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The school day seemed to be flying by, probably since it was the first day and the teachers weren’t really starting into the material. First half of the day was a little awkward for Lily since despite there being five class rooms for the 6th graders she still ended up with at least Merrick and Landon in her class. Having Landon around made it more bearable, but with Merrick it was just awkward. He kept giving her the death stare all morning but didn’t say a word to her. Finally it was lunch where she could maybe escape the eyes of her brother. Lily happily walked down the hall with Landon as they stopped outside of the 4th grade room that twins Ashley and Atif were in. “Come on guys, lunch hour.”, Landon called. Ashley and Atif were both gathering up their books. “We know, we’re coming.”, they said in unison before coming out to the hall. “Let’s get Cora Lee and then find a table. I have something you all need to hear and I can’t wait the week for Rose to come back from her brother’s wedding.”, Lily whispered. Ashley raised her blonde eyebrows and looked to her brother who had the same expression.

So the quartet raced down the halls to 3rd grade wing to find Cora Lee. She was grumbling as she walked out into the hall and ran directly into her big brother. “What your beef little sis?”, Landon asked. Cora Lee blinked and then looked up at her brother with a smile. “Oh it’s nothing. Just have that Malcolm in my class AGAIN. I thought moving up to this middle school with four class options I’d get away from the Academy kids. But nope I still have Malcolm. He’s a little brown noser.”, she grumbled. Landon laughed and shook his head. “Just because he’s been in a dead lock with you for being number 1 in your class since Kindergarten isn’t a reason to get all mad. Is Rose going to be in your class this year?”, Landon questioned. Cora Lee frowned. “Again, I am without Rose. I’d rather her be my competition for smartest in class. And at least with her I wouldn’t be so alone. You get Lily, they have each other. But the obvious mutant or kid with way to lenient parents gets to be all alone with people that make fun of her awesome purple hair.”, she grumbled.

Lily shook her head. “I’ve told you a thousand times just ignore Malcolm and all of them. If Malcolm gives you any grief this year you tell him to shut it or we’ll be putting up fliers that tells the whole school about his nocturnal issues involving the bathroom.”, Lily said with a devious glint in her eyes. Cora Lee grinned. “Have I mentioned loving you today?”, she asked giving her a hug. Lily laughed. “Not enough, but I’ll forgive. Now let’s hustle. I have something huge to talk to you guys about.”, Lily said tugging on Cora Lee’s arm. The quintet headed down to the cafeteria and found a table. They all pulled out their lunch bags, none of their parents trusting the local school to give them a good meal. “Alright so spill Lily what is the big news?”, Ashley asked as she unloaded her egg salad on honey wheat, a bag of salt and vinegar potato chips, container of carrot sticks and chocolate milk. Atif unloaded a similar bag but with tuna salad on rye with ranch chips and celery sticks. “Yeah don’t leave us in suspense. What’s new?”, Atif asked blowing a lock of red hair away from his face.

“Well you two missed a lot. So I guess I’ll start with what Landon and Cora Lee already know about.”, Lily said. “I got outted last night by my powers acting up. So now the whole Academy, I’d guess, knows I have a power. So I finally did it. I ran away from the Academy. My mom tried to stop me when I got to the Haven, but my big brother Demitri came to my rescues. And their dad said I could stay and they’d protect me from any of the Acolytes who’d want to force me to come back to the Academy. So now once Jacob finishes the school I get to enroll with you two.”, Lily explained before taking a bite out of her classing peanut butter and grape jelly. “Did I mention I love that Aislinn made me a pb&j? I never get pb&j at the Academy. Wanda has this weird thing about jelly so we never have it in the kitchen.”, Lilly said before taking a sip of her milk carton. Ashley quickly chewed her bite of sandwich before letting out a gleeful cheer. “YAY! Finally you have stepped out of the mutant closet with Atif and me.”, Ashley said giving Lily a hug. Atif nodded still eating his sandwich.

Cora Lee was busy destroying the ham and swiss her mom had made her while Lily filled in the others on last night. Landon pulled a banana out of his bag and frowned. He looked over the table and saw that Cora Lee got the apple. “Hey Cora Lee, want to trade? You know I don’t like bananas, mom must have spaced on which bag she put this in.”, he said extending the banana. Cora Lee raised an eyebrow looking to her apple and picked it up taking a bite. “Sorry bro, I want the apple this time.”, She said with a grin. “I hate you some days.”, Landon muttered now staring angrily at his banana while eating his chicken sandwich. Cora Lee just stuck her tongue out at Landon as she continued to eat the apple. “Now for the news that I need to share with you guys. So only Landon and I remember that there was a time that his dad and my mom were as close as we are. And sometime around when you two were born they just stopped being friends. I know you, Landon, have been on this kick of finding out why for a few years now.”, Lily started.

Landon kept his focus on his banana still angry at it but did respond to his cousin. “Yeah. So what’s the news?”, Landon asked. “Something happened in the past. I don’t know exactly what, but what I understood from the confrontation between Demitri and mom was that she had a hand in hurting your dad or someone he loved.”, Lily said in a soft voice not wanting the rest of the cafeteria to hear her. The whole table’s eyes went from their food to Lily. “Hurt dad or someone he loves?”, Landon questioned. “I mean I knew something bad would have happened, cause they were so close before. But to hurt him or someone he cares about. Did you ask Demitri?”, Landon asked. “Yeah of course I asked him. He said that he had long ago made a promise to keep whatever happened a secret and he doesn’t break his promises.”, Lily explained. Landon frowned and went back to glaring at his banana. “So that’s at least something. More than we had before.”, Ashley commented trying to get Landon out of his angry face. “Yeah it’s a clue at least.”, Landon commented. “Seriously dude get over the stupid banana.”, Atif said. “I hate banana’s they taste horrible unless in bread. I wanted an apple.”, Landon said placing emphasis on the word ‘apple’.

With that word the table jumped in their seats as the banana became a deep red apple. “LANDON! Did...did…did you do that?”, they all asked looking at him. “I…I don’t know. I’ve been concentrating on that damn banana wanting an apple so much. I kept picturing it becoming an apple. And then well it became one..”, Landon stammered. “Well take a bite and see if it’s apple all the way through.”, Ashley encouraged. Landon picked up the apple turning it in his hands and then cautiously took a bite. “Holy shit, it’s an apple inside too.”, he said turning the apple to show them. “Holy shit snacks! Dad’s going to be so proud. Here try changing my science book into something.”, Cora Lee said pulling her book from her bag. “I don’t like the subject much anyways.”, she added placing the book in front of Landon. “Well what should I make it?”, he questioned. “I know how about some fresh sheet music. I need more.”, Cora Lee suggested. Landon shrugged and started to stare at the book focusing on it becoming sheet music. “Sheet music..”, he demanded but nothing happened. He sighed and shook his head. “Can’t do it.”, he said frowning.

“Here try another food item. Make my orange into a cupcake.”, Lily said pulling an orange from her packed lunch. “What kind of cupcake?”, Landon asked. “Strawberry with vanilla frosting, duh.”, Lily said rolling her eyes. Landon nodded and again tried to focus on the orange and imagine it turning into a cupcake. “Strawberry cupcake…”, he demanded and in an instant the orange transformed. Lily smiled and picked it up taking a bite. “Oh god this is so good. So you can only change foods right now. At least it’s not strictly candy like Gina.”, Lily commented. “Let’s not compare me to her, please.”, Landon said holding up a hand. “Fine I won’t. But this is great Landon. You have a power. So when the Institute is finished you can come with me to join Ashley and Atif.”, Lily said getting excited. Cora Lee frowned. “What’s wrong?”, Atif asked her. “You guys all have powers now. You and Ashley had powers in the womb, Lily’s had powers since she was two. Now Landon has powers. I’m here all alone with purple hair but no powers.”, Cora Lee said frowning. “Oh come on. Rose hasn’t displayed powers yet neither has Rachel. Besides you are younger than us and powers manifest at different times for everyone. Ashley and I were an extremely rare situation and so is Lily. So just hang in there. You were born with purple hair for a reason, it’ll come when it’s ready.”, Atif assured patting her hand. Cora Lee nodded. “You’re right. I’m going to have a power and it’s going to be kick ass when I get it.”, Cora Lee declared.

With that lunch was over and they had to go their separate ways again for classes. Once school was over they met outside since David had said he’d pick them up since Landon needed to go to the flower shop. “So you’re going to go help Demitri?”, Atif asked. “Yup, figure it’s something to do. And I like working with the flowers, I feel very zen when I’m there.”, Landon said. Cora Lee jumped onto the large stone post at the end of the stairs to wait. As the group waited the group of the five Academy kids walked out. As they walked by Josalyn shoved Cora Lee off the post. But Lily caught her with her powers and carefully set her down. “Not cool Josalyn. Leave our cousin alone.”, Lily said glaring at her twin. “You’d rather spend time with them over your own siblings. Pardon me for being annoyed at that.”, Josalyn said glaring back. “Yeah how could you not tell us, we are your twins, about your mutation but you trusted them?”, Merrick chimed in. “Because we may be triples but we have nothing but DNA in common. I fit in better when these guys. They are more family that you.”, Lily retorted. Josalyn clenched her fists taking a few steps for her twin.

