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.

270. Chapter 270 At the First Sign of Spring

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Seventy

Author's Word: Hi, fam! Thanks as always for the great feedback. No time to chatter until I've acquired food!... Oh, please enjoy and review!

After finishing their early evening dinner, Sean took care of clearing the table and cleaning the dishes for his food preparers. Lauren guided Maya into the master bedroom. While her mother rummaged through the closet, Maya sat on the edge of the bed gazing around the space. Next to nothing had changed about it since the accident, from Carter's clothes hanging up to his cologne bottles arranged on one side of the chest of drawers. Maya remembered spritzing his favorite scents onto her clothes. For the longest, she could only go to sleep to his smell and the feel of his sweatshirts.

"Here it is." Lauren returned with the polished honey wood chest.

"Isn't that Grammy's?" Maya recognized.

Lauren informed, "It's yours now," placing it between them on the bed as she sat. "I knew this day would come sooner or later- thank God sooner…" Maya laughed softly at that. "It's not much, but every girl needs something she brings into a marriage." Lauren unlocked and opened the chest. "Take a look."

The first thing Maya noticed and picked up was a large time piece. "Daddy's gold watch."

Lauren nodded in fond recollection. "Saved up to get it for our fifth anniversary. Your daddy dug his heels in over spending so much as five dollars on himself."

"Oh, I know." Maya next went through an assortment of folded dresses that appeared snatched right from Bloomingdale's display window. "Mom, these are beautiful." Her eyes glinted all the more at the container of delicate blue and white dishes. "Oh Mom, Grammy's china?"

"These old plates hardly see the light of day around here," Lauren said dismissively. "I know she'd have wanted you to have them, just like her pearls. This china and those earrings were the few things my father didn't get a chance to pawn. Which reminds me." Lauren pulled out and handed her a white envelope. "Open this. I've held onto it for a while now."

Peeling back the flap, Maya gasped over the green bills. "Mother… Mother, five hundred dollars?"

Lauren clasped Maya's free hand as she said, "We both love Sean, but sweetie, no matter what happens, I never want you trapped, scared, or helpless. I put that to the side for you. Just in case."

Not finding any words appropriate enough, Maya leaned over to embrace her mother.

IIIIIII

When he finished easing into his regular parking space, Sean switched off the BMW. As soon as they both exited the vehicle, he rushed around to the trunk to retrieve the case for Maya. She smiled at his show of unmatched masculinity in carrying it on one shoulder. From the extensive garage, they made their way up into the house. They shared laughter between them, feeling lighter than they had for days.

"Kay, Wolverine," Maya entered the Howlett suite ahead of her fiancé, "can you believe this?" She pointed with her thumb. "My mom put together this really cool dowry for me."

Kayla removed herself from the desk to run a hand over the smooth chest. "Oh Logan, is this not gorgeous?"

Logan rocked in the chair with the drifting duo of Mira and Todd in his lap. "About half as pretty as the bride." The comment earned him a bright smile from the aforementioned bride-to-be.

Sean placed the chest on an end table. "It's too bad grooms don't get far out stuff like this."

Kayla offered him consolation with, "Well, traditionally, the groom already has more than enough far out stuff. The dowry is the bride's contribution."

Maya raised on her toes and wound arms around the redhead's neck. "You're already bringing in the car and unmatched singing voice that will go a long way in our battle to fend off hunger."

"And while we're on this subject, take a seat, you two," Logan directed, getting up to return his infants to their cribs. "There's somethin' we need to run by you."

Maya and Sean looked at each with a shrug before taking seats at the little table in the Howletts' designated common area. Bringing over chairs for themselves, the older couple joined them.

Maya wanted to know straightaway, "Is everything okay?"

"Turn off the jitters, Smiley," Logan soothed. "Me and Fox have been talkin' and this dorm idea doesn't sit too right with us."

"We are mutants and have faced a number of close calls," Kayla further elaborated. "Recently in fact. We honestly don't think it's wise for you to try to cohabitate with so many civilians. Anything could go wrong."

"Well, yeah, that's true," Sean had to admit, "but Kayla, part of the reason we're going away to school is to branch out. Besides, we can't exactly commute over three hours back and forth from here every day."

"That's not what we're gettin' at, Red," Logan told him. "We think you two need to rent a place for yourselves. That way you'll have the privacy and can plan the wedding out however you want without campus housin' bein' a tickin' time bomb over your heads. It'll help you prioritize your studies, too."

"Containment is a real threat," Kayla emphasized. "While we shouldn't have to hide from the world, we can't throw caution to the wind, either. Knowing you two are renting off-campus instead of sharing living quarters with dozens of other students would put our minds more at ease."

Facing Maya, Sean said, "They do have a point."

"Definitely," Maya agreed. "Especially if my powers have any more insane reactions."

Logan proposed, "How about we drive up to Syracuse in the mornin', look at a few places, and go from there? Sound like a plan?"

Sean nodded while Maya cheerfully affirmed, "It's a plan."

"Alright, great." Kayla then recalled, "Oh Sean, your mother called twice while you were out. She says it's urgent."

With a mildly irritated sigh, Sean uttered, "Here we go…" Getting to his feet, he touched Maya's shoulder. "I'll be back."

Maya's concerned eyes followed his departure from the suite.

With Charles' study clear, Sean decided to make it his speaking spot. He enjoyed being in the Professor's executive chair for several seconds, including twirling in it. Eventually, he made use of the telephone.

The second ring could hardly go through before he heard the familiar female voice answer with, "Hello, Cassidy residence."

"Mom?" the redhead responded. "It's me, Sean."

"Oh sweetheart, finally," Doreen said with breathy relief. "I was starting to think I wouldn't get a hold of you in time."

"In time for what?"

"Sunday. We're all flying in to celebrate your engagement and, of course, meet Maya."

The teenager lowered the receiver, tapped both his ears, and raised it again. "… What? You… you're… You mean you're okay with me getting married?"

