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.

242. Chapter 242 Secret Weapon

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Forty-Two

Author's Word: Yes, fam, it's truly a marvel (pun may or may not be intended) to have this chapter up already. Do you hear that? It's the sweet sound of Summer Vacation. Please enjoy and review, fam!

Though he could not be certain of the truth to it, the familiar sensation proved enough to arouse the male telepath from sleep and bed. He hastened into his slippers and robe as he fled his suite next. Managing to calm his ever building excitement to enter the nursery in a gentle fashion, Charles gazed about every angle. Disappointment resulted followed immediately by the soaring of heart that arose from seeing an entirely giddy Brian secure in his crib. Charles gathered him up for a kiss to the nose and inspection of his southern region.

Charles' eyebrows leapt with genuine surprise. Dry as a bone? I don't know if it was your Aunt Raven or Uncle Erik who changed you, but be sure to thank them. Now, let's see how long you can hold it until Daddy returns. He settled Brian down onto the mattress and the baby immediately tugged over Dickon.

Returning to his suite, a still groggy Charles peeled out of his night clothes on route to the bathroom. Naturally, he made a mental note to properly gather and drop them off in the hamper later. After blending the hot and cold into a welcomed combination of warm, Charles stepped into the shower and enjoyed the cascade of water penetrating every inch of him. As he spread the fragrant body wash he received recently for Christmas, the man's blue eyes showed themselves upon discovering two additional limbs about his waist.

You horrid sneak. Veering around to behold the nude blonde in her full glory, he could hardly contain his elation. I knew I detected you a moment ago. I thought Brian looked a little smug…

Emma's hands maneuvered around his neck. Would you be willing to add this bit of morning deception to the debt I already owe you for our anniversary?

I do hope you're aware, Charles stealthily worked his hands downward to grope her, I'm adding on several additional penalties.

She offered up her neck to his lips. Make me pay, Sugar…

IIIIIII

With a startled gasp, the blonde girl leapt upright in bed to the heavy pounding. Groaning at how the obnoxious excuse for knocking affected her sensitive ears, she poured out of bed. As soon as she neared the door, a white envelope slid in through the crack below, causing her to stop in place. Picking it up, Samantha read the front: I've Got a Secret. Opening it, she found a piece of paper and unfolded it to see: My Sister's a Genius!

A wide smile overtaking her entire face, Samantha threw the door open to discover the girl in chic maroon top and form-fitting black pants. "Angie!"

"Sammie!" came the immediate return.

Throwing arms around each other in a simultaneously and equally ecstatic fashion, the two girls toppled to the floor without a care between them.

"Ohhhh, I missed you," Samantha purred.

"I missed you two, rock star nerd," Angel squeezed her, "I'm so proud of you."
"Thank you." Managing to pull back, Samantha brought up, "I thought you weren't coming until dinner time."

"Emma worked her magic at the airline to get us the ASAP treatment. Adrienne and Victor are going to take another day or two. Dri says they're still wrapping up business. Whatever that means in Grown Folk Land."

"Oh," clear disappointment reflected in the reddish brown eyes, "okay."

Angel laced fingers with her. "Not going to stop us from celebrating early. Come on." Standing, she helped the younger girl up. "We have to get ready. We only have about twenty-four hours to plan out how to take over this school. We should start by spreading a rumor that their trust funds have been cut off."

Samantha giggled in glee and moved to close the door, but paused long enough for Midnight to scamper inside.

IIIIIII

From the swarm of women that seemed to make claim to one portion of the condo's massive social room, one in particular moved in such a way that she seemed to slice right through the rest. With long hair of scarlet free and down the back of the lace top ebony dress, she sauntered on high-heeled feet.

Chattering with the crowd made up of his own gender, the male in silver and black suit silenced entirely when she reached him. "My eyes are bold-faced liars… Adrienne Frost?"

"Keith Dirkins," she counter acknowledged. "It is a pleasure to see you again. You became so much of a stranger. Though I suppose you have a worthy excuse after making the youngest superior court judge in the state."

A smile plastered to his face, the dark haired man regarded her up and down twice. "The last time I saw you was after I passed the bar; at one of your parents' spring functions. You were still in high school." He turned to a few of his colleagues as he said coyly, "This one had curves at fifteen most twenty-two-year-olds would kill for. Most talented, spirited little cheerleader in all of Massachusetts."

