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.

343. Chapter 343 Happy Trails

Rise or Fall

Chapter 343: Happy Trails

Chapters to Check: 266, 271-277, 311, 341, and 342.

NOTE: My heart goes out to all of you who had so much difficulty accessing 341 and 342. Honestly, this site needs some digital reform school. It's just not proper to schedule severe glitches around other people's anniversaries. For those who haven't yet, make sure you read and re-read the last two chapter because this one overlaps with both of them and we don't want any confusion- the site's given us enough of that. Also, be sure to reference Chapters to Check above. Now, please enjoy and review!

Despite the quietude of the mostly slumbering mansion, neither Headmaster seemed to have the concentration necessary for chess stratagems. Leaning forward in his chair with laced fingers supporting his chin, a ruminating Erik stared vacantly at the board. Across from him with posture much softer but mental state no less contemplative, Charles gauged the rigid older mutant. They remained in total silence that way for over ten minutes.

"Erik?"

The named man's head stayed dipped. "Hm?"

Charles put forth, "This situation with Alana- are you panicking or pleased?"

Continuing to stare downward, Erik pointed out, "You should be able to tell."

"Your emotional waves are flowing in too many different directions to narrow down."

"Kudos to you, Lab Rat." Erik finally decided to move his bishop forward. "You've answered your own question."

After eying him without response for a short bit, the Professor brought up, "I spoke with Trent after dinner." He received his brother's eyes on him at the mention of the attorney. "He's still ironing out our strategy. He's taken the liberty of submitting your background report- the worldly, globe-trotting, college-educated…"

Erik gave him a look. "I take it that sentence doesn't end with 'blood-thirsty nazi hunter with obvious intimacy issues'?"

"Close," Charles feebly jested. "… holocaust survivor." Before any response could be had, the telepath hurriedly explained, "It's all part of the system, Erik, not an attempt to victimize you or air your dirty knickers. With the children's adoptions, it was open and shut for us. We have much more work involved with Frank in order for his consent to override Phil Tolbert's. Frank is set on exercising his patriotic rights and having his day in court, which ties my telepathic hands. That's why we need to illicit the judge's sympathies."

Quietly taking in his every word, Erik waited a few reflective moments before replying. "If this is what's necessary, my pride will have to take a backseat. I would walk through fire for those babes. Playing a few legality games will hardly singe me." His expression then grew grimmer. "However, I can't overlook certain other pitfalls. Potential anti-Semitism and general prejudices being among them. Leon and Alex are of age, but Frank is the all-American boy. Will these courts relinquish him to the likes of me so easily?"

"Honestly? I've considered that as well," Charles admitted. "But I can't say I've lost sleep over it. After all, November isn't very far away. I'm sure such God-fearing judges would appreciate a generous contribution to their churches. Certainly, their campaigns."

Somewhere between taken aback and amazed by the younger man, Erik questioned, "And such a maneuver doesn't undermine Frank's patriotism because…?"

"Contrary to what that dear boy likes to believe at times, I've lived in this country far longer than he has," Charles reminder. "This is very much in keeping with the American way."

"Does that mean we have leftover apple pie?"

Both men re-directed their gazes towards the new arrival in the parlor. The distressed girl stood in blue and yellow aquatic-themed pajamas, complete with ducky slippers.

"Cordelia," reacted Charles with more concern than reprimand, "it's after one. What are you doing out of bed?"

Dragging fingers through her untamed hair, the teen wondered, "What does it mean when I keep dreaming I'm being run over by moving vans driven by Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner?"

"That we need to talk to your father about adding guardrails to your bed," Erik interpreted glibly.

At the melancholy air surrounding her, Charles fondly petitioned, "Cordy?"

Playing with her fingers, she tentatively divulged, "I can't tell if being awake is scarier."

Erik wordlessly left his chess chair and went to sweep the girl up. He carried her over to the nearest sofa. When Charles joined them, Erik situated her comfortably between the two of them.

Charles' arm coiling around her, Cordelia laid her head on Erik's shoulder. "Is this really going to work? Frost Family reunited? And now, with Nate to consider."

"The demons of fear and apprehension do love their late-night drop-ins, don't they?" Charles tucked away a section of her hair with his fingers. "You, Father, Chris- Emma and Adrienne as well- you've all come back from your darkest hour. All should feel right as rain with promise of smooth sailing ahead, shouldn't it?"

"Yet it never does," Erik somberly stated.

"It never does," Charles echoed. "I, too, started university not very long after losing my mother."

"I know," Cordelia followed along in a tender tone. "And unloading the philander she wedded, right?"

Erik snorted while Charles blithely recited, "May he rest in peace," before continuing with his prior point. "Leaving for England was an exciting but frightening time for me and Raven. We adjusted and there was plenty of fun to be had, but we still had to take it one day at a time. Returning here was very different."

Cordelia faced him. "It was?"

"Yes," Charles confirmed, "that we had to take minute by minute. But with a little unlikely help," his line of sight landed on the older Headmaster, "I can sincerely say everything worked out for the best."

The girl then glanced at the metal wielder. "Was it like that for you, too?"

Erik answered, "Similarly, except for the college bit. Even Leon's more of a social butterfly there than I ever was. Coming here, I had it in my mind that my only goal was to whip my own private militia into shape."

