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.

259. Chapter 259 Moonlighting

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Fifty-Nine

Author's Word: Hi, fam. For those of you who happen to be Spanish speakers, you may want to have a chat with either MS Word or this site for refusing to transfer accent marks. For you guys wondering about Alex's shoplifting deal, I strongly advise you to look back on a couple of the flashback chapters. For the ones wondering how I'm possibly writing this fast- yeah, no clue. Please enjoy and review!

Using specialty comb to ease through the plentiful waves that now made up her lengthy chocolate brown hair, a strained breath escaped the girl. Maya stilled the comb to rub fingers into the bothered portion of her head. The ache only spread in the form of harsh heat that all too quickly transformed into an insatiable drumming throb. With a low groan, she rushed from her room. Having to hold onto whatever furniture pieces she passed due to dizziness, Maya eventually reached the lab. Scanning the deep drawer she knew Hank kept particular supplies, she met elation at the bottle of ibuprofen. She immediately tossed back two of the fat white pills and hastened their path down her throat with water from the sink.

Departing the McCoy wing, Raven picked up her pace down the steps at how the younger female hunched over. "Maya, hey," she helped her right herself, "you okay?"

"Yeah," Maya breathed, patting away the water that had splashed against her hair. "Just need a second."

Raven noticed the bottle she clutched in one hand. "1000mg?" She laid a gentle hand over Maya's cheek. "Did evil Mr. Monthly sneak in early?"

"Oh no, more like evil Mr. Midterms," Maya told her. "My head hasn't registered that they're over yet. Stupid aches."

"I understand," and Raven surely did. "But listen, I was thinking. Since Hank and Sean are leaving for their nacho cheese fueled testosterone thing, we should have a Gorge Weekend. TV, saturated calories, loud karaoke- we can actually catch up and enjoy being on the same planet for a few days."

"I'd love to, Original Gorge." However, Maya declined with, "But I promised Brenda I'd be available."

"No problem," Raven dismissed without a second thought. "She can come over here. We can even toast to the weird love convergence that is X-Men/Acolytes that not one of us saw coming."

"True," Maya tried to smile, "but Brenda sticks by Melissa a lot and Melissa's not really the popcorn munching, pillow fighting type."

"Never would have guessed," responded Raven dryly.

"And since Brenda's still having trouble being so new and late to the jump at school, I think she'd mainly rather talk just the two of us. After all, you, Angel, Cordelia, and Sam aren't exactly experienced in not fitting in."

Yellow eyes only able to stare at the younger X-Woman, the shapeshifter eventually requested, "You want to run that by me again?"

"You know what I mean," Maya attempted to explain. "At school you're all sooo amazing looking with these insane figures. You and Cordy with chests that can overshadow Mt. Rushmore."

A clearly disturbed Raven asked incredulously, "Is that honestly how you see me? So you, me, Hank, Sean- our Cool Group's just some joke you've resented all this time?"

"That is not what I meant." Maya sighed, touching her head again. "Can we please do this later? I'm not in the mood."

Raven remarked, "Could have fooled me," and took her leave of the lab.

Maya released a far more annoyed sigh, gripping the pain relievers all the tighter.

IIIIIII

"While the sun shines bright, we stay protected from its burning light." With a positive nod at the conclusion's clever word choice, Erik addressed the one in present possession of his lap space. "You wrote this all on your own, Kangaroo?"

"Mostly," Joey replied, leaning his side against the man's front. "I had to go to the school tutors for some of the spelling and punctuation stuff- they're nuttier than Sean about those commas."

Erik exhaled with amusement. "An unfortunate, not to mention irritating, side effect of those with mastery over the English language."

"I got the idea from when we were studying the solar system. I saw the magnetosphere in our book, but our teacher barely talked about it so I had to go to the library. She liked how I said it reminded me of you staying up all night when you thought somebody broke in." Doubt built up over Joey's demeanor. "Is that okay? I didn't say anything about Becky's mind."

"Oh, I know that," Erik reassured. "In fact, I much liked the way you told the story without even a hint about mutants. That was very nicely played."

Joey smiled. "So, you like it?"

"Every detail except the grade," Erik said then stated, "A B-plus does not do you justice, though I know that particular fault falls on your teacher."

A thrilled Joey arose to hug him around the neck. "Thanks, Uncle Erik."

Winding arms around him, Erik noted the unusually quiet boy across from them. "Cody, that scowling will not free you from this table any sooner. Finish your food."

Regarding the pile of spinach, soybeans, and others that displeased his strong sense of smell, Cody protested, "I already choked down some."

"Then you can muscle through the rest," countered Erik plainly. "As you would if your parents and uncle were in. This is part of your treatment, meaning you can either eat them or drink them in a blended shake. Chewing or sipping is up to you."

