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During the next several months nothing major occurred. Rose returned from Hudson’s wedding and the group mostly focused on their class work. Landon of course always tried to find time to hit the library to look at the old news articles. He wanted to find something about what had happened in the past. But he kept turning up empty handed. The school year was going to be ending soon, the institute was about to be completed so he’d be moving just before having to spend a month in Texas with his mother and step-father. They were not thrilled that he had to visit after they were told about his mutation manifesting. Landon was not looking forward to his month of hell. It was always hell before and would just be worse now that he was a mutant.

Today happened to be one of those days he’d turned up with really nothing at the library, but he still brought back a bunch of news papers from the year Ashley and Atif was born to maybe find a clue to what happened. He headed up to his room. He could hear his sister and cousin in their bedroom with Rose and Ashley but chose to just go right into his bedroom and shut the door. He slumped down onto his bed pausing hearing a squeak. “Nathan..”, he grumbled pulling one of the toddler’s toys out from under his blankets and tossing it across the room to the crib. He started pulling the newspapers out of his messenger bag laying them out by month and in each month by date. “Somewhere in here has to be a clue.”, he said frowning. His blue eyes glanced to the calendar it was already March and by June he would be shipped to Texas. “Three months to find some type of answer before I don’t get to even say the word ‘mutant’.”,he said sighing leaning forward to look down at all the papers.

In the next room the girls were just hanging out. Cora Lee had three months ago manifested her metal manipulation power. She’d been so thrilled and her dad had been even happier about it. Cora Lee was lounging on her bed holding her new bass guitar practicing trying to strum without her finger since her dad had put in the steel core strings. Ashley was stretched out on the floor looking up at the ceiling as the water from her glass spun in circles above her bursting out randomly as she wanted; it was good practice of her powers. Lily was reading one of her science books studying for a test the next day, the pages flipping on their own as she decided to use it as extra telekinesis practice. Rose was leaning against the wall to the hallway holding her guitar that Mikali was teaching her how to play as she used her claws as a pick while she and Cora Lee tried to play a song together.

Rose’s power had also shown itself a few weeks ago after school when walking home with her cousin Rachel and Emma Frost decided she was going to try and start trouble since picking on the ‘humans’ always sounded like a laugh to Emma. She didn’t find it to funny when Rose pinned her to the ground her fangs out and her nails growing into claws. She actually seemed rather frightened as she took off running. When Rose told her mom and Uncle about her power manifestation they were both proud of her both for her powers emerging but because she used them to protect her cousin Rachel. A familiar scent hit Rose’s still forming heightened animal senses. “Landon’s back from the library.”, she commented. The others looked to the door put it didn’t open instead they heard a different door open and close. “Must not have had any luck or he’d have burst in here.”, Ashley commented. Rose set her guitar down as the others went back to what they’d been doing. “I’m just going to check.”, Rose said leaving the room.

Rose tapped at the door before opening it. “Hey Landon..”, she said heading into the room. She looked down at the stacks of news papers and then back at Landon who seemed to have a defeated look on his face. Rose sighed and walked over getting on the bed and kneeling behind him to rest her chin on the top of his black hair. “Why are we brooding?”, Rose asked. Landon sighed and tilted his head slightly as he looked up just catching a glimpse at the red locks of Rose’s hair hovering over him. “Am I brooding?”, he asked. “Umm yeah. You get here, we are all in Cora Lee’s room…well except for Atif who is having a bonding afternoon with Azriel, and instead of even saying hi to us. I come in here you look at broody and mopey with stacks of newspapers on the floor. So why are we brooding?”, Rose replied. “I keep finding dead ends. The construction on the institute is wrapping up so we all move to the dorms next week. The worst part is I only have three months to look into this mystery and practice my powers before I spend a month with my mother..”, he explained.

“So make the best of the next three months. The school will be finished and the whole gang will be moving to the same location. This is a good thing. We can access X-Men databases, an even better thing for this investigation. And you always spend June in Texas, what’s different now?”, Rose said trying to find silver linings. “I have powers this time. My step-dad is human. So I won’t be able to practice for a whole month and if I slip up…”, Landon said trailing. “You won’t slip up. You have three months so practice. Come on do something with your powers.”, Rose insisted. Landon sighed and looked around the room spotting the small rose plant Demitri gave him to practice with on the windowsill. Landon slid out from under Rose’s chin to stand up and pluck one petal from the rose.