"Yes," Doreen answered brightly. "I do admit that your father and I had some trouble at first, but the fact of the matter is that Maya has been your steady for most of high school. As if it's any surprise you proposed. Thank God you have a job lined up. And your father has been doing backflips over your acceptance into Syracuse. Such an excellent school."

"Yeah," Sean formed a smile that only seemed to grow wider, "yeah, it really is, Mom. So, seriously, you, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa- is Tommy coming?"

"In the back of a trunk perhaps, but he will be there," Doreen assured. "Don't you worry about your brother. He just needs time to adjust. And your father and I would love it if we could take you and Maya out to dinner."

"Sure, absolutely." Sean now grinned uncontrollably. "That'd be great, Mom, thanks."

"Good! Now, how far along are the wedding preparations?"

"Well, Maya got her dowry today, but most of our attention has been on final tests. So glad it's spring break."

"Oh I can imagine," his mother sympathized. "I won't keep you, sweetie. I know you probably have a lot of work to do, vacation or none. We'll talk more later, alright?"

"For sure," Sean replied. "Thanks again, Mom. I can't wait to see you guys. Tell the baby man hi from me, whether he likes me or not."

"I will. And you say hello to Maya for us," Doreen returned. "I love you, Seanie."

"I love you, too." As soon as they hung up, Sean sprang from the chair and bounced in place multiple times before dashing off to let Maya in on the news.

IIIIIII

Compliments of the mutated radiance emitting from the older half of the Eye Scream Team, almost the entire backyard shined despite the hour. Finished with sets of runs and swings, Scott next slipped into his glove to perfect his pitching. Erik gave the bat to Charles while he himself acted as catcher. The men had to make certain they did not establish blinding eye contact with Frank, but Scott could enjoy the glow in full due to his shades. Winding back, he hurled the ball forward.

A squatting Erik captured it in his glove. "Strike one."

"Keep it up, Scott," encouraged Frank.

When Erik rolled the ball back to him, Scott attempted to aim it in a direct path for Erik's glove. Charles' bat interceded and instead made the ball soar.

"Whoa! Nice one, Charles." Scott rushed after the small white sphere, catching up with it quickly.

"Becoming a regular visitor to the weight room, Lab Rat," Erik presumed.

Charles said, "More than I have been, but I believe that little maneuver is left over from my tennis glory days."

They continued with pitching for an additional four rounds of three possible strikes. with Charles only connected the bat three times out of the total twelve pitches.

"Alright, lads." Lowering the bat completely, the Professor determined, "Time for bed."

Frank powered down his lights as both young teens gave into moans of protest.

"Bed now?" Frank said indignantly. "It's the first night of spring break."

"And we've let you stay up for almost two hours." Erik stood straight and removed his glove. "We don't need you sleeping through your entire vacation. Not to mention tomorrow's event."

"Okay, how about this?" Scott presented. "You guys go on in and I'll run a few more drills and substitute the energy expenditure with—"

"Slow down right there, my diligent all-star." Charles reeled Scott towards him to hold and plant a kiss on top of his head. "Erik, do help a bloke so lost. What am I to do with my little Cyclops when he gets much older?"

Erik threw an arm around Frank and ruffled his hair briskly. "I think you have it simpler, Lab Rat."

"Hey!" Laughing, Frank put up a poor show of trying to get away due to his building lethargy.

"Now, go on to your baths and beds." Charles prodded Scott with a few gentle pops to his bottom. "We'll take care of the equipment."

"'Kay." Scott stretched tiredly. "Thanks for helping me practice."

Erik said pointedly, "We'll be by to see you in twenty minutes so no dawdling."

"Yes, sir," the duo replied, leaning on each other all the way into the house.

Bat and stray balls in their possession, the mutant elders paused to linger on the back steps. The slits in the cloudy sky above offered them glimpses of the blanket of stars.

"Logan has unmatched talent in making these gardens thrive."

"Yes." Charles then mentioned, "Simeon would really enjoy it." At Erik's look, the telepath said, "You're the greatest brother I've ever had. I don't need mutation to read your mind."

"Charles, I…" Drawing in one leg, Erik sighed into his kneecap. "I only wish…"

Keeping his gaze upward, Charles massaged at the older male's shoulder. "I know. So do I." He turned to him. "Come inside before the chill sets in, yes?" Erik nodded and Charles moved to stand.

Lifting his head upon considering something, Erik glanced after him. "And just how many brothers have you had?"

"Oh, dozens. Unfortunately, they were all terribly naughty and had to go live in my special space in the basement. A shame really…" Hands behind his back, Charles continued for the mansion. "Not too long now."

Brushing the cheeky younger male off, a distant howl of wind somewhat hastened the metal wielder's return to the indoors.

IIIIIII

Jaguar representation detailed in every aspect of his athletic apparel straight down to wearing a blue sock on one foot and a yellow one on the other, Alex descended the stairs. Adjusting his baseball cap, he picked up on the sounds of youth that always seemed to make his core swell with bliss. He walked to catch up with the yellow and red-orange heads making a path for the back of the house.

"Hey, artsy cultured cuties, come here a sec."

The smiling pair promptly turned to approach the instructor and Joey asked, "Are you guys leaving now?"

"Pretty soon." Alex lowered to be at better eye level with the fifth-graders. "Going to need a ton of us to get through this fundraiser."

Laci told him, "I brought over two batches of my mom's caramel-fudge brownies."

"And I'll likely empty my wallet on 'em." Alex gave her cheek a little tickle, receiving a sweet laugh from her. He looked at his brother now. "So, I don't have to worry about the small-fries because the Howletts took their babies with them, Brian swiped Emma, and Kiki and Trav are going to Scott's thing with us. I want you guys and Cody to be sure you stay away from there." He pointed out the fenced and taped off work space steadily transforming into his own. "I don't want you poking out your eyeballs or any other parts that can't be fixed with standard booboo kisses."

"We won't even breathe near it," Joey promised.

"I know how it is," Laci said humorously. "My dad doesn't like us within twenty feet of the garage when he's updating his car."