Joey could only offer eyes flooding with sympathy for his friend. His own taste buds cowered at the mere notion of additional vegetable intake.

Wailing proceeding his entry with his tiny son, Charles continuously patted at the heaving back. "Erik, Emma's lying down from strain and he will not be satisfied. Do you think you could try for a bit?"

Standing Joey and handing him his paper, Erik went to collect the angrily fussing Brian. "Now, Lab Mouse," hugging him to his shoulder, the metal wielder went into a slow stride with him around the dining room, "that's just about enough of that. You know how your Uncle Erik detests sad little faces."

Cody rolled his eyes in a near endless loop at that.

"Codicat," Charles' voice combined with him taking over the chair next to his made Cody give him full attention, "I don't like those vegetables dirtying your plate that way." He rubbed a circle around the boy's stomach. "I think they'd be much better off in here."

Lips protruded and brown eyes shiny, Cody whined, "Do I have to eat 'em all, Charles? I ate some and every bite of my meat."

"And that's very good," Charles said with a commending pat to his knee. "However, the vegetables are equally important for your treatment. You're growing and changing so much, your poor little body needs the additional calcium and iron to keep up."

"But it's bad enough I have to go to bed after this just so I can get up early and get my stupid shot before Hank goes on his stupid trip."

"That does sound terribly unfair, doesn't it?" Charles agreed. "I'll tell you what, little kitten. If you eat your vegetables, you don't have to go to bed early at all. In fact, since you don't have classes, I'll let you and Joey stay up to watch the late movie tonight."

Exchanging an ecstatic expression with his best friend, Cody glowed the Professor's way. "Really, we can?"

"Absolutely," Charles guaranteed. "And don't you worry about getting up early tomorrow. I'll tell Hank and your daddy that I will handle your shot for you."

About ready to skyrocket with joy, Cody tumbled against him. "You're the best, Charles!"

"Thanks, Daddy," grinned Joey.

"You're quite welcome, gentlemen." Charles held Cody to him a moment. "Now, why don't I heat these up for you and bring back some chocolate milk to help them go down?"

"Okay! Thanks." Cody slid back over to his own chair.

With Brian contentedly burrowing into his sweater, Erik watched his brother carry the plate into the kitchen. Lowering his chin, the metal wielder placed a soft kiss on top of his nephew's fair head.

IIIIIII

While Melissa assisted Maureen with the loading of essentials, Maya sat across the way in the bedroom belonging to the oldest O'Leary child. Ten-year-old Eddie, thin with auburn hair and a few freckles, shoved whatever he could into his big overnight bag. At the foot of his bed, Maya held onto his three-year-old twin sisters, Kelly and Connie. Both with plump stomachs and round faces, the bitty girls had sandy hair a couple shades darker than their mother's. Kelly had instantly relaxed in Maya's hold, content to play in the much bigger girl's long hair. Connie mainly paid attention to her panda bear plush.

At the grunt she heard, Maya gingerly situated the girls on the mattress to see about their brother. "Are you okay?" She touched two fingers against his upper right arm and he hissed, making Maya's insides contort. "Did he do this to you?"

Eddie nodded slowly. "It was worse two days ago. Mom couldn't let me go to school."

"Did she take you to the doctor?" At the "yeah, right" look Maya received from him, she said, "I'll take a look as soon as we're out of here." Lowering her voice for the toddlers present, she asked, "Did he do anything to your sisters?"

Eddie shook his head to that. "I'd have cut him into pieces if he had."

Maya could only eye him. With him so in close to age as Cody, she experienced a particular swell of appreciation for Logan and the other men who surrounded her.

Performing aerial loops and spins, Brenda's body paused in air at the approaching station wagon. Even with the minimal lighting, she made out the blue color.

"Missy, Maya, he's headed your way," Brenda addressed her earpiece. "Barely five blocks."

Receiving the report, Melissa informed, "It's your husband." She snatched hold of the bag. "We have to move."

"No, no… Stan isn't supposed to be back for another hour." Panic all over her face, Maureen felt some relief at Maya meeting them in the hall with the children in tow.

Not entirely wanting to, Maya surrendered Kelly and Connie to Maureen, but carried Eddie's overnight bag for him. He possessed strength enough to hang onto the smaller sacks for his sisters.

Keeping the group behind her, Melissa led the hastened way down the stairs and out of the gray Cape Cod house. Brenda awaited them by the van. With Melissa in the driver's seat and Maureen next to her, the young ones piled into the spacious back. Having let the O'Leary children in first, Maya and Brenda made blockades out of their arms at the incoming blue vehicle.

"Hey!" Tearing out of the car, the large male with low, dark brown haircut demanded, "What the hell is going on here?"

Rolling her window down, Maureen told him, "Stan, I am not doing this anymore. You almost broke Eddie's arm and you know it."