"Oh Keith, must you carry on about the past?" Adrienne waved off. "I'm starting to feel like a relic."

"In mint-condition from where I'm standing." The tall man in royal blue suit stepped over, winding arm around her waist.

"Darling," Adrienne danced fingers down the sleek gold tie, "there you are."

"Adrienne Frost off the market again," Keith deduced. "Not that I'm surprised." He offered his right hand. "Keith Dirkin."

The blonde with ponytail returned, "Victor Creed."

Keith said, "I appreciate you joining Adrienne in rallying for my support."

"I know you men are eager to discuss politics," Adrienne chimed in, "but Keith, I really need to borrow you for a moment. We have more catching up to do than you think."

With a grin, he responded, "Of course." Taking her arm, he sent over his shoulder, "Promise to return her in full mint, Creed."

Gaze fixed on the departing two, Victor accepted a miniature cake square from a passing tray to toss into his mouth.

Down the hall from the elevator, Keith brought them into the narrow but secluded stairway. "I can't tell you how sorry I was to hear about your mother. You were truly the apple of her—" He completely choked on his next word as he found his back forced against the stone wall with her arm wedged to his throat.

"I'm officially bored of this trip down memory lane, so what do you say we cut to the chase?" With the help of her spare hand, she brought the barrel of the firearm up to his throbbing temple. "You're part of a very secretive but destructive organization. I want their times and whereabouts. Deny it, lie to me, or attempt to warn them and I will do far worse than decorate this hallway with your insides." She leaned in so that her face remained hardly an inch apart from his growing pale one. "I will make sure every media outlet gets wind of not only your former "old college try" antics, campaign misappropriations, and what you really do on those exotic isles you frequent, but I will also bring to light that son you deny before your own mirror. What a shame the little wench couldn't do as she was told and smother the little monkey, hm?"

When she allowed him air enough to speak, he could hardly. "Please… any- anything you want. You can't… I'd rather be dead. I…"

Not missing the sound of droplets hitting linoleum, Adrienne glanced down long enough to witness the wet spot growing in size from the man's crotch area. "How awkward, your honor…" She looked at him again with an amused sneer in place. "But should make for some memorable party banter."

IIIIIII

With Brian's squeals echoing joyfully throughout the library, Chris lifted him just above his head. As soon as he neared it, the tot gripped a portion of the older male's hair in one tiny fist.

"Yes, it's yellow," bringing him down into his lap again, Chris bounced the curious boy on one knee, "exactly like yours."

Sitting near to them, Erik stretched out a pinky for Brian to grab onto and, to no one's surprise, suckle on.

Seated at the same table as them in the library, Alex and Raven leafed through various literature filled with details about their upcoming semester. Hank worked steadfast on new shipment orders for necessary equipment. At the separate but connected table across the way, Logan reclined in his chair while his infant daughter napped contentedly on his chest and secured by his strong arms around her. With Todd laying back on top of the table, Kayla pumped his legs in-between applying pecks to the soles of his bitty feet. When his glowing sister and brother-in-law joined them at last, Chris handed Brian to his mother before standing.

With a small pace to his movements, the Bostonian addressed the X-Men staff members. "Since Lyle Larson's re-election as alderman, Father and I have paid particularly attention to him. It's easier on me to be so personally involved because I'm the one most often in-state and I'm right around his target age group. Since Larson lost his wife, he's been on a medical crusade to eliminate any and all genetic abnormalities."

"How is he still blaming mutation for that?" Alex said incredulously. "Didn't she die from cancer? What's that got to do with us?"

"More than we realize," Hank spoke admittedly. "Not all of the plant's children were given slight physical changes and heightened abilities. A couple of them were born with tumors. Hardly lasted days outside the womb."

Looking to him with yellow eyes that made her gratitude for his existence clear, Raven placed a hand over her husband's wrist.

"It's a crap deal," Logan asserted. "But this gene thing is all a gamble. Sometimes you score lucky seven, other times snake eyes. Whatever the case, suck it up."

"That's easier said than done with people like Larson." Kayla settled Todd in her lap. "Cancer being as random as it is, it's like he's after a tangible enemy to blame."

"You're certainly right," Charles concurred. "Larson is not Ignacio, conducting grotesque experiments for his own gains. Larson believes himself to be some sort of medical messiah."