"Me and your dad definitely have a lot in common." Alex next brought up, "And about Eel stuff…" He eyed Joey closely. "Just small low-key sparks. No dazzle fests, right?"

"Right," Joey bobbed his head. "I won't let anything happen to Laci."

In turn, the girl said, "And I won't let anything happen to him."

"That's what I like to hear," Alex smiled, getting to his feet. "I better go meet up with the others. You two continue being cool." He headed off with that.

The youngsters resumed walking, hands meeting on their way outside.

IIIIIII

Almost as soon as the tyke's small but pudgy stomach filled to his satisfaction, Brian began to doze. Detaching him from his highchair, Emma collected him into her arms. She experienced a unique warmth when the little lax body automatically snuggled into her grasp. Leaving the kitchen, Emma mounted the stairs while singing a soft tune to him. When they reached the nursery, she used moistened wipes to clean his face. He proved undisturbed as she did so and when she removed his bitty sneakers. Emma secured him to his crib with Dickon and the rest of the stuffed animal militia. She covered him, straightened up the room a bit, and quietly left him to his contented slumber.

At the doorbell, Emma hastened down the stairs. "Just a moment, please." On the other side of the front door, she discovered an elderly couple with young raven haired boy between them. "May I help you?"

"That's sure what we're hoping," the man replied with an air of charm about him.

The woman presented her hand. "How do you do? I'm Lydia Walsh and this is my husband, Flynn."

"You're Sean's grandparents," Emma realized right away, shaking with her. She glanced down. "Then you must be Tommy."

"Yes, ma'am," the boy confirmed quietly.

"Please, come in," Emma invited and they stepped into the foyer. "I'm Emma Xavier. You'll have to forgive me, but a few of my girls are away this weekend so I'm a little behind on housework," she indicated the jeans, plain white t-shirt, and headscarf she wore, "I could have sworn Sean said you wouldn't be arriving until tomorrow."

"That's the case for our daughter and her husband," Flynn informed. "But I got my old bird in tiptop shape and flew out the three of us. We figured Maya could meet us a little at a time to properly build up an immunity to our family."

Lydia smiled, "We're sorry for barging in this way."

"Oh, think nothing of it. Unfortunately, Sean and Maya won't be back until around five," Emma told them. "They're up in Syracuse, looking at apartments with the Howletts."

"That's no trouble," Flynn said. "We wanted to get settled at the B&B and maybe venture into the city. It's been sometime since we've been in the Big Apple."

Lydia then asked, "Would it be alright if Tommy waited here for Sean? He wants to stay over with him."

"Of course," Emma granted.

"Thank you. So, we'll see you about five then," said Flynn.

Lydia kissed Tommy's cheek. "Be good now."

"I will." Tommy waved after his grandparents.

After seeing them off, Emma directed, "Go ahead and leave your bag by the stairs. I'll take it to Sean's room for you later. Would you like to go out back and meet my son and his friends?"

"Su- I mean yes, thank you." As he walked through the main level with her, Tommy asked, "You're the Professor's wife, right?"

"Yes, I am."

"Sean's right about you being super nice. I'm surprised, seeing as you run a school and everything. My lady teachers are big cranks."

"Thank you. And believe me, I understand how some so-called educators can be towards their students," Emma said. "My husband and I want this to be school as well as home for ours."

"This is some home." Tommy gazed around in sheer marvel. "I've seen Irish castles not as nice as this."

"My husband will certainly appreciate that." Honing in on the youthful minds, Emma located Joey with Cody and Laci by the tire swing. "Loves, come here a moment, please." When the three hurried to gather at her feet, Emma placed a hand on the unknown child's shoulder. "I would like you to say hello to Sean's brother, Tommy. Their grandparents just dropped him off."

Though surprised over his unexpected appearance, Joey greeted, "Hi, Tommy. I'm Joey. This is Laci."

Hands behind her back bashfully, Laci bobbed her head. "Hello."

"I recognize you from the pictures in Sean's room," the other brunette boy identified. "I've heard all about ya. I'm Cody. Sean's not home yet, so you can play with us, right?"

Joey noticed the orange ball Tommy kept tucked under one arm. "We have a hoop."

Loosening the grip he placed on his silver necklace, Tommy's dour features brightened. "Okay!"

A pleased Emma said, "You four have fun. I'll be inside if you need me." She started back for the house.

Cody offered, "So, want to shoot some hoops?"

Tommy nodded with vigor.

Joey warned, "I'm not really good."

Laci stated flat out, "I'm a disaster."

"You've got to be better than my dad," Tommy insisted. "Because everybody is."

Laughing, Cody gestured with his fingers. "Pass it, pass it."

Tommy tossed him the ball and the four ran for the basketball hoop while taking turns catching it. Laci managed to snag a few as they went. When they made it to the section of pavement reserved as their court, they started things off with individual free-throws. Joey began sinking after his second try. The boys then coached Laci from behind to help her along.

"Do your hands like this." Joey took the liberty of using his own to properly position hers. "Now, make like a catapult aiming for the evil dastard's castle."

Clearly liking that image, Laci landed the shot. "Alright!"

"Nice one," praised Tommy while Cody said, "See? It's not so tough."

When Joey and Laci went inside to retrieve juice boxes for everyone, Tommy and Cody continued practicing dunks.

Tommy could not get over the way Cody shot the ball from almost every angle with flawless precision. "You do that like a pro. Is it… is it your powers?"

"A little," Cody admitted, coming down. "But even before I had 'em, my dad showed me some moves in all kinds of sports. It ain't easy for us little guys."

"Tell me about it," concurred Tommy absolutely. "Sean's lucky. He's been tall since before I was born, but he's into boring junk like reading and writing."

"Oh I know." Though Cody did not have much against either of those pass-times.

Joey and Laci made their way back and distributed the drinks.

After a sip, Tommy put forth, "So, you're all mutants, right? You think I could see?"

"I'm not." Laci then encouraged, "Show him yours, Joey."

