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.

248. Chapter 248 New Leaf

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Forty-Eight

Author's Word: Feel the love, fam- Rise or Fall love that is aka the only summer romance I remotely have time for. Please enjoy and review!

All necessary supplies for upcoming exertion secured within the small clear container, the sculpted blonde made it to the second most familiar location in his home outside the Mag Cave. Before he fully entered the gym, he picked up on the heavy intakes of air. Stilling in place, he watched the young teenager rise up and down in a slow, continuous motion.

After a few more seconds, the instructor made his presence known. "At it already, huh?"

Pausing, Frank replied, "You know what happens when I get bored."

"Way too well." Putting the container down, Alex walked over and knelt to press his palm to the boy's back. "Five more, let's go."

Inhaling intensely through his nostrils, Frank accepted the additional pressure and managed to complete the final push-ups. "Weights?"

With a shake of his head, Alex returned to his feet. "Grapple."

Rising, Frank got into a proper stance yards opposite of him. "All or nothing?"

Alex nodded the confirmation and declared, "Go!"

In a rapid duel gesticulation, they made a direct path for each other. They seized the other by the arms and struggled in place until Alex's strength won over. Keeping his strained reactions as silent as he could, Frank made a battering ram of his head and aimed at the blonde's stomach. Sucking in air, Alex let go of him and took multiple steps back. A very brief satisfaction crossed his face, but became masked with stoniness almost immediately.

Going for one another again landed them both on the mats, but they hardly took notice as one kept a tight grip on the other. Without batting an eyelash, Alex used one foot to keep Frank's two at bay. Rolling, he tried to pin the city native onto his back, but Frank provided an offense for himself in the form of forceful squirming. When Alex captured his arms again, a flash of memory caused Frank's brown eyes to dim. He experienced the scent of decaying rats and feces while the two held him back, their intentions towards his youthful form beyond evident.

"Get… off!" Freeing his hands, Frank now used them to go at Alex's neck. The second he did so, he started to constrict the air passage.

Remaining calm, Alex took him by the shoulders and stared hard into his face.

Orbs of honey brown lightening again, Frank let go and crawled back. "Sorry… I… I just… I lost it… I'm sorry, Alex."

At Alex standing and yanking him up, Frank prepared himself to wind up across his knee. Instead, Frank's bottom connected with the bench. Going into the container, Alex held out the chilled bottle of water for him.

"Thanks." Frank started guzzling from it.

Leaving a hand in the brown hair, Alex stated, "It wouldn't have been your fault one way or the other." Frank peered up quizzically at that. "I'm glad Wolves and Mystique got there when they did. Because if so much as one of those guys had done something, I'd have cut open every single one of them and any cops who tried to stop me."

Frank's voice lowered somewhat. "I thought that was the real reason you've been so mad at me. That- I don't know- maybe you thought less of me because they were gonna…"

"Don't even." Alex gripped both sides of his face, keeping eye contact firmly established. "Do not even think that way. I could never blame you for something like that. I heard the stuff of nightmares while I was in prison; one reason I was glad to be in solitary." Sitting beside him now, Alex continued facing him. "When this happened with Lee, I knew it was because his head wasn't right and he didn't really trust people. I could see Sean going for it out of peer pressure. I might even believe it if Joey were older- right before I beat his butt into oblivion." Frank released an amused exhale of air. "But you and Scott?" Alex shook his head. "No way. You two are way above that. I expect better from you and that's how I'm going to treat you. I don't care how many bonehead moves I've made. You don't get to imitate me."

Frank made sure to listen to every word before he responded. "You. Are. So. Dad."

Alex did not bother hiding his self-satisfaction. "So are you." He bumped shoulders with him. "You're just the rough and tough angry part of him. Lee's the brainy covert part."

"And you're the big, bossy part," Frank concluded.

Alex only flexed his shoulders smugly.

IIIIIII

On departure from the building, Melissa glanced back at the one who held the door open for her. "So, ready to prey upon unsuspecting profs next week?"

Leon moved to walk in tune with her. "Pencil case locked and loaded."

"Which brings me to our next topic of discussion."

Stilling, Leon turned to face her. "This sounds like an eye to eye conversation."

Brown irises almost intertwined with his, Melissa began with, "All these kids," she indicated the safe house a distance behind them, "They're in a really rough spot. Most of them can hardly leave the premises, let alone go to school because they have to stay out of sight. I want to talk to Mrs. Howlett about maybe starting something up for them."

"Underground Institution," Leon asserted.

"Basically." She next wanted to know, "Is that okay with you? Hank, Becky, and Maya are one thing, but I know how you feel about letting the other X's in on the fact that we are deeply in tolerance of each other."

Appearing thoughtful for a moment, Leon came back with, "I think Underground Academy sounds cooler."

Pleasure came to Melissa's face. "I tell ya, you really know how to make a girl feel… next to no desire to vomit violently."

"Knew I'd wear you down eventually." When they resumed walking, Leon brought up, "And so we're clear, you know this whole secret rendezvous thing has nothing to do with you, right?"

"Hey." Stopping once more, Melissa stared hard at him. "You don't have to do that. You're not that guy out to check off every base right to grand slam and I'm not that "Valentine-You forgot our anniversary-do I look fat in this?-why haven't you complimented my moronic new hairstyle?-read my mind despite the fact that you in no way mutated that way" girl."

"Noted." As they started down the steps leading into the subway, Leon inquired, "Is your body even able to retain fat?"

Melissa answered, "Only between my ears."

IIIIIII

The passageway splitting open produced a blood red hue that emitted unyielding heat. From the space emerged multiple hands. They reached forth with beseeching wails from faces unseen. Despite the steadily rising temperature, they released a petrifying icy chill the further they came.

Charles?

