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.

230. Chapter 230 Hidden Truths

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Thirty

Author's Word: *Creeps out from behind desk* Fam, hi, great to know you? Would this be a good time to beg and plead for your forgiveness while simultaneously thanking you for your forever steadfast patience? What happened to me these last couple of weeks? Besides RL making a chained prisoner of me? I had to pick up so many shifts at work I lost count, I've had homework, tests, and projects up the ying-yang-yo, and some ruffian rear-ended my car into scrap metal. But Thanksgiving was so awesome! I hope you all enjoyed this last weekend. Also, I hope you enjoy and review this!

Oh, and for those of you who were worried that I had actually ended Rise or Fall- what are you, cracked?! This story was my refuge in the abyss of incident reports, psychology notes, and, ugh, insurance companies… Now, onward!

Despite its official designation as the music room, the only sounds to echo from the space consisted of highly enthused chatter frequently blended together with laughter. Working on finishing his second brownie sundae, Sean sat with legs crossed on top of the desk. He remembered how Trick so rarely used the hunk of wood. That fact proved especially true during classes when the man seemed to fly about the room without need of his mutation whenever he spoke in vivid detail about famous musicians.

Seated on his piano bench and facing Sean while they talked, Trick recounted, "Clear out the window? Advanced ears and all and he never saw you coming?"

"Not for a second," Sean responded, unashamed of his present hauteur. "It was crazy, Trick, but the second I saw Puma I went from being mule-mute to Banshee-broadcast. I really thought my voice was gone for good."

Trick shook his head to that right away. "The vocals and lungs of a true singer never completely vanish, though they can creep off into hiding until the right inspiration hits." Sean smiled at him and Trick let off a mild sigh. "To think what I've missed… Seanie, if I had only known the full details of what you went through in that facility—"

"Trick, don't worry about it," Sean quickly reassured. "There was no reason for you to rush out here all because I decided to be a major moron."

Trick promptly tackled that with, "Nothing you did warrants you being ripped from your brother and parents, thrown into a truck to go God only knows where, and have all manner of sick tests run you. Had they sterilized you, I'd have seen to it that their own testicles suffered a fate far grimmer."

Sean started to react favorably to that until reality set in. "Now sterilization might really happen. I know Charles is doing everything to fight this for us, but I just…"

Standing, Trick went to bring arms around him and immediately felt Sean's head rest against his chest. "You needn't worry about that, Seanie. You needn't worry about that at all."

Sean stated, "It almost feels like you're right. The way you say it."

"Just remember. Samson's hair eventually grew back." Trick moved back enough to make eye contact with the teenager. "The Lord never allows the wicked to stay on top forever, though they care to believe otherwise."

"Yeah," Sean agreed, finding his smile again.

Trick finally noticed the wall clock behind his desk. "Seems time ran from us in a getaway jet. It's touching three."

"Already?" Sean lifted his empty bowl and raised his other arm in a stretch. "How'd that happen?"

"Hearing how you dethroned that shadow king is my wager." Trick then determined, "Best be getting some shut-eye, boyo."

"Aw, Trick, no," Sean protested with a whine. "Later, please? You just got back and I only need a couple hours to get through school, honest."

"You'll need more than that if we're to have the day together," Trick informed him. "I already cleared it with Charles. No teachers' sassy looks or book for you- unless we wind up in the book store and with you, I know that's about one hundred and one percent guaranteed."

Forming a grin, Sean threw arms around him. "Oh, you are the best, seriously."

Trick rubbed his back. "Milking me for more time at the book store?"

"Definitely."

"All things for you. Go on up and get ready for bed," Trick instructed, patting his back now. "Make certain you're quiet about it. I'll take your bowl to the kitchen."

"Thanks." Sean leapt up from the desk but stopped to look at the older male again. "Trick, you think you could maybe come up and sing in a little bit? I'm just really hyper from the sugar and all."

Trick replied, "You've only to name the tune."

Regarding him thankfully, Sean at last started out, unleashing a yawn as he did.

Once again taking in what remained of his music room, Trick felt propelled into a spin of sheer bliss.

IIIIIII

A sizable portion of his weight supported by the cane that he had yet to acquire affection for, the telepath made his way into the nursery. The rising sun provided the illumination that cascaded upon his wife and youngest by.

Reacting to his presence, Emma did not turn from the changing table. "Sorry if I woke you."

"I believe the lack of you woke me," Charles said with some small air of humor then placed attention on Brian. "Good morning, my sweet lamb. Did we have a nice sleep?" At the tilted blank look Brian gave him, Charles determined, "Someone isn't terribly interested in Daddy I see."

