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.

320. Chapter 320 Grace

Rise or Fall

Chapter 320

Your Heiress is Back with Extended Christmas Cheer

The First Chapter of 2019 is Finally Here

Do All That You Can to Rock this Year!

Shortly after eleven on Tuesday night, slumber and silence dominated the interior of the massive estate. Urged from his own sleeping state, the slim, sleek figure sauntered through the second floor. The minimal hall lighting would prove daunting for the average dweller so freshly awoken. However, his keen, shining pupils only thrived as he continued on with purpose.

"Midnight?"

The instant the voice belonging to his hallowed plum rang out so minutely yet crystal clear in his ears, the cat paused. He started to reveal himself to alleviate her twinge of anxiety over his absence until he picked up on the scent and sound of another female adolescent. When the pink nightwear adorned cousins came in proximity of each other, Midnight came to position himself between them.

"Thought Uncle Wolves stole you." Samantha collected her cat then detected the younger girl's distant expression. "Becky, what's wrong?"

"… I wish I knew." The head of curls turned with that.

More confused than previously, Samantha followed her until they reached the suite that echoed distress.

Peering in, Becky addressed their Security Head with, "Victor, is he okay?"

Samantha peeked over her. "Daddy?"

The petitioned elder looked away from massaging a murmuring Trick's back. "Sorry, babies, didn't mean to get you up. He's good. Recuperation's just no picnic."

Entering fully, Becky made a path for the bed. Before Victor could protest, she sat near Trick's shoulder and stroked his cheek. Soft lyrics from a Hebrew lullaby parted her lips.

Samantha let a squirming Midnight go to his feet. He dashed with urgency and jumped on the mattress to lay beside the anguished Irishman. When Samantha took his lap space, Victor coiled an arm around her middle.

"Trick, Victor?" The male telepath arrived next, attention going directly to his brunette niece.
Becky started to speak until Trick did so first with, "Thank you, Lehnsherr Lass."

Becky offered him a smile. "It'll be okay now, promise."

Victor nuzzled cheeks with Samantha. "You babies get on back to bed, hm?"
"Okay." Samantha collected Midnight to cradle as she stood.

"I never meant to disturb the wee ones," Trick said. "Thought these night frights were finally fading."

"They have improved, Trick." Charles sat to face him. "It's only been two nights. The lingering nightmares are reminiscent of a nasty cough that sticks around after a cold. You went four hours last night without a single hiccup."

Victor asked, "How're you feelin' now, kiddo?"

"From madness to restless." Trick propped higher on his pillows. "I can't stay shackled to this bed any longer. Unless you want to throw in a bottle of your finest burgundy."

"Don't tempt us both, best mate." A mischievous twinkle darted across Charles' pupils. "But while we're on this subject," he looked between the other two men, "I do have another notion. If you're both up for it."

II

When flopping about and covering her face with a pillow did nothing to drown out the incessant mewing, Angel groaned, "Sammie, get this boy before we start throwing fists. I have to be up ugly early and I want to see Trick before we go."
Not lulled back into sleep yet, Samantha removed herself from her linens. "Trick is the one he's worried about." She picked him up from his perch at the widest window. "It's alright Midnight."
As he found himself carried away, Midnight's glinting gaze stayed on the transparent glass.

IIIIIII

The young couple and visiting girl arrived in the kitchen to the sight of a cereal soiree. Joey, Tommy, and Cody ate a combination of Fruit Loops, Kix, and Apple Jacks. Scott shoveled Frosted Flakes into his mouth.

Becky looked over from pouring her second bowl of Cocoa Puffs. "Anne."

"Hey, Bex." The Spanish girl met the other telepath in a hug. "Wow, you guys are lucky. When Papi's in town, we only get cold cereal on weekends."

"That's usually us, too. But we're a little chef-less right now," Becky explained. "Frank's mom wanted to take him to school, Raven's on some mission thing, Angel's going to be in the city with Aunt Dri for the rest of the week, and Kayla and Maya are busy with more wedding stuff."

"We forage just fine on our own," Cody claimed.

"Yeah," Scott rolled his eyes under his shades, "real pioneering, pouring your own milk and all."

An amused Cordelia asked her nephew, "Does Laci have any appointments today?"
Joey looked to recollect. "I don't think so.'

Fabian spoke next with, "Then, perhaps, your little lady friend would be interested in joining us on our excursion today."

The children exchanged looks and Tommy wondered, "What excursion?"
"The one we're leaving for shortly." Fabian tacked on, "As soon as you all get out of those pajamas and into something that presents a better image than a reclusive refugee."

Cordelia determined, "I'll talk to Laci's parents while you guys get dressed,"
"I'm staying here," Scott told them. "I promised Kiki we'd have the day together."

Becky nodded her understanding and started to guide the others out of the eatery. She linked arms with Anne as they continued for the stairs.

IIIIIII

Aboard the massive aircraft, Professor X and Beast co-piloted. Mystique, Havok, Vapor, Specter, Calico, and Sabretooth made up their uniformed passengers. Calico stayed swift to keep up with Sabretooth's pacing. Their enhanced reflexes kept them steady and upright. Vapor and Mystique shared a pair of seats, as did Havok and Specter across the aisle from them. Catching an offhand glimpse outside one window, Calico moved rapidly for a superior view. She smiled ear to ear at the rocky peaks protruding through the thin veil of clouds below.

Sensing her awe, the Professor piped up, "Welcome to Wyoming, Princess Calico."

She said, "I didn't think it'd be so pretty."

"Just beautiful." Sabretooth came to stand alongside her. "And the state's decent, too."

Beaming, Samantha leaned against him.

When they found themselves directly above the spot of seclusion, the pilots began descension. At right around ten feet in the air, the jet came to a stop. As soon as Beast selected the button needed to divide the doors, Mystique and Calico rushed to peer out at the landscape first. With a secretive glance between them, the X-Women leaped in unison. Mystique met the grass in a crouched position. Calico landed on her hands and quickly flipped to upright herself. Sabretooth and Beast dove next. The older animalistic mutant instinctively dropped to all fours. Beast touched down with arms and legs spread in a battle ready stance. Specter fluttered down and Vapor shifted. The last pair eyed them from the open entrance.

"Showoffs," scoffed Havok.

"Let them enjoy their style," Professor X said offhandedly. "We'll bring the substance."

Havok's face reflected his approval of the suggestion.

They landed the X-Jet fully and the two departed from it with a stride to their steps.

"What part of Wyoming have we wandered into, Proffy?" Specter inquired, gazing in every direction.

"The only part suitable for our princesses." Charles then revealed, "Sweetwater."
Mystique gave him a slight side-eye over the saccharine moniker, but Calico remained enthralled by it all.

"I appreciate the scenery and all, but why here?" Havok wondered. "This type of thing usually has Magneto written all over it."

"Yes, I know," Professor X admitted, "but he and Emma are greater needed at the psychiatric facility. And I selected this location specifically for the isolation factor. Even during this time of year, this county is still miles from civilization."
Mystique added her own recollection of, "We haven't been back here since I was a kid. Our family has stock in resorts across the state."

Vapor piped up, "And a Texas ranch or twenty, I take it?"
"Kentucky, actually. Just the one," the Professor replied nonchalantly, "before Mother sold it." He and Mystique formed twin faces of disdain for a moment.

Havok let off a snort.

Sabretooth put forth, "Mind if I double-check that isolation factor?"
Professor X responded, "I'd expect nothing less from you."

Calico's fanciful brown eyes took in the elder blonde feline as he launched himself to the top branch of a high oak.

Specter launched next for a proper aerial view.

While they navigated above, those below carried out supplies from the jet. Basic rucksacks and fanny packs made worthwhile by the custom X motif on the fabric.

Raven helped fill them with ice water and light snacks. Sure there's not more going on in that head of yours?

Professor X turned to her with the boyishness she distinguished so well. As you so frequently point out, that's always the case with me, isn't it?
The shapeshifter exercised something he knew so well by cutting to the chase. We're not here just for Trick, are we? And Hank's not here just to play medicine man?
He never has been. With all that's come our way these last years- last weeks, honestly- I think the X-Men could stand to stretch ourselves out a bit. Every session is a chance for us to help each other grow. Though, I do admit I'm quite intrigued by your new IQ.