Peering around, Joey saw no signs of adult lifeforms. Going over to their lineup of trash cans, he swiped the lid from one and hopped on it. Summoning up the necessary sparks, he steadily hovered into the sky.

Tommy's jaw nearly reached the concrete. "He's… he's really flying!"

"Yep." Cody watched his best friend with pride. "Dumbo and Peter Pan's got nothin' on him."

Laci shrieked with glee when Joey seized her to soar with him. He made sure they did not surpass six feet off the ground. After her, Joey allowed the highly enthusiastic Tommy a turn up.

When they returned down, the Virginia native had to catch his breath. "Whoa, that was even better than flying with Sean. Cody," he looked up, "how 'bout you?" He took his juice to sip again.

Spotting a particularly length tree, Cody ran for it. Instead of taking it by the branches, he scampered straight up the trunk. When he reached the top, a dozen feet or more in height, he turned his back and executed a flip. He returned to the ground, firmly balanced on his feet.

Blue eyes enlarged, Tommy eventually uttered, "… That was too cool!"

Joey eyed Tommy in intrigue, wondering if his mother had been mistaken about his Cassidy affiliation.

IIIIIII

On their fourth listing, the rental agent, a petite auburn haired woman in tailored blazer and skirt ensemble, guided them through the townhouse. The Howletts kept in pace, carting Mira and Todd along in their individual springtime strollers. Todd played with his Mickey Mouse plush while a wide-eyed Mira pointed and gazed about the unfamiliar surroundings in fascination. Kayla wore a powder blue swing dress with navy jacket, heels, and black lace gloves. Logan had on his chestnut brown suit with white shirt and caramel tie. Mira held onto his matching brown panama hat for him. Sean went out in black pants, white shirt with green tie, and his suede jacket. At his side, Maya walked in a pale pink blouse, jade calf-length skirt, unbuttoned green sweater, white gloves, flat pink shoes, and floral headband.

The property renter mainly addressed the women as she detailed the interior design. As they passed the living room with fireplace, first floor laundry room, spacious craftsman kitchen, linen as well as walk-in closets, Maya nearly froze in place over the master bedroom with private bathroom. She placed a stunned, ferocious grip on Sean's arm. He glanced down at her, their expressions almost identical.

Maya piped up, "Excuse me, Irene, this is only the master?"

Looking away from her clipboard, the realtor replied, "Yes, the other two are upstairs with the second four-piece bathroom. I'll show you the two-piece down here in just a moment- ideal for guests- but first, let's have a look at the backyard. Keep in mind that fencing will be complete in another month or so."

Irene guided them through the back door and onto the wide porch. Sean released a sharp whistle at the lush greenery.

Logan, however, gave off a skeptical hum. "Regular Secret Garden out here. So secret, you can't even see it."

Irene quickly reassured, "Landscaping will see to it prior to move-in."

Kayla questioned, "And this is entirely private?"

"Correct," Irene confirmed. "Believe me, I more than understand your concerns about your daughter's safety with so much political upheaval taking place. However, you needn't worry about your family in this area. There's a calm racial climate. In fact, another of my clients is a graduate student from Kenya. His wife is Polish I believe. They live a few blocks from here."

Logan nodded approvingly. "That's one relief we'll always appreciate."

Irene cast a smile on the twins. "And what a beautiful family you have. Just look at their eyes, like twinkling stars."

"Thank you," Kayla said, reaching down to play with Mira's tiny fist.

Irene next turned to the young couple. "Where did you say you were studying?"

"Syracuse U," Sean answered. "For music and literature."

"Nursing at Le Moyne College," Maya replied.

Irene's eyes widened with impression. "Oh, my, my, two scholars. Honestly, these new townhouses are the greatest option for newlyweds saving for the next stage. And at your age, this will give you ample time to accumulate a sizable nest egg and favorable credit rating. I'll have to double check, but I believe both your schools are no more than twenty minutes from here."

"That's a break." Sean brought an arm around Maya as he gazed around in full awe. "It really is something, isn't it, honey?"

Maya pressed a hand to his stomach, leaning on him. "It really is."

When Irene took them to the second level, she encouraged the group to have a look around for themselves.

Releasing Todd from his stroller, Logan carried him to wear Maya stood outside one door. "This place sure ain't hurtin' for closet space."

Without looking at him, Maya asserted, "No, the real hurt is that firing squad to the wallet. Wolverine," voice lowering, she faced the Howlett males now, "what are we doing here in Never Ever Land? Three bedrooms, two-car garage, picture windows- God help me, that kitchen- we can't afford first and last month's rent on a cupboard in this house. I mean, my mom gave me—"

Logan broke into the tirade with, "Do you like it?"

"Wolverine, this is completely out of our price r—"

"Do you like it?" he reiterated firmer.

Maya folded her arms with something of a begrudging pout. "Only to a kidney harvesting degree."

The man responded simply, "Then you and Red talk it over and let us know. You and Fox just pick out some drapes and leave the dimes and nickels to actin' father-of-the-bride."

"Wolverine, this is way too much for me to be asking of you."

"You're not askin'," Logan said matter-of-factly. "You may not realize it, but there's a lot more to this gig you gave me than helpin' you strut down the aisle. Smiley, I am not givin' you away to go live in some rundown, leaky shack where the roaches eat better than you do." At Todd's gurgling, Logan smooched his cheek. "See, Pup's not havin' it, either."

Maya gave off a small laugh and took the baby into her own hold. "Apparently, I'm outnumbered."

Logan glided fingers through a section of her hair. "I'll be back. Need to check out these pipes." He made his way towards the bathroom.

An enthused Sean approached and gave his arm to Maya. "Can you believe this place? It's perfect for the Howletts to stay with you, for our brothers and the kids to visit. Frank may actually come around when he sees it." He smiled, hugging her and Todd. "I cannot wait for my family to get here. Things are finally looking up."

"I know," Maya said, rubbing Todd's belly.

"This is just the start. I'm going to save for us to get a place twice this size." Sean ran a hand over the dark hairs growing on Todd's scalp. "I can just see our first sweetie running around, playing."