"Fibber," Cordelia accused cutely.

"And how," Erik unreservedly acknowledged. "However, I know what you're feeling in spades when it comes to life of late. Becoming a father and mutant elder was only the beginning. Rekindling my faith, the very notion of being an active member of the community- I feel like an anxious spectator to someone else's life at times."

Cordelia told him, "I never get that vibe from you."

Erik came back with, "Then, Becky isn't the only budding actor in the Lehnsherr line."

"The truth is, love," Charles spoke again, "though things have improved, nothing is instantaneously going to fall into place. Making your life in Boston work this time is going to require effort. The bulk of which falls on Father and Chris. I believe they know that."

Erik said, "Come what may, you never have to run and hide out here ever again. If you need to return or want us to come for you, this is still your home."

"You never have to feel unheard or overlooked ever again," Charles promised.

Smiling between the duo, the attentive teenager requested, "Tell me a story?"

"Of course." Erik then put forth, "Have you heard the one about the warrior princess forbidden to enter her beau's bachelor apartment for fear of being turned to stone?"

"Bullocks, Erik," Charles refuted. "It's because the second she sets foot over the threshold, the beau will be permanently swallowed into the Earth's core. Everyone knows that."

Their transparency only amplifying her amusement, Cordelia listened on to their oral improvisation.

IIIIIII

To the ash blonde's astonishment, making contact with the Veteran's shoulder resulted in a mildly startled tremor.

Shaking his head as if to clear it, Logan reacted, "Geez, Spec. Use a door once in a while."

"I did," Trick informed, receiving a briefly puzzled expression from the older man. "Ready to swap out?"

"Yeah." Sinking his half-finished beer bottle into the wastebin, Logan detached from his swivel chair.

Filling the seat normally occupied by Victor, Trick mentioned, "You know Sean and Maya have to drive straight to Cleveland right after Sean's done in Buffalo? Work ethic may be a coveted virtue, but it's a royal kick in the shin at times."

Logan distantly replied, "Tell me about it," before taking his leave of Eye Spy.

Upstairs, after some short-lived hesitation, he ventured into the unoccupied bedroom. Even with only windowlight to go by, the barren walls did not evade his notice. Gone were the photographs, birthday banners and cards, Dr. Seuss posters, and other unique décor. Releasing a breath through his nostrils, the doleful man walked out again.

Once he made it to his corridor of the second floor, he stopped off in the bedroom of his fledgling feline mutant. Sufficiently worn out, Cody and Tommy lolled on opposite ends of the bed with their arms and legs spread in different directions. To keep either of them from colliding with the floor- however humorous the visual- Logan gingerly repositioned them on top of the mattress. Going into his suite next, he easily made out his wife's tranquil sleeping form. Logan crossed the room to reach the cribs and adjusted the thin summer blanket around Todd. Moving over to Mira, Logan extended his large hand to touch her tiny one. He remained still for a full minute when the slumbering girl gripped his thumb.

After stripping down to his boxers, Logan climbed into bed beside Kayla. Bringing his arm over her, he felt her hand clasp his to her chest.

IIIIIII

Hefty duffel bag zipped, the teenage Spaniard took hold of the strap to sling across his shoulder. Seated on the foot of the bed, a mute Anne observed his every action. Over by the desk, Estevan held another suitcase.

"Vamonos, ninos."

At the patriarch's command, Fabian and Anne linked hands. After switching off the lights, Estevan led the procession out of the bedroom.

At the bottom of the stairs, Marco offered, "I can take that."

Strengthening his grip on the suitcase's handle, "Innecesario," Estevan continued without missing a step.

Marco walked behind the Cortez siblings out to the front, where Melissa, Jimmy, Brenda, Collin, and Max lingered by the waiting vehicle.

Jimmy piped up first with, "That's it?"

"That's all," Fabian confirmed as he and Estevan added the last two bags to the rest of the luggage in the trunk.

With hardly half of her standard cheer present, Brenda approached, "Don't forget us, okay?" and raised her arms.

Fabian dipped to embrace her. "Imposible." He pecked her dark hair.

Melissa made her way over with arms crossed. "Practice stupidity in moderation, kid."

Fabian quipped, "So, the opposite of your day-to-day?"

"Exactly." Melissa then gave him a small hug.

"Marco Polo," Fabian addressed the largest mutant among them.

Marco slapped palms with him and clapped him on the back.

Going to Jimmy with a hearty handshake, Fabian quietly implored, "Take care of my sister; all of them."

Jimmy assured, "Already done."

With a squeeze to Collin's shoulders, Fabian said, "Do try to give the Ferrari six months before you reduce it to scrap metal."

"You kidding?" Collin scoffed. "I'll mangle anybody who breathes too close to it."

Fabian then abruptly pluck up the younger Murphy brother, making him laugh, though he attempted to give him a firm expression. "Behave."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," Max waved off.

"Yeah," Fabian mimicked, giving his bottom a light pat before transferring him over to Estevan's arms.

Their lines of sight zeroing in on each other, Fabian and Anne locked brown eyes for several seconds. Finally, the former hastened forward to fling his arms around her while hers coiled his neck.