With Brian all dressed in multiple layers, Emma lifted him to hold to her shoulder while patting gently at his teeny rump. "He may have disagreed with the combination of apples and carrots this morning."

Charles laughed lightly at that. "I'm sure Uncle Erik will slip you something far sweeter," he reached forward to tickle under Brian's nose, resulting in a small smile from him, "and with Uncle Trick here, you're only going to be all the more spoiled." He placed his happy visage on Emma. "You should have seen Trick yesterday when they finally met. Every light in his face came to life."

Emma kept focus on the baby. "… I'm glad."

Releasing a much needed sigh, Charles dropped the pathetic attempt at a pretense. "Darling, please, we have to discuss this."

"Now is the time you choose to have discussion?" Emma walked to and placed Brian inside his crib then spoke via her mind to shield his young ears. Where was this desire for conversation the other night?

Emma, I've already explained, Charles tried to urge, I wanted to involve you, but with the risk to our powers combined with how ill you were feeling, I didn't want you to land in a catatonic state.

You think that even begins to justify it? You still should have told me.

You would have insisted on helping me. I had to do what was best, Emma.

Emma regarded him with a level of incredulity so foreign to how she normally looked at him. You call creeping off like some sort of unorganized burglar without anyone of us knowing nor being able to reach you if necessary as 'for the best'? Charles, with what you attempted, you could have permanently damaged your mind. Did you even consider that?

Yes, he replied honestly, that was the risk I was willing to take. With Trick available to help me, it proved a far lesser threat.

Unless both your powers were pushed to the very limits, which has happened to each of you in the past, Emma raised. You needlessly came close to making sacrificial lambs of yourself.

Needlessly? You would call the extinction of mutation across New York state needless? To think nothing of Ignacio's experiments.

Emma walked up closer upon him, her blue eyes made of sharp glass. I have thought about it. These thoughts and fears have plagued me for so long now. That's why you should have come to me for a better organized strategy. If you were that worried about my health, you know you could have gone to Erik.

Charles insisted, if he knew the negative effect this would have had on me, he would never have allowed it.

Emma stood in unwavering disbelief. Is that your justification for forcing him into slumber? Charles, you have rained sincere fury down upon Rebecca for far less.

Charles informed, that is because I have been where she is now and I will not let her suffer through telepathy the way we did as children. That is my obligation to her; to all of the young ones.

Crossing her arms, the woman put forth, what if I did this? In fact, I actually did something quite similar to this before we were officially an item. I recall in great detail your reaction. Charles remained silent and she went on. You would never accept this behavior from me, Charles. When did this marriage become a one-way street?

Tapping his knuckles against the wood of the doorframe twice, Alex poked his head into the nursery. "Hey, there you are. I wanted to get in a quick session in the gym before class. It'll help your leg."

Gaze going from the young instructor to his wife, Charles replied, "Let me change and I'll meet you down there."

Alex pointed, "Ten minutes," and walked off.

Once he could concentrate again, Charles started, Emma—

I have to go out for a few things. Emma turned and took hold of Dickon to adjust the bear in Brian's arms. Make sure he has his hat on if you take him outside. I don't want him to develop another ear ache.

Yes, I know. Love, please…

Emma straightened her skirt and headed out. I'll be home for dinner.

When she disappeared from his sight and her essence left his mind, Charles looked to Brian for the highest amount of positive energy allowed to him in that moment.

II

At the commotion at his door, the Irish mutant moaned and waved a hand towards the door. "Don't want to go to school…"

Looking inside the room, Victor smirked. "You been back around these kids for five minutes and already soundin' like 'em?"

Cracking one eyelid open, Trick reacted to the man in full security gear and leapt back, shielding himself with a pillow. "I can explain, officer. It was just the one spring break. I was still high from St. Patty's Day- happy high!"

"You're a laugh riot, kid," Victor remarked with a slight eye roll.

Trick flopped down in bed. "Thought you'd be at work about now, mate. How's that treating you, anyway?"

"Pretty good. Cafeteria food fights just about to the levels of combat I've seen." Growing serious, Victor knelt down to Trick's present level. "Listen, Irish, I caught the muck on your uniform. And it looked recent. Somethin' you want to tell me?"

Trick's eyes darted against his will at first then he claimed, "I do a bit of night flying on my travels. We don't have the same eyes on us out in Europe that you do here. May have thwarted a purse snatcher here and there. Hard to give up the X-Men cold turkey and all."

Victor kept a concentrated gaze on him. "And you're sure that's all there is to it?"