I've waited years to hear you say that, his sister quipped.

Once the navigating men regrouped with the others, Specter reported, "Vacant as far as the eye can see."

"No itty bitty gizmos buggin' us, either," informed Sabretooth. "I figured it was a longshot, but we can't be too careful in these uptight times."
Vapor put forth, "Especially since mutants are considered fair prey. Ravenous wildlife has little on random roaming vans."

Ire building in his eyes, Havok decreed, "I'll consider being intimidated when they come at us from the front for a change."

Calico chimed in smugly, "I'll consider being impressed."

Mystique regarded her with approval.

"Survival is our modus operandi, ladies and gentleman. Now, for teams of two," Professor X cast his gaze on Vapor, "by your selection."

Only allowing his taken aback reaction to be visible in his irises, the black and silver adorned mutant took in the gathered. "Prof and Havok, Sabretooth and Mystique, Beast and Callie," he looked towards the remaining, "you and I."
"You flatter me," replied Specter lightheartedly.

Vapor came back with, "Let's see how long you retain that sentiment."

Sabretooth mentioned to the Irishman, "Better put your best face forward."
To that, Spector unearthed and donned his ebony mask of malice.

IIIIIII

Due to only two going into Connecticut, Erik had taken Emma in his car while Charles' horde claimed the jet. Cordelia enjoyed full use of the X-Van, though she let Fabian drive it. He would not admit it verbally, but she could tell the unprecedented vehicle intrigued him greatly. She kept Brian in her lap and the insistent Fabian ensured the seatbelt over them. Becky and Anne took the seats directly behind them. Cody, Joey, Laci, and Tommy lined the third row. While the youths stationed at the windows absorbed the scenery, the boy and girl between them started depicting it in their individual sketchbooks.
Are you going to call him?

Staring blankly out the window, Anne sent back, he thinks I'm sick.

He misses you, Becky insisted. He asked Scott about you just the other day.

Anne faced her in panic. What did Scott tell him?

The truth. He hasn't heard from you, either.

I thought boys were supposed to be these roaming diablos, out to steal our purity. Anne faced forward in irritation. I guess baseball only recruits these honest angels.

Becky laughed internally. At least you know Gary's not just fooling around. He actually wants to tell your dad that.

The second he tries, I'll write to you from whatever convent I'm shipped to.

When they neared Baxter Road, Cody proclaimed, "Alright, we're skipping town."

"Yes, we are," Cordelia confirmed, "but this is actually a pick-up."

Fabian pulled over and the passengers exited to stretch their legs.

Joey quickly recognized the vehicle that came into view. "Is that…" He reacted to the backdoor opening. "Uncle Nate!"

Stepping out, the British teenager removed his sunglasses and acknowledged with glee, "My entourage!"

From where he detached from the driver's seat, Myles observed the multitude of eager youths rushing to greet the older child.

Cordelia acknowledged and spoke with the valet before at last getting the chance to hug her host brother. "You have no idea how much these sore eyes needed to see you."

"Took the words out of my mouth, sis," Nate beamed. He accepted Brian into his arms. "Hi, nipper. You're along for the wild ride, too?"
Cordelia explained, "The X-Men are a tad scattered today, so I managed to steal him away."

Becky mentioned, "We thought you wouldn't be here until Friday."

"So did I," Nate replied. "But the best mentor excused me from a company convention. Chris just said not to do anything he would've done at my age."

Myles piped up, "That's a unanimous motion if I ever heard one."

Fabian secured the luggage into the X-Van's trunk then made his way over to their primary pickup. "What's good, hombre? You, I trust."

Slapping hands with him in a macho handshake, Nate said impishly, "Depends on who you ask, Fab."

With his valuable cargo now in relatively safe hands, Myles spoke his goodbyes and started his route back to Boston.

In the X-Van, Nate managed to wriggle in between Tommy and Laci. He dared not divide the latter for Joey by mere inches.

"It feels too long since I've seen you. What's new with you lot?" Nate inquired.

Becky told him, "The Jaguars finished undefeated, but Scott and I aren't coming back for next season."

Sharing a smile with Laci, Joey informed, "We won our mega art contest."

Cody mentioned, "Wait until you hear about my bridge birthday."

Tommy casually brought up, "I almost burnt the house down."

Nate eyed the roof of the van wistfully. "Good God, I miss being here…"

IIIIIII

As the only remaining X-Teens on the grand estate that day, Sean and Scott found themselves, delightedly, caring for the McCoy cubs. Some partial weariness radiated from Scott over Sean's presence while the redhead only echoed with positivity. With their unfinished conversation from Sunday in the back of his mind, Scott credited the rapidly approaching wedding to the older mutant's mood. Even though Sean referenced not a word about it, especially in Kiki's presence.

For an activity, the little girl promptly requested a garden party. Trav came onboard when his sister wanted mythical creatures in attendance. Wanting to safeguard Sean's ankle, Trav stayed with him to seek out leprechauns, who they hoped knew how to reach the Seven Dwarfs. Kiki wanted to invite mermaids, so Scott suggested they start by checking out the pond. Once they reached that region of the woods, both peered into the moisture. The overheard brilliance of the sun gave it a sparkling effect even Scott beheld through his shades.

"Maybe the Lady-in-the-Water is home." Scott then reminded, "You know, from King Arthur."

"Oh," Kiki recollected. "Joey loves that one."

"I know," Scott concurred with a gaze of fondness. "Hey, maybe she'll talk to the Cyclops side of me." With a sharp clearing of his throat, the boy brought as much base to his voice as he could. "Lady-in-the-Water, it is I, the Cyclops- the non-cannibal one, who beseeches you. We wish to—"

Every bit of merriment within the young X-Man seemingly drained into a black hole at the scream. Ignoring how rattled it left him, Scott rushed to where Kiki stood petrified by a withering violet bush. The boy started to question her until he lost his own ability to speak upon beholding what she did.

"Kikiko!" cried Trav to Sean's frantic, "Scott?" Ignoring any residual pain, he raced for the other two, keeping Trav behind him. Upon seeing what caused the devastation, Sean paled significantly. "Oh, God…"
Countless scavenging insects swarmed the blood-soaked remains of a savagely mangled feline corpse.

Silent tears rolling down her cheeks, Kiki faced away and went to her knees feebly. Scott reached for her, only to touch his hands to her back as she expelled the contents of her stomach into the grass. Disregarding his ankle greater than before, Sean dropped to the ground to sandwich Kiki between himself and Scott. Formulating words proved incomprehensible for them all.

Sean regained awareness of their environment only when the seven-year-old made a move. "Trav, what did I say? Keep back."
"Seanie, no," Trav evaded his seizing touch to kneel by the bush. He spread apart a few of the branches to confirm for his eyes what his ears had so faintly detected. "Look." He developed a smile and tried to reach in. "They're alive."

"Don't you dare!" Sean warned of the small boy's curious hand. "Scott."
With a mere pat from the older X-Man, the optical mutant herded Kiki and Trav to a safer distance.

Gazing into the bush's opening, a mixture of elation and amazement flowed through Sean. His blue eyes engaged in an uncertain staring contest with pairs of gold attached to two teeny vessels of fur.

IIIIIII

Upon entering Manhattan, even Joey and Laci ceased artistry to take in the attractions beyond the windows. Fabian started to chide them about seatbelts, but with the numerous glowing faces- particularly that of his formerly quiet sister- he instead eased the speed. Cordelia did not comment on the maneuver, but did eye him in adulation.

As they continued through the massive city, all became more eager to figure out their destination.

"Are we going to Rockefeller Center?" wondered Anne.

"The theatre?" Becky beamed.

"The docks?" Nate inwardly reminisced about the boat ride with Emma and the Headmasters.

Cody put forth, "Let's mess around in Central Park."
"Yeah," seconded Tommy.

