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.

284. Chapter 284 For the Love of Laci

Chapter Two Hundred Eighty-Four

Author's Word: Happy New Chapter of Rise or Fall, everyone! I wanted this up before now, but others around me and pure exhaustion decided against that. Thanks for making 2016 a really fun year for Rise or Fall for me and let's go bigger and brighter for 2017! Please enjoy and review!

When "Blue Suede Shoes" faded away, "Hound Dog" immediately followed. The lyrics floated from the small stereo in the kitchen and straight out to the open back door where the assortment of youths gathered. Music making their bodies move more rhythmically, Cody and Mike worked on their karate stances in the grass. Joey and Laci sat beside each other on the top step of the porch with a relaxed Scout panting near to them. The huddled heads of yellow and reddish-orange peered through the sketchbook together.

"This one's supposed to be Lord Onyx." Joey indicated the drawing based entirely off descriptions from Cordelia. "You'll never believe what his weapon is."

"What?" Laci asked with intrigue further peaked.

"An electric whip."

Laci's gray eyes jumped. "Ohh boy, I wouldn't dare mess with him."

"I still say my uncle's sword is better," defended Joey.

"I like the arrows your aunt uses." Laci gazed up at him with utmost seriousness. "Are you sure you should have told me? I don't want you to get in trouble like last time."

"We just have to make sure the grownups don't find out," Joey reasoned. "I had to tell you and Cody. You're my best friends. Besides, it's your week and I can't keep stuff from the birthday girl."

With a smile, Laci placed her head on his shoulder. "I can't wait for the movie on Wednesday."

Joey leaned on her a little as well. "Remember last year? When we first knew each other?"

Laci nodded. "Aunt Raven made us those M&M cookies and Alex took us for burgers. That was the best." She raised her eyes. "Being with you most of all. I'm so glad we met."

Joey looked at her as well. "Not half as glad as me."

While her mother worked at the stove, Lily sat at the table stirring the coleslaw. Darlin played with her plastic fork and spoon from her booster seat.

"We're back!" came the twin trumpeting voices as the two large males made their way into the kitchen.

"We got the goods." Fred held up one of the ice cream pails.

"Yes!" Lily reacted with a pump of her fist.

"Square these away, Junior," instructed Rick, handing him the grocery sack.

"On it, Daddy." Fred situated the ice cream containers into the chest freezer by the pantry then went to the regular refrigerator to start loading the rest.

At her husband snaking around her waist with fingers intent on snagging some sauce, Joanne jabbed at him with her elbow. "You better keep your filthy mitts out my pot." Using a spoon from the counter, she scooped up a portion of the thick redness to offer him. "Here, greedy. Just like your kids."

"Mmm," Rick hummed when the rich tomato and beef sensation accessed his tongue. "Always hittin' that spot, baby."

Joanne returned, "Always makin' it worth it, lover," as he began to kiss along her neck.

"Ma, Dad." Fred went to them with bottled beverages presented.

"Thanks, sug'." Joanne accepted the berry wine cooler.

Rick took and uncapped his beer. "Thanks, Freddie."

Juice box in his possession, Fred followed his father out to the back porch.

Rick gingerly tapped Joey and Laci's cheeks with the bottom of the chilled bottle, receiving a smile of acknowledgement from them. Eyeing the two partaking in the unique exercise, Rick watched in wordless observance.

"Good form, Mickey Mouse." Rick then encouraged, "Keep it up now."

At the words, Mike beamed his way. "Sure will, Daddy."

"Wait until you see, Mr. Dukes," Cody piped up confidently. "Mike's got that green belt in the bag."

Rick commented with a small chuckle, "So long as it doesn't take until the next blue moon like yellow and orange.

Keeping his smile in place, Mike's shoulders drooped.

"Laci," Joanne summoned, "come give us a hand in here, sweetie!"

"Yes, Mrs. Dukes." Laci hurried up into the kitchen.

Joanne next decreed, "You boys get in here and hose off."

"Yes, ma'am." Rick ushered the younger males, including Scout, along.

Fred went upstairs with Rick to continue detailing his school week to them and thunderous laughter boomed from both as they journeyed. After using the small two-piece bathroom with the other boys, Cody moved to walk with Mike, who finished cleaning his hands and face first.

Cody inquired, "What's eatin' you, bub?"

Mike stared at his sneakers. "It did take me too long to get yellow. Even longer for orange."

"No, it didn't," Cody disputed. "You know what the dans are always telling us. Everyone progresses at his own rate."

Mike looked his way. "I wish I could progress at your rate. You're probably gonna run the whole class before I make it to green."

"Will not. You've hardly been in karate a year, Mikey," Cody pointed out. "I just learned a lot from my dad and uncle before I joined up. Grownups don't collect belts that fast, let alone kids."

"I really want my daddy to see me get green."

"He will. And he ain't mean nothin' outside. Trust me." Cody gave him a playful shoulder bump. "My old man's always kiddin' me like that."

Cody brightened as they made it into the kitchen together.

Joey and the bigger Dukes males returned to see the spread of fried chicken, cornbread, coleslaw, spaghetti with the homemade sauce, and broccoli. The girls finished scrubbing their hands at the sink and Laci swallowed her scheduled pill with some water. She next scuttled over to secure a seat next to Joey. The young Xavier still had to adjust to having a family meal at the kitchen table since the Dukes only used the dining area for special occasions or when they needed extra space. Lily and Mike sat on either side of their father and Rick held Darlin in his lap, tenderly rubbing his stubble covered cheek against her soft, smooth one. Fred finished pouring water and kibble for Scout before taking his spot.

Their hands linking together, Joanne offered up, "Who wants to say grace?"

"I'll do it, Mama," her older daughter volunteered.

"Go on ahead, Lily Belle." Joanne bowed her head with the rest.

"Dear God," began the girl with braided blonde pigtails, "thank you for our food, our house, our family, but most of all, bringing Daddy home safe. Please bless everyone at our table. Amen."