Trick gave off a nod. "Okay." Victor got fully on his feet again but continued to look at the young man. "But Trick, if I found out there's more than you're lettin' on, you won't enjoy what I do by a longshot."

Ordering his tongue down, Trick merely watched him walked then tumbled over with a groan amongst his linens.

IIIIIII

Backpack strap dangling in lackadaisical fashion from the crook of his elbow, the redhead rounded the corner to see a metallic onslaught taking place. Deciding he had every right to take part in such destruction, he approached the other teenage mutant currently making a battered slave out of his locker.

At the unexpected kick to his locker door, Frank shot eyes at him. "What's the idea?"

Collin shrugged a shoulder. "Looked like fun." Leaning against the wall facing him, he inquired, "So, what's up with you?"

Finally forcing his locker open, Frank replied, "Trick's in town."

Collin's eyes darted about with an attempt at recollection. "Trick…"

"Coolest dad from my old neighborhood? X-Men instructor?" At the continued cluelessness, Frank mentioned, "Ghost guy?"

"Oh!" Collin now fully remembered. "Now I'm with you. Man, if I could walk through walls and be invisible…"

When a gleaming expression consumed the copper head's his face, Frank made a great many assumptions about the unfinished train of thought. "He's also my ex-girlfriend's dad and having him around again is making me think of her."

Collin returned full attention to him. "Ex-girlfriend?"

Frank nodded once. "Jasmine."

"So Jasmine, Carmen, and Sam?" Collin recounted. "Man, what kind of sonic ship-sinking, alluring battle cry do you have over these chicks?"

"Pretty sure you mean siren ship-sinking allure."

"Zip your fly- your nerd's showing." Collin stroked his chin in thought. "Maybe that's what girls are into…"

Frank went on with, "It doesn't help that my mom…" He dipped his head, staring at nothing in particular on the tilted floor. "She didn't come. She's still too busy with my brother Linny and his thing. At least I know she probably misses me. Wouldn't even bet on it with Dad."

Able to do nothing but regard him silently, Collin eventually offered up, "Look on the bright side," he reached out to pat his back in faux rough motion, "you're only invisible to your folks."

Frank looked at him closer. "I see you, Coll."

"You're one of the few." At the bell blasting over their heads, Collin said, "I'll catch you at lunch."

"Yeah," Frank said somewhat blankly after him.

IIIIIII

With delicate fingers loaded with expertise, Kayla tugged the needle through another of the tiny holes.

She looked to Todd, who lay in the center of the bed beside Mira as she put forth, "I hope you don't pop half as many buttons as your brother."

Todd yawned and rubbed his face with his fist.

Kayla then reacted to what seemed like a low but building angelic choir as the figure in white casual suit literally breezed into her suite. "Oh Trick…"

Finishing his soft melody, the young mutant beamed over at her. "And what a treat it is for these hazels eyes to get another glimpse of the most breathtaking of beauties ever to cross the border."

Dropping Cody's shirt onto the mattress, Kayla dashed up to go into his arms. "I've done more good for your eyes than you have for my heart recently." She peered up at him. "Are you alright? How are you feeling?"

Trick let go of her to pat both sides of his chest. "Lungs full and functional once again. Only remind me to go easy on making a personal aircraft of myself in the future."

Kayla said matter-of-factly, "Give me a fright like that again and I'll deliver that reminder personally."

Trick countered, "Now I'm frightened."

Audible sniffing could be heard before Logan exited the bathroom in a pair of jeans, slipping into his dark blue WW2 sweatshirt. "Uck, knew I caught the scent of a pretty boy out here."

"Aye, Logan, before you assume the worst, I must confess," Trick gripped Kayla's shoulders, "I have returned to whisk your wife away."

"Ah," Logan nodded along, "that's good. Always thought you could use a nursemaid to keep an eye on you."

Kayla laughed at their antics while Trick ventured over to share a brief hug with the Veteran.

"Haven't changed so much as a fraction, Wolverine."

"Don't know how, Spec." Logan pulled back to look at him and squeeze his shoulder. "Great to see you, kid."

Trick smiled. "Seanie and I are heading out, but I wanted to pop in to…" His gaze finally fell on the bed. "Oh my…" He approached with caution. "Are these the living miracles themselves?"

"That one's Miracle," Logan pointed out the pink clad one then the baby in blue, "that lunk head's Todd."

"A man can miss an entire lifetime in a year." Squatting, Trick peered in as close as he could to them. "Just look at those eyes; green as emeralds. Jewels after their mother."