"You got to be kidding me." Stan released a bitterly amused chuckle. "Yeah, Maureen, go ahead. Go crying to the quilting circle again. I don't give a shit what you do, but I'll be damned before I let you go anywhere with my kids."

Keeping the twins out of sight, Eddie shouted, "Stay away from us! Keep him away!"

"It's okay, Eddie," Maya soothed, sparing him a brief look while never lowering her arms. To the seething man, she requested as calmly as she could, "Move out of our way."

"Better idea," proposed Brenda. "Let's run him over."

Climbing out of the van, Melissa started purposefully for Stan. "You've already fucked with your kids' heads for a lifetime. I really wanted to get them out of here clean, but if I have to splatter your blood all over this driveway then that's just how it's going to be. So, how's this night ending, pal?"

"You think I'm scared of you?" Stan stepped into her personal space. "Bunch of boney little girls coming on my property and fucking around with my family? I can break you in half ten times over."

Eddie crawled forward. "Don't you touch her."

Maya turned to grip his shoulder and keep him in the van.

"Stan, I will call the police," Maureen threatened.

"Go ahead," her husband challenged. "Make sure you ask for my lodge buddy, Sergeant Brenner. Sure he'd love to hear how you and a bunch of strangers are trying to take off with my kids."

Summoning what resembled patience in her world, Melissa directed, "Get in your car or go in your house. Really not trying to break more of a sweat than I have to, but good luck getting help from your cop friend while you're unconscious."

Engaging in a glaring standoff with her, Stan stepped back with arms up. "Fine, fine. You know what? Have it your way." Returning to the driver's side of his car, the spell of elation felt by the group became replaced with terror at the silver pistol he retrieved. "Get out of the car, Maureen."

"Stan, stop this!" she pleaded, unlocking her door. "I'm coming out. Just leave them alone."

"Stay where you are," Melissa ordered, the moonlight creating a beaming glint over the weapon's body.

Aiming the barrel at her forehead, Stan determined, "You really need to shut your fucking mouth. Bitches like you never know when to—" He nearly fell back at the force that seized his pistol.

Capturing the gun by its handle as soon as it reached her, Maya said, "Everybody in the van, quick."

Brenda scrambled to join the other young ones. Eyes never leaving Maya, Melissa shared a short gaze with her as she returned to her spot behind the wheel. The van slowly veered around. In a locked stare with Stan, Maya managed to work her way inside the back. She and Brenda promptly shut and locked it.

Picking up speed, Melissa gazed into the rearview mirror. "Good going."

A smile finding its way onto her face, Maya looked around at the others. "You guys okay?"

With his shaken sisters tucked between himself and Brenda, Eddie grinned widely. "You are so cool."

"Thanks." Smoothing a few messy waves behind her ear, Maya placed the gun inside the van's storage container between the driver and passenger seats.

Maureen released a breath. "I can't believe we got away."

"By the skin of our teeth, but keep it together," coached Melissa. "We still need to get you and your kids as far out of sight as we can."

Eddie turned to Brenda. "Who are you, anyway?"

She huffed one shoulder proudly. "Selina Kyle."

Eddie gave her a flat knowing look. "Oh, sure. And I'm Dick Grayson." He then paled at the sight beyond the rear window. "Mom, he's following us!"

Catching the station wagon in the mirror, Melissa groaned. "Come. On!"

"You have to stop," said Maureen urgently. "You have no idea what he will do with that temper. He'll run us off the road."

"No, he won't," Maya immediately determined.

Rising onto her knees, she got the rear window partially open. Wind whipping zealously through her hair, she placed a strict gaze on the encroaching vehicle.

"Mrs. Patterson? Your husband was in a hit-and-run. I don't know how to tell you this, but he…"

"There was an accident. Emma and Charles are in the hospital."

"I'm going to visit my family."
"Oh, for a weekend?"

"… Longer. Not sure how long yet."

"Sean's been taken into containment."

"You know you shouldn't ride without a helmet. Both our fathers were killed by cars."

"Actually, both our fathers were killed by other people."

All four wheels in addition to the designated one for steering came to a sudden and screeching halt under her control. Maya forced the vehicle into as rapid a spin as possible without ejecting the driver altogether. She released her hold over it once the friction became too much for the rubber on the tires to continue. Maya closed the van window and Melissa pressed on to make the closest turn she could out of view. Brenda brought an arm around Maya as the older girl panted.

Though the strained intakes of air did not evade Melissa's notice, she chose not to comment for the time being. When they made it beyond twenty miles out of Syracuse, Melissa brought them to a motel. While likely not worth more than a three-star rating, it also appeared quite clear that the establishment did not make it a practice of asking too many questions. They took two rooms, one for Maureen and her children and the other for the mutated girls, with a bathroom connecting them. They managed to secure a tub for Eddie to soak his aching arm. Melissa went to fill up the van's gas tank while they settled in.