“Ahem.”, David said standing there his blue eyes piercing Josalyn and Lily. “Josie, you are my cousin and only eleven so I’ll let this slide. But I want you to understand something. Something perhaps your mom and Christian or maybe even Wanda failed to explain. Lily is a Haven member now. That means she’s off limits. I don’t care that she’s your twin. You touch her and you violate the treaty that Wanda herself signed. Now unless you would like to endure my wrath and then that of Wanda I suggest you walk away now.”, David said sternly folding his arms across his chest. Billy and Tommy both grabbed Josalyn and pulled her back. “You do not want to piss our mom off. Now let it go. Your sister made her choice nothing any of us can do about it.”, Tommy said. Billy looked over the group confused. “Aren’t you missing someone? Rose, right.”, Billy questioned. “Yeah. She’s at her brother’s castle in Mandipoor getting ready for his wedding. Not that it’s any of your business.”, Landon replied. “Castle..”, Billy said quietly as he helped his brother get Josalyn away from the situation. Lily continued to glare as she watched the Academy kids get onto their bus to head home. “I could have dealt with my sister.”, Lily grumbled. “I know that. I told you that if ANY Acolyte came after you that they had to deal with me. That includes the mini versions. Plus I recall little cousin a promise made that you’d be good.”, David said turning his attention to Lily. Lily sighed and nodded. “Alright, load it up kids. I’ve got to get you all to your destinations before I need to meet Isis for work. Landon you’re going to the Flower Shop. Ashley and Atif I’m taking you to your mom then guess Lily and Cora Lee you get to come home with me. Now get in the van.”, David instructed pointing causing the side door to open.

The kids raced for the van piling inside. Landon snagged the front seat for himself. “Hey dad, I’ve got awesome news for you.”, Landon said when his dad got into the van. “Alright what’s the news?”, David asked pulling away from the curb. “I HAVE A POWER!”, Landon exclaimed. David glanced at him and gave him a smile. “That’s great. What do you do?”, David asked. “Well I only know that I can turn food into food. But that’s because I got a banana for lunch and I wanted an apple. And poof I made it into an apple. Then I tried to change a book to some blank sheet music for Cora Lee, but it didn’t work. Yet when I tried on Lily’s orange I made it into a cupcake.”, Landon explained. “It was pretty awesome David, and the cupcake was totally good.”, Lily commented from the backseat. “Very cool, guess you could maybe try working with Solangel to develop it. See if you are limited to just foods or can expand on it.”, David said as he pulled up to the flower shop. “Alright, so be good for Demitri and be helpful. Make sure you tell him about the whole power thing, he’ll be as happy as I am for you. See you tonight for dinner.”, David said. “Alright, thanks dad. Tell mom for me.”, Landon said before looking into the back of the van. “Later guys.”, Landon said with a wave. “You can call your mother tonight to tell her about your power.”, David suggested referring to his ex-wife Gina. Landon sighed and nodded. “Yeah sure dad.”, he said before getting out and heading into the small flower shop.

Demitri leaned out the door to the back room hearing the ding of the door. One of the people he’d hired to help with the front quickly greeted Landon. “Good afternoon. How many I help you?”, he asked. “It’s just my godson. Come on back Landon.”, Demitri called. The clerk frowned a little, a hitn of jealousy in his eyes as Landon walked into the ‘forbidden’ back room. “Why does he never let us back there?”, the clerk whispered to his coworker who simply shrugged. Landon looked around wide eyed at the various arrangements of some of the most custom flowers he’d ever seen. Teresa must have asked for some pretty special stuff because he saw new breeds of calla lilies and roses he couldn’t have dreamed of, including ones that looked like they were made of pure silver. Landon leaned to smell one of the silver roses and it was very fragrant, but when he touched it he saw it was silver. “Wow Uncle Demitri. You have gone all out for Teresa and Hudson. Silver roses, red and purple swirled calla lilies. Very impressive.”, Landon commented putting his book bag down and grabbing an apron to tie around his waist. “Thanks kiddo. It’s a royal extravaganza I gotta go big or go home. Plus Teresa’s Mikali’s baby sister so need to go my best for ‘family’.”, Demitri replied. “How was the first day of school?”, Demitri inquired as he worked on growing his flowers around an eight foot arch.

“Pretty good. My power finally decided to make its appearance at lunch.”, Landon said casually. Demitri stopped halfway up the arch to look at him with a smile. “Congrats. I’m sure your dad was thrilled.”, Demitri congratulated. “Yeah he’s pretty happy about it. Though he said I should call Gina to tell her.”, Landon said frowning at the last part. Demitri sighed and walked over putting an arm around Landon’ shoulders. “Look you know I don’t mind you calling her Gina, was never a fan of her. However don’t let your dad hear you. He may not love her anymore but he expects you to respect her as your mother. And what’s so bad about having to tell her you have a power?”, Demtiri asked. “Because she’s going to treat me differently. I’m already treated like a nuisance when I’m there because I’m the spawn of the ‘dirty mutant’ .”, Landon explained. “Dirty mutant? Who the hell is calling your dad that?”, Demitri questioned. “Mark does. He’s very anti-mutant. Gina has strict rules about not ever using her power. So now that I have one if I’m there and he knows I have one he’s going to treat me even worse.”, Landon said with a sigh of exasperation. “He hasn’t hit you or anything?”, Demitri asked. “No. I think he’s too afraid of what would happen if I was sent home with a bruise. It’s just verbal stuff and I know it’ll be worse when they know I’m a mutant.”, Landon explained. “Why haven’t you said something? Your dad wouldn’t let you go there if he knew.”, Demitri said. “I know, but its court order. And till I’m sixteen I don’t get a say in the custody agreement. So I’m stuck. Just five more years at least.”, Landon said.

“Silver lining. So what’s the power? Come on show me.”, Demitri encouraged. “Well so far I’ve only been able to change food into other foods.”, Landon said. “Alright what else have you tried on?”, Demitri asked. “Cora Lee’s book, but I could get it to change.”, Landon explained. Demitri held up a finger and grabbed a normal mini rose bush and held it up. “I want you to turn these everyday roses into something else. Anything else, use your imagination.”, Demitri instructed. Landon sighed, but did what he was told. He stared at the rose bush trying to imagine something. And sadly the first thing that popped into his mind was the singing flowers from Alice In Wonderland. So all he could think of what the Roses grew faces and start to sing ‘Golden Afternoon’ like in the movie. “All in the golden afternoon..”, Landon hummed to himself the song now playing in his mind. And as he did and continued to imagine the scene from the movie the roses on the bush did just that, each getting a small face and started to sing in perfect harmony, “You can learn a lot of things from the flowers, for especially in the month of June. There’s a wreath of happiness and romance, oh the golden afternoon.”

Demitri nearly dropped the potted plant when they started to sign but caught them quickly before placing them on a table. “Jesus Christ Landon. You brought them to life.”, Demitri exclaimed. Landon opened his eyes and looked blinking at the roses as they started back at him. “Good afternoon.”, they greeted with their small voices. “Okay that’s just Aunt Brownie level freaky. I thought I could only change food into food.”, Landon said poking at one of the roses. “Pardon me, but would you please not do that.”, the rose said in its small voice. Landon brought his finger back. “Sorry. I’ve never seen or created a living and talking flower before.”, Landon explained. Demitri started taking a closer look. “I’ve never been able to make any plant come to life.”, Demitri said waving hand over the mini roses to see if he could undo the change. “What pray tell are you doing sir?”, a rose asked. “Well I can’t undo what you do. I suggest you try because this will freak people out.”, Demitri suggested. Landon nodded in agreement. “Umm…undo…”, he said unsure. But nothing happened. “You need to focus. Just like you focused on making them you have to focus on unmaking them.”, Demitri said. Landon nodded and closed his eyes taking a few deep breaths thinking hard about the roses going back to just roses. “Undo.”, he said firmly and with that the faces faded out and they were back to being just plain roses.

“That’s a rather interesting power.”, Demitri said putting the roses back. “So they why couldn’t I change the book?”, Landon asked. “I’m not sure. Maybe because it was just a book. What food did you change?”, Demtiri asked. “Um a banana into an apple and an orange into a cupcake.”, Landon answered. “Well the banana and orange are both organic material just like the rose bush. A book is a dead tree that’s been manipulated into something different. So maybe that’s your limit. At least you can turn things into something more than pieces of candy.”, Demitri said adding the last part with a laugh. “Yeah thanks, I don’t want to be a ‘Candy Boy’.”, Landon said rolling his eyes at the idea of following his mother’s footsteps in regards to mutation. “Fair enough. Now come on I need you to start putting those silver roses and the swirled calla lilies into bouquets. I need two dozen of the roses with a dozen of the calla lilies for Teresa. Then I need five roses and seven calla lilies in two bouquets for Anita and Violet. Next a half dozen roses to a half dozen of the calla lilies in three bouquets for Rose, Rachel, and Bianca. Also need the calla lilies for three boutonnieres for Xavier, James and Taylor. Finally the roses for four boutonnieres for Hudson, John, Mikali, and Teresa’s dad. So get started cause I need to finish this arch and then getting the hundred table arrangements finished.”, Demitri instructed pointing over to a table with the bouquet bases already in place. Landon nodded and got to work.