"Amen," came the chorus and Rick praised, "That was real nice, Lily Bud," making her face light up.

Passing the different dishes around, Rick noted, "I ain't seen you young bucks in a good five weeks." He looked the way of the redhead present. "Rumor has it you got a birthday this Wednesday."

Laci smiled and told him, "I'll be eleven, finally. I hate having the last birthday in class."

"Don't be in any rush to catch up with the rest," Rick advised, gathering a forkful of food to feed to Darlin. "Enjoy this time while you got it."

"Ain't that the truth," Joanne concurred, pouring milk for everyone. "Let me have my youth back any day."

Fred smirked, "You had youth, Ma?"

Giving him a look, Joanne replied, "I did four-big-head-kids ago."

Her words made the children slip into hearty snickers.

IIIIIII

Palm sized brush in his grasp, the metal wielder eased the bristles along the mane of the black steed. Over in the next and most recently built stall, Samantha saw to Hazelnut's grooming. She shared a small smile with Erik and kissed the side of her horse's face. In the more open area of the barn, Charles and Raven helped balance the two tots on the ponies.

"So, we have Steel," Charles acknowledged the male and reached over to pat the female that Kiki sat on, "and… Franny?"

"Uh huh," Trav nodded. "Steel 'cause he's gray and for Uncle Erik."

Glancing their way, the man in question winked.

Growing a pleased expression, Charles asked, "How did you come up with Franny?"

"We wanted to name one for you, too," Trav explained, "but we couldn't think of anything. So, Mommy said to use your middle name 'cause Francis is girly."

Having to take a deep breath from bursting into laughter at her brother's resulting expression, Raven quickly defended, "That's not exactly how I put it..."

"How very thoughtful, Baby Blue." Charles cringed a little and muttered, "Francis… thank you ever so much, Mother."

Erik chuckled and Samantha giggled.

Erik then declared, "It's about time you children went in for your baths."

"Yes, Uncle Erik." After one more nuzzle with Hazelnut, Samantha left and latched her stall.

"Mommy," Kiki addressed as the blue woman picked her up, "can Franny sleep in my room?"

"Oh no, sweetie," Raven shook her head.

"No large or slobbery animals allowed in the house, Little Princess," added Charles. "Besides, she'll be much happier out here with her mates."

"Kay," Kiki sighed into Raven's shoulder.

Samantha joined hands with Trav and followed the McCoy ladies out of the barn.

Charles approached Erik and said, "I suppose you still find this all too indulgent on Winston's part."

"I thought so at first," Erik admitted. "Now," he rubbed Blaze's nose, "hm, they remind me of when I was a boy. I may have spent more time in our stable than even Joey does now."

Charles smiled at the recollection. "I certainly missed our horses after Mother sold the ranch. Though in all honesty, we seldom ventured out there after Father's passing. He used to let me ride on top our fastest stallion with him- always to Mum's horror."

Erik faced him with a mutual faraway expression. "Such a lifetime ago."

"Yes," Charles concurred softly, gazing about the barn. "But we have it all again and so much more."

"That we do." Erik clapped his shoulder. "Let's prepare for bed checks, Lab Rat."

After herding Franny and Steel into their stalls and ensuring they had enough water for the night, the Headmasters strolled for the main house together.

IIIIIII

Standing in the beginning stages of the white skirt that would become her most important attire, Maya eyed herself in the tall mirror. Kayla squatted, taking measurements and other adjustments at the hem.

Maya asked, "Do you think you could add the Irish lace Melissa got us?"

Removing a pin from between her teeth, Kayla answered, "I believe that can be arranged."

At the footsteps making their way into the suite, Maya looked to the door in alarm, but received relief at the Howlett males. "I thought you were Sean. I don't want him to see a thing before I'm coming down the aisle."

Cody told her, "He's downstairs glued to Trick's piano." He walked over to look in on Todd and Mira.

Rising, Kayla determined, "That's good enough for today, Maya."

Taking the girl's dainty hand, Logan helped her down from the stool and into his arms to spin. His core leapt at her giddy giggle.

"Bride-to-be," the man stated. "Comin' up quick now."

Keeping an arm around his neck, Maya said, "And still, I have calculous to review."

Logan stood her with a peck to her temple. "Get to it."

Maya went into their walk-in closet to change out of the bottom half of her dress.

II

In his Pinocchio pajamas, the blonde child stayed in step with his aunt's heels while she attempted to straighten up the tornado territory known as her kids' playroom.

"You have everything for the cake, right?" Joey wanted to know. "Remember, it's half chocolate—"

"Half yellow with green and orange icing," Raven filled in all too knowingly while wondering why peanut butter coated Trav's plastic army men. "Whipped cream, not butter. Relax, Joey, we're professionals. This house is Birthday Central, remember?"

"I can't help it, Aunt Raven." Joey began putting away the art supplies at the little table as he vexed. "I really want everything nice for Laci. She has to take all that medicine, go back and forth to the doctor, and her parents are always going crazy about everything."

"They just worry about her, Cuddle Bug, but you don't have to because we're going to make it the best day yet for Laci," Raven vowed.

"Thanks, Aunt Raven," the boy smiled.

"Am I interrupting?" Hank asked, stepping into the colorful space.

Joey said, "We're just talking about fun stuff, Uncle Hank. It's okay. We know you're allergic."

Raven used one of the Dr. Seuss books she carried to bat his bottom. "Go to bed, smarty." Hank applied a ginger swat of his own as Joey scampered by. "He's been Howlett-Creed overexposed."

Hank peered after the departing child. "There really is a wedge between us, Raven. Lately, it feels like I don't know the first thing about Joey."

"It's the pre-teen thing; trying to find his way," Raven reasoned. "Scott and Frank went through it."

Hank veered to give his wife a look. "Do you remember life when Frank went through it?"

"Well, that was different."

"How so?"

Raven stated, "Frank's the Love Bug and Joey's the Cuddle Bug."