Fabian responded glibly, "You can roll around in your own filth at home."

Joey piped up, "But not city filth." He then lowered his voice for only his friends to pick up. "Unless Frank's playing with us." Most of the other children snickered and Nate raised a surprised but jovial eyebrow.

Of Joey's audible statement, Fabian said, "We'll see how long you feel that way once we arrive, sabrino."

Becky peered back at her cousin. That wasn't funny, Joey Xavier.

Though only he heard the admonishment, the blonde boy immediately grew sheepish. I was just joking, Becky. You don't say anything to Frank when he clowns.

Yes, I do, she promptly refuted. He hasn't said anything like that in a long time and he's not even here.

Fine, Joey inwardly sighed, sorry.

"Oh, my God," rang from Laci shortly later. "Look, Joey, look."

Leaning on Cody to properly peer out of the window, Joey's eyes enlarged. As if their brochure photos sprouted and became enormous right before them, he tried to absorb the building that took up most of a block.

"Whoa," Cody whistled. "Get a load of this place."

Tommy commented, "And I thought the X-School was huge."

"Welcome to The Jones-Broderick Academy," Nate read the wooden sign planted in the lawn. "Where Dreamers Re-Define Reality."

Entirely wordless, the gaping Joey and Laci linked hands.

"Here we are," Fabian announced casually. He glanced back at the grade-schoolers. "Who's ready to go through the Rabbit Hole?"

"We can't go in there," Laci insisted.

Cordelia watched a pair of chattering girls exit through the front. "Apparently, we can. They must have other summer programs going."

"But don't we need an appointment with tour guides and stuff?" Joey reasoned.

"You forgettin' our trainin'?" Cody nudged him.

"Yeah," said Tommy. "We're renascence."

"Exactamente," commended Fabian.

"Now, come on." Cody unlatched his door. "Let's case this joint."

Cordelia reached back to touch a comforting palm to Joey and Laci's joined hands and offered a wink. "Why don't you guys head in? I'll help Fab find parking and get the stroller together. Just keep minds and communicators wide open."
"And do not leave the building without us," Fabian added. "Should a member of authority insist otherwise, leave them to me."
Brian let off a chirp of delight.

"Ladies first," Nate reminded the group.

The boys maneuvered to open the car doors for the girls then acted similarly at the entrance to the academy.

Laci held tighter to Joey's hand. "I want to go in with you."
Quietly channeling his father, Joey waited for Anne and Becky to enter. He stepped forward only slightly as Laci's secure escort.

Satisfied to find a visitor's parking lot, Cordelia carried the baby while Fabian removed the stroller from the van.

"Are you okay?" the Bostonian inquired. "I don't think the others noticed, but you seemed so tense the last hour."

"Time is not on our side, Cordelia," Fabian emphasized, adjusting Brian's transport. "I'm hoping it transpires before the wedding."
Cordelia admitted, "Occurring at the wedding is the outcome I dread. Even I'd loathe us for life."
Fabian stood fully upright to place a tender hold on her shoulders. "Do you believe me too impetuous? The truth, amore."

"We already had this conversation, Fabian," Cordelia reminded him with affectionate firmness. "Before and after the fact. Should a noose wind up around your neck, I'll be dangling right alongside you."
At the infantile murmurs, Fabian lowered his gaze to look into Brian's face. The aglow countenance received a smile from the Spaniard. Fabian took him from his aunt's arms to situate and strap him into the stroller.

II

A mystifying sorbet of color made up the entryway and main level of the school. The youthful group passed various framed Broadway, film, and music legends. A janitor came by, only pausing to offer of a brief wave before resuming his duties.

When they neared a stairwell, Nate took the first step forward. "Up and onward, ladies and gents."

As they ascended, a teenage girl with brown hair in a braided ponytail stopped jogging down on sight of them.

Before trepidation could set in from her seemingly suspicious eyes, her face brightened cordially. "Hi, are you a tour guide here?"

After a brief glance back at the others, Nate answered, "So it seems. My first day, admittedly."

"Wow, my older sister went here and this place is still a maze to me sometimes. I start my first tour next week. Maybe I'll see you around." She presented her hand. "I'm Kelly."

"Nate Ohnn." The British boy daintily shook with her. "I hope so."

"Cool." She started down again, but looked back once more. "Your accent's amazing, by the way."

Nate sent a smile after her. "Yours is better."

Kelly appeared to blush as she continued to the first floor.

Amidst the snickering from the others, Cody playfully jabbed at Nate. "Way to go, man. You got her nose up big time."

Anne remarked, ""Big time" is the best way to describe her nose."

"Annie." Becky nudged her at the shoulder.

"I wish you were a real tour guide, Uncle Nate," said Joey. "Where's all the art stuff?"

Turning his head, Tommy proceeded up the stairs. "This way."
"How do you know?" wondered Laci.

At the landing, Tommy pointed out the sign on the wall: Drawing and Design.

"Hey, no fair," Cody protested. "They still have to read at this school?"

Nate shook his head in jest and ushered them all the rest of the way up.

On the second floor, Joey and Laci stood dazzled over the mural that comprised the walls. Rolling green hills, blue sky, blazing sun, people with a plethora of brightly colored faces that lacked all other physical facial features. The other enjoyed the sight as well.

"It's just like the street artists," Joey noted.

Laci said, "It reminds me of Archibald Motley."

"Keen eye, little lady." They all looked to see a tall, lean, brown-skinned man in a great suit strolling their way. "Motley Junior was a guest teacher for a time roughly five years back." He gazed upon the walls with them. "This was done by one of his prized pupils. Took nearly two months of unrelenting diligence."

"That is too cool," Joey beamed while Laci's camera went to work.

Tommy eyed the stranger up and down. "Who're you?"

"Tommy, please." Nate smiled at the man. "Sorry, we're a private and rather impromptu tour group. I'm Nate Ohnn. This is my nephew, Joey Xavier," he gestured at the blonde boy then the girl beside him, "and Laci Carmichael, the recipients of the portfolio contest."

"For the summer program, of course. Great to have you. Yes, I'm part of that staff. I'm Richard Townsend."

At the duo's abrupt bashful silence, a disbelieving Becky pressed a hand to each of their backs to telepathically command, say 'Hello, Mr. Townsend'.

"Hello, Mr. Townsend," Joey and Laci recited in perfect unison.

Joey glanced over his shoulder in appreciation.

Becky hugged him from behind as she inquired, "Would you mind showing us around the floor? We just want to check things out- for our parents."

"Maybe for a bit," Richard considered. "Though, I think we'd prefer to not unveil most of it until—" He blinked and twitched in one eye. "As I was saying, right this way."

At the sudden change in demeanor, all eyes landed on the Spanish telepath.

Anne only reiterated, "Right this way," and resumed walking.

As the rest of them did likewise, Tommy uttered lowly, "Man, mutants are the best."

Nate declared, "Motion seconded."

Another intricately planted mental suggestion granted the adolescent group entry into the space designated for the summer program victors. Richard switched on the overhead lights. The colorful walls and floors easily comprised three regular classrooms. Even with the individual desks in the center, it still came with specified areas for clay, quadruple sinks and counter space all along one wall, model building, among near infinite supply cabinets.

What really enthralled Joey and Laci drew them to the far left wall with winners listed. Going by the alphabetical order, Laci found hers right away, despite not caring for the use of "Lacinda". To no astonishment, zeroed in on his at the very end: Charles Xavier. A special light ignited in the boy's irises as he dragged his finger along the individual letters.

IIIIIII

By forty-five minutes into their hike, the mutant duo grew numb to their aching feet. They proceeded on momentous gusto as well as the distraction of their individual musings. Observing Vapor's movements periodically, his diligence as a student under Magneto and Havok's School Health and Muscular Madness. Specter also noticed that while he himself glistened with sweat, Vapor's silky hair and smooth skin only maintained a somewhat alluring glow under the sun's rays.

As their trek continued, Specter eventually put forth, "The universe is all too terribly fond of its sick sense of humor."

"Yes," Vapor replied understatedly.