The voice yanking him back to the conscious realm, the man shot upright in bed. He could not gasp as he struggled for breath and coughed wretchedly.

"Charles." Emma took hold of him, looking into the sweat coated face. "Sweetheart, what happened? What was that?"

Once in possession of his own voice again, Charles spoke. "I must have gone overboard at dinner. Something clearly disagreed with me."

Emma felt around his forehead. "Sugar, you're practically ablaze."

"It's only dehydration." He started to rise from his side of the bed.

"Sugar, lay down," Emma instructed. "I'll get you something to drink."

"No, no, I've got it." After getting into his robe, Charles bent over to give her a sweet kiss. "You were so busy with the baby earlier. You need your rest far more than I do." He made his way towards the French doors, flashing her a suave smile. Stay right put, Mrs. Xavier.

Not thrilled in the slightest, Emma watched him leave with world attached to his back as per usual.

By the time he made it down into the kitchen, Charles had to clutch the counter to steady himself. When he felt stable enough, he turned on the cold water valve and drank quite thirstily from the sink.

"Uncle Charles?"

The Professor veered around to discover the small lass in the doorway, unable to believe he had been too preoccupied to notice her presence. "Princess, what are you doing out of bed? Do you need some milk?"

Green eyes glassy, Becky wanted to know, "Why were they trying to hurt you?"

"Hurt me? Oh my darling," he immediately went to kneel before her, gripping her hands, "no one was trying to hurt me. It was only a nightmare." He squeezed her little appendages. "I'm sorry for waking you."

Becky pulled her right hand away to bring fingers into his damp hair. "Are you sure?"

"Absolutely. Here." Gathering her in his arms, Charles returned to the sink to turn it off before carrying her out. "You needn't worry about a thing, Princess." Giving a kiss to her forehead, he felt the delicate figure grow lax with the sleep suggestion. Not a thing.

IIIIIII

Upon the glasses sporting boy's completion of the lengthy problem, Mr. Harrison commended, "Thank you, Mr. Gladstone. Excellent." Going to the next one on the homework list, he selected, "Miss Ferguson," Samantha raised her eyes, "would you please show us how you worked out number twelve?" At her incredible lack of movement including blinking, he petitioned again. "Miss Ferguson?"

"Um, right. Of course." Getting to her feet, she approached the blackboard that suddenly looked twenty feet tall to her.

Blindly taking hold of the piece of chalk, Samantha tried desperately to recollect her reviewing to sort through the equation.

When she at last reached an answer, Mr. Harrison shook his head grimly. "I'm afraid that's incorrect. You see," coming over, he took the chalk to further explain, "you should have multiplied before dividing. It's left to right."

Internally kicking herself for forgetting that detail, Samantha groaned inwardly. "I'm sorry."

"It's a common error," the teacher reassured.

Carmen's hand shot into the air. "May I take the next one, Mr. Harrison?"

"Certainly, Miss Moreno." He held the chalk out to her.

As they passed each other, Carmen and Samantha's eyes crossed. Folding arms, the blonde took to her desk again. She eased a little at Frank offering her shoulder a pat.

From right behind, Tony whispered to her, "I get that left to right thing confused all the time."

Smiling now, Samantha sat up straight in her chair.

IIIIIII

Performing his thorough walkthrough of the finely pressed and polished young men lined up in an at-attention stance, the Lieutenant performed a double-take at the one in ruby shades.

"Good Lord, Summers," losing his militaristic demeanor a moment, Lt. Ford took hold of him by the wrist, "what are they feeding you and where can I get a plate?" He carefully looked him up and down. "You're sprouting right out of these clothes." Glancing down, he noticed his shoes as well. "How did you march the corridor in those things this morning?"

"They're not very tight, sir," Scott replied, remaining in position as best he could. "My feet are just a little numb."

Gaping at him for several seconds, Lt. Ford could only utter, "Boy, you are something else. I can't believe you grew like that over break. Look here," he pointed at him, "you're clean and fresh so I'm giving you full credit. But I want this uniform altered or replaced by next week. And get rid of these shoes before we have to amputate your feet to get them off."

Scott promptly responded, "Sir, yes, sir."

IIIIIII

After almost more than a half an hour, the broad shouldered black male arrived in his office with a couple orderlies in tow. The two blonde women and brunette males stood from their individual seats.

"Sorry to keep you all waiting," Darryl apologized. "And also, it amazes me that I have people on the payroll running out the door and you somehow keep coming back."

Raven shrugged cutely. "You're just lucky I guess."

"I guess," Darryl parroted. He used the orderlies to present them with individual loaded waist belts. "If you all are serious about this, we have to outfit you with the proper equipment."

Erik claimed, "That will not be necessary."

"Procedure, Mr. Lehnsherr," Darryl told him. "Simply carry the tools and pray you don't need them."

"Reasonable logic," Emma accepted.

At the way the college-age male orderly went to strap on her belt, Charles cleared his throat. "I can do that."

Emma resisted a laugh at her husband taking over.

Darryl helped Raven and showed her a stun gun. "You know anything about low range weaponry?"

Raven studied the one he held. "Isn't that a little out of date? I could have borrowed a more effectual compact from our security team."

As usual, the young woman left Darryl staring dubiously. "I'll have to ask you to forgive our primitive society."

After going over every defensive weapon the belts had to offer, Darryl had orderlies take the Xavier siblings while he guided Erik and Emma.

"Simeon Norwell," Darryl named as they maneuvered through one floor. "Eight years old from downstate. Powers consist of—"

"Flora manipulation," Emma filled in.

Darryl looked at her out of the corner of his eye. "I see you're a quick study, Mrs. Xavier."

Emma went on to ask, "And you're treating him for seasonal depression?"