David finished his round of playing taxi by dropping the twins at their mom’s house then it was back to the Haven with his kid and cousin. Ashley and Atif were greeted just inside the door by their new step-dad Azriel. “Afternoon. How was the first day of school?”, Azriel asked coming in from the beach side of the house dressed in his surfing gear. “It wasn’t bad. Lily ran away from home to the haven. And Landon’s mutation finally showed itself.”, Atif replied. Azriel nodded. “Hope things weren’t too bad for her leaving. So what can Landon do?”, Azriel said heading for the kitchen to grab a water. “He can turn food into other food, or at least that’s all we saw at lunch today.”, Ashley said dropping her book bag to sit at one of the stools of the island to the kitchen. Azriel nodded and went to take a sip of his water. “Hey can I have some?”, Ashley asked before motioning with her finger and the water Azriel was about to drink streamed away from his mouth and crossed the kitchen to Ashley as she took a gulp. “Thanks Azriel.”, she said with a grin. Azriel frowned before putting the cap back on the water and tossing it to her. “You know it’s not really fair picking on me with your powers.”, he commented grabbing a fresh bottle. “Did you want one too Atif?”, he asked leaning to look at Atif before closing the fridge. “Nah I’m good, thanks.”, Atif answered. “Sorry, couldn’t help it. You’re the one that spent what four years convincing our mom that she should date you then another two convincing her to marry you? All on the stand that you could deal with marrying into a family of mutants.”, Ashley countered.

Azriel shrugged and took a drink of his fresh water and sat down between the twins at the island. “Yes I did. In fairness your mom is the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, and that’s saying a lot from me. And in my defense I did give a buffer period of time out of respect for your dad before I really tried to woe your mom.”, Azriel replied. “Yes you did and that was appreciated. And as step-dads go you’re pretty cool. You don’t insist that we call you ‘dad’ like Lily’s does. And you understand that we may never feel comfortable enough to call you dad like Landon calls Aislinn mom without a second thought. “, Ashley said giving Azriel a side hug. “Well thank you. I’m glad that I’m better that the douchebag Christian Frost. And I get that you guys have grown up so long with just your mom and Uncles, so getting a new father figure isn’t something easy. I never met your dad, everyone tells me he was a fantastic guy and had been over the moon for your mom and excited about you two. He may not have gotten to know you two or vice versa because of…well certain assholes. But I wouldn’t dream of taking the spot that was rightfully his and taken away far too soon.”, Azriel said being cautious with his words.

Atif raised an eyebrow catching small clues in Azriel’s words like calling Christian a douchebag, usually Azriel didn’t have a bad word for anyone, and then how he paused before saying ‘certain assholes’. “And what exactly are you hiding from us?”, Atif asked simply. Azriel turned his head to look at Atif confused. “What do you mean hiding?”, Azriel questioned. “Just how you said some of that. Like calling Christian a douchebag, you generally don’t comment about him or any of the Acolytes. And then you paused when you were going to describe the people that killed our dad. Which we know was the Friends of Humanity but you only said ‘certain assholes’. So I’m just curious what you are holding back on.”, Atif answered. Azriel spun off his stool and got up. “I’m not hiding anything. I called Christian a douchebag because he is. I don’t care what kind of man Calvin was or that Calvin and Kim weren’t together ever, he doesn’t get to force the triplets to call him ‘dad’ specially Lily since she actually lived with their dad for a while. And I said certain assholes because the Friends of Humanity have grown over the years.”, Azriel countered.

Ashley raised an eyebrow to. “Azriel, you aren’t a good liar. What’s going on? First Demitri has words with Kim when Lily got to the Haven hinting that someone went down between Kim and David. Now you are sitting here trying to hide something about our dad’s death. Just tell us, don’t say we aren’t old enough to understand.”, Ashley said staring her stepfather down. Azriel held up his hands and shook his head. “No. Look, I know you two are bright kids who have a mental age much higher than I ever had when I was your age. But I’ve got nothing to say. When your dad and the other mutants were killed or taken hostage it was a tragic day and the weeks following that are ones that will haunt my nightmares for life.”, Azriel said firmly. “So you are hiding something. Is your issue like Demitri’s? He told Lily if he could tell her he would, but he’d made a promise and that he couldn’t break it because it was bigger than him.”, Atif countered. Azriel sighed and nodded. “Basically. I’m a man of my word.”, Azriel said. The twins both frowned and got off their stools. “This mystery keeps adding up but going nowhere.”, Ashely said. Atif paused and gave Azriel a hug. “We do get it and won’t pester you about it then.”, Atif said before letting go.

Atif grabbed his sister’s hand. “Come on, let’s go to our lounge room.”, Atif encouraged dragging Ashley away. Azriel raised an eyebrow but shrugged. He knew how it was to have a twin well more like a triplet. He could remember the days that him, Colby, and Darren would hideout away from their parents when they wanted to talk in private. They even had their own made up language to talk in code when they couldn’t get away from their parents. Azriel frowned as he thought about Darren and walked into his office shutting the door and looked at the framed picture of Darren. He lightly ran his hand over it. “I miss you so much big brother.”, he whispered before sitting down and starting on some of his police paperwork. Azriel would never forget that it was Wanda and her crew that beheaded his brother for refusing to do their dirty work. It was one of those never forget and never forgive. The only reason he hadn’t taken action after all these years was the promise he and everyone made after Wanda changed reality. Duncan made a convincing argument that going after the Acolytes post reality shift would be a disaster, since they were no longer weakened like they had left them before the reality shift. So he’d done his best to move on after it all. And falling in love with Sadria has helped that immensely.

On the other side of the beach house Atif pulled Ashley into their hang out room. “What is this all about?”, Ashley questioned as she plopped down in one of the beanbag chairs on the floor. “What I saw when I hugged Azriel.”, Atif said sitting in the beanbag chair next to his sister. “What did you see? Did you actually unlock the ‘Di Vinci code’?”, Ashley asked referring to the mystery them and their friends had been trying to uncover for a couple years now. Atif shook his head. “Not really. But I’m worried about us all and looking into this. Specially about Landon.”, Atif said. Ashley raised an eyebrow looking at her brother. “Why are you worried and specially about Landon?”, she questioned. “I don’t know what this secrete the adults are keeping is. I just well I saw all of us in a wooded area. There was a flash of purple, and then Landon was on the ground. So all I got from the vision was that finding the answers to this mystery is dangerous and could kill Landon.”, Atif explained.

“You know if you tell Landon he’s not going to change his mind about figuring this out. He’s too stubborn like his dad.”, Ashley said. Atif nodded. “I know. So what do I do then? I saw this happen and I can’t stop him from seeking out this truth but I don’t want to see my friend die.”, Atif said his shoulders sinking. “Well you get visions for a reason, mom told you that. So maybe it’s not that you are supposed to stop Landon, but maybe as things progress we can alter what happens. It’s not like it’s set in stone.”, Ashley said patting her brother on the knee. Atif nodded. “You’re right. So I guess we should call Landon and tell him what Azriel didn’t exactly tell us.”, he suggested. “We have to wait for later or we call and tell Cora Lee and Lily since Landon’s at the flower shop.”, Ashley said. “Oh yeah, totally spaced on that. Well let’s call the Haven and tell Lily and Cora Lee at least.”, Atif suggested grabbing the phone to call the Haven.

Back across town David followed the girls into the Haven. In the basement the small voices and giggles of the ten little ones at the daycare could be faintly heard. David walked into the kitchen looking for a snack but was a little startled to see Jacob sitting at the kitchen table drinking a cup of coffee. “Jake…what’s up?”, David asked raising a pierce brow to Jacob as he grabbed a can of soda from the fridge. Cora Lee and Lily dropped their book bags near the stairs before heading to the kitchen too. “Hey Uncle Jake.”, Cora Lee greeted as she started to climb onto the kitchen counter. “Just stopped to get some coffee, see my nephew, drop off my little sister, oh and see Solangel.”, Jacob replied. ‘Hi Cora Lee. And Lily, right?”, he said trying to make sure he got the right name to the right red haired friend of Cora Lee. Lily nodded. “Yup, his Jacob.”, Lily greeted. “Fair enough. Cora Lee what the heck are you doing on the counter?”, David questioned. “Getting the good stuff.”, Cora Lee said standing on her tip toes trying to reach a metal tin on the top of the fridge.

“Get down. Geeze learn to ask.”, David said tilting his head and the tin floated down to the kitchen table and opened. “Ah Aislinn’s Irish soda bread cookies and highland toffee bars.”, David said before grabbing one of each. “Don’t tell your mom…”, David said pointing to Cora Lee before stuffing the cookie into his mouth. “I won’t if you won’t.”, Cora Lee agreed grabbing one of each as well. Lily sneaked in a just grabbed one of the toffee bars before taking a bite. Jacob raised an eyebrow and decided to grab a bar too taking a bite before a sip of coffee. “These go good together.”, Jacob commented. “But shh.”, David said tilting his head again and the tin returned to its hiding place. “Why?”, Lily asked. “Because mom says only healthy snacks for after school and sweets for deserts.”, Cora Lee explained. Lily nodded. “So where’s Isis?”, David questioned finishing off his toffee bar next. “Downstairs not wanting to part from my fur ball nephew.”, Jacob stated. “Fair enough, I better go drag her away so we can get some work done before she deserts me forever to officially take on the councilor position at the Institute when you finish building it.”, David said with a wave. “Girls behave yourselves, if you have homework start on it.”, David added before heading into the basement.