After Eddie bathed and got into pajamas, Maya walked over to their room with her first-aid kit that easily passed for a carry-on suitcase. When Eddie took off his shirt for her to massage cream into his mark, it took all of Maya's inner resolve not to gasp in horror. Besides his right arm, several deep bruises covered his back and chest.

At the way she examined his darkened sides, Eddie explained, "He knocked me into a wall over the weekend. When I was trying to get him off Mom. It wouldn't have been so bad if the vase and table hadn't fallen on top of me."

Careful of the tender spots, Maya said, "He could have cracked your ribs."

"Nah." Eddie shook his head. "He knows not too go too far that he can't blame me fooling around on the playground and stuff."

Brenda, who stood quietly to the side, glanced Maureen's way. The equally wordless woman focused on changing and getting the girls to bed.

"How'd you do that, anyway?"

Maya looked up at Eddie's voice. "What?"

"I saw the way you took my dad's gun," Eddie spoke covertly. "And his car going wild like that? It was some kind of magic, I know it."

"It wasn't magic," Maya quickly dismissed.

"So, who are you really?" Eddie wanted to know eagerly. "Angel, magician, what?"

"Absolutely no one," Maya answered him. "Who's just trying to help." She held his pajama top for him to carefully ease back into. "I'm going to get you guys some snacks from the vending machines. We'll get real food in the morning."

Eddie nodded and Maya accepted the small hug from him with a smile.

Following Maya out into the hall, Brenda said, "As much as I'd love to drop their dad off in a ditch inhabited by snakes and scorpions, I can barely look at their mom without wanting to slug her."

"I know." Adding coins, Maya began collecting chips, candy, and drinks from the machines. "As down on life as my mom gets, there's no way she'd allow this. Trust issues is what took her so long to get married."

"My parents can seriously screech when they want to," recollected Brenda, "but Dad would never do this to Mom, let alone his kids."

"It would have taken a lot for Wolverine not to kill him. Victor probably would—" Dropping the items, she had to latch onto the machine with both hands to stay up.

"Maya?" Giving her both her arms, shock formed on Brenda's face at the extensive nosebleed. "Oh my God, Maya…"

Retreating for the public bathroom at the end of the hall, Maya made it to the nearest sink. She splashed water onto her face, quickly filling the sink with blood. Coming in behind her, Brenda used a hair tie to keep her brown strands out of the water and ran a gentle hand all around her back.

After almost a minute, Maya breathed, "Thank you."

"Are you okay? Is it your powers?"

"No, I'm fine," Maya hurried to reassure. "Just such a crazy night and all. Listen, don't say anything to Melissa. Please, Bren. You know she has enough to worry about as it is."

With an air of uncertainty, Brenda agreed, "Okay."

After Maya wiped off with multiple paper towels, the girls went back to collect the food.

IIIIIII

At the artwork the boy showed him, Erik proved impressed by the bold blue, orange, and gold that spoke loudly against the black construction paper.

"I never would have guessed the magnetosphere to be so striking."

Standing by his desk while holding the picture, Joey said, "Sorry it's not red and purple."

Erik laughed in his throat. "I'd be astonished if it were. I'm only satisfied this part of your project earned you that A you deserve." Coming towards him, he took the picture for a closer look. "Your Uncle Hank must have been thrilled when he saw the work you put into this."

Joey headed for his bed, stopping long enough to crouch and pet Bounty. "I didn't show it to him."

Raising a confused eyebrow, Erik wondered, "Why on Earth not?"

"It doesn't matter." The boy settled in under his covers. "Trav made all A's on his assignments, even in his advanced classes. I always make A's in art stuff and Uncle Hank won't care about some old B plus."

Coming over to tuck the blankets in around him, Erik sat on the side of the bed. "I think your Uncle Hank deserves a bit more credit than that. Nothing makes him happier than seeing you really apply yourself."

Joey sunk against his pillows. "Trav applies better."

"Stop comparing yourself to your cousin that way," Erik said firmly. "Trav has an endless yearn when it comes to academics. You have passions that are equally praiseworthy. Which reminds me, I have plans for you this weekend, young man."

Innocent blue eyes flashed. "Hmmmm?"

"With Alex going away and you out of classes, you and I are going to get the chance to advance your training."

Joey's eyes sparkled with intrigue. "You mean it? Can I fly higher?"

Erik replied mysteriously, "We'll just have to see, won't we?"

Though he started to smile, Joey considered something else. "Uncle Erik, do you think you and Cody will ever get along great? I do with Vic."

Erik patted his nephew's folded hands. "You'll find that Victor is leagues easier to love than I am, Kangaroo. However, regardless of how Cody may feel about me at times, he will always be one of my own to care for and instruct."

Joey nodded lightly. "Okay."

"In any case, it is not something to concern you. Now, your father read to you right after the movie, yes?"