"Astute logic, dear," Hank quipped, features quickly losing amusement. "I never want to feel separated from Trav this way."

"You won't." Depositing her armload into the nearest chair, the shapeshifter walked to him. "Hank, you and Trav sprouted from the same enchanted star crystals. All he wants is to be like you. Why do you think he pushes himself in school so much?"
"Yes, I know," Hank sighed slightly, accepting her offered arms. "And you know the kids should really be picking up in here themselves."

"Your future colleague is preoccupied enough with homework," Raven reminded him. "And my Baby Gorge has been in Pony Paradise."

"She does love those horses," Hank couldn't help smiling. "Here," he lifted a waste bin, "I'll help."

"Thanks." Raven resumed gathering things. "Do you have a lot of grading ahead?"

"Not tonight," Hank responded, adding empty juice boxes to the bin. "I don't care to overwhelm them while the kids are preparing for finals."

"Great and I can relate because all of this studying has made me tense, too. So, after this," she turned purposeful yellow eyes on him, "I thought you could help me loosen up a bit."

Fire imploding throughout his insides, Hank imitated the Road Runner with his tidying.

II

While his mother situated the light summer blanket around him more comfortably, the oddly pensive child's thoughts remained elsewhere.

"Mum, are you sure everything will be ready by the time we're out of art class?"

Emma reaffirmed with, "We're making a half day of it on Wednesday just to be certain of that. We plan to leave Laci mesmerized. But Treasure, as adorable as it is when you imitate your father," she inched forward to grace her lips against his forehead, "stop worrying yourself into a tizzy."

Charles glanced away from returning that evening's book to Joey's shelf. "I do not worry myself to the point of tizzy… more than four or five times a week."

"Yeah," supported Joey with an impish smile, "he's just dizzy the rest of the time."

"Is that right?" Making it to the bed, Charles tickled his son's sides through the linens, causing a giggle bomb on the youth's part. "Getting cheeky with Daddy?"

"No, Daddy," Joey squirmed. "Love you."

Ending the lighthearted torture, Charles nuzzled noses with. "And I love you. Good night, my Little One."

"Good night, Daddy." Joey relaxed on his pillows. "I love you, Mum."

"I love you," Emma sent back, lacing fingers with him for a moment.

Arm going around his wife as they departed together, Charles took the time to acknowledge Bounty with, "Good night, best pet."

Bounty twitched his ears as he lapped at his water dish.

On his way into the room, Alex saluted the couple and addressed them as, "His and Her X."

Emma smiled fondly at the young man and Charles sent fingers through his blonde strands.

"Al," Joey spoke to his brother with bright eyes.

"Eel." Alex charged and dove to lay beside him.

"Is your new place ready yet?"

"Hm, just about. By the way," Alex thumped the boy's stomach through the blanket, "I own you tomorrow."

Joey rolled to his side to better face him. "Okay."

Alex pointed out, "Don't you want to know why?"

Joey shook his head. "Nope."

With an amused eye roll, Alex said, "Then humor me. I know you've got non-stop Laci on the brain, but since you hung out with your friends today, tomorrow we need to do some extensive training. It's really important I get you prepped to take your rightful place as Coolest Blonde Dude."

Joey brought up, "What about Victor?"

"Coolest Blonde Dude born this century," Alex amended.

"Ohhhhh. Gotcha, Al."

"Good. See you in the morning, kid." Alex started to rise.

"Wait!" Joey sat up urgently and pressed his ear to his brother's shirt front to take in the thumping. "Kay, I'm good."

Alex smiled and ruffled his hair. "And you have no idea how much."

II

Inhaling through his nostrils, Frank slowly raised the barbell above his head for the twenty-fifth time.

Not missing the slightly off air intakes, Leon, positioned above him as spotter directed, "Ease it up, not too fast."

Trying to focus his breathing, Frank mentioned, "You know they flipped over another bus this morning. Killed half the kids; junior high-schoolers."

Remaining in place, Leon replied, "I wish I knew what it was like to be surprised by that kind of news. Where was it this time?"

"Louisiana." Frank's tired face developed a burning glare. "Bunch of rednecks out of some backwater town couldn't handle two black kids being in class with theirs."

"Uh huh. So, to prevent inevitable chaos, they killed half the kids and left the others mentally screwed until their dying day. Adult logic at its finest." At the near pained inhalation that sounded from him next, Leon patted Frank's shoulders. "Let's call it a night."

"I'm alright," Frank claimed.

"Actually, you're ready to put your fist through their skulls- which I totally support by the way- but I'd prefer you didn't harm yourself in the process."

With a soft sigh, Frank lifted the bar once more for Leon to prop on the rack then sat up. "Lee, man…" He dabbed at his sweat coated face with his towel. "Every time it seems like things are getting better, it turns out worse than ever."

Sitting by him on the bench, Leon handed him a water bottle. "Two steps forward, ten colossal steps back."

Squirting the revitalizing liquid into his mouth, Frank's voice lowered despondently. "I pray for my friends every night. You wouldn't believe how big a relief it is to hear Mondo going on about maintaining our academic superiority the next day."

Leon quipped, "Every group needs their Jam."

Frank smiled a little. "If anything ever happened to Tony, I'd be scared out of my mind to be on the same planet as his parents. Carmen's dad has what he calls his trusty trinity; house gun, car gun, and hip gun. He takes her out on the range with him sometimes."

"Cool," reacted Leon with a bob of his head.

"Supremely." Frank lost his trace of humor and became silent for several seconds. "I'll never be over those SS films Charles rented for me. They did a number on my head and it wasn't even half of what Dad's family went through."

Releasing his hair of silk from its ponytail, Leon stared forward reflectively. "When I'm half awake and Dad comes to check on us at night, it's like this impenetrable barrier forms all around the room. I think about who he is, what he's survived, and where he is today and, God help me, for a minute I think there's a kernel of hope for me, too."

Frank gave off a nod of agreement. "Maybe for me, too."