Anne knowingly promised, estoy bien, hermano.

Lo sé. Fabian caressed her hair. Te quiero, hermanita.

Lo sé, Anne returned. Yo también te quiero.

Max supported on his hip, Estevan walked their way and gently guided his son to his feet. He steered him over to the driver's side of the Thunderbird. Melissa reeled Anne over to her. After Estevan brought him into a one-armed hug and sent some Spanish whispers into his ear, Fabian settled himself behind the wheel. The Acolytes stilled in watchful place until the blue car completely faded from sight.

IIIIIII

Numerous leatherbound notebooks spread across the wide desk, the resident physician plowed through the filled contents fervently.

"Nothing I obtained in nursing school could hold a candle next to what I picked up following Lin's mission," Alana reminisced. "We didn't always have access to radio and television, but pen and paper more than made up for it in my case."

"I'll say," Hank seconded. "You know, before the X-Men, I toyed with the idea of studying medicine abroad."

"We're one of the tops in technology, but there are so many fascinating techniques outside of the US," Alana raved. "Some, literally, in your own backyard. Different herbs and even types of tree bark that can substitute when access to regular medicines is so limited."

Hank mentioned, "And we have the bonus of Logan's uncanny green thumb."

Alana added, "Plus, his and Victor's experiences in the far east."

"Well, I have my nightly reading covered for quite some time."

"Marvelous, just make sure Raven doesn't blame the inevitable sleep loss on me. There's too few of us in the world; we don't need any ginger on ginger violence."

"And the X-Men, somehow, have a monopoly on you."

The two then turned their attention to the French doors of the lab dividing for the English Headmaster.

"We're working, Charles," Hank informed tersely.

"And I don't mean to barge in," the Professor said apologetically, "but I was hoping we could speak for just a moment."

"Go ahead," Alana offered. "I have a few things to take care of before it's time to pick up Frank, anyway." She glanced at Hank. "You take your time reading and we'll review more later. Act all uptown and go for cappuccinos or something."

With a small smile and a nod from the young physician, the woman took her leave.

The positivity in Hank's features rapidly drained as he deduced to the other man, "You're here about Erik, right?"

"I'm here about you." Charles came towards the next. "In all honesty, Hank, you and I haven't had a real chance to talk since your recovery. What do you say we get out of the house tonight? Just the two of us. I'm sure your mother will be glad to help Raven with the children."

"Yes, but unfortunately, I have too much work ahead of me," Hank claimed. "I'm really backed up from everything that's happened."

"Which is why an evening to unwind would do us both some good," Charles reasoned. "No pressure. Just two blokes going on a bender."

Hank repeated, "A bender, Charles?" in a way that made it difficult to tell whether disbelief or hilarity would win out.

"Yes, the one-night, scandal free but none-the-less entertaining benders all the groovy domesticated gents are into."

Unable to ward off the smile the shorter man tended to bring out in him, Hank noncommittally answered, "If it's alright with Raven and my mom... but I draw the line at Jim Anderson and Dick Van Dyke accompanying us."

"Ugh, no one invites Dick out anymore. Lazy sod never clears a tab." Receiving a mental petition, Charles touched his temple. "It's Kiki." Both of them quieted for him to register the message. "I have a call in my study." With a tenderly appreciative expression towards his brother-in-law, the telepath departed the lab.

II

Across the lush green lawn, the horse and pony trotted in sync with each other. Even with his current mental battles taking place, Erik kept the bulk of his attention on the much smaller rider alongside him. As usual, the precocious child provided the majority of the chatter.

"Me and Kikiko will miss visiting the Dundee house," Trav confided, "but it's worth it to have Grandma here all the time."

"Yes," Erik concurred, "it is a privilege for us all to have your grandmother among us now."

"We got to keep a bunch of Grandpa Norton's stuff." Trav's features became reflective. "Kiki didn't get to meet him, but I still think about him sometimes." He glanced up at the man. "Uncle Erik?"

The metal wielder returned, "Valiant?"

Trav asked uncertainly, "Is it okay that I really like seeing Dr. Sullivan around Grandma? A lot?"

"Why wouldn't it be okay?" Erik questioned in turn. "Dr. Sullivan's been kind to us all. I understand why he and your grandmother are friends."

"Do you think… he could maybe be our grandpa one day?"

An unmoved Erik told him, "Many things are possible, but most are not for us to decide. If he could make your grandmother so happy, wonderful. But you have to be careful not to let your imagination run away with you, Valiant. Simply enjoy Dr. Sullivan's friendship."

Though not entirely satisfied with the response, Trav still earnestly replied, "Yes, Uncle Erik. You're right."

Erik lowered one hand to ruffle the boy's hair.

When they ended their ride, the two led Blaze and Steel back into the barn. After dismounting and securing them to their stalls, they replenished the water supply for all of the steeds. Trav brushed Steel and Franny while they drank. With Samantha away, Erik saw to Hazelnut's grooming.

Trav detailing his current captivating book became interrupted by the British accented outcry of, "Erik!"

The aforementioned one along with Trav peered over at the rapid arrival of the Professor along with Leon and Alex.

"Don't scare the horses, Uncles," Trav admonished.

"Sorry, gang," Alex said to the animals.