Maya beamed fondly. "With her gorgeous red hair…"

"And warm brown eyes." Sean pressed a kiss to her lips.

IIIIIII

"You're ten, right?" Cody attacked his loaded peanut butter and jelly sandwich with another massive bite.

"Yep." Tommy lowered his chocolate milk glass. "Are you guys in fourth grade, too?"

"Fifth," Joey clarified.

The visitor's blue eyes immediately expanded. "You're all fifth-graders?"

Laci said, "Even though I'm not eleven yet. Are you coming with us to Fred's?"

Tommy wondered, "Who's Fred?"

"One of our friends from school," Cody explained. "We told him we'd bike over today."

Tommy deflated a little. "My bike's back home."

Joey stated, "Well, we're not just leaving you here. Maybe my mom can drive us over real quick."

Appearing thoughtful, Cody asked, "Do you want to use my bike? I can grab my skates."

"Thanks," Tommy grinned.

Once finished eating, they deposited their paper plates into the trash and left the glasses in the dishwasher. Laci used some wet napkins to quickly wipe off the kitchen table.

While Joey and Laci went to retrieve their bikes, Tommy followed Cody upstairs to his room.

After some under the bed digging, Cody wiggled out again. "Got 'em." Holding up his pair of inline skates, his jolliness dampened at the melancholy now present on the younger boy's face. "Tommy, what's the matter?"

Absently kicking his feet from where he sat in the desk chair, Tommy lifted his head. "What do you know about her? My brother's wife or whatever."

"Maya?" Cody grinned, rising to his feet. "Oh, she's the greatest. She's like my big sister. She's all pretty and sweet, but she comes on the gun range with me and my dad. In fact, she reminds me a lot of my mama."

Listening, Tommy claimed, "Seems like she's all Sean cares about anymore. But I guess I can see why he never wants to come home. This place is real cool… and real far from me."

Brown irises darkening, Cody took him by the wrist. "I want to show you something."

Curious now, Tommy moved right along with him.

Going around the corner and through the hall, Cody stopped once they reached the intended door. He walked in first and gestured for Tommy to do the same. Doing so, he knew it to be Sean's room based on the contents of the bookshelf alone. A tap to the shoulder and pointer finger from Cody redirected his gaze to the dresser. The top of the wooden piece contained so many cards, they almost spilled over. Pushpins allowed others to coat the wall behind the dresser. Tommy also spotted the framed photographs on the desk and nightstand. A cardboard collage hung by the closet door and Tommy recognized half the pictures on it from Sean's last trip to Virginia.

"He keeps everything you guys send," Cody spoke, staying in place while Tommy explored. "Except for your ma's brownies. We usually wipe those out in ten minutes. He's shown me clips of your basketball team from your school paper. He keeps that stuff in a box."

"I…" Tommy veered around to face him. "I didn't think he cared a crap about this goofy junk. Figured he tossed most of it."

"You're outta your mind," Cody scoffed. "He talks about you all the time, Tommy. When they grabbed him and took him to that place, they hurt him real bad. He won't say it to me because I'm "little", but I've heard him talkin' to the older kids. He's scared they might try to hurt you just because you're related."

"What? Can they do that?"

"Probably," Cody answered honestly. "Guys in charge like that hurt Leon's whole family and that was just for them bein' Japanese. They even killed the mom of a little girl Maya was taking care of." Tommy frowned with revulsion and Cody walked closer to him. "Sean's real happy about you and your folks visitin'. Maya, too."

Tommy asked seriously, "You sure about that?"

"Hey, if he was a jerk I'd kick him in his package for both of us."

"Cool," Tommy smiled. "Thanks a lot, Cody."

"Come on. Let's round up some helmets." Cody led the way back towards his own room.

Tommy looked surprised. "You need a helmet?"

"Yeah, for protection. Against Hank tearin' me a new one."

II

Going to Fred's now, Mum. Tommy's coming with us.

Alright, good. Make sure you're home in time to wash up for dinner.

We will, Joey returned.

Laci sat on the seat of her yellow and white bike, leaning on the glittery gold tassel adorned handlebars. Joey propped up against his, both sporting helmets and travel bags. Cody and Tommy entered the garage a minute later.

Cody rolled his usual transport from the rack. "Here it is. Good thing we're about the same size."

Tommy's eyes inflated over the black and silver bicycle made with a similar design to a Harley Davidson. "… This is your bike?"

"Yeah, isn't it cool?" Cody indicated it. "My dad rigged it up for me. Only bought the tires new."

Tommy blinked. "My dad needs a contractor to change a lightbulb."

Joey smirked with sympathy. "My dad, too."

After Cody traded out his sneakers for his skates, the quad took spirited leave of the garage.

To the one in loose pigtails, Tommy asked, "Do you stay here, too, Laci?"

"I wish," the girl replied. "But I am here for a long weekend because my parents are trapped at a work conference my dad couldn't get out of. No kids allowed." The gleam in her gray eyes showed anything but disappointment about that predicament.

Cody grew excited at an overturned garbage can and performed a tall leap right over it.

"Wow!" Tommy watched in amazement. "Your moves are too slick, Cody."

"Thanks." Cody then coaxed, "Come on, guys, pump it!" He grabbed onto a lamppost and twirled before launching himself again. "Wooooo!"

Joey promptly shot after him, but kept an eye on Laci. With an untold glow about her face, the redhead sped right along with them. Attempting to adjust to the strange but phenomenal bike, Tommy obtained his footing and grinned from ear to ear.

"Yeah!" he hollered, moving in tune with the others. "Woohoo!"
At an incoming bent plank, Cody challenged, "Dare ya!" He skated up the curve and soared off its slope.

Going next, Tommy shouted, "Alright," over landing without fail.

"I see you got some slick, too." Cody looked towards the blonde next. "Come on, Joey, you can do it!"

"Go for it!" Tommy cheered.