Erik raised an eyebrow to that. "You have an eight-year-old boy facilitated for depression?"

"He's facilitated due to almost killing himself twice by refusing food," Darryl informed. "During the spring and summer months, when the grass and flowers thrive, he's the happiest child you ever did meet- bright, alive, on top of the world. The script flips entirely by the end of September. By winter, he becomes mad with grief over the plants' dormancy."

Erik and Emma exchanged a look and the former asked, "Is that due to his mutation or a separate underlying problem? Something done to him?"

"To be honest," Darryl replied, "we're having trouble making that determination ourselves."

Making it outside the designated door, he used his keys to get it open. Upon entry, Emma and Erik had to adjust their eyes from the drab hallway to the penetratingly colorful quarters. Posters of different trees and wildlife depictions coated the walls anywhere a shelf of various blossoms could not fit.

"Simeon?" Darryl addressed.

Sitting with legs crossed and back turned, the boy responded with an inattentive, "Yeeees?"

"I have some nice folks here I want you to meet. Say hello to Mr. Lehnsherr and his sister-in-law, Mrs. Xavier. They'd like to sit and talk with you."

Posture going entirely rigid, Simeon scooted around, revealing the skin tone tinted in pale green. Completely bald, he wore the facility's standard garments but in sky blue and held a tiny potted cactus in his lap.

Only one thing gave Erik pause and he spoke lowly to Darryl. "No windows?"

The older man replied, "They have to stay covered up. He can't handle the barren trees and snow on the ground."

Emma took the first step forward with a smile. "Hello, Simeon. We're so pleased to meet you."

Collecting his words, Simeon returned, "I am… I am pleased to…" Honing in on the strange man in the room, Simeon hugged his plant to himself and stood to approach Erik.

The metal wielder remained still while the child ran fingers over his suit jacket.

Darryl explained, "Forest green. He loves those types colors."

Pointing a finger upward, Simeon went, "Ooh."

Remembering the tiny pink bud next to his silk handkerchief, Erik removed it from his lapel. "My daughter thought this would look very fetching. Take it." He held it out to the boy. "It's yours."

Blue eyes lighting up, Simeon accepted it with a monumental grin. "Th- thank you."

"Dr. Henson," Emma spoke, "do you think you could give us a moment with Simeon?"

"I have second floor rounds. I'll see you later, Simeon."

Simeon did not acknowledge his leaving form as he continued to shine interested eyes on Erik.

Kneeling to his level, Erik said, "I love your beautiful plants, Simeon."

Stroking the jar that contained his cactus, the child told him, "Th-they take them from me. T- to t- give them sun. I l- love the sun, but it hides fr- from me."

"Simeon," Emma piped up, "would you like to see the sun now?"

Looking up at her, Simeon replied eagerly, "Oh yes."

With a wave of her hand, Emma transformed the room into a Bostonian garden.

Simeon reacted to the overhead rays brilliantly. "It's so warm…" He looked to Emma importantly. "How do you do that?"

"The same way you do what you can," Emma answered.

Erik touched Simeon's shoulder to get his attention again. "Will you show us, Simeon? Your special gift? Please."

Delighted, Simeon honed in on his cactus until it arose by two inches. "Not too big." He hugged it again. "I like it little."

"That's magnificent, Simeon," Erik praised him. "Would you like to see mine?" Simeon nodded and Erik summoned two coins from his pocket. "I'm afraid it won't be nearly as amazing as the two of yours."

Simeon watched in glee at the circular bits of metal floating around him. When he attempted to catch one, Erik allowed him to capture the quarters.

Eyes gleaming, Simeon asked timidly, "Mine?"

Erik nodded the confirmation. "Yes, yours."

"Th-thank you…" The young mutant appeared lost suddenly. "Mi-Mister L…"

"Lehnsherr, but let's not strain your tongue," the man quipped. "Call me Erik."

"Erik," the boy repeated.

Regarding the two happily, Emma dissolved the illusion.

At the abrupt disappearance of his nature setting, something between terror and outrage filled Simeon's pupils. He released panicked screams.

Both adults becoming alarmed, Erik took his arm. "Simeon, calm down. We—"

Yells only intensifying, Simeon fell back, dropping his cactus as he did. As soon as the jar cracked on the tiled floor, he whimpered and started shaking all over.

"Simeon, it's alright." Emma gathered the plant. "It only needs to be repotted. You didn't hurt it."

"But you could have." Gripping his shoulder, Erik kept eye contact with mutant fledgling. "If you love your plants, you cannot go into fits like that. It'll cause you to harm them or for your gift to go out of control. Do you understand, Simeon?" He only quivered. "Simeon?"

He slowly nodded wordlessly.

"Excuse me, gentlemen." Cactus assortment in hand, Emma started out of the door. "I will return." She went in search of a replacement pot.

Standing, Erik placed his hands in his pockets as he fully took in the room. "You like pretty colors, don't you? Greens, blues, reds, yellows?" He saw Simeon nod again. "I have a nephew who's a bit older than you are; Joey. He loves lots of color as well because he's an artist. Perhaps I can ask him to paint some nice pictures for you. Would you like that?"

"… Yes, Erik," Simeon answered, voice hardly a whisper.

"This room reminds me a bit of Holland. That's in Europe," Erik told him. "I was only there briefly, but they have some of the most beautiful flowers you can imagine." Simeon's eyes enlarged with interest as he followed the adult's every word now. "I can bring you some books about Holland with lots of pictures."

Simeon formed a small smile. "You will?"

"I said I can," Erik clarified meaningfully. "But I only will if you try to control yourself. When I come to see you again and if Dr. Henson tells me good things, we will see about the treats." He squatted to him again. "Alright?"