Leon added, "Next round of feed's on us."

At their haste as well as Charles opting to seek him out instead of messaging telepathically, Erik stepped over with a grim expression. "What's going on?"

With his regular jovial features in place, Charles informed, "I just got off the phone with Trent."

IIIIIII

Silver and cobalt comprised the walls of the recently updated condominium. The living room had an L-shaped section made entirely of windows that led out to the ample terrace. A royal blue sectional sofa with matching armchairs, a low sleek black coffee table, television, stereo system, and other odds and ends filled the common space.

At the rather eager knock to his door, Fabian responded, "Que?" from the kitchen.

The familiar masculine voice that responded, "Abrir, amigo," spurred Fabian to cease loading bottled waters and caffeinated beverages into his refrigerator.

On the other side of the front door, a trio of visitors greeted him. The radiant teenage girl wore a green sundress patterned with sliced watermelons. The little boy in navy shorts and a red Pinocchio t-shirt played with his hands somewhat dubiously. The imperious adult male stood between them, modishly attired in a slate suit with a magenta shirt and a plum tie.

The man spoke first with, "Hi, neighbor, we're from the penthouse. We just thought we'd stop by, say hello, maybe lure you in with enough sickly-sweetness to give us the chance to rifle through your personal space."

Fabian wryly responded, "What kind of sickly-sweetness?"

"M&M chocolate chip." Rissy presented the warm wrapped plate she carried.

"Access granted." Fabian accepted the cookies, "Gracias," along with her peck to his cheek. After Rissy readily scuttled inside, he brought his attention to the younger child. "And what do you have there, may I ask?"

"You'll see..." Dividing his hands, Dex conjured multiple spheres of light that burst like fireworks over Spaniard's head.

"Magnifico, muchacho," Fabian praised, sending his free hand through his hair.

The self-satisfied seven-year-old strolled in.

When Byron stepped inside, Fabian ribbed, "Counted down every agonizing second until my arrival, did you?"

With an amused shake of the head, "I see your unparalleled hauteur is in finer form than you are," Byron followed him into the U-shaped kitchen. "Especially considering of all the deluxe high-rises in all the towns in all the world, you just had to move into ours."

"A mere convenience," Fabian retrieved a cookie for himself and left the rest of the plate on the counter, "as previously discussed."

"As you previously failed to convince me." Noticing the storage bin packed with pots, pans, and other culinary instruments, Byron quipped, "You plan on preparing gourmet grilled cheese for yourself?" and snagged a cookie.

"Creating in the kitchen is Cordelia's fancy," Fabian explained. "Watching her do so is mine."

Leaning back against the refrigerator as he munched, Byron remarked, "And now, you're free to play house to your heart's content."

Fabian tilted his head at him sardonically. "If that was your transparent segway into having a special talk with me, my father as well as Cordelia's have seen to that in both our native tongues."

"Hat's off to them." Byron went on with, "As for my two cents, if you do happen to find yourself in trouble of that nature- or any other- my phone and door are at your disposal. Preferably before you escalate the situation."

To deflect his contentment at the older male's words, "You're available for bouncing off potential Hamlet-esque laments," Fabian started out of the kitchen. "Duly noted."

Byron only cracked a knowing smile as he went after him. When they walked the short distance to the living room, he lost the lighthearted expression at his son's current choice of recreation.

"Dexton," currently making a trampoline out of a plush armchair, Dex instantly whipped his head his father's direction, "you have three seconds to cease and desist. Two…"

At her nephew hurriedly scrambling down, Rissy shared a mutually amused glance with Fabian.

Byron went over to hoist the boy, leveling their brown eyes. "Our living room is not your playground and neither is Fabian's. You know better."

The contrite child looked over the man's shoulder. "Sorry, Fabian."

The teen in question simply shrugged apathetically while inwardly receiving multiple flashbacks about a certain other urchin back in North Salem. One able to write the book on hyperactivity.

Over by the wall of windows, Rissy commented, "You really got a nice unit, Fabian. Does Cordy like it?"

"She hasn't seen it yet," Fabian replied. "She was eager to get home and I wanted to get settled and check in with my father and sister."

Rissy nodded her understanding.

Getting a glimpse of his Rolex, Byron declared, "I have to meet my client in an hour." He looked towards the condo's inhabitant. "If you and Cordelia don't have dinner plans, why don't you join us upstairs tonight?"

"Yeah," the younger two Nikos supported.

Byron added, "It'll be early since Chris wants the Courtiers to regroup tonight."

"Right," Fabian remembered. "And Cordelia will want time with her father and brothers before that, so as your luck would have it, I'm available."

Turning to head out with Dex, Byron said, "We'll expect your esteemed presence at six."

"Hasta luego," Dex waved.

"Hasta luego, muchacho," Fabian returned.

Rissy darted after them, "See you later, Fabian," she paused at the front door her brother held open for her, "So jazzed you guys are back," then continued into the hall.

After locking up behind them, Fabian retrieved two more cookies before properly acquainting himself with his television set.

IIIIIII

At the straying brown eyes drifting towards the wall clock, Professor Tompkins pointedly addressed, "Mr. Tolbert," and quickly gained the startled pupil's attention, "you only have fifteen minutes remaining. If I were you, I wouldn't be too eager for time to fly by."