"Destroy the X gene," Erik surmised. "Or better yet, those carrying the curse. Then, naturally, all of life's problems will be solved."

"I'd like to believe the American people have evolved beyond scapegoating," Chris formed a flat expression, "but who the hell are we kidding?"

Erik arose from his seat, zero nonsense present on his face. "Perhaps we need to squash the problem before it even becomes one." He regarded the other members of his team as he continued. "We've all seen how political upheaval has played out time and again."

"We will cross that bridge, brother." Charles walked over to rest hand against the other Headmaster's shoulder. "But let us not put our children through this unless completely necessary."

"Charles is right," Chris supported. "Listen, unlike my sisters I wasn't born with any sort of gift. Let me be one for you. I've already infiltrated the party. I'm returning to Boston tonight to gather more information."

Patting Brian's back, Emma looked around at the others. "He has their ear. Chris is our best secret weapon for the time being."

Erik moved to stand directly before Chris, who eyed him expectantly. "Are you aware of what could and will happen to you if the truth about your family comes to light?"

Unyielding and with a slight shrug, Chris responded with, "Then it's a far, far better thing I do than I have ever done."

Only an unreadable, "Hm," acted as Erik's reaction before he faced the rest. "The children will be peeling out of bed eventually. I promised them a special brunch for their last day of break." He departed the room with that.

Blinking, Chris knew not what to say at first. "… What just happened?"

Alex replied positively, "Nice work, Chris. I'm pretty sure he just said "welcome to the team"." The young man then explained, "Erik kids can break through the language barrier."

IIIIIII

Small, warm body in his lap, Joey dragged his hand gently over the long, floppy ears. Letting herself in, Becky promptly shut the door again and went to climb up on the bed with the boy and bunny.

"So," the curly haired girl crossed her legs, "what's the big secret? Are you okay?"

Focus still mainly on Bounty, Joey replied vaguely, "Kinda yeah, but kinda no." When the green eyes only seemed to urge him to continue, he did so. "Me and the guys went hiking yesterday and me and Laci wound up on our own. We got to talking and she told me all these things from when she was sick and it made me… she knows about us, Becky.

Becky gave him a narrow look. "That we're adopted?" At his eyeball twitch, "Oh no- Joey Xavier, do you know how much trouble you're going to be in? Papa and Uncle Charles are going to—"

"She swore she won't say anything, Becky," Joey emphasized. "Really. You should have seen her after I showed it to her." He brought up one hand, allowing a few sparks to radiate from his fingers. "She thought I was an angel or something; that God sent me to her."

Instantly softening, Becky claimed, "Well, she better get in line. You were part of my wish first."

"I know," Joey smiled. "You're the best cousin in the whole wide world."

Now, Becky folded her arms. "You don't want me to say a word to Scott, do you?"

"Please, please," Joey pleaded. "Cody's the only other one who knows."

"I really hate this, Joey," Becky sighed. "Especially on top of what we did for Sam. But don't worry. I won't say anything. And you remember, Laci is one thing, but nobody else. Got it?"

"Got it." Joey stuck out a hand to shake with her.

Becky used her spare hand to touch her temple. "It's Auntie Em."

Joey lost a great deal of facial coloring. "Did Mum hear us?"

"No." Becky hopped up with a grin. "Papa's latkes are ready."

After securing Bounty to his crate, Joey bolted out and down the stairs with her.

II

Arriving in the dining room to see Kiki assisting Emma with table setting, Leon walked straight to the adult woman.

With a warm smile, Emma instantly accepted and returned his embrace. "Oh sweetheart."

"I'm so glad you're home," he stated solemnly.

Emma pulled back, cupping his face. "Is everything alright?"

Leon replied as ambiguously as ever, "Relative I guess."

With the help of Trav and Frank, Erik delivered multiple platters to the table. He offered both cheddar and apple potato cakes, cheese blintzes, bagels with three different kinds of spreads, fruit salad with yogurt, and finely cut chicken with lemon to squirt. Almost as quickly as the food arrived, so did the dining room fill.

"Bless you forever, Erik," a thrilled Angel praised.

"Hey, Dad, you plan to be this good to us on our last day before school?" Alex smirked.

"We will see," Erik replied coyly. "For the little ones, this was most deserving."

"Indeed," Charles agreed wholeheartedly, taking time to look at each of their youngsters. "I know things can become hectic at any given moment for us, but we are all quite proud of every one of you. Even if we don't always take the time to speak the words."