Simeon bobbed his head deeply. "A-alright." Raising the bud he had received, he made it blossom in his palm.

Erik watched him with strong approval.

II

Left alone in the small room mainly illuminated by one large window, Raven and Charles waited together on the bench made into one wall.

"She's a shapeshifter, too?"

"Yes," Charles answered. "Though I'm afraid it's miles from what you can do. Her other form- to be honest, it's rather terrifying, Baby Blue."

Raven looked at him in ironic amusement. "More than mine?"

Charles only gave her serious eyes in return. "You'll soon see."

At the sharp screeching that echoed next, Raven flinched.

Under the escort of two orderlies, the girl arrived in the room inside a straightjacket.

Rising promptly, Charles said kindly, "Thank you, gents," then touched fingers to his temple, "now off with you."

The two employees immediately departed while Raven laughed softly at how her brother sounded like the Queen of Hearts.

Warm smile in place, Charles greeted the girl before him with, "Hello, Alice." She only bellowed in his face before transforming and lunging. "Eh-eh," the telepath froze her in place, "let's have none of that."

Slowly getting to her own feet, Raven took in the other female's decaying appearance. "God, Charles…"

"I know," he concurred her sentiment. "But I believe I can help her if I venture inside." Charles reached out, gently stroking Alice's hair. "I'll need you to remain here," he looked back, "to ensure our safety."

Raven nodded resolutely. "Of course. Just be careful and remember," she placed massaging hands on his shoulders, "your anchor's reporting for duty."

Giving her the utmost grateful expression, Charles allowed calm to overtake him as he dove into the mind of the tormented teenager.

Instant confusion overtook him at finding himself surrounded in inky blackness. Before he could question it, flashes of gray lightning filled the sky before an intense rain poured down on top of him. Through the relentless moisture, he made out the figure dashing by him.

Alice? Alice!

Going after her, they seemed to take part in an endless chase. Though the pursuers remained behind them and masked by the darkness, the mutual fright Charles experienced from him made him push onward. He tumbled unexpectedly, but instead of hitting the ground, he fell much deeper and harder. Catching a scent, he gagged on the intense smell of deteriorating bodies. Managing to sit up, he made out the open space six feet above him. He received no chance to pull himself up and out as dirt piled on top of him harder and faster than the rain previously. Though he fought to stay above it, it built until his throat filled with it.

"Charles!" Dropping right along with the now involuntarily flailing telepath, Raven attempted to pull him free. "Charles, come back!"

With his powers now out of his operation, movement returned to Alice as well as the blood-curdling screaming.

Hurrying up, Raven snatched her by the shoulders. "Stop it, Alice! Stop! We just want to he—" When the crazed motions only continued, she allowed her blue skin to surface. "I! Said! Knock it off!"

Startled and not by the other shapeshifter's tone, Alice could only stare at her. "Y-you… you're…"

"The same as you," Raven supplied, voice now even. At the moaning from below, she lowered to Charles' side again. "Hey," she lifted his head onto her lap, "you okay?"

Though he panted, a big smile came to Charles' face. "Ah, you two ladies have gotten acquainted. Splendid."

IIIIIII

Glad to find the suite in question open, the younger woman looked in on the elder at work on her sewing machine with a tranquil expression in place.

"So, do you juggle, too?"

Gazing up, Kayla replied, "Every moment of every day it seems." She then stood and went over to properly greet her. "Melissa. It's good to see you, honey."

"You, too," Melissa returned and waved in the direction of the cribs. "Hi, small fries."

"They're awake if you want to give them a proper hello," Kayla invited.

At the offer, Melissa walked up to look in on the pair. She reached a hand into each crib, but it was Mira who held the tightest grip on her pinky.

Kayla came up behind them. "Her father believes she'll master the single-handed choke someday. Though I'm still hoping for ballet."

Managing to tear observation away from the children, Melissa placed attention on their mother again. "Sorry for this barging in. We're picking up the kid today and Wolverine said it was okay to come up."

"And he was right." Kayla indicated the sitting area and they took up the chairs at the circular table. "So, how is everything?"

"No new complaints… today." Melissa considered, yet again, how to begin. "I hate how out of the blue this is, but I really need to talk to you about something."

Hands folding together, Kayla leaned in. "Go ahead."

"Okay, so when I'm not into all things Acolyte, there are these different groups I help. A lot of battered women, small kids, runaway teens…"

Kayla surmised, "You're talking about underground networks. My husband and I have worked with a few."

Melissa's eyes grew at that. "Really?"

"Yes. As a matter of fact, Logan's side of the family has history of aiding slaves who managed to escape to Canada. Helped them get back on their feet. He doesn't care for fanfare, but my husband's always been one to go where he's needed and do what he must."

"Okay, first, you two are cool to an absurd degree," Melissa asserted. "Second, there's this one safe house in the city that deals with pretty bad situations. A lot of the kids can't even go out and play or they might be discovered. Which makes school basically out of the question. I was hoping… I mean I know you have this incredible family to take care of and your team and… is there any way you'd be kind of interested in starting a sort of… Underground Academy?"

Allowing the offer to sink in, Kayla replied, "Kind of interested? I don't think so. Insistent on getting involved? Absolutely."

Euphoria came over Melissa's entire form. "You're serious?"

"Now of course Logan and I have lots to discuss, but whatever the case may be, Melissa, I will help in any way I can," Kayla vowed.

"Oh my God… you… you are the mutant queen, I swear."

"Thank you, but before I go in for the crown fitting, tell me more."

The elated Melissa resumed detailing.

II

"Are you going now?"

Immediately standing from where he none-too-neatly jammed clothes inside his duffel bag, Collin turned a pleasant expression on the girl. "Yep, I officially have a halfway decent bill of health. Though Beast wants me to check in if I so much as sniffle." He then asked, "Where's Frank?"