"You don't need hope, Frank," Leon informed. "Just a muzzle at times."

Frank poked him with his elbow. "You're lucky that's true."

"Let's head up." Leon got to his feet. "We have academic superiority to resume in the morning."

Following him out, Frank rolled his eyes. "Gee whiz, can't afford to miss a minute of that…"

IIIIIII

Tall frame pacing in a circle, Erik kept a massaging hand on the back of his warm bundle while singing a Yiddish tune into the baby's ear. Though Brian's tears had already ended, Erik detected his continuous effort to fight off sleep. The metal wielder knew it not to be mere fussiness on the child's part. With the way the bitty hands latched onto his shirt, Erik found how much the small one had missed his presence over the weekend. It only baffled the man as to why.
"Sleep now, Lab Mouse." Erik carried him towards the desk and sat in the chair while rocking him. "Uncle Erik is right here." The blue eyes finally disappeared behind the heavy infantile eyelids. At the highly unexpected ringing, Erik had to use one hand to snatch up the receiver before the sound could disturb the tiny Xavier. "Lehnsherr."

"You answer just like a spy."

A further surprised Erik recognized the voice quickly. "Tommy? Are you alright?"

The boy replied naturally, "Yeah, I'm okay."

A rebuking tone took the place of Erik's concerned one. "Then what do you think you're doing making phone calls well past midnight? Don't you have school?"

"Yes, sir. But I… I just wanted to talk. Mom and Dad are finally asleep."

Careful of Brian, Erik eased back in his seat. "Are you sure you're alright?"

"Sure," Tommy replied though the uncertainty remained evident. "Except I'm kinda worried about report cards. I'm not doing completely lousy, but my quizzes haven't been so great. And I can't talk to Sean the Super Brain about it."

"I can understand that. Are you having trouble understanding the material or do you just find it terribly uninteresting?"

"Both," Tommy determined, "with extra terrible on top."

Erik smiled slightly. "Do the very best you can and we'll arrange telephone times so I can help you."

Tommy's voice brightened. "Really?"

"Yes," Erik confirmed, "but I expect to hear from you when you need me. If your final grades still aren't your finest, I'll explain the effort you put in to your parents. Secure your spot on the basketball team."

Erik could almost see the astonished young face when the boy questioned, "How'd you know that's what I was worried about?"

"I have many powers, young man," Erik replied cryptically.

"Thanks a lot, Erik… I can't wait to fly back for the wedding."

"Your arrival is as anticipated as the ceremony by many here, including myself." Erik added pointedly, "Now, go straight to bed, young man."

"Yes, sir. Over and out," Tommy complied. "Good night."

Erik whispered, "Good night," into the receiver even as they hung up.

He peered down at Brian's face of merry slumber and Erik dipped his chin to kiss his tiny nose.

IIIIIII

When the rhythmic movements serviced to his waist sent his pulse from a growing tick to an acceleration of immeasurable proportions, the young Professor clenched his bed sheets. He sent off a desperate wave of his powers to prevent any from hearing the outcry that expelled from his lips. To his surprise as well as satisfaction, his heart did not explode along with his lower regions. Panting almost helplessly, a brilliance shined within Charles' blue eyes, only made brighter at his wife slinking up to meet his pupils.

Thank you, my love.

Right back at you, Professor. Emma laid on his front to kiss him. Work load feeling any lighter now?

Along with every other part of me. When their lips parted, Charles left an arm around her.'

They stayed in the blissful state until they could both rise without walking into a wall. Once they made it to their bathroom and stepped into the shower, Emma fixed the temperature to be cool enough without leaving them to shiver. The washing became thirdly to their kissing and groping beneath the pouring water. Sweat free, they turned off the faucet and dried each other off with the wide white towels that sported their initials.

Back in their room, Emma laid down while Charles adorned her with vanilla scented lotion. How are things fairing with Helena?

She allows me in for a few minutes, Charles replied, but she still prefers Raven. Not that I blame her. I've heard her, love. Raven is such a dear to these troubled minds.

It's no surprise your sister is doing so well. But we really need to work on your brother. I still forget who is anchoring who at times.

Finished rubbing her, Charles now got into position for her to coat him with revitalizing cream. I take it Erik still isn't willing to admit he- Charles' eyes bulged when her hand connected with a particular spot. Emma, no, don't torture me. We'll never get out the door at this rate.

Sorry, Sugar. Emma moved on to his legs. But I can tell he's still thinking about Simeon.

Charles stared at the ceiling forlornly. Erik… he's had to endure too much. How I wish that at the end of the night, Charles clutched her hand, he had this.

I know, Sugar. Emma raised his fingers to her lips.

IIIIIII

After seeing his siblings off to their classrooms, Fred spotted the mansion dwellers talking at the desks. Cody sat on top of his while Joey leaned back in the chair at his.

"Hey," the larger boy greeted, "you guys get through those fractions last night?"

"Eh," Cody shrugged, "mostly. Got 'em done, anyway."

Fred said, "Glad my old man's home. He's tops at figurin' numbers. He always says ain't no way anybody's connin' him out of his rightful wages."

Joey rubbed at his temples. "My head hurts from triple checking all those problems. But there's no way I'm bringing a bad mark home to my dad. Not this week."

"No way," seconded Fred. "At least not 'til—"

Detecting the incoming scent, Cody hissed at them to shush then waved at the bright faced girl. "Hey, Laci."

Fred turned around. "Oh, hey."

"Laci," Joey acknowledged with a smile.

"Look what was waiting for me when I got home yesterday." Laci held up the glitter coated three-way folded card for their viewing. "It's from Tommy."

"Tommy," Joey and Fred repeated delightedly while Cody grinned, "Cool, let me see." He spread the card like a scroll to read out loud. "Happy Birthday from Virginia, Laci. I hope this gets to you in time. I know you're happy to finally be eleven. I can't wait to get back so me and the guys can perfect your free throws, which are still better than my dad's by the way. Thanks for being a cool friend and say hi to all the guys for me. Wish I was there, Tommy."