"It's okay. We know." Sean reconsidered that. "Well, usually."

"Which reminds me," Emma got to her feet, glass in hand, "I personally want to make a toast to our dear Samantha," the blonde girl gazed up at that, "for not only achieving academically, but accomplishing a goal you wanted so badly for yourself. Congratulations, love."

"I'll certainly drink to that," Kayla seconded.

"Congratulations, Sam," the children chorused.

"That's our girl," came from Logan.

Samantha wore a smile that lit up her entire face and she went to share a hug with Emma. "Thank you, Auntie."

Erik cleared his throat. "That's enough ceremony for now. Finish eating."

With a sample of everything present on his plate, Chris still groaned. "I shouldn't be so much as looking at any of this."

"You?" Charles raised an eyebrow. "I've hardly lost my pregnancy weight."

Immediate laughter ignited at that.

"Fear not, Charles," Kayla reassured. "It usually tapers off in four or five years."

Erik resisted rolling his eyes. "Stop with this nonsense and eat. Thinness is entirely overrated in this country."

"'Better listen," Alex cautioned. "His Hebrew's showing."

"Oh boy," Maya chimed up. "Seriously, every time I go by the Temple the women ask me why I insist on starving myself so. No one believes I'm just trapped this way."

"It gets better, darling," Emma sympathized. "I've been there, complete with nasty rumors."

Taking notice of the time, Cordelia hurried to clear her plate. "I have to get going. I promised to meet Fabian."

"Stop right there." Chris raised a hand to halt her movements. "Have him come here. I have to leave in a few hours and I still haven't met this new arm candy of yours. And you already know Daddy expects a detailed report."

"Oh Chris," Cordelia groaned.

Her brother proved unwavering. "Either he comes here or I drop you off there. Choice is yours, Baby Sis."

Giving in with an airy sigh, Cordelia decided, "I'll invite him over." She went to stand. "Excuse me."

"Can I be excused, too?" Angel asked. "I need to call some people, too."

Sean turned a knowing smirk on her. "The Braunsteins won't be home until three."

Darting eyes bashfully, Angel put all attention on her plate.

"Alright, let's see if I have this straight." Chris ticked off fingers as he named. "Maya and Sean, Cordy and Mr. Fabulous, Angel and Bible Boy—"

The young model shot eyes up again. "No Angel and Bible Boy- I mean, Ben- sort of, kind of, I…" She released a moan. "You're lucky I love you because I can't stand y'all."

"Congratulations," Raven smiled brightly. "You've learned the true meaning of family."

"And to think," Hank added, "you haven't even reached the porch-lights-flickering-during-good-night-kiss portion."

"Now Henry, I have elevated far beyond that," Charles claimed. "From now on, I'm turning on the sprinkler system."

Not too far from each other, Frank and Samantha exchanged brief bashful glances.

IIIIIII

Positioning himself directly outside the partly ajar door, the redhead lowered his knocking fist almost as swiftly as he raised it. Jabbing fingers together with uncertainty, he remained in place for several seconds.

"I know you're out there, you infectious little wart," the voice from the other side of the door addressed, startling the younger boy, "I can detect your pitiful pre-pubescent powers."

Daring to step in, Collin observed him lacing up his impeccably polished dark wingtips. "Where're you going?"

"To see my girlfriend." Standing from the edge of his bed, Fabian seized his brown suede jacket from where it draped over the desk chair. "An interaction you will likely never know."

Exhaling through his nose, Collin shook his head. "Whatever."

Eyes fixated on the mirror next to his dresser, Fabian stopped his withdrawal with, "You're astonished I haven't told my father about yesterday."

Coming into the room fully, Collin wanted to know, "What do you want from me, Fabian?"

"You know, it's really hard to pick with all that you have to offer." The older teen rolled his eyes. "My father has to concern himself with a wealth of priorities in and out of this house." Fabian splashed a bit of aftershave lotion underneath his black collar. "I won't add our petty quibbles to his burdens. You just remember that Jimmy won't always be at your disposal to prevent my retaliation. And as much as I am tempted to bang your head against the plaster right now," he admired his gold cufflinks, "I'd rather not sweat through the ensemble

Remaining quiet at first, Collin finally came back with, "Fabian, what I said about your…"

Brown eyes becoming engulfed in flames, Fabian hissed at him, "You shut your fucking worthless mouth. Just shut up!"