"Do you in what sense I mean?"
"Irrelevant," Vapor deemed, "but if you care to share…"

To that, Specter elaborated, "The both of us have powers that make our bodies into our own private jets. Only to morph into a hearse when we overuse them."

"Hm," Vapor considered, "we do have that commonality, don't we?"
"I actually thought it was among the reasons you opted to practice the buddy system with me. At least the one that made the most sense. I never got the chance to be much of an instructor to you."

"That's never mattered to me," Vapor informed earnestly. "I was beyond anything you had to offer back then."

"Yet another chairman of my fan club."
Vapor stopped walking and faced him. "I meant what I said. Your leaving was immaterial to me. Scott's anger isn't invalid, but I don't like you being forced into the scapegoat spot. Frank has too much of a mind and mouth of his own. If anyone else should take the blame there, it's his parents. I know you're attached to Alana Tolbert, but it's true."

Specter came back with, "I get the inkling truth is all you know to sprout.'

"It's a toss-up whether or not that gets me in more trouble than lying." Vapor then put forth, "But there are other reasons I picked you. You wield fear. Too many men would gift wrap their souls for such power yet you hate it."

Specter gave off a slight shrug. "Call me soft."

"And I'm stone," Vapor replied simply. "Best of both worlds."

"Or the very first," Spector mildly refuted.

"It is my language you now speak."

II

When they reached a sizable cliff, the rock-climbers eased onto it for a short rest. Marginally ahead of the Professor, Havok stepped onto it first. He kept a grip on the rope that linked them until Professor X fully joined him. They replenished with water and the snack items in-between taking in the three stories they had already scaled. Pleased when he noticed the younger man in possession of as well as taking his blood pressure medication, Professor X opted not to draw attention to it.

"What do you think?" Havok chimed up first. "You prefer this or freezing our butts off up in the Rockies?"
The Professor responded, "As grateful as I am for the full use of both legs, I do yearn for the lack of sweltering sun up in Canada."
"Not me," the blonde disagreed. "Piling on fifty layers with the climbing equipment on top of that? Need to mop up the sweat before you even get out the door. That's why I love surfing; board and a pair of trunks."

Professor X appeared mischievously musing. "I know a few nude beaches in Europe you might fancy…"

Initially surprised at the suggestion, an equally impish Havok wondered, "Can I bring Holly? She signed up for this specialized geography course in the fall."
From that, Professor X gathered, "So, you two are still talking…"

Havok darted his eyes about. "Here and there. Now, you level with me." The Professor eyed him attentively. "This isn't all about Specter, is it? You're trying to help Hank without stirring the Beast?"

The older man replied, "Among other goals I hope to reach today." He arched his head upward. "Ready? The real action awaits."

"All I needed to hear." Havok made haste of packing away their provisions.

IIIIIII

After Sean sent out the distress call, Scott managed to distract Kiki and Trav long enough to gather flowers. He left them with Sean on the promise of his rapid return and made a path out to the site of their mutual distress. Making it to beside the bush, he shut his eyes as he used one hand to cover the deceased with an old pale yellow receiving blanket.

Scott squatted, peered through his ruby lenses again, "I'm sorry," and laid the bundle of various lilies next to her.

As soon as he reached the barn, Kiki sped for him. Scott picked her up on contact, kissed her head, and carried her over to the wraparound bench in the front corner. Trav inched over and Scott spared an arm to place over him. Sean had cleaned off and sanitized a wide work table. He monitored the precious cargo contained in one of Midnight's old beds.

At the vehicle that arrived later followed by the metal door opening, some whiff of relief managed to penetrate the horse home. Sean went outside to greet then walked back in with the tall, golden-haired physician, Jed.

"Hey, you guys," the redhead addressed the younger children, "you remember Dr. Sullivan, don't you? From the horses' last checkup?"

"Hi, Dr. Sullivan," Scott spoke, prompting the other two to address him as well.

"Scott, Kiki, Trav," the man acknowledged them, "it's good to see all of you. I only wish the circumstances were more favorable."

Trav got up to go to the table. "Are they gonna be okay?"

As if unable to grasp the words, Kiki shakily informed, "Their mama's dead…"

Bobbing his head in awareness, Jed said, "Yes, I know. I also know she couldn't ask for a better bunch to happen upon her children." He placed his medical bag on the table and looked over the tiny creatures. "Ah, it appears we have a brother and sister on our hands. They're all you found?"

Sean nodded then admitted, "Well, Trav found them first."

"It was just them two, Doc," the little boy further informed.

"Such a small litter is rare, but not unheard of." Jed's expression flashed displeasure. "As is true for this flea infestation."

Sean mentioned, "Is it okay we clean them off a little? We didn't want to use Midnight's flea shampoo in case it's too strong for them."

"Excellent thinking and don't worry. I have the wash necessary to rid them of these pests. I'll need to deworm them as well." Jeb continued the examination. Both consisted of mostly white fur with the female showing the colorful markings of a calico. The male only had black patches on his head and back. He gingerly pried their jaws apart to look inside. "They're right around four weeks old, I'd estimate. To be on the safe side, they should stick to a diet of formula and soft foods until they're completely weaned."

Trav appeared intrigued. "Kittens can have baby formula?"

"Right from a bottle," Jed confirmed. "They have their own brand I'm going to leave here, so don't pilfer any from the human babies."

"Got it," said Trav dutifully.

"I say what they really need now is fresh water." Jed then asked Trav, "Would you and your sister go inside and get it?"

"Sure," complied Trav.

Scott took Kiki's hand, "We'll refill the horses, too," and stood.

Trav latched onto Kiki's free palm as the three departed together.

Not missing Jed's grim countenance, Sean inquired, "Doc?"
"You've noticed his heavier breathing, right?" He stroked the black and white kitten.

Sean nodded. "We figured he was panting because he was scared plus the heat."

"That may be part of it, but I noticed the abnormal breathing and heartrate immediately. His reactions are more delayed than his sister's as well. I'd like to keep him overnight at my clinic."

"Right, no problem," Sean agreed. "Better safe than sorry. The kids will understand that."

"With the fleas in mind, the four of you need to shower and get your clothes in the laundry. Keep your distance from Midnight and the other animals until you do," Jed instructed. "Where is the mother now?"

"I can take you to her, but it's way too late, Doc."

"I realize. I still want to examine the body," Jed explained. "I've had too many cases of infection and severe bite and claw marks the last six days alone in addition to three deaths. I suspect there's a wild coyote in the neighborhood or worse, a pack of wild strays spreading rabies."

"Seriously?" Sean frowned deeply. "But wait, rabies… isn't there a shot- treatment for it?"

"Sean, there's no way to test for rabies," Jed dourly informed. "There's a quarantine period, but if dogs really are behind these attacks, I'm afraid there won't be a judge and jury. They must be euthanized."

The teenager exhaled heavily. "The kids can't hear about this. Joey and Trav alone…"

"I know," Jed sympathized. "But until I know what's what, I'm going to advise everyone to keep these barns locked and dogs and cats indoors at all times." He noticed the young man's pensive shoulders and cupped one comfortingly. "I'm sorry to lay this at your doorstep. Your wedding's right around the corner, isn't it?"

"That's not it," Sean denied. "I think I'd rather take on the dog pack than explain two new cats to Charles."

Jeb chuckled. "Let them grow into their fur a little more before he dreads them shedding it."

IIIIIII

Upon venturing into a clearing, the animalistic mutants selected it to rehydrate themselves. Calico sat on a boulder while Beast stayed near her, easing into a comfortable position amongst the flowers.

The male chugged his water bottle and splashed a portion against his heated forehead. "You seem different today." At her inquisitive expression, he elaborated. "From how you usually are during training; almost frighteningly attentive. Today, you're so much more docile."

Calico considered his observation. "It's hard to explain, but when I train with the younger kids- even Scott- something always comes over me. They have to make it. No matter what happens to me or the predator."

Beast surmised, "And they're not here to concern you."

"It's because you're here with me," the girl stated in earnest. "On my side. I can fight, but I don't have to worry."