Kayla watched them contentedly. "Those emeralds can turn into storm clouds as soon as they decide they're in a mood."

Logan pointed to himself proudly. "My side of the family."

"Kayla?" In a light pink turtleneck and khaki skirt, Samantha entered the room with books hugged to her chest. "I'm ready."

Trick stood to acknowledge the unfamiliar golden haired girl. "Speaking of jewels, who do we have here?"

"This is our newcomer, Samantha," Kayla explained. "Sam, sweetheart, this is Patrick Hughes. You've heard us mention him."

"It's Trick, please," he walked over to shake with her, "It's good to meet you, darling. Vic's told me about you."

Samantha glided eyes away from his hand and back on Kayla. "Sorry for interrupting. I'll wait in the library."

Kayla went to Trick at his fallen expression.

"Samantha," Logan's tone made her glance back, "you mind tellin' me when you became blind and deaf? I know you heard this man speak to you."

Holding her textbooks closer, Samantha gave off a faint, "Hello," then her voice grew a little. "I guess I was thinking about school. I can't wait to go. Frank and I will be together all the time," a wide grin developed on her face, "just like we are at home. He's so sweet. I don't think I'm so pretty, but he's always saying I am."

Trick nodded. "And he has every reason to."

Kayla then dismissed the girl with, "I'll meet you in the library, Sam."

"Looks as if I've stepped into shark infested waters." Trick stuff his hands into the pockets of his slacks. "I take it she's Frank's new little lady."

"Something like that," Kayla replied with uncertainty while all Logan had to say was, "They're friends."

II

Arriving in his office, the sensation of the young mind present within the space distracted him from his own thoughts. Cane leading the way, Charles came nearer until he reached his desk and peeked underneath at the now wide-eyed little girl hidden there.

"Kiki, what on earth are you doing under there?" However, the Professor easily put two and two together at the bottle of correction fluid in her hand and the various depictions of hearts and smiling faces painted onto one inner wall of his desk. "Kyra Elizabeth," sitting, Charles pulled her to sit on his good knee, "did you use this," he plucked the bottle from her hands, "on Uncle Charles' desk?"

Kiki bobbed her head, playing with her fingers. "I wanted to make pretty pictures for you like Joey."

"Joey knows never to put his special pictures on the walls or furniture," though Charles had to admit that his son had not always been obedient with that rule, "and so do you, Miss."

"But they're pretty." Kiki pointed to one heart. "See?"

Charles sighed lightly. "Yes, yes, they are very pretty." He kissed her forehead. "Thank you, baby."

"You're welcome," she grinned.

"But no more coloring on anything but paper unless I, your mummy and daddy, or one of the other grownups says you can." Charles shook the bottle of fluid for emphasis. "Or you're going to be in very big trouble. Do you understand me, Kyra?"

"Yes, Uncle Charles," she nodded in compliance.

Sean swept through, sticking his upper body into the room. "Hey, Dad," he braced himself for Kiki to rush for him, "just wanted to let you know me and Trick are out of here."

"Have a wonderful time together," Charles encouraged.

"We will." Sean lifted Kiki into his arms. "Thanks for letting us have today. Come on, Ki-cutie," Sean brought her onto his shoulders, "piggy-back away!"

"Away!" the four-year-old seconded as the redhead charged forward.

Charles stared after the youthful pair fondly. Reaching down, he traced fingers over the little white hearts with which his niece had gifted him.

IIIIIII

While trying to keep focus on the current chapter, underneath Scott's shades his eyes consistently floated over to the forlorn girl at his side. With hand hardly propping up her chin, Becky seemed as if miles away from him as opposed to mere inches.

Rebecca, he petitioned her, you doing alright?

Nose aimed down at her book, she sent back, I don't understand why Trick had to come here. I bet he's out to take Frank back with him.

Frank isn't interested in going back with him, Scott stated with assurance, but between you and me? I'm not too thrilled about this Trick thing, either. What, he thinks he can just float in and out of our lives any time he wants?

Becky sighed internally. I want him to float out, like now.

Scott entered his own pondering until another sight captured his attention beyond the windowpane. Whipping his head over to make sure he could not be mistaken, he received full confirmation as the white pellets sprinkled downward.

Shooting up from his desk, Scott knocked his chair over without as he cried out, "Yes, yes, yes!"

All eyes landed on him like darts to a target board.

Aaron popped his head up from where he sorted through files at his desk. "Scott, I hope that's a positive reaction to A Wrinkle in Time. Or do I need to take you into the shop for alignment?"