"Alex stole him away for more training." Putting her notebooks down a moment, Samantha took a seat on the cot. "I wish you didn't have to go yet. It feels like you're the only friend I have that I don't have to pretend anything with. School is really hard, but I can't talk to anyone. Not even my sister."

Inner chest muscle going out to her, Collin took up the space beside her. "Hey, look on the bright side. I'll be back to school tomorrow." He promptly thought about that. "Wow. I can't believe that's the silver lining here." He smiled at her laughter. "But seriously, Sam, I don't care what anybody else has to say. I think you're a real ace plus the coolest friend ever."

"Thank you, Collin." Her eyes also reflected the effect of his words. "Well," she picked up her notebooks again, "I better do some reading before training." She sent him one more smile on her way out. "See you tomorrow, Collin."

"Can't wait," he returned faintly as she left his sight.

IIIIIII

Stationed on the loveseat in the facility's waiting area, Raven managed to cradle Charles' upper body in her arms. Though they had met and interacted with two other patients, she knew Alice had given him the real lasting effect.

Removing his hand from his forehead, Charles reported, "Emma says they'll be down soon. Erik wanted to look in on the little boy they saw earlier."

Raven placed her palm over the edge of his hairline. "Still thinking about Alice?"

"It was so vivid." Charles closed his eyes thoughtfully. "What they put her through, how it all but destroyed her mind. But I will say, I think getting the chance to visit with you really did help her."

Raven's countenance could not delight in that as she remained pensive. "I wish we could…"

"So do I," Charles agreed without need to read her mind. "But we must be realistic with ourselves, Raven. The mutants here are too volatile to come home with us."

"I know," she assured.

He then brought up, "Did I ever tell you about the time I scared the dickens out of Mum?"

Raven asked with faux accusation, "Which rug did you ruin that time?"

With a grin, Charles recalled, "I was in the dining room by myself- I was about three or four- one morning before breakfast and I somehow broke an entire bottle of strawberry preserves. Mother walked in and nearly fainted at the sight of me "covered in blood"."

"Oh boy," Raven reacted humorously, "I can just see her eyes ready to shoot from the sockets."

"And how," Charles seconded. "When she figured out what had really happened, she turned to Dad and said, "Look at your son, Brian". He did for about two seconds before rushing out to retrieve the camera."

Raven gave him a gentle poke between the eyes. "So that's where you get it. But that so reminds me of our first Christmas together. Repainting the kitchen in white after that flour fiasco. Santa better had appreciated those cookies."

"Especially after we had to spend over an hour getting it spick and span again."

Laughing breathily at the recollection, Raven became serious again. "Charles?"

"Hm?" Charles responded in a merry hum.

"What would you say to me dropping a couple classes this semester?"

Nostrils flaring and blue eyes showing themselves again, Charles calmly requested, "Raven, kindly transform into a male."

Not remotely the response she expected, she asked, "Why?"

"So that I may beam you one right to the head without feeling guilty." Charles sat up, facing her sternly. "You just declared your major and you are not about to neglect your studies right now, young lady."

"Charles, this goes hand in hand with my major," Raven reasoned. "Maybe I can find a way to count this place as an internship. That will give me school credit and the work experience I need if I'm serious about my career."

"That sort of argument…" Charles lowered his scolding finger. "Is far too intelligent for me to even hope to rebuttal."

"Charles, I want to help you," she emphasized. "And I want to help the people here. Please, we can do this together."

"Together." Charles clasped hands with her. "As we were then and always will be."

Mutated hazel eyes glossing, Raven withdrew her hand to hug him.

IIIIIII

Retracting the measuring tape, Hank concluded, "There's no doubt about it, Scott." He tapped the boy on the shoulder. "You've grown an inch and a half in hardly a month. And I believe you're up a full shoe size as well."

"Oh great," Scott said with an eye roll. "I'm getting tired of this. I keep outgrowing my favorite clothes and bumping my head on stuff in the tree house. And these long ol' legs are a pain."

"Trust me," Hank ruffled is hair lightly, "I remember these awkward years, but you'll adjust. At least you have the cool shades instead of these," Hank pointed to his own glasses, "like I had to deal with in school. Besides, I don't hear you complaining about those "long ol' legs" when you're scoring runs on the field."

Scott smiled a little. "I guess they're pretty okay for that. But any idea when I'm going to stop at one size?"

"To be absolutely certain of that, we would need to perform X-Rays. But from what I can tell, if you keep growing at this rate, you're going to be taller than Alex. Maybe even Erik."

Scott proved taken aback by this. "What?... Wait, taller than you, too?"

Hank bopped his nose playfully. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. But really, Scott, you have nothing to worry about. All of these changes, in and out, are part of becoming a man. Just enjoy this time for all its worth."

Nodding in understanding, Scott said, "Thanks, Hank," and headed out of the lab with intrigue forming on his face.

IIIIIII

Plastic airplane in one hand small army tank in the other, the energetic youth provided loud sound effects for the invisible battle taking place. Leaping between two chairs, he jumped and flipped over onto the center of the mattress. A single reproachful gaze from his mother put an instant end to the overdone theatrics and he settled on the bed to continue playing.

"Tell me what you think and be honest." Done with Mira's feeding, Kayla carried her back to her crib to poke at her numerous stuffed animals. "I know how sudden this is."

Currently providing the bottle for Todd, who mandating being fed solely by him that early evening, Logan responded, "You tell me. This what you really want to do?"

Going back to her chair, Kayla carried a twinkle about her eyes. "As Melissa was telling me about it, I could feel this fire building. This is what I used to do, baby. What I once dedicated my life to."

Logan regarded her in that unique way from across the table. "I remember."