"Aw, Virgenius," Fred smirked.

Handing the card back to Laci, Cody said, "That's so cool he remembered."

Joey spoke their mutual thought with, "I wish he was here, too."

Laci nodded solemnly then asked, "Are you guys sure you can't come to the movie tomorrow?"

"No chance," Fred shook his head.

"We're gonna be too busy," Cody claimed. "But you and Joey can have extra fun for us. And Tommy."

Mrs. Andrews bustled in as the bell sounded. "Good morning, everyone. Cody, once again, the desks are for books and the chairs are for bottoms."

Innocence pooling in his eyes as he resisted a smirk, Cody slid into his proper seat.

IIIIIII

At the conclusion of their steady trot around the side gardens, Scott gently tugged Franny's reins to ease her into a stop. He regarded Kiki with a big smile with the way the small thrilled girl looked as if she rode among a herd of unicorns.

"Okay, you two, time to head in. I have to get into my Cyclops clothes."

"Kay, Scottie." Kiki ran adoring fingers through Franny's mane as they started back for the barn.

Scott glanced over at the wild whooping echoing from Cody, who dashed about on the black beauty. "Cody, it's time for training. Besides, Blaze needs to rest."

"Shows what you know," Cody rolled his eyes. "Blaze ain't some little bitty pony. Mr. Frost says he's a real thoroughbred. Just look at him." He patted the tall, majestic animal.

Scott helped Kiki down and replied matter-of-factly, "What I know is if you're late for training again, you'll see how many ways there are to skin a cat."

Kiki giggled.
Throwing his head back in annoyance, Cody determined, "Come on, Blaze," and began their return to his stall.

Overhearing the boys from where they walked across the backyard in full X-Men attire, Samantha wondered, "Why do you use that special saddle, Becky? It always looks like you're going to fall off."

"I never have and I've always ridden sidesaddle," Becky told her. "They showed us how during my equestrian lessons. It makes it easier to ride in dresses without showing your unmentionables. Besides, sidesaddle is more ladylike and it keeps your virtue untampered."

Samantha blinked in sheer confusion. "What?"

"When you ride a horse the way men do- with your legs open like that- you might break something down here," Becky indicated the region below their belts, "My old instructors used to say that breaking that would cause men to question our virtue, thinking we're not pure. And a lady's purity is her everything," Becky quoted in an exaggerated accent of sophistication, "because no proper man would ever wed an impure lady."

Coming up behind them, Mystique laughed heartily. "It's been years since I heard that, but it is what they say." She then rushed off into the trees. "See you guys in a few!"

"Wait, wait." Samantha stopped walking. "I still don't understand. Did I do something wrong on Hazelnut? Did I break something?"

"No, Sam." Stepping forward, Beast put a hand on her shoulder. "You would know if you've broken that. I know what Becca is referring to. Come to the lab after this session and we can discuss it."

"Okay," an even more curious Samantha nodded.

Nearby, Glimmer had to keep from doubling over in laughter herself as the ironic thoughts of her sister and brother-in-law developed.

Angel came to a landing beside her. "What'd I miss?"

Glimmer covertly leaned in towards her ear and the two used their hands to suppress their giggles.

After he left Kiki with Trav to work on the vocabulary words Alex had given her, Scott all but transformed into his Cyclops uniform. Once outside again, he quickly caught up with his older brother.

"What are we looking at today? Stealth, recon, combat?"

"Vapor will explain in a minute," Havok told him. "Today's session is all his."

Intrigue crossed Cyclops' features and he glanced over to where Vapor spoke quietly with Glimmer and Maya.

"Is everything okay today?" he asked.

"I've been sleeping better," Glimmer reported. "Charles and Em stay with me when I need it."

Maya replied, "I don't want to keep shying away from my powers. I'm more aware than I was. Alex still has me on a food journal. If I feel even a jiggle, it'll be made known, promise."

Vapor nodded. "You two stay together for this one, alright?"

The girls agreed and he moved out to a more open, grassy area to address the students gathered. Havok and Beast stayed amongst them, both quietly waiting for him to begin.

Vapor did so with, "So, I originally wanted this on a grander scale, but the Howletts are still tied up at Kayla's school. But the other instructors are in position for what I'm calling Divided, Not Conquered. The telepaths are going to send out illusions that we have to differentiate from real threats; Mystique, Silver Cat, and Sabretooth are helping with that as well. Magneto will be unleashing inanimate but still lethal arsenal. Our objective is to make it to the river, preferably still breathing."
Banshee piped up, "You said we'll be divided."

"Yeah," Vapor nodded. "Glimmer and Maya, Cyclops and Sam—"

"Calico." At Samantha's correction and their eyes on her, she informed, "I want that to be my new codename."

"Calico," Vapor amended without question.

Before he could go on, Cyclops interjected, "I don't have anything against S- Calico, but Lighthouse and I work best together. My eyes are concussive, but I need his to see."
"You and Lighthouse work best because you are the best," Vapor countered. "That's why we need your efforts spread out sometimes instead of staying horded for each other."

Cyclops shared a look with Lighthouse and responded, "Understood."

"Besides, Calico has vision and just about every other sense you need," Vapor pointed out, "tenfold."

The girl stood cheerfully at that.

"Lighthouse, you're with me," Vapor continued and the younger boy walked to stand with him. "Havok and Eel, Beast and Becky, and Banshee with Angel."

That last two shared a high-five, Eel tried to silence his giddiness, and Beast got down low for Becky to climb on his back.

"Becky," Vapor addressed, "how about a signal?"

The girl sent a colorful blast into the air that unleashed an illusionary burst as she shouted, "Go!"

The six groups took off in their pairs.

Running with Vapor, Lighthouse wondered, "What's the plan?"

Vapor said, "The breathing thing is as far as I got."

A slow smirk formed on Lighthouse. "Guess we'll have to wing it."

"Guess so," concurred Vapor just as covertly.