"Um sorry, Mr. A," the now reddening Scott readjusted his chair and promptly sat again, "it's just the snow- the first snow of the year."

Looking to the window, Aaron responded, "That it is. I believe an early dismissal for recess is due."

Enthusiastic murmuring resulted and Scott beamed into his text.

IIIIIII

Handle to oversized paper bag in his possession, Sean walked alongside Trick out of the store. "You didn't have to buy me all these. Why did you buy me all these?"

"Because you're spoiled rotten to the core," Trick threw an arm around his as they left, "and I intend to keep you that way."

Sean smiled at the wintry powder that greeted them outside. "Alright, cool."

Trick chuckled with merriment at the snow and raised a gloved hand to capture a few flakes. "Our own personal snow globe, Seanie."

"It's a blessing," Sean claimed then rethought that. "Until Uncle Erik makes us shovel it."

"Ol' Erik keeping you on your toes as usual, eh?"

Sean admitted, "He hasn't been so hard. He's helped out Maya a lot. He even understood when I told him about…"

Trick did not miss the abrupt trailing. "Yes?" He jabbed the boy with his elbow. "Don't leave a bloke hanging."

Sean released a breath before continuing. "Me and the guys went on a road trip to check out colleges and when we passed this one gas station, I saw this store with this politician's face smeared all over it. This guy from Boston. He's for… he's in favor of sterilization. You know about that, right?"

Trick's features tensed, but he nodded. "Indeed, I do. I can imagine your reaction to seeing that."

"No, you really can't. Because that night, I snuck out and blew the whole store front apart."

Trick's face displayed no outward reaction as he deduced, "And by blow, I take it you mean less explosive and more Banshee burst?"

Sean nodded. "Just as dynamite. I'm lucky I didn't get snatched into containment… again."

Keeping his arm around the teenager's shoulders, Trick asked, "Did Erik deliver it to your hide?"

"No, actually that was Leon. He found me that night."

"Leon?" Trick repeated. "I knew you lads were getting along better, but I had no idea you'd elevated that far."

"I like us not bashing heads," Sean said. "Lee's turned out to be really cool. He's interested in stuff I like that the other guys aren't, especially comics. And he sort of watches out for me without being as bossy as Alex and Hank can get."

Clearly pleased, Trick came back with, "I'm glad he's found his proper place among the X-Lot. I only wish I could have stuck around long enough to be of some help to him."

Sean offered a hopeful smile. "Maybe now you'll get the chance."

"Maybe," the man echoed.

IIIIIII

Cramming papers into his backpack in a most discombobulated fashion, Collin jogged out among the departing students to catch up with one in particular.

"Hey," Frank reacted to his grabbed arm, "what's up?"

"Come here." Collin pulled him over to one isolated hallway nook. "I figured you'd need one of your own soon or later."

Frank's eyes widened as Collin retrieved the familiar mask from his bag. "Are you retarded? Put that away! I told you, not interested."

"And I told you, it's safe. Look, if you want this shit to keep stressing you out that's fine. You want relief?" Collin shoved the mask along with a pair of vials into Frank's possession. "There you go, on me."

"Collin…"

Collin reasoned, "You could at least try it before you knock it."

Gripping one vile tight in his fist, Frank gasped at hearing his name echoing throughout his own head.

Frank, Frank?

A sufficiently confused Collin blinked twice. "Dude, I told you they're prescriptions. Don't have a heart attack over 'em."

Frank made quick work of stuffing the components into his own backpack, "My sister's calling me," before going to search her out.

IIIIIII

Situated out front beside the X-Van, Leon and Alex stopped talking when the doors of the elementary school burst open. The sea of colorful youngsters flowed freely and rapidly. Kneeling, Alex caught Joey in a hug while Cody ran up to bam fists with Leon.

"One more week 'til Christmas break!" Cody declared. "You're lucky, though. You guys get out already and you don't get homework."

"Kind of hard to give out homework when you're going back to a whole new set of teachers," Leon pointed out.

Cody stated, "I can't wait for college."

"Your mom'll be real happy to hear that." Alex saw Scott finally appear, holding onto Trav's hand. The older Summers frowned at the noticeable absence. "Where's Becky?"

Face as uncertain as his tone, Scott replied, "I'm not sure. She wasn't in the nurse's office when I went to look. She didn't answer on mind or communicator. I even had Trav try her."

"I couldn't hear Becca even a little bit, Uncle Alex," Trav further reported.

Clear veins developed on Alex's forehead. "What? Where is she?"

"We better get Victor," Leon put forth.