He sighed and looked from his friend to the petal and closed his eyes. He shifted through the thoughts in mind trying to think of just the right thing. Rose was one of those friends that always tried to cheer him up. Ever since they were little, though some would argue they are still little since he was going to be twelve and she’d be turning nine in June. Which was another thing he hated that his mom always picked June for the month he had to visit her. It took away his birthday with his friends and family. He didn’t get to go to Lily’s birthday or Rose’s because of it either. He always had to do something for his birthday over a week early just so he could celebrate with his family and friends. He couldn’t wait till he was sixteen and could say in court he wanted to not see him mother and step-father again. Which as he thought about how he never wanted to see his mother again it brought him back to Rose. She never got to meet her dad, Wolverine. Landon knew he was lucky he had his dad and mom around to be there for him, he was even lucky in some way he had his mother too. He couldn’t imagine what life would be like if he didn’t know his parents.

Rose repositioned herself Indian style on Landon’s bed watching intently to see what he was going to do with the rose petal. Unknown to her or Landon her father Logan was standing in the room. Logan was more focused on the newspapers. Logan bent down while the two kids weren’t paying attention and started gently shifting the papers looking for just the right one for the kids to see. Landon finally pictured what he wanted clearly in his mind. “Wolverine…”, he whispered barely even speaking the words. Logan’s head perked up hearing his name before remembering the kids couldn’t see him. As Landon opened his hand Rose’s blue-green eyes went wide as she watched the soft pink petal transform into a hand sized stuffed wolverine. “Wow…”, Rose said getting up from the bed. “Here ya go.”, Landon said handing it to her. “It’s…it’s a wolverine.”, Rose said hugging the toy then hugging Landon. “We were talking about parents and then your dad came into my head so...”, Landon said with a shrug. “Thank you Landon.”, Rose said stepping back. Logan had managed to move the papers just enough without them looking that as she stepped back she slipped on one to reveal an interesting headline.

“Whoa...”, Rose said falling back onto Landon’s bed with a thud. The girls in the next room came rushing in. “What is going on?”, Cora Lee asked looking from Rose to Landon. “Don’t look at me. She slipped on the news papers.”, Landon said bending down to fix the stacks of his news papers. Ashley leaned down to help their hands brushing as they reached for the same paper. “What’s this?”, Ashley and Landon questioned. Ashley let go as Landon stood up looking at the paper. Cora Lee jumped onto his bed next to Rose and looked at the stuffed animal. “Where’d you get this cute little guy?”, Cora Lee asked. “Landon made him for me.”, Rose replied. “Did I mention not liking that you got a nifty ass power? Granted my metal manipulation is kick ass and someday I’ll be as good as dad.”, Cora Lee said looking to her brother. “Yeah yeah. Shh I’m trying to read.”, Landon said. Lily peeked into the room and then decided to jump on the bed next to Cora Lee. “Well what’s it say Landon? I saw Warren’s name in the headline.”, Ashley questioned as she sat down taking up the last bit of space on Landon’s bed. Landon looked up from the paper and sighed. “Seriously my room and I can’t even sit on my own bed?”, he said shaking his head. The girls looked at each other and shrugged. “Looks that way bro. Now what’s the paper say?”, Cora Lee asked.

“This headline reads ‘Vice President Worthington being indicted for treason’”, Landon said turning the paper so they could see the headline with a picture of Warren in black and white. “Seriously? Warren indicted for treason? I don’t remember anything about that.”, Lily said taking the paper. “It’s dated August 21st, 2008. Did the Friends of Humanity attack the institute like four days later?”, Lily questioned. Ashley nodded. “Yeah my dad died August 25th, 2008. So this is before the Friends of Humanity attacked the school. What does it say about the indictment?”, Ashley asked. “Early this morning a press release from the desk of President Dane was made public indicting Vice President Worthington in treason on the grounds of conspiracy to assassinate the President. He was last seen leaving the country on what his office called a mission of ‘peace’ to meet with the UN. It is now being said this was just a cover and he was going to Europe to seek allies in his attempt to assassinate the President.”, Lily read aloud.

“Look we all know that Lorna is Polaris, but the general public doesn’t know that. We also all know that Warren would never have tried to kill her. He doesn’t work like that and neither does any member of the X-Men. So this has to be a lie.”, Ashley said. Landon nodded. “I agree. I don’t know if Lorna would have made this up on her own though, she’s smart but she’s not really all that evil.”, Landon said folding his arms. “Well her kid Malcolm is.”, Cora Lee stated. “I don’t give a shit about Malcolm. My concern is the adults.”, Landon said. “Don’t give a shit about the kid who constantly makes fun of me?”, Cora Lee asked. “Not like that Cora Lee. I care in the aspect he’s a bully and say the word and he’s dog food literally, till then let’s focus on the adults please.”, Landon said. Cora Lee smiled her need to know her big brother did care satisfied. “Fine.”, Cora Lee agreed.