Getting an idea, Joey dashed up the curve, applied his static cling, and made it while staying glued to his bike. "Whew…"

Tommy whooped while Joey and Cody exchanged a wink.

For the remaining contender, the boys began to chant, "Laci, Laci, Laci!"

Parental faces of disapproval etched in her mind, Laci grinned impishly as she wheeled forward. She nearly executed the maneuver until her back wheel came down on the curve too quickly. Reflexes somehow reacting faster than Cody's, Joey moved in time to catch her in his arms.

The dizzy girl panted, peering up at him. "Oh my… is my head still attached?"

Joey eyed her carefully. "Are you okay?"

Big smile taking over almost the entirety of her face, Laci replied, "Better than that. Thank you, Joey."

He returned her highly jubilant expression.

Tommy whispered, "Five bucks says she plants one on him dead in the mouth."

Cody elbow nudged and shushed him while suppressing laughter.

Upright again, Laci took notice of her fallen wheels. "Is my bike okay?"

Cody propped and looked it over. "A couple scratches, but we can paint over 'em."

Fanciful adrenaline tapering for the moment, they continued on their trek at relatively normal speeds. They reached the intended house to see the inhabitant they desired throwing a ball back and forth for Scout. The dog acknowledged the visitors first with a friendly yelp.

"Hey, y'all," Fred waved.

"Hi, Freddie," greeted Laci.

"Hey, Fred," said Joey.

"What's up, big man?" came from Cody. He tilted his head to the addition to their party. "This is Tommy, Sean's bro from Virginia."

"Hey, Sean's bro from Virginia," Fred addressed. "I'm Fred from Texas. And this is my dog, Scout."

He barked again.

Initial shyness fading, Tommy returned, "Hey!"

Joey asked, "Where is everybody?"

"Ma took the itty bitty crew on errands," Fred replied. "But she said it's all good if we want to go hikin' or whatever. She left us mixed nuts and some of that fizzy fruit water."

"Cool," reacted Cody.

"Hold tight while I grab the goods." Fred headed into the house with Scout.

Remembering something suddenly, Cody went, "Ooh! Hey, Tommy, no talkin' about power stuff in front of Fred or his sibs."

"He doesn't know about us," Joey further clarified.

Laci added, "They weren't even supposed to tell me. Joey almost got in a lot of trouble for it."

Tommy responded, "Whoa, Sean wasn't kidding around with this tight-lip thing."

Fred stepped out, making sure to lock up after himself. He handed out the mini snack packs and bottled waters.

"What's your poison, Virginia?" He held two out for Tommy's selection. "Red or purple? I can go either way."

"Hmm, red," the younger boy picked.

Fred handed him the strawberry and kept grape for himself.

They locked up their bikes on Fred's front porch and Cody jammed his skates into his backpack to get back into his sneakers.

"Remember we got to avoid Hope Park," Joey mentioned.

"How come?" Tommy wondered. "Did they find some guy hacked to pieces around there? I know guys get hacked to pieces a lot in New York."

"No," giggled Laci. "Joey's dad and most of their house is there for a fundraiser."

Tommy remained puzzled. "So?"

Cody tried to think how to explain. "Okay, here's the thing. Joey's folks ain't too keen on him walkin' around town. We're lucky they let us take our bikes to Fred's."

"But Fred's mom always says it's okay," Joey said. "And we're supposed to be respectful when we go over there. So if she says it's okay, we can't say she's wrong. That'd be too disrespectful."

"And Joey's family is all English-y," Cody went on. "Bein' rude's a big crime over there. Pretty sure they cane you in the middle of church for it."

Tommy snickered. "Sounds like Ireland. I gotcha, loud and clear. It's weird, though with you guys bein' fifth-graders and all. Figured you did whatever you wanted."

"It's me," Joey sighed. "And it's not fair. Scott could go into town on his own when he was eleven."

"Hey, you're allowed to do way more than me," Laci reminded. "Like breathe."

Fred shook his head. "Your folks don't make no sense. My old lady dang near throws us out through the window just so she can vacuum."

"My mom does that, too," Tommy recalled with a laugh. "She's all, 'if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the headache'."

When they reached the trails, the found the people traffic higher than normal due to it being not only the weekend but spring break also. The five maneuvered through one narrow path in a line-up of Cody, Joey, Laci who kept a hold on Joey's arm, Tommy, and Fred brought up the rear. Their extensive walking rewarded them in the form of a wide clearing with big sparkling pond practically center.

Fred, Cody, and Tommy ran all around attempting to capture frogs. Joey and Laci lingered by the pond with their sketchbooks and color pencils. Out of the very corner of his eye, Joey obtained glimpses of Laci. She lay by him in purple pants, a white top with a pattern of ice cream cones all over it, and an open orange sweater. She supported her weight mainly on her side as she drew, her left shoulder supported by his kneecap.

Tommy watched the way Fred jumped across an assortment of boulders. The furthest one had to be about ten feet away from his last starting point, but he made it without so much as a wobble. Tom regarded the sight as like seeing Mt. Everest bound flawlessly through every continent. He raised his head in time to see Cody performing a series of spins while gripping a branch. The movements proved too swift to count.

"Elevator goin' down!" He returned to the ground with feet together.

Wanting to try the stunt himself, Tommy grabbed a branch he could reach and attempted to flip.

"Hey, hey!" The silver emblem on lengthy chain landed in Cody's hands before it could hit terra firma. "Careful, you almost lost this."

"Aw man, thanks." Jumping down, Tommy accepted the large cross and returned it to around his neck. "It's my favorite."

"That thing's huge," Fred remarked, coming over. "Looks like you could nail a guy right upside the head with it in Jesus' name."

Tommy smirked. "That's why I like it so much."

After a few rounds of skipping stones across the pond, the five joined in a circle in the grass to munch on their mixed nuts. Laci proved profoundly grateful for Fred's water supplying as she tossed a pill in her mouth and swallowed.

Finding the move curious, Tommy asked, "Do you get migraines? A girl in my class gets 'em more than most old ladies."

