye," Samantha pecked Frank's cheek, "see you at lunch." The yellow haired girl took immediate notice of Carmen's creased brow as she left.
The moment Frank looked her way, Carmen's features returned to their merry state.
IIIIIII
Dressed in a gray blazer ensemble with blue top, Raven toyed with the hem of her mid-length skirt while she waited. Moving from her seat, she walked to the windows. From the one on the far right, she received a partial view of the children's recess hijinks. She caught a glimpse of Joey amongst his friends and experienced an inward happy surge.
"I'm sorry to keep you waiting, Raven." Carly returned to the room with an older woman who appeared to be in her late thirties.
Looking back, Raven reassured, "No, it's fine." She walked forward to shake the hand of the new arrival. "Raven McCoy, Travis' mother."
After a brief enlargement in her eyes that she managed to shake off, the other woman said in turn, "I'm Lola Nolan. Carly mentioned something about a problem between Kenny and Travis."
"That's why we're here," Raven confirmed.
"I wanted to get the three of us together to discuss the matter in private," Carly further explained. "Please sit down, ladies." Raven and Lola took the two chairs facing her and the teacher sat behind her desk. "Now, as I understand it, Mrs. Nolan, Travis apparently came home very upset yesterday by a comment Kenny made. We were having a discussion in class about different foods eaten on Thanksgiving and other holidays. Travis happened to mention a few things about Raven's brother, who is of the Jewish faith. It seems that later during recess, Kenny made comments about Travis' uncle having horns on his head."
As if attempting to take it all in, a mix of amusement and relief resulted in Lola's countenance. "Is that what this is all about?"
Before Carly had the chance, Raven stated matter-of-factly, "Yes, that is exactly what this is about. Because I don't know if you're aware of this or not, but saying that a Jewish person has horns on his head is not only insulting, but completely hateful."
"Now Mrs. McCoy, you must be reasonable," Lola attempted to placate. "Kenny is only seven years old. While I agree he shouldn't have said such a thing, there is no way in the world he intended to be hateful. He couldn't have known what he was saying."
"He knew enough to go out of his way to try to hurt my son," Raven came back with sharply. "Trav was so upset, he didn't even want to see this place today and he is completely in love with school. Talking about the things he's learned fills up half the conversation at the dinner table."
Clearly taking some joy in those words, Carly piped up, "It is true that Travis enjoys school very much and he is an excellent student. For him to be so unable to face a day tells me that what Kenny said cut him very deeply."
"And since he is only seven," Raven put forth somewhat casually, "how does he know about that horns propaganda, anyway?"
Lola wore a tight smile as she explained, "Probably from one of my older sons. Or sometimes my husband and a few of his friends joke together during their card games. They don't mean any harm. It's all in fun."
No sign of humor showed present on Raven's face. "Maybe I just don't get the joke because I don't see what's funny about implying that my brother is in cahoots with the devil."
Lola insisted, "They certainly did not mean to insult your bro—"
"Yes, they did!" Raven spat, only keeping enough calm to control her mutation. "Every time they say something like that, they mean to insult him and everyone like him. Do you have a damn clue what my brother has been through and survived? What the hell is wrong with your family?"
"Ladies," Carly chimed in urgently.
Getting to her feet, Lola said do near clenched teeth, "I will not sit here and be insulted by some frantic little girl." She wagged a finger Raven. "I have been a mother for fifteen years to your fifteen minutes."
"Oh yeah?" Raven shot up. "How long have you been a professional bitc—"
Carly reached over to take her arm. "Raven- Raven, please."
Lola shook her head and declared, "I'm going to the principal."
"There is no need for that," Carly emphasized. "I organized this meeting so that it would not come to that. I understand how both of you feel about your children, but I wish you would try to hear each other for a moment. Mrs. McCoy, I don't think Mrs. Nolan meant to imply anything about your brother or dismiss the situation. And Mrs. Nolan, Mrs. McCoy's family has been greatly affected by this situation. All we're asking is that you please talk with Kenny. Ask him to keep these remarks to himself. And I do believe an apology is in order." She looked between the women. "Multiple apologies, actually."
After a minute, Lola released a small sigh. "Mrs. McCoy… I'm terribly sorry about Travis as well as your brother. I will have a word with Kenny as well as my husband."
Somehow releasing her inner heat, Raven returned, "I'm sorry for insulting you that way. I have a lot going on and this whole thing did not help matters. And I appreciate your doing that."
The three talked for a little longer before Lola had to leave for another appointment.
When they were alone in the room, Carly turned to Raven, trying to hide a smile. "Please tell me you were not honestly planning to snatch her earlobes by her hoops."
Raven thought then said, "I'm more of a kicker."
IIIIIII
With cargo most valuable currently riding on top of his shoulders, Erik gripped the small ankles as tightly as he could without going into vice territory. A gathering of older gentlemen in dark suits and hats with lengthy beards passed by them.
"Hello," Trav greeted to one that stopped to look at them.
"And good day to you," the man returned then faced Erik. "Your little boychick?"
Erik answered, "Today he is. My little plimenik."
Nodding, the man left them with, "Gutn tog," and rejoined his group.
Raising confused and ever inquisitive eyebrows, Trav asked, "What did he say, Uncle Erik?"
"Gutn tog is the Yiddish form of good day."