"Back-to-back," Havok directed his smaller partner. "You watch mine."

"And you watch mine," Eel finished.

"All the time," Havok added.

"You run ahead, keep your eyes peeled," Cyclops said to Calico, touching his visor. "I've got you covered."

With that, the girl got to all fours in a charge. Cyclops remained in wonder of her ability to do that as he hastened after her.

Up in the air, Angel put forth, "Think we have the edge on this one?"

"No way," Banshee shook his head after another scream for additional wind power. "We're prime targets for—" He stopped talking to release a mutated bellow at the metallic shards that cut through the air at them. "I knew it!"

With a hiss, Angel spat her toxic globs at the following pieces.

II

Barely into the woods, the female pair found a welcoming party in the form of half a dozen black-hooded figures. In full golden mode, Glimmer ran on to go hand-to-hand with them. At her attempt to trip up a few of them, Maya quickly discovered something.

"Don't waste your time. They're not real." She spotted the one with claws extended. "But he definitely is."

Glimmer did not move in time as the shorter but zealous vessel pounced her. She did manage to bat him off at ground level.

Landing on his feet, he worked his mask up. "Not bad, goldy."

At the presence of Cody, Maya put a hand to her hip. "Oh, how I should've known."

II

At iron raining all around them, Havok managed to keep his head and hands, blasting nearly everything that came at them. A crowbar that popped out from one side collided with his stomach, sending him down painfully.

Eel crouched by him. "Havok?"

"I'm fine," Havok grunted, "stay alert."

When a slab of metal came out ready to slice them, Eel jumped onto it and took control of it in a surfer's stance. Hovering up with it, he let loose a wave of electrical power that caused a reversal on the remaining parts to go back the way they came. The boy gasped and turned around in time to see part of an engine blasted before it could reach him. He peered down at Havok, who held his fist in the air.

Joey lowered to him. "Can you fly?"

"So long as you're piloting." Havok climbed up on the remaining space of the slab.

II

From her position in the tree, Calico reported, "We're about twelve yards from the river."

"Good." Cyclops started up to join her. "We'll stay cloaked by the cover of the lea—"

Calico hushed him suddenly and went completely still as her nose and ears took over. The entire area seemed to go still and silent. She sunk her claws into the bark to hurry to her partner's level.

"We're being hunted," she urged lowly.

Cyclops said nothing, keeping his hand ready at his visor. He aimed a finger downward while indicating for her to remain upward. He returned to an open portion of ground level and ran ahead while she did the same through the tree tops. At a strange rustling, Cyclops managed to just miss firing at a squirrel scampering away. He did not know relief for long as the enormous shadow fell over him, practically blackening his entire surroundings. When he tried to run, Cyclops found himself dashing through the same general area repeatedly.

"What's going on?" he demanded.

"It's an illusion!" Calico called down. "Stay still. I'm coming." She made it down in time to block the rapidly incoming encroacher. She blocked the path with both arms extended. "Keep going, Cyclops."

"Not without you," he refused.

Calico could not argue the point as the now growling figure jumped for her. With an angry snarl of her own, she sent out her right claws to slap. He snagged her wrist and placed intense pressure on it, causing a pained moan on her part. Calico tried roaring next, but his resulting one proved louder and more blood-curdling. Unsure of what else, Calico kicked. When he moved to grab her ankle, she bit down on his large hand, making him release hers. She shot straight up the tree again. The bigger creature's attempt at going after her did not see light as the twin red beams sent him hurdling clear out of their sight.

Cyclops came under the tree and Calico dropped to him with a small smile and grateful eyes. His own expression came off equally positive and he gestured with his head for them to hastily continue.

II

When a metallic disk spun at them, it took much resolve on Becky's part to keep from laughing at the way Beast jumped up to seize it between his teeth like a Frisbee.

He spat it out and taunted, "I expected better, Magneto!"

A cluster of poles came down and Beast tried to flip away from them. Becky tumbled back and gasped at finding herself incased in the mini prison created by the poles planting and circling closely around her.

"Becca!" Before he could rip the metal sticks apart one by one, Beast received his own challenge at the pack of half-human creatures that advanced all around him.

"They're not real, Big Bear," Becky gripped a pair of poles as she called out to him, countenance going scornful. "Tear them up!"

"Gladly!" Growling, Beast put in a full force effort on the beings attacking his cerebral side.

Watching with much interest, Becky reacted to another trying to creep up on her brother. She tried yanking a pole out, but when it would not move, she knew her father's magnetism had to be at work. It took some doing, but she managed to maneuver her slender frame through another set of poles.

"Big Bear!"

He immediately looked away from his current competitors. "Becca…"

Removing her cape, Becky slapped it over the already masked face of the new threat. "I don't think so!" She had to dig in the heels of her boots when he began to drag her, causing her grip to tighten on her cape.

Beast hollered angrily and jumped onto his back. The bigger force struggled, but eventually knocked him off. He ripped free from Becky's cape and entered a grappling match with the younger male. The moment Beast made it on top, he prepared to sink his claws into his opponent's throat.

"No!" Becky rushed to take his arm. "Big Bear, stop. He is real."

Backing down from his fury, Beast snatched off the mask, revealing Sabretooth's face and long hair.

Unbothered, the man simply stated, "Your move, kid."

Breathing in an out, Beast got to his feet. "Let's go, Becca."

At the two attempting to depart, Sabretooth arose as well. "Not lettin' you off that—" He had to look away at the sparkling illusion formed by Becky. When he could see again, he discovered the pair now vanished.

II

Walking through one cluster of trees, Lighthouse put forth, "You don't have a secret exit door planted around here, do you?'

"That would be an unfair advantage, wouldn't it?" Vapor responded. "Also, I didn't have the time."