Passion dwindling, Kayla pointed out, "But this would mean an enormous amount of work, especially for children surviving under these circumstances. And being away from Todd and Mira, commuting to the city…"

"Hey, your man works from home, remember?" Logan reminded her. "I can hold down the fort for a few hours a day. We can sort somethin' out. It's nothin' we haven't done before, Fox."

Cody coming over to take up her lap space, Kayla wound arms around him. "What do you think, CoCo?"

"Hmm, I don't know." Cody leaned back against her. "I don't take too kindly to you cheatin' on us with other kids."

Kayla nuzzled noses with him. "But who will I always come home to? Besides, this will distract me from missing you insanely while you're in school."

"That's true," Cody agreed. "I know you're always about ready to go nuts when I'm not around. And you know what, Ma? I ought to give up school and escort you into the city myself. Anybody comes around lookin' for trouble, I'll give it to 'em good."

"As much as I commend your sacrificial nature," Kayla gripped his chin, "if you even think about giving up school, I'll be giving it to you good."

Cody quickly pecked her cheek. "Yes, Mama."

IIIIIII

Done with his second bowl of soup, Collin made himself comfortable against his linens, back in the room for the first time in days. He thought about the return ride with Melissa. As she rolled down their street, Collin had taken in the manor, feeling as if he had not seen the unique structure in months. After she parked in her usual place in the garage, Melissa gave him his marching orders to get his carrot top upstairs while she fixed him something to eat. Collin also enjoyed having his full appetite back.

Glancing to his left, he saw his now fused shut window; most certainly compliments of Jimmy's mutation. To his surprise, Collin found only a trace of annoyance in the act. Steadfast at his side, Jack watched the teenager vigilantly. Collin had to wonder if the pooch was under orders to see to it he stayed put.

The greatest part of his day- week in actuality- came when he heard Fabian's unmistakable engine. In 10.5 seconds, the hastened pitter-patter of little feet bounded up the stairs, into the room, and concluded with a flop on the bed. Not bothering to get after him for stampeding through the house, Collin seized his little brother in the tightest embrace his still fragile form could manage. For many minutes, they remained laid out that way. Jack's eyes seemed to shine at the image of the pair.

Soon enough, the brothers slipped into a game of Collin spinning Max about on his shoulders with the smaller redhead keeping his arms up victoriously. Blinking multiple times, Collin had to stop suddenly.

Looking into his face as he was lowered to hold, Max asked quietly, "You okay?"

"Yeah, just…" Collin put on a smile. "I'm still getting over this flu bug and all. We'll play later. How about we get started on your homework?"

Clearly ecstatic to do anything with his older brother, Max grinned. "Okay!"

Sitting at the desk, Collin kept Max in his lap while reviewing the multiple worksheets with him.

Max later looked up at familiar commotion downstairs. "Oh Tio must be home."

"…Yeah." Collin managed to focus as they continued with the assignments.

They stayed together until it came time for Max to get ready for bed. Collin managed to shoo him off into their shared bathroom while he made a slow but steady pace downstairs. To no surprise, he found the home's elder in his private office.

Turning his head from situating an antique on a stand, the tall male dressed in brown dress shirt and black pants acknowledged the youth. "There you are. I thought I wouldn't see you until after you'd gone to bed. I would have come up, but I knew you would want to spend your full time with Max." Collin stepped forward into the space. "Happy to be home?"

Collin nodded. "I… I wanted to show you something."

Estevan received no time to inquire as the boy started to fade. "What do you think you're doing?" He quickly went over to clamp hands on his shoulders, forcing him to rematerialize.

The move startled Collin "I was just trying to show you I was getting better."

"You know you are not at full strength yet," Estevan reminded strongly. "Unless it's a serious situation, you are not to use your powers until you're completely well. You'll only make matters worse."

Collin bowed his head. "… I'm sorry."

Estevan touched the side of his hairline. "I know you're eager to set things right again. We'll need you healthy for that."

"But I do feel pretty good. I think good enough for…" Estevan remained quiet, letting him go at his own rate. "I'm ready to face the music."

"I see." Going to shut the entryway, Estevan looked at him again. "Unfortunately, this will not be any concert performance." Strolling to his desk, he leaned against the edge of the front. "Do you see that plaque over there in the upper right corner?"

Collin gazed over at what looked like a carving of a scroll with gold trim. "I've seen it, but I've never been close enough to read what it says."

"It's an excerpt from a Spanish folktale I remember all too well." Estevan crossed his arms as he slipped into recollection. "It's about a man who made a prosperous living as an island fire dancer. One night, he was so caught up in a performance that he did not notice when his little son ran to him for a closer view of the show. Misjudging his steps, he dropped one of his staffs and severely burned his son's face. Though he survived, the child suffered a painful recovery and disfigurement."

"Ugh," Collin cringed. "Poor kid."

"The same could be said for his father. After what happened, he plunged his own face into a blaze. Not only to walk the unfortunate path with his son, but to receive a reminder every day he looked into the mirror. A reminder of his failure to keep his boy out of harm's way."

"Whoa, seriously?" Collin reacted. "But didn't the kid know better than to run at him like that? I mean his dad's a fire dancer for crying out loud."

"True." Estevan then pointed out, "But you'll find that logic falls to the wayside when one's child is hurt." Walking towards the wall, he stared up at the scroll. "Intentional or not, a man can only see his own fault- his unforgivable negligence- in not doing everything to protect him."

Having a good idea where Estevan's present train of thought currently traveled, Collin stated, "That's a real man for you. At least where I'm standing."

"You're a wise young man." Veering to face him, Estevan set him with a dark gaze. "Which is why I'm left dumbfounded by this horrible bout of total stupidity you displayed. With all that you have to offer, what made you turn to such a toxic escape?"