Immediately retreating before the hardly-passable reconciliation took a worse turn, Collin started back for his room only to see Jimmy reach the top of the stairs.

He asked, "Was that the fabulous one I just heard?" Collin nodded. "Don't tell me you two are losing your minds again."

"No more than usual," Collin shrugged and headed inside his room.

Jimmy clamped a hand down on his arm. "Been meaning to holler at you. Come in here."

"Since it's my room and all," Collin allowed himself to be tugged along, "sure."

Nudging the boy to sit on the side of the bed while he sat backwards in a swivel chair, Jimmy faced him squarely. "Where do you disappear to at night? And save your bull shit points because it's a waste of time denying it."

"What, that? Just walking, messing around. So what?"

Jimmy regarded him disbelievingly. "So what? Boy, you are not retarded. You know good and well what's out there. And we're mutants on top of it. You trying to end up in a cage with none of us knowing where the hell you are?"

"Yeah, good luck with them finding me," Collin scoffed.

"Don't even try it," Jimmy countered. "Missy's whole power is escape and they still got her. And this girl is a certified ass-kicker. If you wear out your powers, I don't want to think what'll happen to you out there."
Collin further dismissed it all with, "Why do you even give a shit?"

"Because I give a shit," Jimmy replied promptly and plainly. "When Estevan's out handling our business, me and Miss have to look out for y'all. And yeah, that includes Fabian's big head." Collin snorted at that and Jimmy smiled sincerely. "Anyway, what I'm getting at is, you need to do better than what you've been doing. I'm not trying to come home to find your skinny ass stretched out on the ten o'clock news."

After a moment, Collin gave off a nod. "Kay, I hear ya… even though you're usually out way past ten."

"Mind your business," Jimmy brushed off shortly, rising to his feet.

Collin followed the upward movement. "Jim… you're cool, man."

Wordlessly applying a hand to the youth's face, Jimmy sent him down onto the mattress with mild force before taking his leave.

IIIIIII

Attired for the afternoon ahead in yellow sleeveless turtleneck, white jeans with matching denim jacket and boots, Cordelia stayed stationed at one of the center living room windows. At last, the familiar and unimaginably expensive vehicle pulled up onto the property.

Looking away from the glass, she announced, "Alright, he's here." She walked to where her brother and sister shared the sofa. "Remember, Fabian is not as bashful as Morrie at introductions. He's confident, strong, gorgeous, amazingly powerful—"

"And in no need of a publicist I see," Chris cut into the dreamy-eyed girl's diatribe.

Emma nudged him lightly at the shoulder. "The Acolytes take mutant pride to the extreme."

Chris nodded indifferently. "So I've heard."

When Cordelia went to answer the doorbell, Emma took Chris by the arm as they stood. "Remember how you found a way to hate every one of my boyfriends, including my husband for a stretch. We're not in high school anymore, Christian."

"But they still are," Chris countered pointedly, "Emma."

Returning to the living room hand in hand, Cordelia smiled up at the strapping male at her side. "Chris, this is Fabian Cortez. Fabian, meet my big brother."

Eyes locked on the teenager, Chris offered the first hand. "I'd say it's about time, wouldn't you?"

"Oh absolutely." Fabian shook with him. "Especially since I'm already acquainted with your other sisters. Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're the one with the unfortunate medical condition, yes? Born incurably generic?"

Appalled and eyes reflecting the same, Cordelia kicked at his ankle. "Fabian, do not."

Putting on a smile, Fabian reassured, "I'm only ribbing, Cordelia. A little joke to break the ice."

"Though you're not wrong," Chris informed. "Yes, I am generic. But from what I understand about your particular mutation, my ordinariness leaves you powerless. Am I right?"

"… Touché," Fabian conceded.

Strolling towards the nearest window, Chris peered out. "Ferrari, hm?"

"Yes," Fabian smiled, going to admire his machine himself. "Little seventeenth birthday gift from my father."

"I was sixteen when my father gave me mine." Chris stroked his chin in thought. "A Ferrari is all well and good- for the teeny bopper scene that is. These days, I'm more into the new Lamborghinis. Not to mention my prized Jag."

"Jaguar." Fabian's eyes lit up despite himself. "Perhaps we can put together a friendly race sometime."