On the stretch of ground they walked onto next, the two experienced shaking rapid enough to cause them to go down. Buried under the greenery, a metallic sheet arose and tried to carry them off. Vapor grabbed a hold of Lighthouse's arm to transport them to terra firma again. Seizing a pole and steel gear out of the air with his powers, Vapor gave the latter to Lighthouse and made a batting motion with the pole. Lighthouse sucked in air, watching the two dozen or more foot soldiers form and charge on them with fists bared.

Staying as near to each other as they could, the two X-Men swung and attacked back with full gusto. Vapor launched with the pole and made use of a series of spin kicks. Lighthouse kept up an effort, but found himself buried under a mound of attackers. Witnessing, Vapor revealed his Swiss army knife. He stabbed at and dissolved many of the assailants. Lighthouse felt around until he worked his own knife out of his boot. However, before he could thrust at the one on top of him, his X-Ray ability showed the legit face beyond the dark attire.

"Rae." Lighthouse lowered his knife without delay.

Standing, the shapeshifter took off the mask. "Hey, guys."

Vapor hoisted Lighthouse up and kept his weapon drawn. "Friend or foe?"

Mystique let the mask fall to the ground. "Consider me reformed."

Vapor let her walk with Lighthouse, but kept his knife out and eyes everywhere until his exercise concluded.

IIIIIII

Locating the correct section inside the thick human anatomy book, Hank tapped fingers against the appropriate picture to show the girl.

"This is what Becca was referring to, the hymen," the scientist detailed. "Virgins or ladies of virtue as Becca phrased it, all have one. When torn, it bleeds."

Situated in his lap, Samantha faced him in alarm. "But I bleed every month. Mother says it's natural."

"Menstruation is," Hank assured. "It's entirely different. You bleed monthly to get rid of the excess blood in the uterus, not in use by a baby. That's why women who are expecting a child stop menstruating during that time. But getting back to the hymen, traditionally speaking, if it is discovered or thought to be broken, in certain social circles, a lady's virtue will be called into question, many accusing her of being with a man before marriage."

"And that's bad, isn't it? Being with a man before marriage?"

"It's greatly frowned upon, yes," Hank answered. "Though it doesn't mean she's a horrible person deserving of scorn. And the hymen can break in other ways, such as doing the splits or yes, riding a horse astride. However, that it no way means virtue has been lost. You see, Becca's birth father had no woman outside the nannies to help bring her up. So, when we were still living in DC, Becca took etiquette and other lessons on weekends."

Samantha said, "Oh, like Home Economics in school?"

"Yes, but these lessons were a little different," Hank smiled knowingly. "They put emphasis on clothes, grace, posture, party planning, with stitchery and cooking being an afterthought. The girls there were encouraged to marry up. To men like your Uncle Charles."

Trying to take it all in, Samantha mentioned, "But he loves Aunt Emma."

"Yes, he does," Hank nodded. "Listen, Sam, I know a lot of things you hear about life, society, and even your own body can be very confusing. I want you to know that you can always come to me and I'll do my best to get answers for you. You don't have to be shy or uncomfortable."

Samantha brought her arms around his neck in an embrace. "Thank you, Hank."

"You're welcome." Hank gently stroked her blonde hair. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to meet with the other instructors."

Samantha stood from him. "May I look at this some more?" She pointed out the text.

"Of course," Hank granted. "Any book in here you like. Let me know if you want to borrow any to continue reading later."

Entirely pleased countenance in place, Samantha took his chair behind the desk to keep scanning the fascinating text.

IIIIIII

Blue eyes so fixated on the pendulum of his father's antique wall clock that they would surely stick there, the seconds indicator at last ticked towards the number twelve. Snatching up the receiver, Joey hastily dragged through the numbers with the rotary.

The eager voice on the other end answered with an anxious yet cautious, "Hello?"

"Happy birthday!"

Laci had to keep from squealing. "Thank you, Joey."

"Am I the first one?" he wanted to know.

"Yep," she responded to his delight. "Mom and Dad don't usually tip in until six. I don't know how I'm supposed to sleep the rest of the night."

"Me, either," Joey seconded. "But I better get back upstairs before my Uncle Erik or security catch me." He then reiterated, "Happy birthday, Laci."

He heard her smile through the reply of, "I know it will be."

Hanging up, Joey crept out of his father's study and scuttled for the stairs.

IIIIIII

When they pulled up in front of the school and rallied around the trunk, Lily moved quickly to take the white plastic bag.

"I carry the pretty," she declared. "I'm the lady."

"Go ahead then," Mike waved off.

With an amused shake of his head, Rick tied the balloons around Mike's wrist. "You take these, Mickey Mouse. Just don't get blown away now. You know you're just about have the size of a feather."

"I won't," Mike said while his siblings snickered.

"Here you go, Freddie." Rick gave him the containers of food and addressed them all as he shut the trunk. "You three hurry along as soon as school gets out. You need to get changed into your good clothes and over to the Xaviers."

"I get to wear my new pink skirt," Lily said joyfully.

Mike resisted rolling his eyes. "We know, we know. Bye, Daddy."

Laci waited for him to lower so she could kiss his cheek. "Have a good day, Daddy."

Fred threw, "See you after school, Dad," over his shoulder as they started inside.

They made it ahead of Laci into the fifth-grade room by two minutes. Talking to Joey while he carried her reading book, Laci stilled as soon as they got inside.

Cody belted out, "Happy birthday," creating a chorus of the phrase.

Joey had to escort the flabbergasted girl to her chair. Laci remained still while Lily decorated her with a paper crown, a candy necklace and bracelet, and a hot pink "Birthday Girl" ribbon for the front of her sky-blue sweater. Mike attached one balloon to her chair and wound the other around her free wrist.

"Our ma made you these." Fred showed her the boxes of chocolate chip muffins and candy apples. "She says make sure we eat 'em first thing at lunch."

"Oh, my goodness." Laci grasped the top box with a big grin. "I can't wait to thank her. Thank you all."

Lily reached in to hug her. "Happy birthday."

"Come on, Lil'," Mike took her by the hand, "I'll walk you to class."

Skipping beside him, Lily waved after the older children.