"… You have more faith in me than some." Beast sat up against her rock. "Myself included."

Calico eyed him closely. "Cody shouldn't have talked to you like that. He's always running off at the mouth."

"Yes, he is," Beast promptly concurred, "but we both know he wasn't wrong. As if working among the alphas actually made me one."

"Cody's had the alphas his entire life," Calico strongly reminded. "We didn't have anyone who cared to help us before the X-Men. I shouldn't even have powers. Cody has no idea what it's like to be some sicko's science project."
Beast raised a palm to cup her cheek. "I can't pretend I've been through a tenth of what you have. Not even what the rest of Edge Pack suffered. I may be behind the mutant curve, but my parents did their best."

"Behind?" Calico echoed in disbelief. "You're a great dad, they love you at school, and we'd all go to pieces without you at home. You're not Sabretooth or Wolverine, but you're still an alpha where it counts."

The initially wordless Beast moved his hand to stroke her hair. "Thanks, Cal."

The blonde's gaze darted from him to abruptly ominous mountaintop. "Beast, look."

Leaping to his own food, the scientist watched the rapidly building cloud formation.

II

"We would wind up in the armpit of nature." Mystique sprung from rock to rock across the particularly moistened earth. "What do you want to bet they make us the villains again?"

"What can we say?" Sabretooth maneuvered by the overhead branches. "We just got that boss charisma, doll face."

"Plus "annoying little sister aura" on my end." When she went to leap again, Mystique found herself bombarded by an innumerable flock of birds that bore her name. After she managed to jump over them, Sabretooth unleashed a roar that reduced them to a puff of smoke. "And an annoying big brother who thinks he's funny- not Erik, for once."

Offering her a hand up, Sabretooth commented, "Prof needs to lay off those Hitchcock marathons with Sean."

Before they could press on, a shadow completely engulfed them. They veered around and met with the inky black eyes of a mammoth raven with the wingspan of at least twelve feet. Sabretooth's roar only resulted in a loud caw from the creature.

"… Plan B it is." With that determined, the Veteran hoisted and launched Mystique into the air.

The shapeshifter snagged the highest branch she could. She remained in place until Sabretooth joined her and they raced through the treetops together. The leonine mutant thought the blue being fell at one point and started to react until he realized her drop to be intentional. The raven performed a nosedive to solely chase her. Mystique made contact with its beak, used it as a springboard, and flipped backward. She straddled it by the neck and ferociously yanked on two fistfuls worth of its feathers.

II

Back to back, Beast and Calico stood in fighting stances as dozens of encroachers formed from seemly nothingness completely surrounded them. The two X-Men regarded each other out of the corners of their eyes. They joined hands and delivered synchronized kicks. Once they had a considerable portion knocked to the ground, they let their animalistic fury reach the surface. Beast lunged, knocking down four at once. Calico evaded a punch, seized the arm, and threw him into a slew of others. She jumped onto the mound of men to use for her aerial advantage.

Calico went up, promptly plummeted again, and dropped kick one in the head. As if trampling daisies, she ran across many faces in addition to stepping on necks. She tumbled once and Beast ceased his own brawling to assist her.

With so many looming over her, the girl's features lit up at who materialized before her.

"Honor," Vapor dug his knee into the belly of one, "look it up."

Beast began to say something until his wife and Sabretooth arrived via colossal blackbird.

"Not to knock your piloting skills, baby," Mystique called down, "but this is the only way to fly."

"Where's Spec?" Sabretooth wanted to know.

"He's on his…" Vapor trailed at the dissolution of the foes around them.

Mist developed from the once solid figures. The ground level mutants quickly became ankle and knee deep in the thick substance.

Calico's eyes enlarged suddenly. "Vapor!"

The alerted mutant ducked, mainly due to the feline's swinging fist. Her contact made the red-eyed ebony apparition disappear as quickly as it arose. When they next appeared out of his reach, Beast snarled and hurled a stone at it. Vanishing resulted again.

"Ah, the gray-hair game." Vapor returned to his feet. "Pluck one, two takes its place."

Beast declared, "And the odds remain against them."

"I'm goin' in," Sabretooth informed.

"Okay." After he leaped down to join the rest, Mystique studied the battlefield. She picked up on the square the blackness shaped into. "Beast, divide up! Keep approximately five yards between you."

Rapidly carrying out the blue woman's directions, they spread out into a horizontal line. Beast and Sabretooth acted as bookends while Calico and Vapor stayed in the middle. For more than ten seconds, the area remained noiseless. Finally, new creatures emerged, one facing off against each of them. They appeared far thicker than the ones they toppled moments ago. Upon Sabretooth's signaling roar, the other three took the cue to charge.

Only Vapor ran upright. The animalistic trio rushed on all-fours. Beast took his first opportunity to lunge and did so from more than ten feet away. He made hard contact with his target and it coiled arms around him. More limbs followed, appearing like taffy with the stiffness of tar. Initially reacting with the fury of a caged specimen until he heard his wife shouts.

"It's like quicksand! Keep your head together or you'll sink deeper!"
Stilling momentarily at that, Beast stared into the creature's red eyes, offering it a cheeky grin. The second the hold seemed to lighten, Beast planted his fangs into its neck. With the heavy distraction, he managed to use his arms to break through and shatter the entity like a desiccated cocoon.

Sabretooth's foe replicated his size and imitated his every feline inspired movement. "What is this, kitty-see-kitty-do? I used to play this with my kid brother." Its face split apart and it released a shriek. Shaking off the impact on his ears, Sabretooth regarded it with no further effect evident. "Not the nostalgic type, huh?"

With that, they went at each other in a unison feat.

When her assailant made a move for the X patch stitched to the upper right portion of her uniform, Calico hissed, "My mother says never touch the display," grabbed its wrist and tried to force it down.

Calico extending her claws proved feeble when the creature developed talons. The X-Girl roared in its face to at last obliterate it.

By the third abdominal kick, Vapor's opponent went to the ground and reabsorbed into the fog.

A twinge of déjà vu pooling in her, Calico yelled, "Behind you," his way.

The unsurprised Vapor began to turn to evade the weak attempt at an ambush until a pair burst forth from the mist. They seized Vapor's legs. His next strategy to shift abruptly paused when the prior encroacher grew a weapon in its hand and fired it within the same second. Calico's pained outcry caused the panicked scattering of real birds and small animals.

"Callie!" bellowed from her teammates at once.

Mystique's scream caused her to lose control over the commandeered raven.

While Sabretooth hurried for the others, Beast rocketed in time to catch his wife.

Vapor shifted to reach Calico, but fell at the thin wall of fire that formed.

The McCoy's received greater shock than the impromptu flames when Vapor shut his eyes and rolled straight through them. He and Sabretooth sandwiched the fallen girl.

Cradling her, Sabretooth soothed, "It's all in your head, baby. It's alright."

Vapor glanced between them apologetically.

The mist collected and built into three large ogre entities with crimson eyes.

"Wait." Mystique gripped Beast's arm when he appeared ready to rush them.

Sabretooth arched his head back in a roar, but to no avail.

From the opposite end of the massive monstrosities and to the rear of the McCoys, the wind built steadily. Three tornados whipped through. Beast and Mystique dropped face down, but the windy spirals bypassed them altogether. They continued purposefully until their actual targets got in proximity. Each one sucked up an ogre and dissipated it. As soon as the sight faded, the rest of the environment resumed normalcy.

Vapor brought uncertain fingers to Calico's cheek as she sat up against the elder feline. "Are you okay?"

She nodded. "Are you?"

Relieved, Vapor bobbed his head as well.

Specter swooped in for a landing He removed his mask and caught Sabretooth's reaffirming gaze.

II

At the rough, unexpected jerking, Professor X rebuked, "Havok, you must never inter—'

"I'm plugged in here, too," Havok reminded forcefully. "I saw what you did to Lee. How could you turn fire on him?"
"It was an illusion, Havok," the Professor emphasized. "One he bested tremendously."