"I'll even give you a head start. Anyway," Chris made his way back to Cordelia, "I'll likely be gone by the time you kids make it in tonight. I trust Fabian here to have you home at an appropriate hour."

Fabian stood as tall as he could with arms behind his back. "It is a school night."

Cordelia reached up to hug Chris around the neck. "I wish you didn't have to go."

"So do I." Chris stroked her hair with one hand and cupped her cheek in the other. "But I have to get back to work and Courage- among other things." He kissed her forehead. "I'll give you a ring tomorrow." He turned to the younger male. "It was nice meeting you. Be sure to take care of our baby sis."

Fabian joined hands with her again. "For as long as she'll have me."

Smiling at him, Cordelia determined, "We should go. Bye, Em," she embraced her sister quickly then Chris once more, "Safe journey, Big Brother."

"You, too," Chris returned.

Emma blew a smooch after the teenagers.

Chris watched them leave then resumed his place at the window as they drove off. "After years of dealing with Adrienne, I thought I'd seen the most blatant of arrogance. But this kid really is—" He suddenly felt himself yanked by the arm and it genuinely startled him. "Emmie?"

The petite woman gazed up at him with eyes made of diamonds. "You better be careful with every step you make with this political infiltration. Whatever debt of redemption you believe you still owe to us, you will not play the sacrificial lamb, Christian Frost. You are worth more than whatever you lead yourself to believe on a day to day basis. Is that clear or do I need to chisel it into that thick skull of yours?"

Raising both hands in defeat, he swore, "I'll tread lightly. Not for my own life, but for fear of you bringing me back and inflicting something much harsher."

Emma smiled adorably. "I'm so glad we're still able to communicate. Now if you'll excuse me, I have many children to dote upon."

Easing himself into a sitting position on the windowsill, Chris lingered in amazement at the maternal ivory dragon.

IIIIIII

"Sam for sure wants to stay with the X-Men and Angel and I are dying to live the college experience together, so we both applied for Westchester U," Cordelia kept her arms wound around one of his as they moved through the shopping center together, "even though Angel is convinced no private university will look at her application without bursting into fits of hysterical laughter. But it's okay. We have a bunch of backups in the city."

Fabian nodded through the explanation. "Sounds thorough."

Cordelia glanced up at him. "So, what about you? Come on," she tugged on his sleeve, "you knew this was inevitable. The great couples discussion about life after the fairy tale known as high school comes to a close."

"Let it," Fabian shrugged. "This school system is subpar at best. As for higher learning, I'm not so sure. Let's be honest. Do I seem the fitting in type amongst the typical college crowd?"

"You fit in just fine at Westchester High and you know it," Cordelia disputed. "You charm the kids, enthrall the educators…"

"Feel as if I'm forever wasting my time."

Cordelia stopped walking suddenly. "Then why do you even bother showing up?" At the look he gave her, she grew somewhat sheepish. "Right."

"Cordelia," Fabian released a sigh, fully peering into her blue eyes, "if you want Westchester University, I'll be there. If you want the city, I'm there. If you want the world itself, consider me packed. Our situation… it isn't a mere fling on my part. I'd like to think I make that clear. But it's more than apparent I come up short there."

"Hey," Cordelia caressed at his jawline and ear, "from where in the world is this coming? You do not come up short with me, Fabian. Regardless of what anyone says, I know that part of you. Even if it's only for me."

Fabian stated, "This is what's only for you," and bent to grasp and kiss her.

Though she could sense the numerous on-lookers that passed them, Cordelia cared not as the naturally solid gold girl became liquefied in his clasp.

IIIIIII

Luggage secured inside the trunk, Chris leaned against the hood. He flipped through the lengthy agenda inside his daily planner- inwardly wondering when exactly he had become geriatric enough to carry around such a tool- while he waited.

"Are you sure you don't want to stay for dinner?"

Jumping at the voice that echoed throughout the massive garage, Chris glanced back at the approaching metal wielder. "For the love of God, how do you do that?" When the other gentleman only offered a smirk in response, he chose to answer the previous question. "As overly tempting as tonight's pizza-topia sounds, I'm afraid I maxed out my caloric intake with your all too perfect brunch. Not that it wasn't appreciated."

Stopping just short of him, Erik stated, "There is nothing wrong with you, Christian."

Sharing eye contact with him, Chris said in turn, "From you, I know that's worth the pharaoh's tomb."