Laci shook her head. "They're for my heart. I had surgery on it and now I need more pills than ever."

"You had heart surgery?" Tommy gawked. "Then how come you're racing bikes, running around, and… not hooked to a machine and stuff?"

Laci could not help laughing. "Because I'm better now. Even if my parents don't completely believe it." She then reacted happily to the small winged creature flapping their way. "Hey, look."

"He's probably hungry," Cody guessed.

While the other children attempted to offer it pieces from their snack bags, the bird came to roost right in Joey's open palm. While it collected the mixed nuts in its beak, Joey gasped upon recognizing it to be a pigeon. The bird paused long enough to share brief eye contact with the boy before taking off as quickly as it came.

IIIIIII

At the abnormal silence they discovered upon entering the mansion, Sean declared, "They're holding our people hostage."

Maya smiled, tucked under his arm. "They're probably still at the fundraiser."

When they did pick up on voices, the group of six followed them towards the living room.

"Mommy Emma, you will never—" His ability to speak dissipated when Sean saw who the woman currently shared tea and butter cookies with. "… Grandma? Grandpa?"

The coloring began to fade from Maya's face and the Howletts shared a stare.

"There's my big boyo!" Flynn went right to the tall teenager with arms spread. "Ohhh, congratulations again, Seanie."

"Thanks, Grandpa!" Sean went to his grandmother next, who completely bypassed him.

Kneeling before the pair of strollers, Lydia cooed over the yawning infants. "Oh, look at you, precious plums. Hello there, hello. Sweet Lord, you're the most beautiful little angels."

"Thank you," said Kayla graciously.

Logan added, "Though the jury's still out on that angel bit."

"Lydia, I don't know if you're up on what's current, but your big grandson's betrothed," Flynn reminded.

"Oh for Heaven's sake, where is my head?" Lydia stood with apologetic eyes. She gave a hug to Sean before settling gaze on the young brunette girl. "And you must be Maya." She extended her hands and Maya accepted them to squeeze. "Oh my dear, I can see why you're always on Sean's mind. You truly are a vision."

"Thank you." Maya developed a small blush.

"I'd congratulate, too, darling, but just looking at you, I can tell Seanie hit the jackpot on this one." Flynn took one of her hands to peck. "Grandpa Flynn, pleased to finally make your acquaintance."

"Yours, too," Maya replied. "Both of you. Wow, this is such an honor. Sean thinks the world of you." She then remembered and gestured at the couple right behind her. "This is Logan, Kayla," she pointed out the babies as well, "Mira, and Todd Howlett. Logan is giving me away and Kayla is designing my dress."

The adults began exchanging handshakes and pleasantries.

"A sneak attack, Grandpa?" Sean frowned in faux disapproval. "Really? You're supposed to be here tomorrow."

Flynn chuckled. "Got to keep you on your toes, Seanie. A married man has to expect the unexpected."

"Speaking of," Sean glanced around, "where are Mom, Dad, and Tommy?"

"We ditched your parents back in Virginia," Flynn dismissed.

"Tommy is with Joey, Cody, and Laci," Emma piped up. "They went over to see the Dukes. They'll be back in time for dinner."

Panic emerged throughout Sean's system, most obviously on his face. "Tommy and Cody met without me? Oh no…" Sean ran frantic hands through his hair. "Not, not, not good."

Emma told him, "The four of them had sandwiches together in the kitchen. They seemed fine."

"Yeah, just like Joey seemed fine when he found out Scott was here." Moaning, Sean ran an anxious hand down his face, attempting to brace himself for inevitable disaster.

IIIIIII

"Man, you've gotta be kidding. Codicat is a way cooler name than Thomas. I sound like a dignitary or something."

Cody rolled his eyes. "I'll take that over sounding like a cat with cooties." Laughter emitted from them all at that. "Then they turn around and name my brother Todd. Not even fair."

Laci countered, "What's not fair is being named Lacinda. Like everybody has to bow every time I enter the room."

As they proceeded from the garage, Joey stated, "You're supposed to bow to queens." Laci formed a warm, coy smile. "What I hate is my middle name." He made a sour face to accompany the sentiment. "I love how my grandpa always calls me Little Charles. Everybody else usually only pulls my full name when I'm in trouble, but even when I'm in for it, I love it."

"Charles Xavier." Tommy attempted to take in the full effect. "Now that's big time dignity."

Joey said, "When I get older, I'm gonna drop it to get into important places." He made an expression of false confusion. "Ohhh, did you think I was that Charles Xavier?"

"Oooooops," they chorused together, breaking into another laughing spell.

From the chair he shared with Kayla, Logan sniffed the air. "I smell trouble. Cute little giggly trouble."

Sean sprang up from speaking with his grandparents and the Headmasters. Not wanting to overwhelm things, only the adult X-Men in the forms of Charles, Erik, Emma, Hank, Raven, Logan, Kayla, and Alex sat around the living room. Victor had excused himself before going out to the backyard with Scott and Frank. When the quad of youths walked in, everything silenced. The dark haired boy with blue eyes matching the redhead's own stepped forward.

"So," Tommy spoke first, "you glad to see me or what?"

Reanimating, Sean raced to sweep him up into his arms. "Tommy!" He spun in place with him multiple times, entirely disregarding dizziness.

As if the older boy might disappear, Tommy clung to his hair and shirt.

Cody glanced back at Laci and Joey, all of them wearing delighted countenances.

An equally pleased Lydia and Flynn locked hands and the others looked on happily.

When some small portion of current events set in, Sean stood Tommy but kept both hands on his shoulders. "There's someone I've wanted you to meet for a long time."

Taking the cue, Maya made her way towards them at a delicate pace.

"Girl I'm crazy about," Sean gave Tommy a squeeze, "meet little man I'm crazy about."

Tommy exhaled. "… Hello, Maya."

She returned kindly, "Hello, Tommy. I can hardly believe this is happening. I've waited so long to meet you."

"Yeah, um, you, too."