"You think that matters? You know what just happened with Tommy; his nightmares in Delaware," Havok urged. "What if he hadn't been able to shake it off so quick? And you made Sam feel a gunshot wound- are you kidding me with that? Or does anything go with these head games?"

"Please try to understand." At the younger man unhooking the rope, he demanded, "What are you doing?"
Without the briefest gaze back, Havok replied, "To see how much of their insides I have to patch up because of you," and huffed off with waves of fury radiating from his shoulders.

IIIIIII

Almost as soon as he returned to the mansion from filling his wife's requests, Logan found himself summoned to his area of the house. Once he learned of the situation, he commandeered it. Allowed to release some tension from their taut shoulders, Sean and Scott sprawled on top of the wide bed. In the middle of the mattress, Trav laid by Logan's folded legs while the man helped Kiki feed the thirsty kitten.

Resting on his chest, Kiki recalled distantly, "Their mommy was all cut up…"

"I know, darlin'." Logan pecked her temper. "Had to be a wild animal, probably sick. She got her babies to safety. That's all that matters to any ma. Any decent dad, too."

"How come their daddy didn't come for them like Bambi's dad?" Trav asked.

"They could've gotten separated or had a whole other family to worry about if they belonged to a big colony," Logan explained.

Leaping upright on the bed, Scott scowled at who crept in. "Midnight, get out of here."

"Scott," Logan spoke sharply, "he's fine."

Sean reasoned, "What if he gets aggressive?"

"What if it was a tom that got their mom?" Scott pointed out.

"Not from the notes the doc left," Logan mentioned. "A few bites and scratches, I could see. But it'd take multiple ferals to inflict that much damage. And Midnight's been livin' in this house with Bounty for how long? Sam got him from whatcha call a co-habitation center."

Scott said, "I thought that was just an animal shelter."

"Not even close," Logan told him. "They've got a few of those joints over in California. Got pups, kittens, rabbits, guinea pigs- practically the whole zoo livin' and playin' together. You already know Dri. Even the cat's got to be debonair." He clicked his tongue. "Hey, 'Night."

The adult cat made a stride for them. At Logan's prompting, Kiki lowered to present the kitten to him. They both maintained the impeccably unblinking eyes of felines. When Midnight got in closest proximity, he sniffed her twice then hissed.

"Easy," Logan placated the fledglings, "that's normal. Leave 'em be."

Midnight his, bared his teeth once, then finally settled into a comfortable position on the floor. He kept his eyes peeled as Logan scooped both little females onto the bed again.

Trav vexed, "Will Uncle Charles let us keep them? I don't want to leave her brother at the vet."

"Hey, hey," Logan hugged him against his side, "you let me worry about that. She'll stay in here tonight and I'll talk to Charles tomorrow. I'll check on her brother, too." He rolled his pinky along the kitten's belly, igniting her purr.

IIIIIII

Greatly resembling a giraffe, Brian protruded his neck to take in every detail of the unfamiliar location. To keep him from tipping over the stroller with weight disproportion, Cordelia freed him. She immediately took his tiny hand while he walked and stared in awe. Taking charge of the empty stroller, Fabian exchanged mental messages with his sister.

Within the largest and most illuminated classroom on the second floor, Joey and Laci continuously explored. Both also made sure not to move anything or leave behind finger smudges.

"Tommy," Joey reacted to him helping himself to a few sheets of construction paper.

"What? I'm VIP around here." The younger boy dropped nonchalantly into a desk chair. "I'm best friends with two winners. You guys practically own this place."

Though Laci smiled, she still insisted, "No way we're anywhere near that special."

"Humility in the very young." Fabian's accent preceded the arriving trio. "Not something I make a habit of myself, but admirable."

"Aunt Cordy." Joey went to one knee to catch Brian in a hug. "What took you guys so long?"

"We just wanted you to immerse yourselves a little." Cordelia regarded him affectionately. "So, what do you think of your new domain?"

"This place looks incredible," Joey grinned.

"Mr. Townsend seems nice." Laci then explained, "He's one of the teachers."

"Nice and negligent." Cordelia scanned the row of names. "Where are you?"

"He's having mine changed so it says 'Laci Carmichael' instead of Lacinda."

"Really?" Cordelia turned to the younger girl. "Just because you asked? That's sweet."

A smirk toyed on Tommy's lips. "Because Anne asked."

Not missing the murmur, an equally amused Fabian took a seat next to him. "What is this you're dreaming up?"

Tommy currently sketched what resembled a high oak. "I tried to do this family tree thing for Erik for Father's Day, but Trav went and wrecked it. Thinking about maybe trying again… so he'll have something to remember me."

Fabian asserted, "I believe having you here means most to him."

Slightly taken aback, Tommy looked at him. "Really? You think so?"

"Just a casual observation of course." Fabian brought his hand to his thin back as he mentioned, "Cordelia and I thought burgers would be the ideal way to top today off- at least in Nate's version of paradise. Agreed?"

"Yeah!" Tommy responded ecstatically.

II

On the main level again and compliments of directions from Richard, it did not take the four long to locate another spacious destination. Becky led the youthful horde through the open double doors. From at least a dozen yards away, they beheld the lighted stage of Radio City proportions. Entranced, Becky departed from them to take the walk down the hill-esque polished floors. Mounting the stage, she became all the more aglow by the numerous lightbulbs above.

Nate followed the other telepath into the second to last row of seats. "Not in too great a hurry to dash back to your brother, I take it?"

Anne shrugged, reclining in her chair. "He considers me more when he thinks I've been kidnapped, anyway."

"Are you zonked?" Nate laughed lightly. "If you could only see him on assignment in Boston. You're always on his mind. He just has all of this older kid gobbly-gook filling space in his head. Graduating, leaving home, bad guy thwarting- it's a lot for one bloke to take in."

Anne cast eyes on him. "Can you keep a secret?"

Nate only reminded, "You're keeping the biggest one I have."

"True. The thing is, I didn't want Fab to go away to Boston. Now, I'm glad," the girl admitted. "I love my guys, but maybe if he and our dad are away more, I can finally breathe."

"I get that," Nate sympathized. "My host dad has the safety bars on me, but I know it must be tougher for you. No way would I have been allowed to cross the pond for university if I wasn't a boy."

"Lucky."

"You know," Nate put forth next, "when I'm in town, it'd be brilliant if you, Brenda, and I could hang out- big kid free."

"Perfecto," she instantly seconded.

Noticing a filled table at one end of the stage, Becky came toward it to leaf through the displayed information. She picked up one particular flyer that especially caught her eye.

"Auditions, huh?" All but teleporting behind her, Cody popped up and peered over her shoulder.

Startled, Becky shot him a half-hearted glower. "Where do you come from?"

"My dad says I bubbled out of the Black Lagoon like him." He then pointed out, "And you'd have sensed me if your attention wasn't all wrapped up in this." He tapped the flyer. "Good thing cheerleading's over, huh?"

"I am not auditioning for anything." Becky lowered the paper again.

"Oh, come on, like the adults'll say no. Think about it," Cody coaxed. "If you get into a program here, too, that's another pair of eyes lookin' out for Joey and Laci."

"This isn't the community center, Cody," Becky emphasized. "I haven't danced in forever and don't get me started on the last play I did. Just forget it, okay?" She started for the nearest flight of stairs. "Let's go before somebody sees us."

"Comin'…" Snagging the abandoned flier, Cody quickly crammed it into his pants pocket.

IIIIIII

As soon as the X-Men regrouped, they seemed further divided almost instantly. Sabretooth kept Calico at his side while he got out the travel grill and supplies from the jet. IQ sat together on logs in pairs of McCoys and boychicks.

Leaning against a tree, Specter remarked, "I must admit, Charlie, I never expected to return to good graces by the end of this. But an all-out mutiny against you? Slap me with a feather. I should have intervened sooner."

"You acted when and as you should have," the Professor refuted matter-of-factly. "It's my performance I'm left to question."

After aiding Sabretooth with the charcoal, Calico got up to approach the European pair. "Professor? Uncle Charles." The man raised his head to her full attention. "I really am okay. Are you?"