Resisting his comeback about the educator not being him, Frank managed to refocus on the test until completion.

Once the aforementioned fifteen minutes concluded, the students stacked their stapled papers on Professor Tompkins' desk as they departed.

The instant he exited the university's main building, contact with the sun helped boost Frank's system from its tedious state. All the gladder when he spotted Erik's sedan, he made tracks towards it. As usual, he peered through the passenger window to cheerfully greet his drivers. When he discovered Alex and Leon along with Erik and Alana within, a bubble of dread formed in his belly.

"What's going on?" Frank wanted to know.

"Relax, flashlight," Alex reassured. "Nothing new on the crisis front."

At Erik's visual signal in the rearview mirror, Leon announced, "We have a court date. Without criminal charges looming, somehow."

A grin completely took over Frank's face. "Ohh, you guys better be not kidding me."

Alana confirmed, "We go toe to toe this Wednesday, champ."

"Yes!" Frank pumped his fists. "I can get my name change info in before graduation. It better go through in time."

"We won't set foot out of the records office until it does," Erik vowed.

"Greatness." At Alex opening the backdoor, Frank crawled over the blonde to get comfortable between him and Leon. "Wait til I tell Jessie."

With an exchange of quietly pleased countenances with Alana, Erik restarted the car for their return trip to the mansion.

IIIIIII

The zealous Friday evening patrons filled the sports bar with testosterone fueled energy. Waitresses buzzed in every direction to keep up with the orders while the three bartenders exercised speed and sharp reflexes for drink accuracy. Over by a back corner, the pair of X-Men sat opposite each other at a two-seater. Both in blue jeans and t-shirts representing their respective university alma maters, they shared platters of chili cheese fries, buffalo wings, and quesadillas between them.

"Don't tell me Logan isn't rubbing off on you," Hank insisted jovially. "Never would I have figured this place as your first pick."

Charles responded, "A little more kitsch than the English pubs I frequented, but it has a robust charm to it. Also, between beers and ballgames," he glanced towards where a crowd surrounded the center TV, "these blokes are sure to mind their own Ps and Qs." He turned back to the other blue-eyed male. "Plus, the added bonus of having you as my willing designated driver." He raised his white Russian for emphasis.

Sticking to a virgin margarita, Hank tacked on, "And as the informant to Erik and Raven should you go overboard."

"No one drops a dime on me, bub." At Hank's mystified expression, Charles' lips curved upward. "That bit was Logan."

"Ah." Halfway through their food and refills, the physician spoke again. "So, are we going to stop neglecting the elephant in the room any time soon?"

"That plonker?" Charles eyed a whooping overweight beer guzzler. "I wonder if he buys his trousers in bulk from the Ringling Bros…"

Hank bit back a chuckle. "Charles."

The more earnest Professor returned his gaze to him. "As much as we need to discuss earlier, I meant what I said afterwards. With all the changes and stress we're going through, it almost feels like years since we've had a real conversation. That just isn't us, Hank."

"We're really far removed from the days of collaborating together for hours on end," Hank responded solemnly.

"I can't stand this wedge steadily building between us, Hank," Charles expressed.

"Neither can I," Hank concurred, dragging his finger around the rim of his glass.

"Under no circumstance could I let it show at the time, but seeing you so sick really shook me. Watching your constant pain was worse than any of your delirium spells."

"I can't say how sorry I am for putting all of you through that."

Charles adamantly stated, "Hank, no one blames you. This isn't about you becoming a burden thrust upon us. The fact is, I know you're still in pain, even if you'll never admit it. You have never been some faceless subordinate to me, Hank. Yes, you're a grown man. Yes, our health and well-being are your department. But these snap decisions and antagonistic behavior are not you."

Eyes darkened, Hank quietly uttered, "I know."

The telepath wanted to know, "Erik and I meant no disrespect in not informing you about Tommy straightaway. We knew you needed to help your mother and did not want to bog you down."

"… I know."

"Have I done anything else to upset you? Has Erik?"

"No, it's…" Hank released a heavy sigh. "I can't help feeling possessive, even over the trivial. One wrong move during a ridiculously basic mission almost made my wife a widow and my kids fatherless yet again. It's another on the growing list of things being yanked out of my control every time I turn around."

"Like your father," Charles knew.

"My father, my friends I grew up with becoming my enemies, the plant, my house, my seven-year-old son suffering anxiety," Hank listed with rising frustration he worked to contain, "this… thing with my mother and Jed Sullivan. I don't need you to tell me how childish that sounds."

An unbothered Charles emphasized, "I am the last one to which you have to explain disdain for the new man in your mother's life. Rant and rave about that to me any time you wish."

Hank's features lightened somewhat. "Thanks. Charles… I shouldn't have gone off on Erik the way I did."

"Why does he set you off that way?" the Professor asked more curiously than anything. "Even when it's tense, you're different with me."

"It's hard to explain," Hank replied honestly. "When these beast flareups happen, I have so much trouble distinguishing Best Man Erik from Patronizing Taskmaster Erik."