"Because I have nothing to offer," Collin's voice suddenly raised, surprising himself for a moment but he only went on. "I'm a weak, red haired, freckle face who's only good around here for a disappearing act."

"Don't you open your mouth to speak such foolishness." Estevan approached him with an expression of heated reprimand. "You are loyal, courageous, powerful, intelligent- when you're not being painfully lazy."

Collin attempted to read the man's face for any jest. "You… you mean that?"

"Don't display your ignorance, chico. Of course I mean what I say. But perhaps if I bothered to speak it more often," his hand went to Collin's shoulder, "you would not have gone down this destructive path. But you need not worry. About anything anymore. I am going to correct my error and yours." With that, Estevan moved to take a seat on his velvet sofa. "Undo your pants and lie over my lap."

Palms now coated in a fresh layer of sweat, Collin unbuttoned as well as unzipped them. Not wanting to prolong things, he stretched over the adult's legs as quickly as he could.

As he went to finish the job by lowering the jeans and underwear, Estevan provided additional instruction. "Cry if you must or shout if necessary. If you kick or attempt to resist me in any way, I will add another ten for every moment. Am I clear?"

"Yes, sir," came the hushed response of the one with lips against cushion.

"Bueno." Bringing one large hand up, Estevan wasted no time in bringing it right back down.

Brown eyes practically popping from his head and entire face frozen in shock at the intensity of the first blow, it took all of Collin's willpower to simply whimper. He received a sudden reminder of how often Estevan and Fabian worked out together. For someone much older, Estevan easily outlasted the younger males during particularly vigorous workouts. If not for Marko's powers, Collin imagined that their leader would have little trouble taking down the muscle packed mutant.

No mercy came as each swat seemed determined to outdo the one before it. Sincerely grateful for permission to cry, Collin soon developed a pool of tears in the cushion that, like Estevan's hand, did not relent.

Keeping the smacks contained entirely on the boy's rear end, Estevan did not allow the sobbing to affect him. Though a significantly smaller and slightly shorter youth than Fabian, Estevan knew a thoroughly spanked bottom would not leave anything close to real damage on an all too deserving boy.

For a moment, Estevan recalled his Spanish upbringing. Forced to cut down thick branches from the beech trees that grew in the courtyard and struck relentlessly while across a chair. More than once, the punishment would be carried out in view of older relatives to show off disciplinary skills and the young ones to instill fear of what would happen to them should they dare cross the line. Typically, such a fate could result from something such as getting a hole in a new pair of slacks or dripping so much as a single drop of juice on imported carpeting. No amount of apologizing proved remotely sufficient in the eyes of the elders.

At Collin's behind going from deep to tomato red, Estevan determined it enough. During the boy's time with him, Estevan had applied swats to him but never anything warranting more than a few warning blows. He normally found taking away privileges and material goods got him into line straightaway.

Estevan repositioned his clothes as he calmly informed him, "You may move again. But first, are you thankful to have been corrected?" Knowing he was in no shape to formulate solid words, he accepted Collin's vigorous nod. "Muy bueno, mijo. Now, come." Up-righting the thin teen into his arms, Estevan stood with him. "You likely won't be able to comfortably walk for hours and you will be sore well until morning." He looked into the tear streaked face and to Collin's astonishment, used his sleeve to help clean his cheeks. "Have I harmed you?"

"No," Collin sniffed. "I'm dizzy, but," he swallowed, "that's my fault. Not yours."

"I'll be having another late night," Estevan told him, heading up the stairs. "I expect you to find me should you start to feel strange. I'm sure you would prefer to sit down on your first day back to school."

Resisting an audible gulp, Collin responded, "Yes, sir. Thank you."

Once in the redhead's room, Estevan positioned him on his stomach in bed. As carefully as he could, he removed the irritating jeans and left him in his undershorts. Estevan worked the blankets over him for warmth and modesty.

"I'm going to get you some water then it's straight to sleep for you. I will see to Max."

With another sniff, Collin whispered, "Kay."

Before he walked out again, Estevan left the nearby box of Kleenex beside him. Wiping at his face with a few of them, Frank experienced something beyond the rear pain. Actually, it felt more like the lack of something as relief seemed to spread throughout his entire form.

IIIIIII

Entirely preoccupied with cooing over the yellow haired child laid out on the island, Erik managed to react to the warm mug indicated to him.

"Thank you."

Emma left the hot beverage well across from her son while she sipped at her own. "I know depression can be seasonal- winter blues and the like- but I've never seen anything like this. It's a light switch effect with Simeon."

"He's completely connected to his mutation." Erik held out a palm for Brian to seize between both bitty hands. "It's wonderful that one so young and physically different on top of it takes pride in it so."

"I agree, but that connection should not come at the expense of his mental health," Emma reasoned. "I saw you getting through to him yesterday. If we continue to work with Simeon, we should be able to help him cope- lead a stable life."

"If we managed to release Becky from her demons of guilt, we can do the same for the boy. We need only find some other form of joy for him." At the babbling from his nephew, Erik faced the bright eyes and chubby cheeks. "No, we are most certainly not bringing you with us." He lifted Brian to hug to his chest. "Simeon would be left beyond repair the moment we tried to take you home."

"Oh I don't know." Emma reached out to pinch her son's diaper protected bottom. "Poor Simeon might be offended at you attempting to out-screech him as much as you do the twins."

With a chuckle in his throat, Erik smooched the top of the baby's head.

Emma watched the fully dressed boy enter the kitchen. "Isn't it a little early for you, sweetheart?"

"The early bird catches the worm, Emma." Retrieving a mug, Scott headed straight for the freshly brewed pot.

An incredulous Erik followed his movements. "And since when did you become a coffee drinker?"