Quietly taking her wrist, Professor X reeled her into a soft hug. "Everyone," he got to his feet, "X-Men, gather, please, spit-spot."

"Spot a little this way," Sabretooth indicated from where he crouched at the grill, "got beef goin' here."

Starting with Vapor, the members of IQ headed over with Havok bringing up the rear.

Once they all reached Sabretooth's position, Professor X addressed the circle of mutants. "Today's extensive exercise wasn't meant to get out of hand nor was any malice pre-meditated."

Havok scoffed. "So, you were winging it when you decided to exploit our phobias?"

"Okay," Mystique interjected, "you need to calm down."

"You knew we weren't coming out here to keep to basics," Beast reminded him. "Don't pretend Magneto hasn't pushed us beyond our weaknesses. You've probably experienced that more than any of us."

"He's never thrown me out[TH1] of a plane or locked Frank in a dark room," Havok countered. "I don't remember him making a little girl feel herself gunned down, either."

"I am not a baby," Calico rapidly retorted. "And I said I was fine."

Vapor touched his brother's arm as he said, "So am I, Havok, really."

The Professor brought his own hand to gently knead near Vapor's neck. "I never meant to take advantage of your vulnerability that way. Honestly, I didn't." He looked around at them all again. "There's another reason I picked this location. On these mountains, especially since my car accident, I feel a very special tranquility that seems to intensify my telepathy. Today, I was essentially in a deep trance." He faced the irate blonde. "You kept my body as well as my mental state protected. I trusted you completely. That's why you had a full viewing window into everything I did."

Havok then wanted to know, "Why did you let yourself go that far? What if you'd been overwhelmed?"

"It was for me," Specter piped up knowingly, making all present turn to him. "It was the only way for my powers to overcome yours legitimately, wasn't it?"

Professor X nodded. "I had to close off the personal part of myself- go somewhere darker- in order for your fear to affect me the way it did." To Vapor, he said, "I didn't consciously start the fire, but I am sorry for the part of my mind that twisted recent events."

Vapor brought up, "I didn't stay frozen. That's what counts for me."

"There are times we need the harsher tactics," Beast vehemently reasoned. "Real opponents certainly won't hold our hands out here. Through Specter, we've seen up close what can happen if we suppress our powers the way many of us used to. Fear can be healthy so long as we don't let it cripple us."

Spector responded in mild jest, "You're figuring that out, too, eh?"

"What's say we get back to this meetin' of the minds later?" Sabretooth chimed in. "You mugs hose off."

Mystique coiled arms with Calico as they departed with the IQ males.

With he and Specter remaining, the Professor addressed the oldest one present. "I don't need my powers to know you have your own thoughts on this. Are you angry about Callie? Be honest."

Sabretooth briefly quieted then spoke again. "I got to admit, for a while there, I forgot we were goin' up against fake-outs. Especially when she went down after that shot. But I got to see her rise up again. Vapor, too." He looked to the left at Specter. "But especially you."

The pleased younger blonde said, "Beats the image you saw in my head. That terrified, teary-eyed whelp."

"You weren't the only one carryin' that image in your head." Getting to his full height, Sabretooth glanced between the Europeans. "Almost since I've known you two, I've wanted to wrap you up in a bubble. Keep the world from takin' the shine out of your eyes, forgettin' that plenty have tried to already. But you still choose to be good men. With what happened to me at your ages, I wish I could say the same."
"You made that choice eventually," Professor X reminded plainly. "We cannot let the past hinder us."

"Come on, Proffy." Specter gestured with his head. "We'd best wash behind our ears."

Sabretooth gazed after their trek before resuming culinary duty.

IIIIIII

Stretched out on the exam table, the redhead stared upward through the cooling salve and re-application of bandages. He took in glimpses of the younger teen's meticulousness.

"Thanks, man."

"Sure." Scott frowned at the ensuing groan. "What? Did I do it too tight?"

"No, it's cramping," Sean replied with a mild grunt. "My ankle finally remembered it's mad at me. Meaning, Hank's going to be really mad at me."

Scott reasoned, "It's not like you've had much time to kick back. I'll find you some painkillers."
"No," Sean protested. "I don't want to get drowsy on Kiki and Trav." He eased himself upright. "Let's get back."

"Here." Scott took his right arm to bring over his own shoulders and Sean stood somewhat simpler.

Leaving the lab, Scott attempted to support as much of the tall one's weight as he could.

"Boys." Both stilled at Logan coming their way from the opposite direction. "Kay just got off the phone with the vet. Our guy's not taking to his food so well. They're givin' him fluids overnight."

"He's probably freaked out," Sean suggested understandingly, "especially being away from his sister."

"I hope we can still pick him up tomorrow," said Scott. "Trav and Kiki are anxious for him." He then requested, "Could you play crutch for a while? I'm gonna grab a hot water bottle for Sean's leg."

"You got it, Slim." Logan showed his back and Sean latched on.

With a grateful gaze after Scott, Sean looked to the Veteran as he quipped, "Would pony neighs be too much to ask for?"

Logan poked him in the elbow. "You're lucky that mug of yours needs to stay pretty for the ceremony."

IIIIIII

The band of mutants finished eating by the time the sun began its descension. A none-too-talkative Havok helped with tidying. He neither agreed to nor did he protest the Professor's offer to assist. Mystique and Calico decided to digest with a few rounds of hand-to-hand. Sabretooth led Beast into predatory tracking, only communicated with grunts, growls, and gestures. Vapor and Specter competed in an unconventional footrace. At the same second, the former whipped through the air while the latter shifted. Specter reached the finishing point, the jet, the first two times with more of a tie resulting on the third attempt.

Specter noted, "It clearly takes more energy to transport every cell in your body without rattling even one. There's no friction to intangible flight. And I must admit, my adrenaline hasn't completely wound down from earlier."

"Your powers went dormant until those guys tried to attack you," Vapor faced him directly, "right?"

"Yes, otherwise there's a strong possibility I wouldn't be standing before you now."

"But then, after that, why did you keep looking fear in the eye?" Vapor wanted to know. "You were a teenager. Full grown men would've left your wife and daughter for way pettier reasons."

Specter eyed him for an extended moment. "You sound so similar to my guidance counselor. I tried going to him and received yet another reminder as to why your average adult is ultimately worthless. He was aghast, to say the least. Told me that as an "emerald immigrant" I already amounted to nothing. With Yvonne, he deemed me less than nothing. Told me to distance myself from her; deny everything. And well," the ash blonde shrugged, "never was a prized pupil."

Vapor next asked, "So, if you did have it to do over again, you'd—"

"Heartbeat," Specter confirmed. He folded his arms. "You've asked yourself these same questions time and time again, haven't you?"

"Not for me," Vapor answered. "For Melissa. She could walk back into the light- erase her past- but she stays in the darkness with me."

"From what I've gathered about you, you have an advantage I severely lacked." Specter considered that again, "you know, besides brains and built," then elaborated with, "you are anything but nothing."

Vapor mildly stiffened, blinking once. "You couldn't possibly know that."

"Couldn't I?" Specter challenged simply. "And as someone who knows a thing or two about fear, you really need to ask yourself another question, boyo. Have you been rejected by the light or have you rejected it?" To no surprise, he did not receive a response, so proposed, "Another two out of three?"

Vapor promptly got onboard that notion.

As the sun nearly disappeared beyond the mountain, Calico spotted and sat next to Professor X on a log. "I wish we could stay over."

"Yes, but we all need to get back to the little ones and it's already going to be fairly late by the time we return." He placed his arm around her. "Did you really enjoy today? All things considered?"

Calico nodded with a smile. "I love it here."

"We'll need to arrange a real camping trip very soon," Professor X determined. "And in all honesty, with everyone's powers still growing, there's only so long we can train in the safety of our own backyard. Perhaps it's time your aunt and I sought out a new real estate venture…"

Calico's smile became an ecstatic grin.

IIIIIII

Highly grateful for her ultra-petite frame, the brown-haired girl tipped along on feet adorned in fuzzy green slippers. She pried the ajar door open a few inches and peered in on her fiancé. He and Scott laid on either side with Kiki and Trav nestled between them.