Charles said, "I can understand that. You two have come a long way, but your initial relationship- or lack thereof- is still in the back of your mind. I know firsthand how Erik can get at times, but I only wish you would try to remember that he keeps that man-in-charge wall in place for a reason. He's tried so hard to move on from his feelings for Alana. He put his best foot forward in his relationship with Vanessa and we all saw what that got him."

A layer of disdain glossed Hank's irises. "I still don't know how he came back from that."

"I don't think he has completely," Charles stated glumly. "We all get so much fulfillment from fatherhood. But every night, you and I have our wives to confide the woes we try to mask during day's light."

Regret flowed abundantly in Hank's voice. "I genuinely don't know what came over me."

"You've seen me bedridden from burnout," Charles brought up. "The fact is, you're only going to spiral further if you don't accept Victor's insight. We all witnessed your fluctuation between infantilism and adolescence while you were sick. You're still going through growing pains." The telepath then urged, "As am I. Erik can confirm that for you."

After a moment of thought, Hank responded, "Charles, you…" He paused to better gather his words. "Ever since we met, you know how I feel. You and Raven were the first people I could share in earnest about my mutation- the first to me feel something other than absolute loathing towards it. With you, it was different from what I had with Gavin Douglas. You're not even ten years older than I am, but I used to see you as a father for a reason. Even so, I've spent most of my life intensely focused on my ambitions. Excelling I can do, but not relying entirely on my self-sufficiency is hard."

"Another delightful similarity between us," Charles smiled warmly. "Our relationship is no longer of the caretaker/charge variety. And that's a good thing. I'm privileged to be your brother-in-law. I only want to be there for you, Hank. In whatever capacity you need."

Hank declared, "That's one part that hasn't changed in three years."

Charles' expression heartened. "We won't be able to solve these issues overnight, but in my opinion, we're not off to a poor start."

An agreeing Hank then proposed, "Want to split the tiramisu?"

"Very much," Charles instantly seconded.

IIIIIII

A tablecloth patterned in black and purple covered the outdoor table. Spring themed porcelain plates and polished silverware comprised the place settings. A vase of cattleya orchids served as the centerpiece. Byron came through with the main course of his sister's hearty chicken-spaghetti casserole. He placed it on the wheeled cart with the side dishes. Rissy had decided on a buffet serving style to give more space to the meal attendees due to the patio table being much smaller than the one in the dining room.

Byron went over to drape an arm around the dutiful teenager, "You put every Buckingham feast to shame, class act," and brought her to his side in a delicate squeeze, "as usual."

"Thanks," Rissy smiled appreciatively then picked up on the energetic knocking. "He's here. Can you grab the bread?"

"On it."

Going back inside, they divided for the kitchen and front door respectively. Pongo departed Dex's playroom to protectively follow the female half of the sibling duo.

"Hey," Rissy pleasantly greeted the navy collared shirt and black slacks adorned guess, "just in time. Come on in."

Complying, Fabian waited for her to shut and lock the door before facing her apologetically. "I'm sorry, Rissy, but I'm afraid I can't stay long."

"Why not?" she wondered in concern. "Is everything okay?"

"That's what I'm trying to figure out," he answered, absently patting Pongo on the head. "I've tried to reach Zelia three times and she's refused to come to the phone."

"I find that pretty hard to believe." Both teens looked over at Byron, who had just left the kitchen with the knot rolls contained in wicker serving tray. "That little girl gets starry-eyed at the mere mention of you."

"I don't know what's going on," Fabian spoke in dismay. "Whether I didn't call enough, write enough- I have to straighten…" He trailed as two tykes emerged from the playroom, including a shiny-eyed lass in a sky-blue party dress that complimented her thin layer of golden fur.

Dex spoke before either of the two with, "Surprise!"

Glee overtaking his initial stun, Fabian sped for her. "Zelia!"

"Fabian," she acknowledged with more sedation but equal joy, meeting him part way.

Snatching her up into an embrace, Fabian spun in enchanted place with her.

Rissy and Dex beamed while Byron looked on in self-satisfaction.

After the blissfully reunited two managed to remember the rest of the gathered, Rissy informed, "We're all setup on the terrace."

Wary nature rising yet again, Fabian wanted to know, "Are you sure it's safe?"

Byron reassured him with, "Perks of the penthouse, amigo. We're the only eyes in the sky on this block."

"We've eaten with her out there before," Rissy added. "Zelia gets the fresh air and sunlight without sweating under ten layers."

With Fabian appeased, the three males held back in order for Zelia and Rissy to step outside first. Dex redirected Pongo towards the kitchen for the dog to have his own dinner. Once they had all of their plates filled, the group sat around the table in a clockwise formation of Byron, Dex, Fabian, Zelia, and Rissy. While they ate, Fabian noticed Zelia's vastly improved use of utensils and the way she shielded her skirt with a napkin on her lap. He also did not miss her much straighter mane kept back by a headband that matched her dress.

When the Spaniard sent gentle fingers through her black strands, Zelia told him, "Rissy fixed it for me."

The older girl piped up, "It's way easier to manage now."

Zelia then asked expectantly, "Do you like it?"

"Do you?" Fabian inquired in turn. "Then, muy hermosa."

Zelia almost bounced in her seat with delight.

"Dad," Dex petitioned in a hush, "hermosa means pretty, right?"