Jacob finished his coffee and stood up. “Nice to see you both. But I better get back so we stay on track for finishing the school.”, Jacob said heading for the kitchen door. “Um Jacob, how much longer do you think?”, Lily asked. “Umm maybe another six months. Why?”, Jacob answered pausing at the door. “Well when you finish that means I can officially enroll is all. Thanks.”, Lily answered. “No problem. Have a good afternoon girls.”, Jacob said with a wave before leaving. “Glad it won’t be long till the school is finished.”, Lily said heading into the living room to sit on the couch and turn the TV on. Cora Lee followed. “Speak for yourself. That means in six months it’s going to just be me, mom, dad, and Aunt Solangel here. Not having a power blows.”, Cora Lee said pouting sitting down next to her cousin. “You’ll get your power. Come on, chin up. Atif already told you that you’d get a power, his power just doesn’t show him dates or something. So just be patient and you’ll be at the institute with us in no time.”, Lily said. “Oh this reminds me I need to call Rose. Want to fill her in on everything.”, Cora Lee said grabbing the phone. The same moment she was about to start dialing the incredibly long number for the castle in Mandipoor the phone rang. “Maybe that’s her and she’s telepathic now.”, Cora Lee said before reading the caller id. “Ashley and Atif…”, She said before picking up.

“Hey guys. What’s up?”, Cora Lee asked. “Is Lily there with you? And are you two someone private that you could put us on speaker?”, Atif asked. “Lily’s here and give me just a second and we’ll go to our room.”, Cora Lee said before her and Lily ran upstairs shutting the bedroom door to their now shared bedroom. Cora Lee quickly put the twins on speaker. “Alright we are here in private and you are on speaker. So what’s going on?”, Lily asked. “Today when we got home we were talking to Azriel. And well he dropped hints that the same thing Demitri is hush hush on so is he.”, Ashley explained. “So that means whatever this secret goes beyond my mom and Cora Lee’s dad not talking. Cause why would Azriel know the secret too?”, Lily pondered. “Well apparently this secrete has something to do with our dad too.”, Atif added. “We better tell Landon this.”, Cora Lee stated. “Well that’s why we called, we tell you two and then you can fill Landon in. See what he thinks of it all.”, Atif explained. “Alright we’ll tell him when he gets home with Uncle Demitri. We were actually about to call Rose when you two called. So we’ll call her and fill her in too.”, Cora Lee said. “Alright, we better go. Mom will be home soon and that means having to help make dinner.”, Ashley said. “BYE!”, they all shouted hanging up.

“This mystery just keeps getting bigger. Better call Rose before it’s too late over there.”, Cora Lee said starting to dial the long number for Mandripoor. An unfamiliar voice answered the phone. “Good evening, how may I direct your call?”, a woman asked. Cora Lee shrugged. “Um, I’m calling to talk to Rose Howlett please…”, Cora Lee said unsure. “I do not know who that is.”, the person answered. In the background Cora Lee and Lily could hear a familiar voice. “Why the hell are you answering the phone in my room?! HUDSON!!!!”, a voice shouted before pulling the phone. “Hello?”, Rose greeted. “ROSE! Hey it’s Cora Lee and Lily!”, Cora Lee shouted. Another voice was in the background “What’s wrong sis?”, the male voice asked. Lily and Cora Lee assumed it was Hudson. “Hey guys!”, Rose greeted before looking to her brother. “This person decided to take it upon themselves to answer the phone in my room and then tell the caller they don’t know who I am.”, Rose aid pointing. Hudson sighed and shook his head. “Kendra, I know that you are new but I know it’s covered in training that you never answer the telephones in the bedrooms. Those are private lines. And this room is reserved for my little sister Rose. If you are done picking up in here please go about your other tasks.”, Hudson said with a sigh trying to not get angry. “Who is calling you anyways?”, Hudson asked. “Oh it’s Cora Lee and Lily back home. Do you mind if I skip desert in the courtyard to catch up and see how the first day went?”, Rose asked giving her best pouty lip. Hudson laughed shaking his head. “Do I ever tell you no little sister?”, Hudson asked. “Umm no. Thanks Hudson. Tell mom I’ll be down later alright?”, Rose said hugging her brother. “No problem. I’ll let her know your friends called. I’m sure she’ll be alright. Now I however cannot skip the desert I think my bride might get mad. Tell your friends hello.”, Hudson said before leaving.

Rose jumped onto her large bed with the phone. “Alright so tell me everything. Do we have the same class Cora Lee? What’s the middle school like? Am I going to get lost? Did I miss any important stuff in class?”, Rose said asking a number of questions that had been on her mind. “And why’s Lily there, thought she didn’t get lessons with Jean till the weekend during the school year to draw less attention from her mom.”, Rose added another question to the pile. Cora Lee laughed shaking her head. “Alright first no we aren’t in the same class. I’m stuck with Malcolm again.”, Cora said making a gagging sound. Rose laughed and rolled onto her stomach fiddling with her red locks of hair. “You are never going to get away from him.”, Rose commented. “Don’t wish such horrible things on me. The school is pretty cool, big and kind of like a maze. But we have the rest of the gang to make sure we don’t get lost.”, Cora Lee explained. “And you didn’t miss anything assignment wise since it was just the first day.”, Cora Lee added.

“I’m here because last night my sister found out about my power, so then my mom found out, so I ran to the Haven for sanctuary. Demitri made sure mom didn’t stop me. And David said I can stay till the Institute is finished which we saw Jacob today and he said they should be done in six months!”, Lily chimed in. “Oh shit. Well at least you finally got out of the Academy. This means you’ll get to hang out with us more. This is awesome news.”, Rose said. “Why is it just you two calling? Where’s Landon?”, Rose asked. “Landon is down at the flower shop helping Uncle Demitri with the arrangements for your brother’s wedding.”, Cora Lee explained. “Which speaking of Landon we have big news on that front.”, Lily added. “Big news? What’s going on with Landon?”, Rose asked sitting up. “His powers are finally in! He can change food into other foods. At lunch he changed his banana into an apple and my orange into a cupcake. It was awesome.”, Lily explained. “That’s cool. So now just Cora Lee and I are powerless. Seriously how much longer do we need to wait!? I want claws like the rest of my family damn it.”, Rose said a little bummed that the number of them without powers was dwindling.

“But wait there’s more…”, Cora Lee said much like an advertisement voice over person. “There’s more?”, Rose questioned. “Yup we are getting more clues that whatever went down between my dad and Lily’s mom is something HUGE.”, Cora Lee said extending her arms out for emphasis even though Rose couldn’t see the gesture. “What do you mean? Details.”, Rose said listening intently. “Last night when I got to the Haven my mom tried to stop me and Demtiri stopped her. When he brought me inside he said something to my mom about how David would side with him because he’d never had a hand in hurting him or anyone he loves.”, Lily started explaining.”Oh, that is a juicy nugget. Did he elaborate?”, Rose asked. Lily sighed. “No. But he told me whatever it is, it’s bigger than him and that he can’t tell me because he made a promise to not tell anyone. And well we know my brother doesn’t break promises.”, Lily explained. Rose frowned. “Well poop.”, Rose commented. “But it gets bigger. Uncle Demitri said that whatever he’s hiding is bigger than him, and apparently it. Ashley and Atif’s step-dad gave hints to the fact that this secret involves their dad’s death. So this secret that Uncle Demitri is sworn to so is Azriel.”, Cora Lee explained. “Wait what? But their dad died in the attack on the school by the Friends of Humanity. What would Lily’s mom have to do with that? Does Landon know this yet?”, Rose asked. “That’s what we don’t get. And he only knows the Demitri part, we’re waiting till he gets home to tell him what the twins told us.”, Lily explained.

“ROSE!?”, Aurelia’s voice called opening the bedroom door. “Look honey I know you missed the first day of school and wanted to talk to your friends. But we are here because your brother is getting married in two days. Violet needs you for a final fitting of that dress. So please tell your friends I say hello and then tell them goodnight.”, Aurelia said. Rose sighed. “Alright mom. I’ll talk to you guys again soon. Keep me posted. Night guys.”, Rose said. “Night Rose!”, Cora Lee and Lily said before hanging up. What none of them realized was that Logan was standing in the room listening. “So the truth is starting to come out, they just need to connect the dots.”, Logan said. “I need this Landon kid to start looking into the night the school was attacked and the weeks following. But I can’t get to him till Rose or Aurelia are back in Bayville. Plus I want to see my son get married.”, Logan said. “So between now and then I need to start working on interacting physically with things. I’ve been able to trip maids and stuff over the years. So I just need to focus and find ways to get these kids to uncover the truth. I get why everyone agreed to keep this a secret, but it’s time to pull back the veil and have someone get me the hell out of this place.”, Logan said frustrated. Rose jumped off the bed and followed her mother out of the room to finish her fitting with Violet.