"Mmhmm."

"Then it's straight to sleep." Erik dipped to kiss his forehead. "Good night, Kangaroo and remember, your magnetosphere is here to watch over you."

The boy smiled brightly. "I love you, Uncle Erik."

Returning the sentiment, Erik clicked off the lamp with his power. Careful of Bounty's hutch, the man made his way out of the room. Descending the stairs, he entered the parlor, where Charles sat re-reading Joey's paper.

"It astounds me the amount of effort he put into this." The beaming Professor lifted his head at his fellow Headmaster taking the chair across from him. "You truly inspired him, brother."

"For God only knows what reason." Erik arched back in his seat. "To think this is the same little boy I could never tuck in unless he was already sound asleep."
Charles could not help smiling at the memory of his timid eight-year-old content to hide behind Daddy. "How far you've both come since then."

"Have I really?" Erik challenged. "I can't even get Cody to eat without a Civil War. You come in, charisma in spades, and he's reduced to putty in your hands."

"As is Brian with you," Charles reminded him. "You can get your baby nephew to mind far quicker than I can. And you know Leon and I have shared quite a few disagreeable moments. Cody's still only a boy from a more traditional family dynamic. While he and Logan have a smashing relationship, I believe he's comfortable around me due to the fact that I don't impose manhood ideals on him. He will come to appreciate your discipline someday."

Erik quietly took the younger man's words into consideration.

On fuzzy slipper covered feet, the young blue woman arrived in the room. "Life stinks and I'm all alone."

"For Heaven sake's, Raven," Charles reacted, "he hasn't even left yet."

"Who's talking about Hank?" She rolled her eyes, settling in his lap against his soft, doughy front. "I mean Maya. All of a sudden, she's hip-joined with Brenda and hovering around Melissa Vitus."

"There has been something of a change in Maya recently," Erik noted. "Her clothes, her hair, her general demeanor. She's become bolder since returning to her old school."

Charles interpreted, "She's at last ready to taste life instead of continuing on as a wallflower. The same is true for Sean. Teenagers go through these things. They just happen to be late bloomers with it."

"Look, I am completely behind Maya becoming stronger and more confident," Raven supported. "I just want to know when I stopped being the person she could talk and relate to."

Charles wrapped an arm around her. "Baby Blue, Maya constantly latched onto you during her battles with self-doubt. She clearly admires you. Have you thought that perhaps she wants to be someone Brenda can now look up to?"

Not wanting to, Raven somewhat conceded, "Maybe."

At her nestling into his shoulder, Charles smiled. "I know what you're feeling. With how far you've come, there are times I feel no longer needed by you."

"Hey," Raven reached up to tap his lips, "don't say that. I'll always need you, Charles… and Mister Mean Jeans over there."

Erik responded sardonically, "You make an old man's heart soar, big girl."

IIIIIII

Another headache forcefully snatching her from her dream state, Maya shot straight up. Due to the strange sleep surroundings, fear crept up on her instantly. When memory hit, she eased at being in the room. The room in the motel. The motel located inside a town whose name she could not recall. A town countless miles away from Westchester and all those who cared for her. She suddenly felt the headache intensify.

Glancing to her right, she sighed with relief at not jostling Brenda, who occupied the double bed with her. Getting into the canary yellow robe that came along with the room, Maya found her pill bottle and went into the bathroom. The lukewarm sink water far from appealing to her dry tongue, it still aided in getting the pair of ibuprofen down. Deciding to look in on the others, she opened the second door a crack. Maureen had managed to get to sleep in one bed with Connie and Kelly sprawled with her.

Spotting the one stationed at the window with a blanket acting as a cocoon for him, Maya approached. "Eddie," her voice hardly qualified as a hush, "are you okay?"

At her presence, the boy bobbed and gestured with his head. "Look at her. Does she ever get tired?"

Peering out at the female in pink and black action attire with hair billowing against the chilled wind, Maya wondered that herself. Sliding the glass door open, she ventured out onto the patio shared by the two rooms.

Not looking back, Melissa asked, "What are you doing up?"

"Stole the question out of my mind. Aren't you cold out here?"

"Used to it." Looking away from the railing, Melissa put forth, "I'm not sure how much longer we can keep this up."

"There's no way he can follow us here, Melissa," Maya reasoned. "And we'll have them in a safe house by morning."

"I mean this team routine." Melissa walked the short distance that separated them. "Look, I won't lie. You and Brenda really come through on these jobs. But too much is going on inside Leon's head and the last thing he needs are new reasons not to trust. Every time I bring you out, I feel like I'm betraying him."

"Melissa, I would never want to come between the two of you," Maya said ardently. "Believe me. But I'm the one being dishonest with him and the rest of the X-Men. Please, you can't shut me out of this."