In a normal tone, Byron reminded, "The person who said it is sitting right next to you. You can ask him instead of whispering at the table."

"Oh, right, sorry." Dex turned to the male on his left. "Does hermosa mean pretty?"

"More like beautiful," Fabian answered, only lengthening Zelia's smile. "I thought your school taught Spanish and French. Did you lose it over the summer already?"

"No," Dex replied matter-of-factly, "I just don't know all the synonyms and things yet. I know bonita means beautiful. I thought hermosas were those orange juice looking grownup drinks Daddy makes for his business friends."

The teenagers laughed while Zelia appeared puzzled.

With a shake of his head, Byron clarified, "Those are mimosas, sons."

"Ah," Dex grasped.

Rissy then brought up, "Fabian, you're doing Bos U with Cordy, right?"

"So it seems," he replied blithely.

"Harvard failed to sufficiently woo you, eh?" Byron said drolly.

Fabian offhandedly responded, "They have time to double their efforts by grad school consideration. Besides, urban universities are better for staying on top of specific current events going on right now. This apartment house suits me for the proximity to campus and staying in the Courtier loop."

With a knowing look in place, Byron remarked, "And for no other reason whatsoever."

Fabian wryly affirmed, "Ninguno en absoluto."

"Whatever the case, this works out great," Rissy proclaimed then requested of the older teen, "Can we carpool? My school is right by Bos U."

When Fabian redirected his gaze to the elder present, Byron determined, "If that works for you, it sounds like an even safer option."

"Bueno, si," Fabian agreed.

"Yes!" Rissy cheered. "Thanks, you guys."

"You're all lucky," Zelia piped up. "You get to go to real school."

"Most American schools are hardly worth the effort," Fabian dismissed with a reassuring touch to her shoulder.

With a surprised blink, Zelia said, "I thought everything was better here."

"That's correct," Byron stated unabashedly, "if you know how to obtain it all, which you will. That's something I'll see to personally."

Fabian lowered his hand to clasp the content girl's furry one.

IIIIIII

After the four returned from the service, Becky and Tommy went straight inside to change out of their Temple appropriate attire. The adult pair left the garage to dawdle on a stone bench in front of the house. The evening air proved pleasant and the surrounding flowers provided a natural perfume. Hat still in place, the man loosened his tie while the woman allowed her feet to breathe outside of her burgundy heels.

"Erik the Pathetic?" Alana quoted in highly humored disbelief. "You're sure you heard him right?"

"Verbatim," Erik confirmed. "Not that I had much time to wrap my head around it before I had to get a grip on Charles. I half-expected him to lunge right over his desk and Hank to storm upstairs and blast Leon's Johnny Cash records at the highest decibel."

"Then only one question remains," Alana put forth furtively, "Oh Lonesome Me or Ring of Fire?"

Despite his amusement, Erik gave her a flat look. "Did Hank offer you an additional stipend as our new court jester as well?"

"That part is still under negotiation." The brown-eyed ginger next said, "It's just so hard to picture. Outside of his physician bullheadedness towards his own health, Hank always seems like this steadfast force of nature. I can't get enough of how his baby blue eyes light up at any opportunity to expand his field and make things better for everyone around here."

"Everything else aside, I do believe working with you will be good for him. Hank's defensiveness towards me is negligible so long as he respects you."

Alana regarded him reflectively for a moment. "Hank has the mood swings expected of everyone trying to navigate through their twenties, but I think the one with the most disregard towards you is you. Yeah, you've made mistakes, but will you ever stop seeing yourself as less-than?"

Erik simply countered, "Will you?"

"Touché, magnetism master," Alana conceded. "Did Hank get to you because you think he's right on some level? The way you and I keep passing this Olympic torch back and forth between us?"

The Headmaster responded, "That's not the only thing he's right about. We cannot let our own yearning get in the way of what's best for the kids."

"The yearning that's always there whether we're down the hall from each other or across the globe." Alana then wonder tentatively, "Can we actually pull this off without spontaneously combusting?"

"We'll know the answer to that soon enough," Erik responded plainly.

That affirmed, they went into a state of silent individual reflection until Erik detected the incoming mass of metal on wheels. Once out of the taxi, the euphoric teenager made a path towards the mansion.

Frank ceased his pace at the sight of the two. "Don't tell me you guys have been out here this whole time waiting on me. School's already got me feeling like I'm on probation."

"We're not acting as your parole officers." Erik then tacked on glibly, "Tonight, anyway."

"By the way," spoke Alana, "what're you doing home an hour early, weirdo? Was your date okay?"

"You bet," said the enamored youth. "Jess just had to go to bed early to help out at her dad's restaurant in the morning."

"And on that note," Alana stood to place her arm around him, "details, please. Did you kiss her goodnight?"

"On the Sabbath?" Frank said with put upon indignity. "We wouldn't dream of such a thing. We totally ate at opposite ends of a huge banquet table, took different cabs, and waved after I dropped her off."

"From twelve feet apart, of course."

"Of course," Frank smirked, making Erik snort. "I'll fill you in after I get out of these clothes."

As they headed inside, Alana glanced back at the straggler quizzically.

Erik answered her wordless question with, "I'll be there shortly, dear."