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The school day seemed to be flying by, probably since it was the first day and the teachers weren’t really starting into the material. First half of the day was a little awkward for Lily since despite there being five class rooms for the 6th graders she still ended up with at least Merrick and Landon in her class. Having Landon around made it more bearable, but with Merrick it was just awkward. He kept giving her the death stare all morning but didn’t say a word to her. Finally it was lunch where she could maybe escape the eyes of her brother. Lily happily walked down the hall with Landon as they stopped outside of the 4th grade room that twins Ashley and Atif were in. “Come on guys, lunch hour.”, Landon called. Ashley and Atif were both gathering up their books. “We know, we’re coming.”, they said in unison before coming out to the hall. “Let’s get Cora Lee and then find a table. I have something you all need to hear and I can’t wait the week for Rose to come back from her brother’s wedding.”, Lily whispered. Ashley raised her blonde eyebrows and looked to her brother who had the same expression.

So the quartet raced down the halls to 3rd grade wing to find Cora Lee. She was grumbling as she walked out into the hall and ran directly into her big brother. “What your beef little sis?”, Landon asked. Cora Lee blinked and then looked up at her brother with a smile. “Oh it’s nothing. Just have that Malcolm in my class AGAIN. I thought moving up to this middle school with four class options I’d get away from the Academy kids. But nope I still have Malcolm. He’s a little brown noser.”, she grumbled. Landon laughed and shook his head. “Just because he’s been in a dead lock with you for being number 1 in your class since Kindergarten isn’t a reason to get all mad. Is Rose going to be in your class this year?”, Landon questioned. Cora Lee frowned. “Again, I am without Rose. I’d rather her be my competition for smartest in class. And at least with her I wouldn’t be so alone. You get Lily, they have each other. But the obvious mutant or kid with way to lenient parents gets to be all alone with people that make fun of her awesome purple hair.”, she grumbled.

Lily shook her head. “I’ve told you a thousand times just ignore Malcolm and all of them. If Malcolm gives you any grief this year you tell him to shut it or we’ll be putting up fliers that tells the whole school about his nocturnal issues involving the bathroom.”, Lily said with a devious glint in her eyes. Cora Lee grinned. “Have I mentioned loving you today?”, she asked giving her a hug. Lily laughed. “Not enough, but I’ll forgive. Now let’s hustle. I have something huge to talk to you guys about.”, Lily said tugging on Cora Lee’s arm. The quintet headed down to the cafeteria and found a table. They all pulled out their lunch bags, none of their parents trusting the local school to give them a good meal. “Alright so spill Lily what is the big news?”, Ashley asked as she unloaded her egg salad on honey wheat, a bag of salt and vinegar potato chips, container of carrot sticks and chocolate milk. Atif unloaded a similar bag but with tuna salad on rye with ranch chips and celery sticks. “Yeah don’t leave us in suspense. What’s new?”, Atif asked blowing a lock of red hair away from his face.

“Well you two missed a lot. So I guess I’ll start with what Landon and Cora Lee already know about.”, Lily said. “I got outted last night by my powers acting up. So now the whole Academy, I’d guess, knows I have a power. So I finally did it. I ran away from the Academy. My mom tried to stop me when I got to the Haven, but my big brother Demitri came to my rescues. And their dad said I could stay and they’d protect me from any of the Acolytes who’d want to force me to come back to the Academy. So now once Jacob finishes the school I get to enroll with you two.”, Lily explained before taking a bite out of her classing peanut butter and grape jelly. “Did I mention I love that Aislinn made me a pb&j? I never get pb&j at the Academy. Wanda has this weird thing about jelly so we never have it in the kitchen.”, Lilly said before taking a sip of her milk carton. Ashley quickly chewed her bite of sandwich before letting out a gleeful cheer. “YAY! Finally you have stepped out of the mutant closet with Atif and me.”, Ashley said giving Lily a hug. Atif nodded still eating his sandwich.

Cora Lee was busy destroying the ham and swiss her mom had made her while Lily filled in the others on last night. Landon pulled a banana out of his bag and frowned. He looked over the table and saw that Cora Lee got the apple. “Hey Cora Lee, want to trade? You know I don’t like bananas, mom must have spaced on which bag she put this in.”, he said extending the banana. Cora Lee raised an eyebrow looking to her apple and picked it up taking a bite. “Sorry bro, I want the apple this time.”, She said with a grin. “I hate you some days.”, Landon muttered now staring angrily at his banana while eating his chicken sandwich. Cora Lee just stuck her tongue out at Landon as she continued to eat the apple. “Now for the news that I need to share with you guys. So only Landon and I remember that there was a time that his dad and my mom were as close as we are. And sometime around when you two were born they just stopped being friends. I know you, Landon, have been on this kick of finding out why for a few years now.”, Lily started.

Landon kept his focus on his banana still angry at it but did respond to his cousin. “Yeah. So what’s the news?”, Landon asked. “Something happened in the past. I don’t know exactly what, but what I understood from the confrontation between Demitri and mom was that she had a hand in hurting your dad or someone he loved.”, Lily said in a soft voice not wanting the rest of the cafeteria to hear her. The whole table’s eyes went from their food to Lily. “Hurt dad or someone he loves?”, Landon questioned. “I mean I knew something bad would have happened, cause they were so close before. But to hurt him or someone he cares about. Did you ask Demitri?”, Landon asked. “Yeah of course I asked him. He said that he had long ago made a promise to keep whatever happened a secret and he doesn’t break his promises.”, Lily explained. Landon frowned and went back to glaring at his banana. “So that’s at least something. More than we had before.”, Ashley commented trying to get Landon out of his angry face. “Yeah it’s a clue at least.”, Landon commented. “Seriously dude get over the stupid banana.”, Atif said. “I hate banana’s they taste horrible unless in bread. I wanted an apple.”, Landon said placing emphasis on the word ‘apple’.

With that word the table jumped in their seats as the banana became a deep red apple. “LANDON! Did...did…did you do that?”, they all asked looking at him. “I…I don’t know. I’ve been concentrating on that damn banana wanting an apple so much. I kept picturing it becoming an apple. And then well it became one..”, Landon stammered. “Well take a bite and see if it’s apple all the way through.”, Ashley encouraged. Landon picked up the apple turning it in his hands and then cautiously took a bite. “Holy shit, it’s an apple inside too.”, he said turning the apple to show them. “Holy shit snacks! Dad’s going to be so proud. Here try changing my science book into something.”, Cora Lee said pulling her book from her bag. “I don’t like the subject much anyways.”, she added placing the book in front of Landon. “Well what should I make it?”, he questioned. “I know how about some fresh sheet music. I need more.”, Cora Lee suggested. Landon shrugged and started to stare at the book focusing on it becoming sheet music. “Sheet music..”, he demanded but nothing happened. He sighed and shook his head. “Can’t do it.”, he said frowning.

“Here try another food item. Make my orange into a cupcake.”, Lily said pulling an orange from her packed lunch. “What kind of cupcake?”, Landon asked. “Strawberry with vanilla frosting, duh.”, Lily said rolling her eyes. Landon nodded and again tried to focus on the orange and imagine it turning into a cupcake. “Strawberry cupcake…”, he demanded and in an instant the orange transformed. Lily smiled and picked it up taking a bite. “Oh god this is so good. So you can only change foods right now. At least it’s not strictly candy like Gina.”, Lily commented. “Let’s not compare me to her, please.”, Landon said holding up a hand. “Fine I won’t. But this is great Landon. You have a power. So when the Institute is finished you can come with me to join Ashley and Atif.”, Lily said getting excited. Cora Lee frowned. “What’s wrong?”, Atif asked her. “You guys all have powers now. You and Ashley had powers in the womb, Lily’s had powers since she was two. Now Landon has powers. I’m here all alone with purple hair but no powers.”, Cora Lee said frowning. “Oh come on. Rose hasn’t displayed powers yet neither has Rachel. Besides you are younger than us and powers manifest at different times for everyone. Ashley and I were an extremely rare situation and so is Lily. So just hang in there. You were born with purple hair for a reason, it’ll come when it’s ready.”, Atif assured patting her hand. Cora Lee nodded. “You’re right. I’m going to have a power and it’s going to be kick ass when I get it.”, Cora Lee declared.

With that lunch was over and they had to go their separate ways again for classes. Once school was over they met outside since David had said he’d pick them up since Landon needed to go to the flower shop. “So you’re going to go help Demitri?”, Atif asked. “Yup, figure it’s something to do. And I like working with the flowers, I feel very zen when I’m there.”, Landon said. Cora Lee jumped onto the large stone post at the end of the stairs to wait. As the group waited the group of the five Academy kids walked out. As they walked by Josalyn shoved Cora Lee off the post. But Lily caught her with her powers and carefully set her down. “Not cool Josalyn. Leave our cousin alone.”, Lily said glaring at her twin. “You’d rather spend time with them over your own siblings. Pardon me for being annoyed at that.”, Josalyn said glaring back. “Yeah how could you not tell us, we are your twins, about your mutation but you trusted them?”, Merrick chimed in. “Because we may be triples but we have nothing but DNA in common. I fit in better when these guys. They are more family that you.”, Lily retorted. Josalyn clenched her fists taking a few steps for her twin.