The older female sighed. "Maya…"

"I'll talk to them," she asserted. "I will. Maybe if I can explain, we can work something out. When I'm done being grounded for a millennium at least."

Melissa locked eyes with her. "You'll tell them?"

"I'll tell them," Maya confirmed. "Leon and the guys are on their trip, but maybe I can get Kay and Wolverine to understand."

"Holding you to that, kid." Melissa walked back into their room.

Moaning for reasons beyond her hammering temples, Maya moved to return to the warmth as well.

IIIIIII

Reading through some research notes left for him by Hank, Charles developed instant pleasant features at the still pajama clad boy that entered the lab.

"Done eating already?" Going to him, the Professor hoisted him onto the medical table. "Did you finish everything?"

Cody nodded. "The extra glass of milk, too."

"Very good. Lay down for me, alright?" When the child did, Charles touched an affectionate hand to his stomach before going to the desk to ready to syringe. "I know how you feel, having to handle these new treatments. During my time in the wheelchair, Raven was a vigilant hawk about my nutrition." Charles headed back to him, rolling up the youth's left sleeve. "Emma was my constant nursemaid," though that part he had minded not, "and I can't count the scolds I received from Erik for scratching my head too briskly, let alone attempting to stand."

"Really?" Staring up at the ceiling, Cody could not picture even Erik capable of reprimanding the regal man. "Joey said that whole time was really tough."

"Yes, but it could have been much worse," Charles knew. "However, our situations do differ in a very important way. I only desired recovery while you are going to be bigger, stronger, and more powerful. You have only to wait and see."

Cody grinned, "I sure hope so."

"There now. Would you like Mickey Mouse or Tigger for a bandage?"

"What?" Cody only then noticed his pricked arm. "Whoa, I didn't think anybody could do shot-sneak-attacks better than Hank. And I didn't even need my dad in here. Oh, Tigger."

Not remotely surprised by the selection, Charles applied the band-aid. "Fortunately my skills are not limited to telepathy. Now, why don't you get into your uniform and meet me out back for a session?"

The boy declared, "Last one there's a rotten lump of soybeans," and sprinted out of the lab.

Charles smiled after the mutated energy ball.

II

As directed, the young Eel arrived at the edge of the yard. Quite curiously, he found himself surrounded by a number of tin cans, garage lids, and various tools. Floating towards the boy dressed so similarly to Havok, Magneto lowered himself along with Becky to ground level and dissolved the magnetic sphere.

"Well, Eel," Magneto gestured grandly, "what do you think?"

The blonde child replied, "I think somebody's gonna catch it big time if Dad sees this mess."

"That's for sure," Becky had to agree.

"It'll be cleared away soon enough, but for now it serves a purpose." Magneto continued the explanation with, "While your control over electricity strengthens every day, it is time you made metal your own. Something more than a mere disk to fly about on. I want you to defend yourself from Becky's illusions with only the aid of the metal equipment around you. No flinging electricity."

Eel rubbed an arm somewhat squeamishly. "That's gonna be hard."

"Exactly the point," stated Magneto. "Rebecca, are you ready?"

With a nod, Becky awaited her father's mental instructions. Upon registering the commands, she cloaked them in an ebony and crimson atmosphere. She caused herself as well as Magneto to vanish from sight. What emerged in their place came in the form of darkened figures racing back and forth between the trees.

Heart pumping steadily, Eel attached himself to a garbage can lid to take to the sky. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the assailants giving him chase. Resisting the urge to summon his electricity, he instead seized control of the smaller metallic bits to fling. It appeared to work until more attackers materialized. Growing frightened while simultaneously hoping his uncle did not sense that sentiment about him, Eel made to rise as many parts as he could. He flung them in sporadic directions, causing every encroacher to dissipate upon contact.

Magneto's voice cut through with, "Enough."

Blue sky as well as his family returning to him, Eel hopped down from the lid to await reaction or, dreading despite himself, reprimand.

Magneto addressed the other cape adorned mutant at his side first. "That environment was rather chilling. We need to work on your addition of sound, but perhaps the severe lack of noise aided the effect this time around. However, I will talk to your aunt about varied exercises in illusions for you."

Becky nodded. "Yes, Papa."

"As for you," the man spoke to the boy next, "you actually handled that far better than I anticipated. Still, we have more work to do to help you combat that hesitation. As for lifting the objects, do not do too much at once unless it is an emergency situation. Calling upon more than you can handle at your age will only lead to exhaustive strain. Something I myself could stand to remember, even as an adult."

"Got it, Uncle Magneto," Eel responded.

"Let's run through it again," the metal wielder decided. "This time, focus on flying away from danger and only attack those who jump out in front of you."

Charged in and out, Eel jumped with pumped fists. "Let's do it!"

Bowing her head to focus, Becky cast the dark veil over them once more.