"Oh." The boy then wondered, "And what is pli-manic?"
"Plimenik," Erik clarified, "means nephew."
"Oh," Trav repeated with understanding.
The two continued together to see the rest of the exhibits before eventually departing from the museum. They next arrived at a sizable book shop. Though Erik gave Trav, who looked to be in a higher place of ecstasy than any candy store could offer him, free range, the man had to stop him from almost reaching his weight in selected literature. After much negotiation, they settled on five books that Erik purchased for him. Trav read one all the way back to the car and through Erik buckling him into his booster seat.
When they made it out of Manhattan and back into Westchester, Erik managed to pry his attention away from the second book first with ice cream cones then with a stop off at the park. They collected as many leaves as they could into an enormous mound. Naturally, Erik gave Trav the pleasure of the first go at it. The boy leapt in with full gusto and the elder cared not for dignity as he charged into it next. The bursting of the leaves caused the colors of red, orange, yellow, and brown to sprinkle down upon them. Both laughing, they simply laid their lingering in what remained of their pile.
Trav noticed something on the ground nearby and went to get it. "Here, Uncle Erik."
Sitting up a little, the older mutant accepted the fedora from him. "Appreciated, Valiant."
Trav then asked him, "Why do you wear so many hats, Uncle Erik? Uncle Charles doesn't."
Erik went into a whole other chuckle at that. "And muss that beautiful hair of his?" Answering the question, he said, "I suppose it's a habit that carried over from when I was a little boy. I always wore my yamaka to Temple. I drove Papa mad, constantly swiping his hats to try on."
Trav smiled at him. "Did he have the big black kind like those men at the museum? I've seen ones like it at the Braunsteins' temple."
"Yes, he had a couple," Erik recalled. "They're more common over in Europe." Or they once were, he added to himself silently. "They're very traditional, you see."
Nodding, Trav went to stand between his legs. "I like your traditions, Uncle Erik."
Erik wrapped arms around the child's tiny waist. "You know how I call you my Valiant?" He nodded again. "Do you remember the meaning of that word?"
"Brave, right?"
"Right. And do you know what I think would be the bravest thing you can do?"
"What, what?" Trav wanted to know.
Erik told him, "Go back to school and talk about those traditions as much as you like. Regardless of what anyone has to say about them. In fact, should anyone say anything else negative, I want you to talk about them even more. Do you think you can handle that?"
Trav appeared to consider it then raised his gloved hand in salute. "Yes sir, Uncle Erik."
"My Valiant." Erik picked him up in a big hug, causing the leaves to swirl about with their movements.
IIIIIII
Hands folded behind his back, the young teenager dropped them to his sides upon reaching the parlor. There, the Headmaster awaited him.
Scott, the man mentally acknowledged, come here, please.
Scott approached him, not feeling up to his full height. "This is about Trav, isn't it?"
Charles nodded. "Yes, it is."
"Are you going to spank me for telling him?"
Charles merely instructed, "Sit down, please."
Scott immediately obeyed and took up Erik's chess chair. "I'm really sorry. I had no idea that saying anything would make him want to miss school. I didn't think a full body cast would get Trav to miss school."
"That is beside the point, Scott," Charles stated firmly. "You had no right to explain such a thing to him. He is only a little boy and far too delicate to try to comprehend such wretched concepts. And you are too young yourself to try to explain these things on your own. I understand and admire your desire for honesty, but you must stop and think about the consequences that come with certain truths. Do you understand?"
The seat feeling far larger to him now, Scott replied, "Yes, sir. It won't happen again."
"Good," Charles said with a bob of his head, "because if it does, I will spank you."
Stopping outside the doorway, the metal wielder inquired, "Everything alright?"
Charles looked over and responded, "Yes, I believe we're fine here."
Erik placed eyes on the child. "Raven brought Trav's homework back with her. I think he would like a hand with it."
"I'm on it." Scott stood to go.
Erik patted his shoulder as he walked by him.
Charles shook his head with a growing smile. "That lad of mine…"
Erik stated, "I get part of him."
"Only a small one." Charles saw the humor drain from the elder Headmaster as he came to claim his usual seat. "Is Trav alright?"
"Yes, now."
"Then what is it?"
"Charles, Kiki and Trav were treated as nothing but high-class guinea pigs at that plant. They have seen frightening disaster strike us here. Trav came so close but lost the chance of a dear friend becoming his brother," Erik recanted. "Yet in spite of that, they remain the picture of joy and resiliency. To see Trav so heartbroken the way he was this morning… all because of me."
"I'll say," the Professor immediately concurred. "I honestly don't know what's wrong with you at times, Erik. Being such a wonderful uncle that hearing so much as one ill word about you is enough to crush that boy. How do you sleep at night?" At the look that came from Erik, Charles admitted, "Yes, I annoy myself also. On occasion."
"You cheeky rat. Even more unfortunate," Erik leaned back in his chair, "you're right. It's just so strange to think he could be that attached to me. Considering what foot Joey and I started off on.
"The situation was so different then," Charles pointed out. "You were so different then. But I always knew the man you are now to be the real truth. Pain and anger never defined you, Erik." He then watched his brother take to his feet. "Where are you going?"
"I just remembered," Erik started for the doorway but looked back, "Becky and I have gotten a little behind on our scripture study."
With a kind smile and nod, the telepath gave him his cue to go.