Catching his partial movements, Maya petitioned in a hush, "Sean."

At her voice, he moved to rise and summoned his full stealth training to slip into the hall with her. "I never thought they'd get to sleep. Tommy's staying with Erik."

Maya regarded him in shared melancholy. "I could barely stand it at dinner. Trav ate more than she did, but he still spit up a little."

"God…" Sean gripped two fistfuls of his hair. "I just want that image out of their heads."

Maya hugged his arm. "Emma said she'd help as soon as their minds settled a little. They're still too rattled."

"Maya," Sean placed a hand over one of hers and looked at her imploringly, "can you handle what's left for the wedding? Kiki really needs me right now."

"Of course. Don't worry." She laid her head on his chest in an embrace as she softly reiterated, "Don't worry."

IIIIIII

Re-introduced to the minds that made up his household, the Professor experienced rejuvenation, despite the additional weight he felt from most of them. He stopped by Brian's nursery then checked in with Emma. He changed into more comfortable evening attire, but decided his shoulder could wait for the conclusion of rounds.

In Frank's room, he had to keep from snickering. The teen in question laid with a textbook tucked under his arm and the phone somehow still attached to his ear. With a good-natured shake of the head, Charles returned the receiver to its based and gently pried the history book free. He tucked Frank in more comfortably, kissed his temple, and finger-combed at his hair for a few seconds.

Once he finished with everyone, the heavy-hearted Professor made a path for the main level.

Brother?

Raising his head from the documents he only half gave his attention to, the older Headmaster immediately returned, Lab Rat? What's the matter? Come in.

Charles entered the den at that, making sure the door closed after him. "Emma tells me things around here have been rather interesting today. She said we could wait until tomorrow to get into it."

"And she's right. Now," Erik detached from his chair to sit on the edge of his desk instead, "let's talk about your day. How did the session fair?"
Charles took a seat on the sofa as he replied, "That's a matter of opinion, but it seems everyone more or less benefited from it. I take it you've spoken with Alex and Leon?"

Erik shook his head. "Beyond good night, no. Did they do something out there?"

"No, but I'm afraid I did… I think I took things too far."

Erik crossed his arms curiously, keeping his tone even. "How so?"

Charles exhaled lightly before beginning the explanation. "I extended my powers, but cut off the more personal part of my mind. I needed Trick's instincts to consider me a stranger; a threat."

"That makes sense so far."

"However," Charles went on, "during a particularly grueling round of illusions, I unconsciously forced Samantha to feel the impact of a bullet as well as placed a wall of fire between her and Leon. The dark part of me picked and plucked from what's been happening around here of late. Leon went through the wall for Samantha and he seemed to understand me, but Alex couldn't be more furious with me. He feels I exploited Leon's phobia."

Erik dipped his head to study the younger man's face. "Is that what you did?"

"Perhaps not directly, but on some level I did," Charles vexed. "That's why I've come to you."

Erik surmised, "You want me to punish you."

Charles nodded. "Don't you think I've earned it?"
"Tell me, brother," the metal wielder put forth, "would you still feel this way if Alex hadn't reacted the way he did?"

"… I crossed a line, Erik. We must keep each other accountable."

"You selected this group you for a more vigorous session. This they knew. Leon doesn't seem to hold any grudges and it doesn't surprise me that Alex is being the protective older brother. An instinct with which I'm all too familiar." Erik noticed the tiny trace of a smile on Charles, but only continued. "You said this was randomness from your mind. Had it been deliberate or had you let yourself lose control on a grand scale, things would be different. I'm extremely firm on the training field myself, Charles. I understand how guilty you feel, but I don't think punishment is in order. Do you want me to speak to Alex?"

"No," Charles turned down unreservedly. "This is something we must settle between the two of us. He isn't an angry, snide teenager anymore. He has the right to question my methods."

With a supportive nod, Erik suggested, "You should get some rest, Lab Rat. We can swap more notes tomorrow. Preferably, over a round of chess."

Forming a delighted countenance, Charles began to rise from the couch. "Thank you, brother."

Erik drew him in for a hug. He tried to mask the euphoria he experienced from feeling Charles tiredly clutching him and nestling against his shirt front.

IIIIIII

A combination of solar radiance beyond the windows and mild rapping at the door, stirred the four bunched together on the bed. The younger three sat up and stretched while Sean rubbed and attempted to awaken his ankle. He released a yawn of "come in" he hoped passed for English to the knocker.

Twisting the knob open, Raven walked in ahead of the two men. Trav darted for her while Kiki reached for Hank, who picked her up into a big hug.

Scott accepted his folded shades from Sean and wondered, "What time is it?"

"Quarter to ten," Logan replied.

Kiki asked eagerly, "Can we go get him now?"

Sean eyed the security man covertly. "Did you tell them?"

Raven fielded that one with, "Yes, we're in on the kitty coup."

Hank said, "We're proud of all you taking action the way you did. We peeked in on the little calico. She's having breakfast."

"Can her brother come home yet?" Trav rephrased his sister's question. "We still need to pick names for 'em."

The jubilation in the room rapidly subsided.

Picking up on it in a flash, Scott asked pointedly, "What happened?"

Letting off a heavy breath of air, Logan brought a palm to Kiki and Trav's backs as he somberly informed, "Doc Sullivan called while you were asleep… the boy didn't make it, babies. His heart gave out this morning."

Kiki's eyes glossed and threatened tears straight away. Hank held her against his shoulder and massaged her back.

Dazed, Trav shook his head. "No, it can't be our cat. He was fine yesterday. Doc Sullivan promised to take care of him."

While Raven rocked him, Logan placed fingers in Trav's hair and explained, "Cats are the best there is at hiding how lousy they're really feelin'. He was so small and likely born with some kind of heart problems. The vet did his best- we all did- but it was out of our hands."

Sean said brightly, "When he knew his sister was safe, he probably felt he could go be with God. And their mom."

Kiki peered back with a sniff. "And Jaycee?"

Before discomfort could set in, Logan confirmed, "He's snuggled up with her right now."

Scott exhibited significantly less positivity, but opted not to voice it as he stared at the bedding.

Hank kissed Kiki's cheek. "Let's go say good morning to his sister, hm?"

The children agreed to that and their parents carried them from the room. Logan and Scott aided Sean's maneuvering as they followed. The closer in proximity they got to the Howlett suite, the more they picked up on an oddly energetic cooing. The McCoys stepped in first and swelled eyes that had nothing to do with sorrow resulted from Kiki and Trav.

Seated between Emma and Kayla on the side of the bed, Charles cradled the bundle of fur and held her bottle for her.

Scott poked his way through and gaped. "Uh… did we let in another shapeshifter because I don't have a clue who this dude is with Charles' face."
"That's what you're going with?" Sean said. "I figured we took a wrong turn into Bizarro World."

Amused, Emma informed, "He's the genuine article, boys. Believe me, I know."

"And yet, this is still scary," Kayla stated.

"Oh, you're all so droll." Charles gave off a glib eyeroll then ushered the children over. "Come, come, just look at our little baby." He accepted Kiki into his lap. "I can't believe these precious eyes were left outside."

A still disbelieving Trav only wanted to know, "You mean we can keep her? For real?"

"Absolutely." Charles chuckled over the cheers from his niece and nephew. "She's only a small babe. We have more than enough time to teach her to keep her claws out of the upholstery. No trouble at all, our little Grace."

"Grace?" Kiki and Trav echoed.

"Yes, I thought it suited her. It's also your aunt's middle name," Charles revealed.

With faux annoyance, Emma claimed, "Guilty."

"Really?" Logan piped up. "I was thinkin' more along the lines of Fruit Cake." At the expressions of revulsion he received, he rationalized, "Just look at her. She's got more colors mixed in than my kids. What, you health nuts prefer Fruit Salad? Banana Toe?"

Kayla brought a woeful hand to her face.

Sharing a look, Scott, Sean, Kiki, and Trav chorused, "Grace."