Tipping over, Laci touched Tommy's back. He turned, accepting the transparently wrapped creation from her.

Tommy looked at Maya once more. "I- We picked this up for you." He showed her the structure made to look like a potted plant but consisting of multiple lollipops and suckers. "Cody said you'd like it."

A sheen coming over her eyes, Maya took it with a watery smile. "I love it, Tommy. Thank you. Thanks, you guys."

"You're welcome," Tommy uttered while the other children nodded quietly.

An appeased Sean then went about getting him acquainted with the other adults.

Sean brought up, "You remember these guys from when they came to our house, right? With Charles and Erik?"

"Yeah," Tommy nodded. "He's that big guy."

Hank smiled at that. "Somehow, that's always my first impression. This is my wife," he took the hand of the blonde guised woman, "Raven."

"Hi, handsome," Raven acknowledged.

Tommy recollected, "You're the one who can cook good."

Instantly amused, Raven said, "That would be my defining quality according to Sean. I can cook while you're here if you like. Anything you want."

"Thanks." Tommy then noticed the blonde male. "Hey, Alex."

"Ah hey, you do remember," Alex shared a little handshake with him.

Tommy said, "Everybody was yelling. You're the only one who knew I was there."

Rueful gazes exchanged between Charles, Erik, Hank, and the Walshs.

Alex reached out to flick at a portion of the boy's hair. "You're a little hard to overlook."

Tommy turned to the younger Headmaster. "You're the greatest professor in the world, right?"

A flattered but mildly taken aback Charles replied, "I strongly doubt that." His eyes went to Sean for a moment. "But it is a relief to know I have such wonderful word-of-mouth." He faced the child again. "We're all very happy to have you, Tommy."

"Thank you." Looking to Erik now, Tommy squinted. "Huh, I don't know what my brother was talking about. You don't look like a demented scarecrow to me."

"Tommy," Lydia gasped.

The children struggled greatly to combat their burning sniggers. Alex, Raven, Logan, and Flynn laughed openly.

Wearing a taut smile, Sean placed a much tighter grip on his brother's shoulders. "Tom-my, that was like three years ago when I didn't know any better."

An unmoved Erik only said, "Yet still as accurate as it is flattering."

IIIIIII

Arranged around the circular activity table, the four pairs of hands added to the colorful clay concoction. Wearing dark blue howling wolf pajamas, Joey glanced at the girl in close proximity to him. In white pajamas covered in pink polka dots, Laci's partially damp hair from her bath gave her strands a flattering crinkle effect. Cody wore striped sleep pants and one of his father's camouflage shirts. His necklace still around his neck, Tommy had on green and white Boston Celtics sleepwear.

"I still don't get how all this works." Tommy mushed in red clay at the base. "How come these mutations are all over the place? I used to just think my brother was, I dunno, like those opera singers on TV who break glass when they screech. But shooting lightning, reading minds… who gets what and how?"

"Wish I could tell ya," Cody said. "All my dad and uncle really know about us is that we got it from their ma's side of the family. And only boys get it naturally. Sammie- she's at her ma's- has our powers, but that's because those guys experimented on her. My mama's folks just called her a miracle and left it at that. Come on, Joey, you know more about this X-stuff."

Joey moaned lightly in thought. "I can't explain it like my dad does, but um, basically the powers come from your own inner nature, things you're exposed to, or as um," Joey searched for Charles' wording, "a defense or coping mechanism. My dad thinks I got electricity because I was born under powerlines and it got stronger as a sort of shield. To keep people from hurting me."

Tommy nodded his understanding. "That makes sense." He glanced at Laci. "And you're for sure not a mutant?"

"Well," Laci considered, "sorta, kinda technically. But trust me, it's not in the cool way like them. The Professor says my hair being all…" She flipped at the reddish-orange strands, "whacky carrot is a mutation."

"Because her MC1R- that's a gene from bio parents- got mutated with…" Joey paused, attempting to recall the correct pronunciation of the words. "Eumelanin and pheomelanin." At Tommy's very raised eyebrow, he clarified, "I think eumelanin is the one that makes dark hair and dark skin in some people. Pheomelanin is, um, it's like… this." He reached across the table to take Tommy's hand and press on his palm. "See how it's pink around your veins?"

"Uh huh," Tommy nodded.

"The pinky-red stuff comes from pheomelanin," Joey told him. "Sean, Laci, and Aunt Raven have a lot of it. But I guess Laci and Aunt Raven have more 'cause their hair is super bright and pretty."

"Girls go for that pinky stuff," Cody said simply, making Laci shake her head in amusement.

Trying to follow, Tommy next asked, "But what about w—"

"Hey." A knock to the recreation room doorway caused their eyes to shift that direction. "I was wondering where you went. Come down to the music room with me. I'm going to play for Gran and Grandpa before they head out."

"Gimme a minute. We're almost done." Tommy picked up another container of play-doh.

Sean took in the multicolored structure and wondered, "Is that a castle or a mountain?"

With an unashamed airiness in her voice, Laci said, "We have no idea."

"… Huh. Well, see you down there, baby man." Sean turned to go.

Never taking his hands off the clay, Tommy yelled, "Don't call me that, jerk pie," after him.

"How's the weather on Cloud 9? Never been personally."

Sean stopped walking and looked back at the voice. "What?"

"Maya said you were prepped for total warfare with Cody and Tommy." Leon approached him from the other end of the hall. "Must be a relief to see them actually doing okay. Having fun together even."

"Oh, yeah- yeah, that's a huge load off my shoulders." Sean ran a hand over a tension spot on his neck. "Last thing I need on top of everything else is an international incident of Scott and Joey proportions."

"You know, that's one tug-of-war that's never made sense to me."

"I know," Sean concurred. "As if there's some strict universal law stating Alex can only have one little brother."

Leon sent him a flat glance. "No, I just don't see the point in competing for a prize Joey's already won. DNA or death- nothing can break apart the blondes."

At the redhead's wide eyes but utter lack of verbal response, Leon clapped him on the shoulder and shifted out of sight.