Nudging one foot against a tire, Erik cautioned, "Be careful on the road and more so when you return to Boston." He extended a hand. "Our nephews have not had a fair amount of time with you."

Chris accepted the appendage with a smile. "Thank you, Erik."

"Here we are," Charles' voice announced the arriving Xaviers along with Cody. "Time to see Uncle Chris off."

Chris shared a cuddle with Brian before he had to give him back over to Emma. "Don't you give your mother a hard time."

Emma nuzzled her baby's temple and locked onto her brother's hand as he dipped to kiss her cheek. "You call me…"

"Two seconds out of the vehicle," Chris concluded. "Clear as day, Little Sis."

Cody went to wrap arms around the man's middle. "It was great seein' ya. You're a real far out uncle."

"Always a pleasure, Cody." Chris got to one knee. "The next time I'm in town, I owe you kids a movie and banana splits. Quite possibly at the same time."

"Alright!" Cody grinned.

Eyes settling on the remaining child, Chris opened his arms. "Sprite?"

Joey ran forward into the embrace. "Bye, Uncle Chris. Say hi to Courage for me and Beauty. Oh, and Grandpa, too."

"I will," Chris chuckled then stood while still holding onto the boy. "Be good for your parents, but especially your Uncle Erik here."

"I have to," Joey replied simply. "He gets me out of trouble when I get a bad mark in school."

Erik dipped his head with a chortle.

Spinning quickly with Joey, Chris lowered and propelled him to dash to Erik next.

Charles stepped up. "Be careful, brother-in-law."

"Where have I heard that before?" Chris exchanged a handshake that grew into a small hug with him. "My word, brother-in-law." He turned to make tracks for his car again.

The adults looked on while the children waved after the exiting Jaguar.

IIIIIII

After the last number by The Beatles came to a close, Angel did not miss a beat to swap it out for a Ray Charles album. With pleasant music continuing to fill the already enthused den, the winged girl took back her cushion next to Samantha's on the floor. With the younger girl's fingernails painted for the day ahead, Angel shifted a little to start polishing Cordelia's with a honey gloss. Crouched at the coffee table, Kayla played beauty shop with Kiki and her assortment of dolls. Situated on a soft pink blanket on the floor, Raven helped Mira support herself with tummy time. A multitude of curlers piled on her head, Maya enjoyed a pint of butter pecan ice cream. On the loveseat, Becky resided in Emma's lap while the woman applied detangler and other moisturizers to her long curls.

"So, Kay," Raven addressed the eldest of the women, "truth or dare. What was it really like having your first kiss with Logan?"

An immediate smile came to Kayla's lovely features. "It's funny. After we exchanged vows, I was ready for this magnificent once in a lifetime experience. And there was my groom… frozen stiff."

"No way," gasped Cordelia.

Maya's brown eyes tripled in size. "Wolverine froze?"

"Yes, the man who had been as crudely forward as possible in his unrelenting quest for me could not believe I was really his." Kayla toyed with the ring on her finger. "Once and for all. But when he finally snapped out of it, it wasn't fireworks… it was volcanic eruption."

All ladies present released dreamy sighs.

"When Hank and I kissed the first time," Raven recalled. "I swear I thought the stars were falling everywhere- but it was just Charles playing with the lights." Multiple giggles sounded at that.

Samantha rubbed Midnight behind his ears. "I can't wait to kiss."

"Yes, you can," countered Emma and Kayla in chorus.

Amidst the next round of laughter, Angel piped up, "Can I just say for the hundredth time that my little sister," she slipped an arm around the girl in question, "is completely amazing?"

"Some things are just fact," concurred Cordelia.

"My sister's amazing." Samantha glanced over, bringing up a hand. "And so is my cousin."

Becky smiled secretively and shared an affectionate squeeze with her.

II

Relieved to finally be done trimming the eternally-growing hair of his oldest, Logan allowed Cody down. He joined Joey on the floor mat, where they instructed their baby brothers on crawling. With Victor currently not among them, Charles took it upon himself to thoroughly condition and blow-dry Leon's hair. Stationed on Erik's lap, Trav read through one of his acquired books from Christmas while the man worked on his head. Once finished with Frank's haircut, Alex beckoned Scott over.

The younger Summers situated himself in the chair with his comic book. "Make sure it's short enough and away from my eyes. I'll lose huge ROTC points for that."