"I'm going to find her," Alex determined. "You let Vic know what's up and get the other kids home."

"I'm going with you," Scott insisted.

"No," Alex shot down. "Go home. Cody, you're with me. I need you to track."

"Hate to interrupt your little search party, but thought you might appreciate some info."

Scott glared at the new arrival. "What do you want?"

Strolling up, Collin feigned cluelessness. "Oh, yeah. You're that grammar school kid Frank lets pal around him."

Before his brother could retaliate, Alex wanted to know, "Have you seen Becky?"

"Frank's got her," Collin told him. "She's at our school with him. And I got to say, she and Frank are about the only cool on your little team."

Ignore the last remark, Alex directed, "Let's go," to the others.

Watching them pile into the X-Van, Collin went to locate Anne and Max.

IIIIIII

Seated on the bench in front of the high school, Frank attempted to make sense of the present circumstances.

"Becky, I seriously can't believe you just took off from school like that," he vexed. "Everybody's going to be worried about you. Dad is going to go nuts."

The girl in pink and gray checked coat faced him. "I just wanted us to go home together. I was worried about you."

"Becky, you're talking crazy. Why would you be worried about me?"

"Because he's here," she emphasized. "The last time Trick was here, they tried to make you go away with him. You should have heard what Jasmine said about our family. That we're nothing but some school like any other."

"I heard about that. She knows she was out of line. But regardless," Frank touched her shoulder, keeping eye contact, "it doesn't matter. Becky, I know it's easy to blame Jasmine and Trick over my being stupid- and I'd love to get off the hook just like that- but all that stuff about me leaving? I was being a complete idiot. I was mad because my mom would be with Linny and I wanted Erik- I wanted our dad to make a big deal over me. The way he would over Alex or Lee and especially you." Becky's green eyes glossed his way. "But I know I messed up acting like that. Because we're not "some school", Becky. We're Erik kids; X-Men, right?"

Forming a tiny smile, Becky nodded. "Right. I was just so scared… I don't want you to leave, Frank. You're my brother."

Frank drew arms around her in a hug, not caring if any lingering students walked out and saw them at the moment. "I'm sorry, Becks. I swear, I'm not going anywhere. Dad and Charles'll ground me a year if I pull that again."

Becky laughed into his shoulder.

Frank's quickly raised his head upon catching sigh of the X-Van pulling up with a screeching halt. "Oh Jesus…"

After barking at the other children to remain in place, Alex nearly ripped off his seatbelt exiting the van. Leon got out from the passenger side and followed the fuming blonde.

Alex seethed, "Rebecca Anya Lehnsherr…"

Frank jumped to his feet with arms extended chivalrously to shield the girl. "Don't be mad at her. This was all me. Becky called me feeling really down so I went over to the grammar school to get her. I told Cordy and Angel I had something to work on. I'll explain it to Dad."

Alex proved not remotely convinced. "Really? How about we start with you explaining it to Hank? In fact, I'll go in and get him."

"No!" Becky and Frank protested in unison.

Providing some reason, Leon asked plainly, "Becky, what happened?"

The raven haired female stepped forward. "I… I got worried and I wanted to see Frank."

"Worried?" Alex echoed, temper ever rising. "You want to talk worried? If it weren't for Joey's powers, my heart would be shot right now. Do you know what went through my mind when you weren't in that school?"

Becky read his expression and said, "I'm sorry, Alex."

"No, no." Alex raised a hand, exhaling through his nostrils. "Don't even. Sorry won't cut it for a second here. Becky, I let a lot of stuff go with you, but not this time because you know better. When we get home, you go straight to your room."

Leon's eyes jumped a bit while Frank protested with, "No, Alex, come on. You can't."

"Get in the car," Alex ordered, "now!"

While the younger two ushered off, Leon touched Alex's shaking arm. "BP, BP…"

"I know." Sighing to calm himself, Alex turned to go towards the van again. "You drive."

Leon caught the key set tossed to him and determined it was the least he could do.

IIIIIII

On route through the crowded Westchester shopping center, Erik stopped off at a small electronics clock. He eyed the various surveillance gizmos on sale until he took notice of the colored television in the center display and turned on to the news. Walking over, the metal wielder listened to the current story.

The secluded colonial house was found with roof caved in from sources unknown. With several colleagues having already attempted to contact him, Dr. Owen Ignacio remains missing.

IIIIIII

When they returned to the mansion, Leon and Frank walked behind Alex into the Mag Cave.

"You should wait for Dad to get home," Frank attempted.