“Ahem.”, David said standing there his blue eyes piercing Josalyn and Lily. “Josie, you are my cousin and only eleven so I’ll let this slide. But I want you to understand something. Something perhaps your mom and Christian or maybe even Wanda failed to explain. Lily is a Haven member now. That means she’s off limits. I don’t care that she’s your twin. You touch her and you violate the treaty that Wanda herself signed. Now unless you would like to endure my wrath and then that of Wanda I suggest you walk away now.”, David said sternly folding his arms across his chest. Billy and Tommy both grabbed Josalyn and pulled her back. “You do not want to piss our mom off. Now let it go. Your sister made her choice nothing any of us can do about it.”, Tommy said. Billy looked over the group confused. “Aren’t you missing someone? Rose, right.”, Billy questioned. “Yeah. She’s at her brother’s castle in Mandipoor getting ready for his wedding. Not that it’s any of your business.”, Landon replied. “Castle..”, Billy said quietly as he helped his brother get Josalyn away from the situation. Lily continued to glare as she watched the Academy kids get onto their bus to head home. “I could have dealt with my sister.”, Lily grumbled. “I know that. I told you that if ANY Acolyte came after you that they had to deal with me. That includes the mini versions. Plus I recall little cousin a promise made that you’d be good.”, David said turning his attention to Lily. Lily sighed and nodded. “Alright, load it up kids. I’ve got to get you all to your destinations before I need to meet Isis for work. Landon you’re going to the Flower Shop. Ashley and Atif I’m taking you to your mom then guess Lily and Cora Lee you get to come home with me. Now get in the van.”, David instructed pointing causing the side door to open.

The kids raced for the van piling inside. Landon snagged the front seat for himself. “Hey dad, I’ve got awesome news for you.”, Landon said when his dad got into the van. “Alright what’s the news?”, David asked pulling away from the curb. “I HAVE A POWER!”, Landon exclaimed. David glanced at him and gave him a smile. “That’s great. What do you do?”, David asked. “Well I only know that I can turn food into food. But that’s because I got a banana for lunch and I wanted an apple. And poof I made it into an apple. Then I tried to change a book to some blank sheet music for Cora Lee, but it didn’t work. Yet when I tried on Lily’s orange I made it into a cupcake.”, Landon explained. “It was pretty awesome David, and the cupcake was totally good.”, Lily commented from the backseat. “Very cool, guess you could maybe try working with Solangel to develop it. See if you are limited to just foods or can expand on it.”, David said as he pulled up to the flower shop. “Alright, so be good for Demitri and be helpful. Make sure you tell him about the whole power thing, he’ll be as happy as I am for you. See you tonight for dinner.”, David said. “Alright, thanks dad. Tell mom for me.”, Landon said before looking into the back of the van. “Later guys.”, Landon said with a wave. “You can call your mother tonight to tell her about your power.”, David suggested referring to his ex-wife Gina. Landon sighed and nodded. “Yeah sure dad.”, he said before getting out and heading into the small flower shop.

Demitri leaned out the door to the back room hearing the ding of the door. One of the people he’d hired to help with the front quickly greeted Landon. “Good afternoon. How many I help you?”, he asked. “It’s just my godson. Come on back Landon.”, Demitri called. The clerk frowned a little, a hitn of jealousy in his eyes as Landon walked into the ‘forbidden’ back room. “Why does he never let us back there?”, the clerk whispered to his coworker who simply shrugged. Landon looked around wide eyed at the various arrangements of some of the most custom flowers he’d ever seen. Teresa must have asked for some pretty special stuff because he saw new breeds of calla lilies and roses he couldn’t have dreamed of, including ones that looked like they were made of pure silver. Landon leaned to smell one of the silver roses and it was very fragrant, but when he touched it he saw it was silver. “Wow Uncle Demitri. You have gone all out for Teresa and Hudson. Silver roses, red and purple swirled calla lilies. Very impressive.”, Landon commented putting his book bag down and grabbing an apron to tie around his waist. “Thanks kiddo. It’s a royal extravaganza I gotta go big or go home. Plus Teresa’s Mikali’s baby sister so need to go my best for ‘family’.”, Demitri replied. “How was the first day of school?”, Demitri inquired as he worked on growing his flowers around an eight foot arch.

“Pretty good. My power finally decided to make its appearance at lunch.”, Landon said casually. Demitri stopped halfway up the arch to look at him with a smile. “Congrats. I’m sure your dad was thrilled.”, Demitri congratulated. “Yeah he’s pretty happy about it. Though he said I should call Gina to tell her.”, Landon said frowning at the last part. Demitri sighed and walked over putting an arm around Landon’ shoulders. “Look you know I don’t mind you calling her Gina, was never a fan of her. However don’t let your dad hear you. He may not love her anymore but he expects you to respect her as your mother. And what’s so bad about having to tell her you have a power?”, Demtiri asked. “Because she’s going to treat me differently. I’m already treated like a nuisance when I’m there because I’m the spawn of the ‘dirty mutant’ .”, Landon explained. “Dirty mutant? Who the hell is calling your dad that?”, Demitri questioned. “Mark does. He’s very anti-mutant. Gina has strict rules about not ever using her power. So now that I have one if I’m there and he knows I have one he’s going to treat me even worse.”, Landon said with a sigh of exasperation. “He hasn’t hit you or anything?”, Demitri asked. “No. I think he’s too afraid of what would happen if I was sent home with a bruise. It’s just verbal stuff and I know it’ll be worse when they know I’m a mutant.”, Landon explained. “Why haven’t you said something? Your dad wouldn’t let you go there if he knew.”, Demitri said. “I know, but its court order. And till I’m sixteen I don’t get a say in the custody agreement. So I’m stuck. Just five more years at least.”, Landon said.

“Silver lining. So what’s the power? Come on show me.”, Demitri encouraged. “Well so far I’ve only been able to change food into other foods.”, Landon said. “Alright what else have you tried on?”, Demitri asked. “Cora Lee’s book, but I could get it to change.”, Landon explained. Demitri held up a finger and grabbed a normal mini rose bush and held it up. “I want you to turn these everyday roses into something else. Anything else, use your imagination.”, Demitri instructed. Landon sighed, but did what he was told. He stared at the rose bush trying to imagine something. And sadly the first thing that popped into his mind was the singing flowers from Alice In Wonderland. So all he could think of what the Roses grew faces and start to sing ‘Golden Afternoon’ like in the movie. “All in the golden afternoon..”, Landon hummed to himself the song now playing in his mind. And as he did and continued to imagine the scene from the movie the roses on the bush did just that, each getting a small face and started to sing in perfect harmony, “You can learn a lot of things from the flowers, for especially in the month of June. There’s a wreath of happiness and romance, oh the golden afternoon.”

Demitri nearly dropped the potted plant when they started to sign but caught them quickly before placing them on a table. “Jesus Christ Landon. You brought them to life.”, Demitri exclaimed. Landon opened his eyes and looked blinking at the roses as they started back at him. “Good afternoon.”, they greeted with their small voices. “Okay that’s just Aunt Brownie level freaky. I thought I could only change food into food.”, Landon said poking at one of the roses. “Pardon me, but would you please not do that.”, the rose said in its small voice. Landon brought his finger back. “Sorry. I’ve never seen or created a living and talking flower before.”, Landon explained. Demitri started taking a closer look. “I’ve never been able to make any plant come to life.”, Demitri said waving hand over the mini roses to see if he could undo the change. “What pray tell are you doing sir?”, a rose asked. “Well I can’t undo what you do. I suggest you try because this will freak people out.”, Demitri suggested. Landon nodded in agreement. “Umm…undo…”, he said unsure. But nothing happened. “You need to focus. Just like you focused on making them you have to focus on unmaking them.”, Demitri said. Landon nodded and closed his eyes taking a few deep breaths thinking hard about the roses going back to just roses. “Undo.”, he said firmly and with that the faces faded out and they were back to being just plain roses.

“That’s a rather interesting power.”, Demitri said putting the roses back. “So they why couldn’t I change the book?”, Landon asked. “I’m not sure. Maybe because it was just a book. What food did you change?”, Demtiri asked. “Um a banana into an apple and an orange into a cupcake.”, Landon answered. “Well the banana and orange are both organic material just like the rose bush. A book is a dead tree that’s been manipulated into something different. So maybe that’s your limit. At least you can turn things into something more than pieces of candy.”, Demitri said adding the last part with a laugh. “Yeah thanks, I don’t want to be a ‘Candy Boy’.”, Landon said rolling his eyes at the idea of following his mother’s footsteps in regards to mutation. “Fair enough. Now come on I need you to start putting those silver roses and the swirled calla lilies into bouquets. I need two dozen of the roses with a dozen of the calla lilies for Teresa. Then I need five roses and seven calla lilies in two bouquets for Anita and Violet. Next a half dozen roses to a half dozen of the calla lilies in three bouquets for Rose, Rachel, and Bianca. Also need the calla lilies for three boutonnieres for Xavier, James and Taylor. Finally the roses for four boutonnieres for Hudson, John, Mikali, and Teresa’s dad. So get started cause I need to finish this arch and then getting the hundred table arrangements finished.”, Demitri instructed pointing over to a table with the bouquet bases already in place. Landon nodded and got to work.