IIIIIII

Though it took nearly a half hour of readjusting, Alex and Logan finally made the eight-foot Joey designed birthday banner even along the designated living room wall. Raven stopped playing overseer when they at last got it right and resumed putting up other colorful pieces all through the main level with Kiki's diligent assistance. Erik got up ten groups of five balloon bunches- two with all green, two with all orange, and the fifth a cluster of both- to the corners that provided the best lighting.

"It's all coming along quite dazzling," Charles commented, "wouldn't you say, love?"

"It isn't important what I say." Emma ran streamers with him. "So long as it meets Joey's standard of perfection."

"Charles Kids," Alex piped up. "Guess this whole thing with Laci was inevitable."

Erik peered over at him with disapproval. "They're a little boy and girl. Close friends; nothing more."

"Whatever you say, Dad," Alex humored.

Quietly dressing a door with a cartoonish dragon banner, Leon turned his head with a smirk.

IIIIIII

Left by himself in the art room, Joey stepped his right foot onto a chair and wiped his black shoe until it glistened as nicely as the left one. He wore equally dark slacks and a forest green dress shirt. Glancing into narrow mirror on the wall, he smoothed stray blonde strands out of his face.

"Joey?"

"In here," he called back, fiddling with his belt buckle. "Alex should be outside. Ready to go?"

"… I think so." Returning from the girls' bathroom, she stepped inside the nearly vacant room.

Veering to face her, Joey felt his jaw plummet. She wore an ivory dress trimmed with gold lace. The sleeves were long and sheer and the skirt stopped right below her knees. Her shining shoes matched the trim and a large white ribbon adorned the back of her hair.

"I… I, um… that's not what you wore to school."

"My mom brought it by before art class," the girl explained. "I didn't want it to get ruined at school and I… I wanted to wear it for you." At his ongoing silence, her gray eyes lost their luster. "You liked the other outfit better."

"No!" Joey promptly refuted. "I mean, yeah, it was great, but this one's… you…" He slowly approached her until no space stood between them. "You look terrific, Laci; beautiful."

Her voice dropped into a hush, she whispered, "Thank you, Joey. You do, too."

Joey started to take her hand, but thoughts of his father caused him to extend his arm instead. Laci linked up with him and he led them on to their coach, in the form of Alex behind the wheel of the X-Van. Laci accepted simply that they needed to drop off their art supplies and other clothes before the movie. To Joey's delight, his house proved mostly dark. Before he went to park, Alex let the kids out up front and promised to bring their things up from the garage.

The pair hardly left the foyer before lights ignited all around them along with the equally bright faces jumping up throughout the living room. The roars of, "Surprise," and "Happy birthday," filled their ears. Besides Joey's family, those present consisted of Laci's parents, the Dukes siblings, Max and Collin- who Joey suspected of looking for an excuse to be around Samantha, and Anne. With the girl of honor utterly stunned, Joey had to help her maneuver through the number of waiting arms. Laci hugged Raven first, who held Kiki, followed by Becky, and managed to make contact with many others until she reached her mother and father.

Laci grinned between them. "You planned this the whole time?"

"Us?" Clint shook his head. "Wish we could steal the credit, peaches."

Julie informed, "All of this- every detail- was Joey."

Laci turned to where the boy in question stood with Cody and their school friends and she experienced melting in her chest.

A heavy hand came down on his shoulder and Joey glanced up at Hank, who said, "If you two are still interested in going to the movies, I'd love to take you and Laci after school on Friday."

Joey reacted with an enthused, "You mean it, Uncle Hank?"

"Just pick the flick," the man promised, receiving a very thankful hug from the boy.

During the present passing, Erik stepped forward to announce, "Pardon the interruption, but there's a very insistent caller on my den line. All the way from Virginia."

"Tommy," Sean beamed.

Laci, Joey, Cody, and Fred repeated the realization, "Tommy," before taking off for the Mag Cave.

"Hey," Sean moved to catch up with them, "wait for me!"

IIIIIII

As the festivities later ended, the adults found the honor of clean-up duty bestowed upon them. Max, Trav, and Lily rushed up to the McCoy playroom together while Collin and Samantha found an empty balcony. Cody, Fred, and Mike helped themselves to third portions on cake.

When enough attention faded on Laci, she left through the backdoor with Joey. He made sure they were away a distance before revealing his metal disk. Joey launched them across the yard until they reached the barn and he powered down so as not to frighten the animals. They went through, greeting Xander along with the rest of the horses.

"I like her," Laci rubbed Franny's fur, "she's my size."

"Want to ride her?" Joey offered.

"Next time. When I'm not in this dress." She joined hands with him and walked just outside the barn entrance. "Joey, thank you- thank you so much for today. This is the greatest birthday of my entire life."

Mustering up a voice, Joey put forth, "Does that mean you'll come with me to Sean and Maya's wedding?"

"I already said I would," she reminded him. "Remember?"

"Not like that," Joey tried to clarify. "Not as my friend going along. I mean as my date."

"You're asking me for a date?" Laci's grey irises grew into enormous proportions. "At a big fancy wedding?" Joey gave off a nervous nod and her countenance developed an untold grin. "Yay!" Her jumping up and down caused a bit of neighing from the horses. "Sorry," she took hold of his shoulders to contain herself, "it's just, yes, yes, I'd love to go with you."

Smiling, Joey eyed her closely and found his hands going to her waist. "I want to do something."

Laci's expression became suddenly serious. "Go ahead."

The dizziness he experienced next did not hinder Joey tipping his face forward until the uniting of their lips halted all other movements. Starting from the tips of his toes, an electrical current rushed through Joey's body and exited through his mouth, creating a sparkle around Laci's lips.

Gripping him tightly, she had to breathe in and out. "Oh, my God…"

"Whoa," Joey uttered in turn. "Was that- was it okay?"

Laci's arms flinging around him provided sufficient response, though Joey had to latch on right back to keep from dissolving in place.