"Oh, Erik," pouring a portion for himself, Scott smiled dismissively, "once you get to be my age, you find there's no longer a risk for stunted growth. This is exactly what I need for the day ahead- so much to do. I have a presentation, quiz, ROTC drills, a little catch-up with my teammates, not to mention my extensive training sessions. By the way, Em," he addressed the woman, "you're seeing to my replacement uniform components today, yes?"

Attempting to keep her face straight, Emma answered, "We'll take you in for a proper fitting at the tailor's and shoe store tomorrow. We must ensure absolute accuracy for a refined gentleman in your position."

"Wonderful. Thank you much, love." Leaving out, Scott took the time to pat Erik on the arm. "See you at the table, chap."

"Yes," Erik plucked the mug out of his hand while securing Brian with his other arm, "and I'll be sure to bring a glass of milk for you, little Professor."

"Hey!- I mean, right then. Carry on." Hands folded behind his back, Scott left the eatery.

Emma shook her head in sheer amusement.

Erik turned to Brian. "And what about you, Lab Mouse? Will I find you in your father's chair later with a shot of scotch and formula?"

Brian responded by smooching lips to the tip of the man's nose.

IIIIIII

When he awoke, Collin found that while his behind remained tenderized, it had made it through the agonizing beyond comprehension stage. As soon as he got out of bed, he practically ran to take a cool shower. After he finished and got into his robe, he managed to pry Max out of bed, with some help from Jack. Egged into helping his brother dress, Collin did so before getting back to his own room to get on clothes.

He finished pulling down his shirt as the door swung open. "Hey," he glowered at the one who stepped inside, "did you forget how to knock or just wake up slow?" Collin grew confused at the look of bewilderment worn by the older teen. "What?"

"Dear Christ, what kind of drugs were you on?" Fabian squinted and tilted his head. "Or were you always this grotesque?"

Collin rolled his eyes. "Get out, Fabian."

"I will liberate myself from this squalor you call a bedroom shortly," Fabian stated matter-of-factly. "In a horrible discovery this morning, I am completely out of hair tonic."

The redhead eyed him dryly. "Quick, quick. Light the Bat Signal."

Fabian only went on. "Anyway, since I'm so dreadfully behind this morning, I'll have to put the finishing touches of perfection on in the car. Since Father disapproves of me combing behind the wheel," he tossed his keys out swiftly, "I'm forced to relinquish the drive to school to you."

Catching the key ring, Collin's hand entirely stiffened as he stood in untold astonishment. "You're letting me drive your Ferrari? Wait, what's your angle? You gonna wait until I get in it to call the fuzz and tell them I stole it?"

"I don't have time to go into semantics with you. All you need to do is get us into the student parking lot in one piece. But should you get so much as a hint of a scratch on my beloved," Fabian got into his face menacingly, "I will use that empty copper head of yours for a new hood ornament."

"Don't worry about me." Collin jabbed at him. "Just make sure you have everything because I'm not turning around for you to grab your eyeshadow."

"Not. A. Scratch." Fabian walked out with that reiteration.

Holding the keys in his fist, Collin spun in an enthused circle.

IIIIIII

"Miss Ferguson, could you please wait a moment?"

Dreading the sound of her own name, Samantha nonetheless remained in place until the class cleared out. "Yes, Mr. Harrison?"

The elderly man shuffled through an assortment of papers at his desk. "I got a hold of your placement test and compared it against your last quiz and homework assignments."

Using her books to shield her chest as if her rapidly beating hard could be seen, the girl kept a calm countenance. "Oh? Is anything wrong?"

"I noticed that you placed just at the mark to qualify for Honors Mathematics." He tapped the score with his finger. "Yet on your other work, you cannot seem to break out of the C range. Mr. Quincy has picked up on much the same with your science marks." With a quick adjustment to his glasses, Mr. Harrison faced her. "But I think I understand what is going on here." Samantha remained silent, legs turning to jelly as she waited for him to continue. "You're having difficulty adjusting to the traditional classroom environment, aren't you?"

Eyes jumping in surprise at first, Samantha quickly replied, "Yes- a little. But honest, Mr. Harrison, I'm trying to do better."

"Oh you don't have to assure me of that," he told her. "I've seen you in class as well as around school; nose in the books. It's clear how much effort you put into your homework and studies. Now initially, I considered it best to reassign you to one of the regular classes. However, after discussing it with Mr. Quincy, we believe you have what it takes to catch up with the others. If you're willing to stay after school about an hour each day, we would love to offer you the additional help you need."

Entire face melting into untold joy, Samantha wanted to know, "Do you really mean it?"

With a nod, Mr. Harrison stated, "If you're willing, so are we."

"Oh yes, of course! Thank you, Mr. Harrison!" She all but jumped in place ecstatically. "Thank you so much."

"You're welcome, Miss Ferguson. Hurry along now and I'll see you after the last bell."

Grin completely plastered to her face, Samantha almost floated right out of the room.

IIIIIII

Finding the inside of his locker somehow junkier than he remembered, Collin searched for a particular folder.

At a poke to his shoulder, he glanced to his side. "Oh hey, Tony."

"Hey. I told my mom about you being out sick. She fixed these for you." Tony handed him the plastic container of cookies. "Double chocolate."

Only able to stare at the unexpected treat, Collin remembered to respond, "Wow, thanks, man. Um, tell your old lady thanks for sure."

"No problem," he shrugged. "You ready to go to lunch? The guys are waiting."

"Hang on." Beneath the folder he sought, Collin's hand also landed on the cold canister. He took it along with the folder and shut his locker.

As they proceeded through the hall, Tony saw him deposit the vial in the trash can they passed. "What was that?"

"The medicine I was on," Collin told him. "I don't need it anymore."