David finished his round of playing taxi by dropping the twins at their mom’s house then it was back to the Haven with his kid and cousin. Ashley and Atif were greeted just inside the door by their new step-dad Azriel. “Afternoon. How was the first day of school?”, Azriel asked coming in from the beach side of the house dressed in his surfing gear. “It wasn’t bad. Lily ran away from home to the haven. And Landon’s mutation finally showed itself.”, Atif replied. Azriel nodded. “Hope things weren’t too bad for her leaving. So what can Landon do?”, Azriel said heading for the kitchen to grab a water. “He can turn food into other food, or at least that’s all we saw at lunch today.”, Ashley said dropping her book bag to sit at one of the stools of the island to the kitchen. Azriel nodded and went to take a sip of his water. “Hey can I have some?”, Ashley asked before motioning with her finger and the water Azriel was about to drink streamed away from his mouth and crossed the kitchen to Ashley as she took a gulp. “Thanks Azriel.”, she said with a grin. Azriel frowned before putting the cap back on the water and tossing it to her. “You know it’s not really fair picking on me with your powers.”, he commented grabbing a fresh bottle. “Did you want one too Atif?”, he asked leaning to look at Atif before closing the fridge. “Nah I’m good, thanks.”, Atif answered. “Sorry, couldn’t help it. You’re the one that spent what four years convincing our mom that she should date you then another two convincing her to marry you? All on the stand that you could deal with marrying into a family of mutants.”, Ashley countered.

Azriel shrugged and took a drink of his fresh water and sat down between the twins at the island. “Yes I did. In fairness your mom is the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, and that’s saying a lot from me. And in my defense I did give a buffer period of time out of respect for your dad before I really tried to woe your mom.”, Azriel replied. “Yes you did and that was appreciated. And as step-dads go you’re pretty cool. You don’t insist that we call you ‘dad’ like Lily’s does. And you understand that we may never feel comfortable enough to call you dad like Landon calls Aislinn mom without a second thought. “, Ashley said giving Azriel a side hug. “Well thank you. I’m glad that I’m better that the douchebag Christian Frost. And I get that you guys have grown up so long with just your mom and Uncles, so getting a new father figure isn’t something easy. I never met your dad, everyone tells me he was a fantastic guy and had been over the moon for your mom and excited about you two. He may not have gotten to know you two or vice versa because of…well certain assholes. But I wouldn’t dream of taking the spot that was rightfully his and taken away far too soon.”, Azriel said being cautious with his words.

Atif raised an eyebrow catching small clues in Azriel’s words like calling Christian a douchebag, usually Azriel didn’t have a bad word for anyone, and then how he paused before saying ‘certain assholes’. “And what exactly are you hiding from us?”, Atif asked simply. Azriel turned his head to look at Atif confused. “What do you mean hiding?”, Azriel questioned. “Just how you said some of that. Like calling Christian a douchebag, you generally don’t comment about him or any of the Acolytes. And then you paused when you were going to describe the people that killed our dad. Which we know was the Friends of Humanity but you only said ‘certain assholes’. So I’m just curious what you are holding back on.”, Atif answered. Azriel spun off his stool and got up. “I’m not hiding anything. I called Christian a douchebag because he is. I don’t care what kind of man Calvin was or that Calvin and Kim weren’t together ever, he doesn’t get to force the triplets to call him ‘dad’ specially Lily since she actually lived with their dad for a while. And I said certain assholes because the Friends of Humanity have grown over the years.”, Azriel countered.

Ashley raised an eyebrow to. “Azriel, you aren’t a good liar. What’s going on? First Demitri has words with Kim when Lily got to the Haven hinting that someone went down between Kim and David. Now you are sitting here trying to hide something about our dad’s death. Just tell us, don’t say we aren’t old enough to understand.”, Ashley said staring her stepfather down. Azriel held up his hands and shook his head. “No. Look, I know you two are bright kids who have a mental age much higher than I ever had when I was your age. But I’ve got nothing to say. When your dad and the other mutants were killed or taken hostage it was a tragic day and the weeks following that are ones that will haunt my nightmares for life.”, Azriel said firmly. “So you are hiding something. Is your issue like Demitri’s? He told Lily if he could tell her he would, but he’d made a promise and that he couldn’t break it because it was bigger than him.”, Atif countered. Azriel sighed and nodded. “Basically. I’m a man of my word.”, Azriel said. The twins both frowned and got off their stools. “This mystery keeps adding up but going nowhere.”, Ashely said. Atif paused and gave Azriel a hug. “We do get it and won’t pester you about it then.”, Atif said before letting go.

Atif grabbed his sister’s hand. “Come on, let’s go to our lounge room.”, Atif encouraged dragging Ashley away. Azriel raised an eyebrow but shrugged. He knew how it was to have a twin well more like a triplet. He could remember the days that him, Colby, and Darren would hideout away from their parents when they wanted to talk in private. They even had their own made up language to talk in code when they couldn’t get away from their parents. Azriel frowned as he thought about Darren and walked into his office shutting the door and looked at the framed picture of Darren. He lightly ran his hand over it. “I miss you so much big brother.”, he whispered before sitting down and starting on some of his police paperwork. Azriel would never forget that it was Wanda and her crew that beheaded his brother for refusing to do their dirty work. It was one of those never forget and never forgive. The only reason he hadn’t taken action after all these years was the promise he and everyone made after Wanda changed reality. Duncan made a convincing argument that going after the Acolytes post reality shift would be a disaster, since they were no longer weakened like they had left them before the reality shift. So he’d done his best to move on after it all. And falling in love with Sadria has helped that immensely.

On the other side of the beach house Atif pulled Ashley into their hang out room. “What is this all about?”, Ashley questioned as she plopped down in one of the beanbag chairs on the floor. “What I saw when I hugged Azriel.”, Atif said sitting in the beanbag chair next to his sister. “What did you see? Did you actually unlock the ‘Di Vinci code’?”, Ashley asked referring to the mystery them and their friends had been trying to uncover for a couple years now. Atif shook his head. “Not really. But I’m worried about us all and looking into this. Specially about Landon.”, Atif said. Ashley raised an eyebrow looking at her brother. “Why are you worried and specially about Landon?”, she questioned. “I don’t know what this secrete the adults are keeping is. I just well I saw all of us in a wooded area. There was a flash of purple, and then Landon was on the ground. So all I got from the vision was that finding the answers to this mystery is dangerous and could kill Landon.”, Atif explained.

“You know if you tell Landon he’s not going to change his mind about figuring this out. He’s too stubborn like his dad.”, Ashley said. Atif nodded. “I know. So what do I do then? I saw this happen and I can’t stop him from seeking out this truth but I don’t want to see my friend die.”, Atif said his shoulders sinking. “Well you get visions for a reason, mom told you that. So maybe it’s not that you are supposed to stop Landon, but maybe as things progress we can alter what happens. It’s not like it’s set in stone.”, Ashley said patting her brother on the knee. Atif nodded. “You’re right. So I guess we should call Landon and tell him what Azriel didn’t exactly tell us.”, he suggested. “We have to wait for later or we call and tell Cora Lee and Lily since Landon’s at the flower shop.”, Ashley said. “Oh yeah, totally spaced on that. Well let’s call the Haven and tell Lily and Cora Lee at least.”, Atif suggested grabbing the phone to call the Haven.

Back across town David followed the girls into the Haven. In the basement the small voices and giggles of the ten little ones at the daycare could be faintly heard. David walked into the kitchen looking for a snack but was a little startled to see Jacob sitting at the kitchen table drinking a cup of coffee. “Jake…what’s up?”, David asked raising a pierce brow to Jacob as he grabbed a can of soda from the fridge. Cora Lee and Lily dropped their book bags near the stairs before heading to the kitchen too. “Hey Uncle Jake.”, Cora Lee greeted as she started to climb onto the kitchen counter. “Just stopped to get some coffee, see my nephew, drop off my little sister, oh and see Solangel.”, Jacob replied. ‘Hi Cora Lee. And Lily, right?”, he said trying to make sure he got the right name to the right red haired friend of Cora Lee. Lily nodded. “Yup, his Jacob.”, Lily greeted. “Fair enough. Cora Lee what the heck are you doing on the counter?”, David questioned. “Getting the good stuff.”, Cora Lee said standing on her tip toes trying to reach a metal tin on the top of the fridge.

“Get down. Geeze learn to ask.”, David said tilting his head and the tin floated down to the kitchen table and opened. “Ah Aislinn’s Irish soda bread cookies and highland toffee bars.”, David said before grabbing one of each. “Don’t tell your mom…”, David said pointing to Cora Lee before stuffing the cookie into his mouth. “I won’t if you won’t.”, Cora Lee agreed grabbing one of each as well. Lily sneaked in a just grabbed one of the toffee bars before taking a bite. Jacob raised an eyebrow and decided to grab a bar too taking a bite before a sip of coffee. “These go good together.”, Jacob commented. “But shh.”, David said tilting his head again and the tin returned to its hiding place. “Why?”, Lily asked. “Because mom says only healthy snacks for after school and sweets for deserts.”, Cora Lee explained. Lily nodded. “So where’s Isis?”, David questioned finishing off his toffee bar next. “Downstairs not wanting to part from my fur ball nephew.”, Jacob stated. “Fair enough, I better go drag her away so we can get some work done before she deserts me forever to officially take on the councilor position at the Institute when you finish building it.”, David said with a wave. “Girls behave yourselves, if you have homework start on it.”, David added before heading into the basement.