II

To the surprise of Silver Cat, as soon as he met his Headmaster outdoors, the man wanted to relax on their backs. They laid in opposite directions, head to head, their pairs of eyes on the cloudless sky.

Professor X broke their amicable silence with, "What do you think about when you're roughhousing with your friends? That is, what pops into your head during it?"

"Hm," Silver Cat hummed. "At school, I'm always wishing the clocks would break down so they can't call us in for recess."

"I'm sure," Professor X chuckled. "What else?"

"Um," the boy closed his eyes to recall deeper, "when we play Robin Hood or Peter Pan, it feels like we're really there. In Sherwood Forest or battling in Never Land. I almost forget we're just pretending. I guess I get really into it."

"That's understandable. Raven and I were wild about imaginative play." He admitted humorously, "Only now with all of you here we have a real reason to continue it. Can you think of anything else during those moments? Maybe something from a long time ago?" He could sense the child tensing and allowed him to speak at his own pace.

"Well… sometimes I see Jaycee. Like she's right behind me. When I was little and wrestled with Dad and Uncle Vic, she'd be in the back watching." A smile came to the young mutant's face. "Sometimes she'd grab Dad by the arm when he'd try to pin me. It felt like we'd never stop laughing."

Twisting around, the Professor saw the bone claws attempting to expose themselves. "Silver Cat, your hands."

Taken aback to see them poking through the especially thick gloves of his uniform, Silver Cat shook his head. "I'm not trying to."

"I know you're not. Calm down, lamb." Getting up to his knees, the elder mutant touched his shoulder. "Your claws are only confused. Your thoughts make you very happy, but there will always be twinges of sadness and anger because of what you've lost."

Silver Cat lowered his head. "So, even with Toddy, Mira, and everybody- no matter how good I feel, I'll always be sad?"

"That isn't sadness taking over," Professor X told him. "It is longing. You cherish those memories of your sister yet hate that you cannot create new ones with her. I know because I go through it constantly. Sometimes we'll all be at the dinner table together or I'll be rocking Brian and I find myself wishing my father or even my mother were here with us. Unfortunately, we cannot stop certain things from popping up in our heads."

The boy stared at his knuckles. "So, my claws won't get any better."

"I never said that," the Professor instantly denied. "Absolutely they will get better. Under your control and command. Do you know what it takes to fight that lingering gloom?" His pupil eyed him with great interest. "You must never allow the darkness to win out. If your memories try to send you to a place of pain, give your heart reason to rejoice. Remember what keeps you going, what makes you happy. Focus on all of the good, Silver Cat, and you will have a level of strength and control like you never thought possible."

Attempting to absorb it all, Silver Cat's gaze returned to his gloves. Taking a mental journey back, he saw himself falling back at the appearance of the completely unexpected horse. He could also see the blonde rider who very nearly electrocuted him and pled apologies for doing so. Returning to the present, he grinned at his claws once again stored away within his wrists.

Professor X laughed triumphantly and regarded him with pride. "Top marks, little kitten." Their arms wrapping around each other, the man reiterated wholeheartedly, "Top marks."

IIIIIII

Over the moon to have the safe house Melissa had in mind be on the way through Westchester, Maya made it back to the mansion in time to see Sean. With so much to say on both their ends, it took some doing on Maya's part to let go of him for him to meet the others downstairs. She quietly prayed for he and Leon to find common grounds and silently seethed over Alex. They had all gotten into his school, so why did he have to make the whole thing guys only? Of course, part of Maya could understand how he felt about being constantly surrounded by couples plus the boys likely wanted to unwind. She next had to push back the guilt of denying Raven the same experience with the X-Ladies.

Making it back to Melissa's car without bumping into many more of her housemates, Maya went with them to the safe house further downstate. It did not look nearly as big and nicely put together as the one Kayla taught at, but at least it had consistent tutors and a spacious room for the O'Learys. While she and Brenda helped the children get comfortable, Maya overhead Melissa in the hall with Maureen.

"No matter what loneliness goes through your head, no matter how much time passes, you are not to contact him. No letters, no phone calls. This is not just about your safety but your kids' and every other family here. I'm sorry you've had to deal with all this, but if you don't have willpower, you better fake it hard as hell."

Nodding while choking back emotion, Maureen replied, "I-I understand. Don't worry. I won't expose my kids to him again. Thank you, Melissa."

Having not missed the exchange herself, Brenda looked to Maya in mutual awe at Melissa honestly dressing down the full grown woman. They both made sure to leave their phone numbers with Eddie.

"Call us if anything happens," Maya emphasized. "Please."

"Thanks a lot." Eddie clutched the pieces of paper in his hand tightly. "Not even for me. If my sisters are safe that's all I care about."

Doing everything in her inner might not to tear up over how much of Cody she saw in his brown eyes, Maya gave him a strong hug. "You're all going to be okay now, Eddie. I'm going to pray for you guys, every day."