“It has to be Wanda.”, Lily said. “Wanda is top dog at the Academy. Even Azazel listens to her and he’s the ruler of a demonic dimension. If anyone would push Lorna to put out a false story that would get Warren out of the way it would be Wanda.”, Lily said. Logan stood in a corner and smiled. “These kids are pretty smart.”, Logan commented. “Alright so we know that Wanda used Lorna to try and get Warren our of his VP role. But one that wouldn’t cause the Friends of Humanity to decide to have a very strategic strike against the institute and members living off grounds. It also doesn’t answer why our dad won’t talk to your mom. He wouldn’t care about Warren. He’s not someone our dad cares enough about to begrudge his own blood.”, Landon said. “Something is not fitting. There’s got to be a connection between this article and what happened. Let’s check the other papers leading up to the attack.”, Landon suggested sitting down on the floor handing out news papers. They all began to flip through pages trying to find even the smallest hint about what happened. It wasn’t till the newspaper after the attack that anything was printed and it was the same old story about the Friends of Humanity destroying a local school and killing a number of mutants and taking others hostage. “And back to the dead end.”, Landon grumbled. “We’ll figure it out.”, Ashley said patting his shoulder.

“ROSE! ASHLEY! Downstairs please. Your moms are here for you!”, David shouted from the bottom of the stairs. Rose and Ashley frowned. “We better go. Just think a couple more weeks in the grand re-opening of the Institute then worse case will be people yelling at us to get back to our own dorms.”, Ashley said. “I’ll fill Atif in when I get home.”, she added. “Later everyone”, Ashley said waving before heading downstairs. She reached the bottom step and gave her mom a smile, who despite the cold weather outside and her natural pale Scottish complexion seemed to glow as she was five months along. “So what is the baby? Was Mikali able to get a good look?”, Ashley asked eagerly. Sadria laughed nodding her head. “Ya aren’t gonna like it darling.”, Sadria replied her accent still a constant despite the many years in the United States. Ashley’s shoulders sank. “It’s a boy? I was hoping for a sister. Oh well.”, Ashley said before giving her mother’s stomach a light rub. “Hi little Darren.”, Ashley said sweetly. “That is what Azriel and you agreed on for a boy right?”, Ashley asked. Sadria nodded.”Aye. Darren for your Uncle who gave his life for… well he saw that the good of the one didn’t out weight the good of the many and leave it at that.”, Sadria said lightly rubbing her stomach.

“Any signs of this one being a mutant early like the twins where?”, Aurelia asked while she waited for her daughter. Sadria shook her head as she held a winter jacket out to Ashley. “Not at the moment. He might be the first Kearney since Colin and I to not be a mutant.”, Sadria commented. “Have either of Kisa’s twins shown signs of mutation?”, Aurelia questioned. Sadria nodded. “Oh yeah both boys have wings like their da.”, Sadria said holding Ashley’s jacket as she slipped into it. “It’s going to fun having cousins with wings. They can play with Stephan.”, Ashley said zipping her jacket up before putting on her winter hat. Rose gave Cora Lee and Landon each a hug. “See you tomorrow at school guys. And thanks again Landon.”, she said holding up the wolverine before racing down the stairs. Logan followed close behind Rose.

“Ah there’s mine.”, Aurelia said seeing Rose finally come downstairs. “Sorry mom had to thank Landon for the gift.”, Rose said holding up the small stuffed wolverine. Aurelia smiled looking at the toy taking it to turn it in her hand. She sniffed the toy and caught a scent that was familiar at first “It smells…nah..”, Aurelia quietly said shaking her head before taking a second sniff. “It smells like a rose.”, Aurelia commented raising an eyebrow. “Yeah Landon made it from a rose petal.”, Rose explained taking her jacket from David who was holding it out for her. “Landon used a rose petal to make a wolverine for you. David your kid thinks way too much about things. Who’d he get that from?”, Aurelia questioned. “Extremely funny, wolf. My son is a sentimental kid, what can I say?”, David said with a shrug. “If they were teenagers I’d be more concerned.”, Aurelia commented. Rose groaned shaking her head as she zipped up her jacket. “See you at school Rose.”, Ashley said before heading out the door with Sadria. “But they aren’t teenagers. So don’t worry for a few more years before natural Bryant charm kicks in.”, David teased. Rose just started to blush and took her stuffed animal back. “Seriously people, our gang is like a family. That’s just gross.”, Rose said. Aurelia nodded. “Yes let’s not worry about boys for many more years please.”, Aurelia said escorting Rose outside to the car.