"Dad won't be home until dinnertime," Alex informed. "And Charles' leg is still recovering. Besides that, this is on me to deal with."

"But it's my fault," Frank insisted. "Why can't you just let her off the hook? You've done it with Joey enough times."

"I've done it with her enough times. And you," Alex reminded sharply. "But one of you pulls a stunt like wandering off? No. You know what Dad would do."
"You aren't Dad," Frank spat.

Alex retorted, "No, I'm your older brother."

"Well, I'm Becky's older brother, too! You should be taking this out on me, not her."

"You aren't the one who took off." Alex crossed his arms. "But you are the one who tried to lie to me about it. For that, you can spend the rest of the night in your room."

Frank rolled his eyes. "Oh, you've got to be ki- ow!" His hands went to the swatted spot of his pants. "Hey!"

Retracting his hand, Leon went to stand beside Alex. "Frank, that's enough. Do you want Dad to hear you've been talking back to Alex? Again?"

Frank's resolve faded and his arms drooped.

Alex said, "I'll have Raven make a plate for your dinner."

Grumbling lowly, Frank left the den.

Once they stood alone, Leon put forth, "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"You think I want to?" Alex countered. "Lee, this is the worst part of the job."

"I know," Leon quickly softened. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean anything. It's just… Becky."

"I know she's your Pretty Eyes." Alex touched his shoulder. "She's my Babes. And she's the size of a peapod. She can't just take off that way. You know how fast somebody could snatch her."

Leon nodded quietly, hoping his eyes reflected some kind encouragement for the difficult task ahead of his brother.

II

Bright green eyes locked with those belonging to her Lana doll, the little girl felt the inevitable mind before she head the knock to her door. Having only taken the time to change from school clothes to lounge pants and soft top, Becky leaned into her pillows.

"It's me, Becky, come on."

"… Come in."

Entering, Alex promptly closed the door again. Taking in the child in the bed, he somehow found her smaller.

Squatting beside the bed, Alex looked into the round face. "So, you plan on wiping my mind?" He watched her shake her head. "Why not?"

She replied, "We're not supposed to do that to each other, right?"

Alex made a show of widening his eyes. "The princess actually listens to me. My heart can't take much more of you today, kid." He laid a hand over her wrist. "I know how you feel about Frank not being here. But think for a sec how I would feel, how Dad and everybody around here would feel if anything happened to you. You cannot take off like that, Becky, period. You know that."

"I know," Becky admitted, holding Lana closer. "Papa's going to be really mad."

"You let me worry about Dad." Alex gripped her by the chin. "You know I'm not just up here to chat, don't you Babes?"

Laying Lana to the side, Becky inched over towards his right ear. "Will it hurt your heart?"

With a little smile, Alex thumped his chest. "Nah, I'm Eel-powered." He reached out to run two of his fingers through her curls. "Think you're ready?" Though he himself was not.

Becky nodded. "… Mmhmm."

Rising, Alex took a seat on her bed. Though she started to crawl over, Becky received a surprise when Alex lifted her at her middle to drape over his open lap. Almost dizzy from the angle at first, Becky did not find it as foreign as she originally expected. Though she hardly received more than the occasional stray swat from the oldest Erik child, she still found familiarity in that moment.

Alex had to brace himself. Though Cordelia had tempted him more than once, outside of a few taps to Kiki's bottom to get her to listen, the blonde male knew next to nothing about having a female over his knee. He found comfort in her being a little bigger than Joey yet still much shorter than Scott or Frank.

A whole other force seemed to take over him as Alex warned, "Becky, you do this again on my watch and I'll spank you like Daddy would. You get me?"

Knowing that would come with an absence of pants and underwear for such an offense, Becky immediately replied although softly, "Yes."

Silently praying such a situation would never come to pass, Alex finally raised his hand for the first one. He managed to continue on from it, using her verbal utterances as an indication of whether he had gone too far. By the seventh strike, he lost all focus upon feeling dainty foot collide with his ankle.

Holding in a hiss, Alex reproached, "Becky, stop it," and gave her an especially stronger swat.

"Sorry," she chirped.

"Keep still or I'll find a ruler." Alex hoped with great passion that she would listen, as he cared not for the use of implements.

When he continued, he decided to bring the total to eighteen but the sound of her sobbing still his hand at the sixteenth point.

Standing her, Alex attempted to peer into her curl hidden face. "Babes?" Instant relief came over when her arms reached right back for him. Alex grabbed hold of her, kissing the top of her head. "It's okay, babes. I'm here. I'm right here for you. I'm sorry I had to do that," he rubbed at her back, "but I can't lose my little sister."