Jacob finished his coffee and stood up. “Nice to see you both. But I better get back so we stay on track for finishing the school.”, Jacob said heading for the kitchen door. “Um Jacob, how much longer do you think?”, Lily asked. “Umm maybe another six months. Why?”, Jacob answered pausing at the door. “Well when you finish that means I can officially enroll is all. Thanks.”, Lily answered. “No problem. Have a good afternoon girls.”, Jacob said with a wave before leaving. “Glad it won’t be long till the school is finished.”, Lily said heading into the living room to sit on the couch and turn the TV on. Cora Lee followed. “Speak for yourself. That means in six months it’s going to just be me, mom, dad, and Aunt Solangel here. Not having a power blows.”, Cora Lee said pouting sitting down next to her cousin. “You’ll get your power. Come on, chin up. Atif already told you that you’d get a power, his power just doesn’t show him dates or something. So just be patient and you’ll be at the institute with us in no time.”, Lily said. “Oh this reminds me I need to call Rose. Want to fill her in on everything.”, Cora Lee said grabbing the phone. The same moment she was about to start dialing the incredibly long number for the castle in Mandipoor the phone rang. “Maybe that’s her and she’s telepathic now.”, Cora Lee said before reading the caller id. “Ashley and Atif…”, She said before picking up.

“Hey guys. What’s up?”, Cora Lee asked. “Is Lily there with you? And are you two someone private that you could put us on speaker?”, Atif asked. “Lily’s here and give me just a second and we’ll go to our room.”, Cora Lee said before her and Lily ran upstairs shutting the bedroom door to their now shared bedroom. Cora Lee quickly put the twins on speaker. “Alright we are here in private and you are on speaker. So what’s going on?”, Lily asked. “Today when we got home we were talking to Azriel. And well he dropped hints that the same thing Demitri is hush hush on so is he.”, Ashley explained. “So that means whatever this secret goes beyond my mom and Cora Lee’s dad not talking. Cause why would Azriel know the secret too?”, Lily pondered. “Well apparently this secrete has something to do with our dad too.”, Atif added. “We better tell Landon this.”, Cora Lee stated. “Well that’s why we called, we tell you two and then you can fill Landon in. See what he thinks of it all.”, Atif explained. “Alright we’ll tell him when he gets home with Uncle Demitri. We were actually about to call Rose when you two called. So we’ll call her and fill her in too.”, Cora Lee said. “Alright, we better go. Mom will be home soon and that means having to help make dinner.”, Ashley said. “BYE!”, they all shouted hanging up.

“This mystery just keeps getting bigger. Better call Rose before it’s too late over there.”, Cora Lee said starting to dial the long number for Mandripoor. An unfamiliar voice answered the phone. “Good evening, how may I direct your call?”, a woman asked. Cora Lee shrugged. “Um, I’m calling to talk to Rose Howlett please…”, Cora Lee said unsure. “I do not know who that is.”, the person answered. In the background Cora Lee and Lily could hear a familiar voice. “Why the hell are you answering the phone in my room?! HUDSON!!!!”, a voice shouted before pulling the phone. “Hello?”, Rose greeted. “ROSE! Hey it’s Cora Lee and Lily!”, Cora Lee shouted. Another voice was in the background “What’s wrong sis?”, the male voice asked. Lily and Cora Lee assumed it was Hudson. “Hey guys!”, Rose greeted before looking to her brother. “This person decided to take it upon themselves to answer the phone in my room and then tell the caller they don’t know who I am.”, Rose aid pointing. Hudson sighed and shook his head. “Kendra, I know that you are new but I know it’s covered in training that you never answer the telephones in the bedrooms. Those are private lines. And this room is reserved for my little sister Rose. If you are done picking up in here please go about your other tasks.”, Hudson said with a sigh trying to not get angry. “Who is calling you anyways?”, Hudson asked. “Oh it’s Cora Lee and Lily back home. Do you mind if I skip desert in the courtyard to catch up and see how the first day went?”, Rose asked giving her best pouty lip. Hudson laughed shaking his head. “Do I ever tell you no little sister?”, Hudson asked. “Umm no. Thanks Hudson. Tell mom I’ll be down later alright?”, Rose said hugging her brother. “No problem. I’ll let her know your friends called. I’m sure she’ll be alright. Now I however cannot skip the desert I think my bride might get mad. Tell your friends hello.”, Hudson said before leaving.

Rose jumped onto her large bed with the phone. “Alright so tell me everything. Do we have the same class Cora Lee? What’s the middle school like? Am I going to get lost? Did I miss any important stuff in class?”, Rose said asking a number of questions that had been on her mind. “And why’s Lily there, thought she didn’t get lessons with Jean till the weekend during the school year to draw less attention from her mom.”, Rose added another question to the pile. Cora Lee laughed shaking her head. “Alright first no we aren’t in the same class. I’m stuck with Malcolm again.”, Cora said making a gagging sound. Rose laughed and rolled onto her stomach fiddling with her red locks of hair. “You are never going to get away from him.”, Rose commented. “Don’t wish such horrible things on me. The school is pretty cool, big and kind of like a maze. But we have the rest of the gang to make sure we don’t get lost.”, Cora Lee explained. “And you didn’t miss anything assignment wise since it was just the first day.”, Cora Lee added.

“I’m here because last night my sister found out about my power, so then my mom found out, so I ran to the Haven for sanctuary. Demitri made sure mom didn’t stop me. And David said I can stay till the Institute is finished which we saw Jacob today and he said they should be done in six months!”, Lily chimed in. “Oh shit. Well at least you finally got out of the Academy. This means you’ll get to hang out with us more. This is awesome news.”, Rose said. “Why is it just you two calling? Where’s Landon?”, Rose asked. “Landon is down at the flower shop helping Uncle Demitri with the arrangements for your brother’s wedding.”, Cora Lee explained. “Which speaking of Landon we have big news on that front.”, Lily added. “Big news? What’s going on with Landon?”, Rose asked sitting up. “His powers are finally in! He can change food into other foods. At lunch he changed his banana into an apple and my orange into a cupcake. It was awesome.”, Lily explained. “That’s cool. So now just Cora Lee and I are powerless. Seriously how much longer do we need to wait!? I want claws like the rest of my family damn it.”, Rose said a little bummed that the number of them without powers was dwindling.

“But wait there’s more…”, Cora Lee said much like an advertisement voice over person. “There’s more?”, Rose questioned. “Yup we are getting more clues that whatever went down between my dad and Lily’s mom is something HUGE.”, Cora Lee said extending her arms out for emphasis even though Rose couldn’t see the gesture. “What do you mean? Details.”, Rose said listening intently. “Last night when I got to the Haven my mom tried to stop me and Demtiri stopped her. When he brought me inside he said something to my mom about how David would side with him because he’d never had a hand in hurting him or anyone he loves.”, Lily started explaining.”Oh, that is a juicy nugget. Did he elaborate?”, Rose asked. Lily sighed. “No. But he told me whatever it is, it’s bigger than him and that he can’t tell me because he made a promise to not tell anyone. And well we know my brother doesn’t break promises.”, Lily explained. Rose frowned. “Well poop.”, Rose commented. “But it gets bigger. Uncle Demitri said that whatever he’s hiding is bigger than him, and apparently it. Ashley and Atif’s step-dad gave hints to the fact that this secret involves their dad’s death. So this secret that Uncle Demitri is sworn to so is Azriel.”, Cora Lee explained. “Wait what? But their dad died in the attack on the school by the Friends of Humanity. What would Lily’s mom have to do with that? Does Landon know this yet?”, Rose asked. “That’s what we don’t get. And he only knows the Demitri part, we’re waiting till he gets home to tell him what the twins told us.”, Lily explained.

“ROSE!?”, Aurelia’s voice called opening the bedroom door. “Look honey I know you missed the first day of school and wanted to talk to your friends. But we are here because your brother is getting married in two days. Violet needs you for a final fitting of that dress. So please tell your friends I say hello and then tell them goodnight.”, Aurelia said. Rose sighed. “Alright mom. I’ll talk to you guys again soon. Keep me posted. Night guys.”, Rose said. “Night Rose!”, Cora Lee and Lily said before hanging up. What none of them realized was that Logan was standing in the room listening. “So the truth is starting to come out, they just need to connect the dots.”, Logan said. “I need this Landon kid to start looking into the night the school was attacked and the weeks following. But I can’t get to him till Rose or Aurelia are back in Bayville. Plus I want to see my son get married.”, Logan said. “So between now and then I need to start working on interacting physically with things. I’ve been able to trip maids and stuff over the years. So I just need to focus and find ways to get these kids to uncover the truth. I get why everyone agreed to keep this a secret, but it’s time to pull back the veil and have someone get me the hell out of this place.”, Logan said frustrated. Rose jumped off the bed and followed her mother out of the room to finish her fitting with Violet.