"Thanks, they're already coming true." He then whispered, "And I won't tell anyone about you, either. Not ever."

Maya formed a watery smile then stepped back for Brenda to embrace him.

IIIIIII

Ever amazed that there existed a girl who one, happily participated in basketball and two, did so in an ivory coat that somehow avoided dirt as if it came with its own invisible shield, Collin watched the blonde sink yet another shot. He retrieved the ball and took his own shot while ears stayed with her.

"I don't think I made one A," Samantha vexed. "I'm pretty sure I made C's on three tests."

Collin shrugged, passing her the ball again. "I'll take that average if you don't want it."

"Tell that to my family." She hoisted the ball over her head. "What if I got a D on something? What if—" She moved when he tried to take the rubber sphere from her. "Collin, I'm serious."

"I know," he frowned, snagging the ball at last. "Cut it out, would ya?"

"Collin." Samantha grabbed his shoulders, stilling him in place a moment. "What should I do?"

"Two things," Collin replied. "Remember that it's only midterms and," he launched the ball, depositing it straight through the hoop, "we're on weekend curfew." His hands went to her hips as the smile spread on his face. "Let's build a snack horde and catch a flick."

Unable to hide her growing cheerfulness, Samantha mentioned, "I think they're playing Goldfinger…" Her eyes enlarged to his sudden staggering. "What's wrong? Collin?"

"Sorry," he regarded her coyly, "but you are the one taking all my breath away here."

Previous troubles assigned to backburner, Samantha connected her lips to his. Collin relaxed his arm around her shoulders as they departed his backyard together.

IIIIIII

With Midnight stretched across his stomach, Cody glanced over from stroking the cat at the beaming arrival. "Here comes Smiley."

Rising from his floor push-ups, Logan caught her in a tight lock. "Hey, baby. Nice to see that smile. Everything good?"

"Yeah, fine." Maya looked up as he lowered her again. "It's just great to be home- having a home- more than one home, actually and…" She tossed arms around him again. "You're the best. I mean it, both of you. Everything you do… I just can't say it enough."

Sharing a look with Kayla, Logan shrugged and held her again. "Our pleasure, darlin'."

"Cody Wody!" Climbing onto the Howletts' wide bed, Maya bopped heads and nuzzled cheeks with him. "I missed you all day."

He grinned at her. "I missed you, too, Smiley. Glad you're home."

Giving a pat to the top of Midnight's head, Maya dashed to where Kayla fed Todd in the rocking chair. "Hi, sweetie pie." She pecked the side of the baby's head and leaned against Kayla's shoulder. "I love you people."

"Honey," Kayla addressed, "are you sure everything's alright? Did something happen?"

"To be honest, we really need to talk." Maya looked between the adults. "Tomorrow, okay? I just really want to relax."

"Sure," Logan nodded.

"Of course," granted Kayla.

Rising again, Maya hurried to her next destination. Once on the main level, she all but barreled into the kitchen. Her thrilled countenance faded some at the two food preparers who stared back at her in mild confusion.

"Rae," with a whimper, Maya sped to her, "I am so sorry."

The shapeshifter managed to snag hold of her. "Maya—"

"I don't know what made me talk to you that way. You've always been there for me, accepted me, forever my best friend." Maya gazed up remorsefully. "You didn't fire me, did you?"

"Okay, you have officially exceeded your stupid questions quota." Raven hugged her in a ferocious grip. "Gorge, you are the living definition of acceptance around here. And I shouldn't have jumped all over what you said. But with you spending time with Brenda and Melissa, the clingy claws came out."

"It's alright," Maya assured. "The claws may hurt a little, but they mean you'll never let me go."

A genuine smile came to Frank's face over the pair of X-Women.

After Maya left them to finish getting dinner ready, she walked out to the dining room to help Becky, Scott, and Kiki set and decorate the table. The unmistakable aroma of roast beef filled the room shortly along with a wealth of other items. Frank had even put together a vegetable arrangement with light sprinkles of cheese and seasoning to make them more appetizing for Cod. When the present X-Men finished filing in, conversation erupted.

Listening to Raven recollect an earlier phone call from Hank, Maya inwardly groaned at the heat that crept in at her temples. Trying to push away all thoughts of aches and pains proved initially successful until she experienced a particularly overwhelming pulse that made her cry out. The lights flickering prevented anyone from commenting.

At that chandelier shattering overhead, Joey yelled, "Brian!"

Closest to the baby, Emma freed him from his highchair and Raven used both arms to snatch her children up. Erik flicked the fixture away by its metallic components. The remainder of the once elegant lighting feature rained hard on their end of the table. Heavy breathing combined with fear and confusion overflowed within the room with all mutants safely against the walls.

All eyes landing on her, Maya brought a hand over her mouth to combat the scream that resonated throughout her head.