When he continued walking with his mother, Frank discreetly peered between the two of them. With the new status quo dawning on him not for the first time that day, his already jubilant features magnified.

IIIIIII

Once the bright summer day finally gave way to night, the six metallic figures took to the sky above the Fitness Castle. Flying alongside each other, Lady Glimmer and Earl Azurite opened up enough space for Count Domino to worm his way in between them.

"Just like riding the world's sickest bike, isn't it?" said the spirited British boy.

White wig flapping against the breeze, Lady Glimmer brought a gloved hand over the X etched into her armor. "Something like that."

Earl Azurite came to an abrupt halt and demanded, "Where did they go?" Stopping as well, the other two realized the sudden shortage of Courtiers. "So, hide-and-seek is your brother's game, is it?"

"One of the few I could actually get him to play," Glimmer replied without jest.

"Incoming!" Count Domino alerted.

At the small steel sphere that shot for them, Lady Glimmer instinctively rushed forward to crush it against her inner and outer gold. However, the instant it made contact, a thick gray cloud expelled. Lady Glimmer gasped sharply as an array of unwanted images raced through her head. Each taking an arm, Earl Azurite and Count Domino reeled her back.

"Really?" Lord Onyx's voice preceded the smoke clearing to reveal the missing trio. "You sprogs are that out of practice?"

"No," a restabilized Glimmer unleashed an electrical blast from her wrist bow, "just patience," then flew upward.

Though he evaded the strike, the smile could be heard beyond Onyx's mask. "Atta girl."

With an exchange of concealed amused glances, Sir Malachite and Lady Garnet readily joined the action.

At Lord Onyx's whip cutting through the air seemingly out of nowhere, Earl Azurite produced and powered his staff just as swiftly. The dual of electrical currents cancelled each other out on impact.

Azurite warned, "Fool me once, buena suerte. Fool me twice- imposible."

"Excellente," Onyx came back with, "your deadweight gets old," before blasting off.

With an aggravated grunt, Azurite went after him.

To combat Garnet and Malachite's electric sword and arrow attacks, Domino and Glimmer activated their individual barriers of white and yellow.

"Seems those manic upgrades were worth the while, gentlemen," Lady Garnet commended the ever-tinkering male duo.

"Thanks. Productivity's about the only plus of life on the sidelines," claimed Count Domino.

"I'm just impressed you actually remembered the shields exist," Sir Malachite quipped to the other Frost. "Not that flinging yourself around like a human blockade isn't a nifty sight to behold."

A cheeky Lady Glimmer proclaimed, "You guys wear the armor. I live in it."

"Smashingly so," Count Domino commented favorably.

Sir Malachite promptly cautioned, "Don't encourage her."

Over the next hour, they continued field preparation in a variety of combinations. When his sister moved to take a seat on the edge of FC's roof, Sir Malachite left the others to Lord Onyx to accompany her. Fully covered legs dangling, the siblings split their masks apart and sat in amicable observance.

With a flex of her armored wrist, Lady Glimmer said, "Glad the equipment hasn't had time to rust."

"No chance. We kept up routine maintenance. The full team's been scattered long enough." Sir Malachite's gaze grew harder. "Too long."

At the gravity evident in his tone and features, Glimmer softly questioned, "Chris?"

"This city's not getting any better, Cor. Not even close." He shifted his head to meet blue eyes with her. "The worst part is, all of the daylight anarchy is still a veneer for what goes on at night."

"With some of the things unraveled in New York, there aren't too many surprises left for me."

Malachite then wondered, "Are you sure you're okay?" He clarified, "Back there with the smoke bomb? I didn't need to see your face to tell…"

"The fire was months ago," the girl emphasized. "Yes, there are things that activate these flashes, but I'm not some quivering wreck. I'd go through it again, especially if it meant saving the rest from that night."

"I know you would," the blonde said earnestly. "I also know the real terrifying part is coming back here. I've been there- still am some days. But Boston needs its angel. Almost as much as I need my baby sis." Though her lips started to curve positively, sudden urgency eclipsed her face. He jerked his head in the opposite direction to follow her line of sight. "What?"

With a mutation enhanced punch to his plated shoulder, "You're it," Lady Glimmer shut her mask and switched on her boots to flee.

Concealing his own face again, "That cheap shot's going to cost you, brat," Sir Malachite quickly gave her chase.

"Pleased to see you all so spritely this evening, lords and ladies."

"Dr. Octavius," Glimmer identified the voice that projected through their helmets. "You're here?"

Stationed at the building's external surveillance monitors, Otto responded, "And enjoying the show. Lady Glimmer, Earl Azurite, it's a pleasure to be your in company again."

"You, too," returned the Lady while the Earl uttered a cordial, "Si, Doctor."

Standing beside the scientist's chair, Winston dipped to speak into the microphone next. "There's plenty of work ahead. For now, it's about time to wrap up their first day back."

"We'll be right in, Father." Sir Malachite then tacked on coyly, "after a few more blasts around the blocks- for safety verification."

Count Domino and Lady Glimmer made their excitement evident while the equally satisfied Earl Azurite attempted to remain demure.

After lining themselves, the armored hexad of green, white, red, gold, blue, and gray soared through the blanket of night in horizontal formation.