Becky wound arms around his neck then grew started as he seemed to let her go. "Wh- what're you d- doing?"

Alex explained, "I was going to get you some ice. I'll be right back, okay? I promise."

Nodding, Becky managed to pry away from him. Alex gingerly placed her to lay on her side with Lana. Standing, he dashed from the room and sprinted downstairs for the cooling aide retrieval.

IIIIIII

Detecting her husband, Emma remained on the edge of the bed folding clothes. "Do you want me to draw you a bath?"

"No," Charles turned down, "I can do that myself." Cane forward, he stepped up closer. "Do you want me to sleep in a guest room tonight?"

"I don't want to quarrel with you, Charles." Emma raised razor eyes up at him. "What I want is to be able to trust the man lying beside me."

"Darling, what more can I say?" the male telepath wanted to know then put forth, "Do you want to punish me? Is that what is necessary to set things right between us? I'll go downstairs for my yard stick. Take your pick of my belts in the closet."

Emma stared at him. "You know I don't do that. But you can start by being honest with me."

Charles sat, facing her. "I've told you everything."

"Not really. Not the true reason you kept this hidden." Emma eyed him as if straight to his core. "You're ashamed of what you did. To those minds and worse, your brother." Charles could no longer maintain his gaze with her. "I understand why you went after those committee members. In fact, I stand by you completely there. But you can't justify what you did to Erik in order to get your way."

Eyes still on his lap, Charles searched for words. "I…" He lifted his head at the sensation of her thin fingers in his hair.

I love you, but do not expect me to be happy with you right now. She stood, going towards their bathroom. I'll start your water for you.

Charles only remained in place, pressing against his cane for further support.

IIIIIII

Events of not only that afternoon but the last couple of days replaying throughout his mind, Frank somewhat wished he had not completed his homework so quickly. Being trapped in his quarters with his own thoughts led little to be desired. Rolling over on his mattress, his eyes landed on his backpack. Getting up, Frank went and squatted over it. Unzipping one pocket, he touched the mask inside then pulled it out for closer observation. Beneath it, he saw the pair of clear tubes neatly tucked together.

IIIIIII

Secondary rounds finished for the evening, Erik left the second floor. He rerouted himself from the direction of his den to the parlor where one lingering lamp remained on. He found the Professor in his chess chair, staring blankly into a fat novel.

"I thought you'd gone to bed."

Looking up, Charles gestured towards his propped leg. "It's difficult to find a comfortable position with this brace. I didn't want to bother Emma."

"Of course." Sitting across from him, Erik laced his fingers together in ponder. "Strangest thing about Ignacio, albeit convenient for us."

"Fortune has chosen to fancy us," Charles stated. "Or possibly give him what he has coming."

"I suspect Estevan Cortez has found his prey at last."

"Whatever the case, I believe it best to push it out of our minds for now," Charles proposed. "At least Ignacio's experiments are one less concern facing us."

"Yes," Erik bobbed his head. Quiet swept in for a few seconds. "If you have any more trouble sleeping, come lay on the couch in my den. I'll be up a while."

Charles smiled after the standing man. "Thank you, brother."

Erik stroked the younger man's soft brown hair briefly. "Good night, Lab Rat," he turned to go, "I'm here if you need me."

Charles sunk in his chair, trying with no success to make sense of so much as one word on the pages before him.

IIIIIII

Pausing to simply linger and observe the abundant sunlight across his little girl's face, the man finally ventured forward. Sitting on the side of her bed, he pressed a kiss to each of her hands.

Immediately awakened by this, untold joy filled Anne at the face over her. "Papi!"

Estevan lifted her into his arms. "Buenos dias, mija. Te he echado de menos."

"Buen Dios…" Awe overtaking him, Fabian walked in next. "Papi."

"Mijo." Estevan stood to share a hug with him.

"When did you get back?" Anne asked.

"Late last night," Estevan replied, glancing down at her. "Marco and I did not want to wake you."

"Owen Ignacio." Fabian's words made Estevan face him again. "You found him?"

"We certainly did," Estevan confirmed.

Anne's eyes brightened. "So it's over? You're really home?"

"Si, mija." Bending, Estevan pecked her head. "Go on and shower and dress. We're spending the day together."

The elated girl got into her robe and slippers and headed into her bathroom.

"Papi?" Fabian spoke again. "What of Ignacio?"

Estevan regarded his son with a certain smile. "I thought the good doctor would be fascinated to experience the other end of the scalpel."

Fabian's lips turned upward in a way that matched his father's expression perfectly.