"Relax, Air Man," careful of his brother's glasses, Alex started in with the comb and scissors, "I got you covered."

Sean looked away from playing cards with Hank. "You have time for me, Wolves?"

Logan patted the couch. "Saddle up, red."

Hank watched him go to the man. "Oh, not getting it cut by the professionals this semester?"

"Meh, who needs 'em?" Sean shrugged. "Especially when you got former military in your own house."

Logan sized up the boy's head. "Knew there was some reason you kept us around."

Worming his way over, Brian yanked on Erik's pants leg.

Still preoccupied with Trav's hair, the metal wielder gazed down at the teeny tyke. "May I help you, Lab Mouse?" At the little imploring arms, Erik shook his head. "No, I cannot pick you up right now."

Trav shooed at the younger child. "Go away, Brian. I have Uncle Erik."

"Son," Hank admonished. "That isn't nice. He's only a baby."

Pudgy face crumbling in seconds, Brian screeched out with tears.

Leaving Leon to finish brushing his no longer damp hair, Charles went to crouch near his small one. "Aw, love," he gathered Brian to cradle. "Now, now, shhh. Come." The Professor stood with his son and headed away from the room. "Let's go see Mummy."

Sporting a grin, Trav made himself even more comfortable against Erik.

Scott put forth, "Sure wish Coach was here, too."

"Yeah." Cody flopped out on his stomach next to Todd. "What's takin' so long anyhow?"

IIIIIII

The pitch black space received lighting solely from the array of lit candles. The wall decorations consisted of posters of swastikas, signs spelling out the numbers 1488, flags of Imperial Germany, and other similar logos. At the center of it all, the six figures gathered around the square table with heads bowed.

The only words spoken came from the tallest among them. "Great Almighty, grant us the wisdom and sovereignty to cleanse this once great nation You bestowed upon us. Allow us to rid the gift You gave us of the lowest and vilest mistakes of creation."

"What a startling coincidence." At the sudden feminine voice that penetrated the air around them, the six whipped their heads over. They witnessed as the crimson haired creature in sleek black attire emerged from the shadows. "I was just praying for the same."

"Adrienne Frost," the previously speaking one recognized straightaway. "How the hell did you get in here? You're on private property."

"Hm," the woman glanced around quickly, "and here I thought it was your mother's basement. Does she give you and the rest of the Little Rascals here full use of it during bingo and book club?"

Another of the masked ones pointed an accusing finger at her. "She's the one parading and glorifying those animals; defiling the American public with that filth."

"Defiling?" Adrienne radiated laughter at the ironic statement. "I must say, it is an oddity. I receive countless threatening letters and grotesque photographs in the mail from many afflicted with your incurable ignorance. Yet all of you so-called men don't have the collective balls to utter a solitary syllable to my face."

He lunged to snag her by the throat. "You are a sinful, shameful, pathetic excuse for a white lady, you low down, nig—" He could not continue after her kneecap collided with his lower region, causing him to drop right to his knees.

Hand going to hip, Adrienne regarded the remaining five. "Any more questions, comments, or concerns?"

All at once they charged at her like a herd of bulls.

Seizing the one who came closest to her first, Adrienne flung him against the nearest wall. She next used her heeled boots to launch two into each other with a single kick to one's chest.

Hurrying to yank open the twin doors of the dark oak cabinet, the shrouded man hollered in shock and paled under his mask at the pair of blackened eyes that stared back at him.

"Thanks for the rifle collection." Victor calmly climbed out of the wooden holding unit. "Gonna make fine souvenirs for my kid brother." With that, the mutant hoisted and hurled him against the staircase.

Forcing the ring leader to the floor, Adrienne pressed the tip of her gun to his concealed forehead. "Listen and do so well because you just became my messenger boy. Spell it out to each and every one of your associates that if any of you ever try to intimidate or harm me, my models, or my agency, we will be here again. It matters not if you try to hide behind the law, your friends in high places, or your mommy's skirt, I will find you each and every time. So, consider this your first and final warning." Repositioning the gun, she fired into his ankle. The bullet's blast and his resulting outcry of untold agony exploded throughout the room. An unmoved Adrienne merely informed, "The next one will be in your brain," before standing to join Victor.

While the ones still capable of movement went to the aide of their ally, the couple showed themselves out through the door that had served as their point of penetration earlier.