It was just a few short weeks that flew by but finally it was time for the re-opening of the institute. Duncan, Warren, John and Jacob all waited at the gates to the school despite the snow as cars started to line the street. All the surviving students arrived leaving their children over at the Haven since this was going to be a rather emotional evening for them all. First to arrive was Jean on the arm of Demitri. Jean looked beyond the four men to the large brick building in the distance with a smile. She squeezed Demitri’s arm tight. “I just can’t wait to get inside.”, Jean said. “I know I know.”, Demitri said for him this night held no sentimental value but he knew what this place meant to his wife and to his friends. “Hello Jean.”, Duncan greeted. “Hi Professor Fearbirigh.”, she greeted. Duncan smiled shaking his head. “Jean I’m not your professor anymore. You are allowed to call me Duncan.”, he said with a smile. “I tend to forget specially on this prop…”, Jeans aid her voice trailing as she saw the sign. She pulled away from Demitri’s arm and ran her gloved hand across the plague that read ‘Xavier’s School For Gifted Youngsters’. “The sign. The original sign. It was this sign that I kept seeing in a reoccurring dream up to when Professor Xavier arrived at my family’s house to convince my parents to send me here.”, she said her voice cracking a little and tears starting to form as she thought back to that day. Demitri walked over and put his arms around her shoulders bringing her back to stand and wait.

Next to arrive was Scott and Meghan. Scott was wearing his standard red sunglasses to control his powers. As Meghan’s eyes looked beyond the fence she exclaimed, “Wow” Scott looked and nodded before noticing the sign which made him smile a little. “Looks good from a distance.”, Scott said. “It’ll look just as good on the inside.”, John assured. “Here’s hoping that your nephew hit the mark.”, Scott said giving a nod to Jacob. John just shook his head placing a hand on Jacob’s shoulder who’s eyes showed a little glimmer of worry. “Don’t worry about Scott. He’s always been a bit of a prude and has a isn’t able to convey humor.”, John whispered. Alison arrived next with Colby following quickly behind her. “Can we go in yet?”, Alison asked. “We need to wait for everyone.”, Warren said. “A little patience Alison.”, Duncan added. “I’ve been telling her that since yesterday guys. She doesn’t like to wait for anything.”, Colby said catching up. “Serious in three inch heels in snow you still walk faster than me. HOW? I know it’s not a mutation.”, Colby said walking with Alison to stand with the others. “Talent.”, Alison said simply with a smile.

Not far behind them was Sadria racing up the driveway Azriel right behind her. “Please stop running Sadria, you’re pregnant after all.”, Azriel called. “What’s that go to do with anything? Do you recall what I accomplished when pregnant with twins? Oh yeah I kicked a mini platoon and Pretender’s collective asses.”, Sadria shouted as she came to a stop. Azriel sighed stopping next to his wife. “Yeah I was there, I watched in complete awe and horror. But difference is Darren hasn’t shown signs of powers in the womb like the twins.”, Azriel said shaking his head. Sadria just shook her head and looked up at the building beyond the gate. “I remember the first time I stood right here. I had my duffle bag of clothes in one hand and then Professor Xavier rolled up to the gate from the inside to let me in with his warm welcoming smile.”, Sadria said holding the gate. “Come on let’s wait with my brother.”, Azriel suggested. “We’ll open the gates once everyone is here.”, Duncan assured her. Sadria nodded and walked over to stand with her brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Not far behind Sadria’s arrival was that of her twin Colin and his wife Mary. Colin walked up his arm locked with Mary’s to ensure she didn’t slip as they headed up the driveway. “COLIN!”, Sadria shouted waving her hand to him. Colin and Mary both smiled and walked over to Sadria. Colin gave his twin a side hug. “It’ll be go good to be home again. Strange to finally be coming home.”, Colin said Mary nodded.

“Aye it will be.”, Iver’s voice could be heard as he had quietly snuck up on his elder siblings, his arm locked with that of his rather pregnant wife Kisa. Kisa’s golden eyes just remained locked on the building in the distance. “Home..”, she said softly rubbing her stomach. “Hey there Iver and Kisa.”, Sadria and Colin greeted. Mikali walked up the driveway his hand linked with Annai’s and his sisters Anita and Violet not far behind with their husbands Justin and Adian. “It looks as impressive as it did the first day I arrived. Hard to believe that was nearly twenty years ago that I arrived at these gates.”, Mikali said. “Even harder to believe it’s been almost nine since any of us have been inside it.”, Annai added. “I can’t wait to get inside and just see what is looks like now.”, Anita said. “I wonder if Teresa will be able to make this from Mandipoor.”, Adian commented. “If she can’t…”, Violet said holding up a camera. “I’m going to be videotaping the walk through to send to her.”, she explained. “Good plan Vi.”, Justin commented.

Next to walk up was Kurt, Isis on his arm, with Aurelia and Sarael. The school held less value to Isis and Sarael, but given that this was important to Kurt and John not to mention the first big project Jacob did they wouldn’t pass on showing up. Aurelia was a tad reluctant on being there because it held memories of Logan. It was in the woods at the edge of the grounds that she had first met Logan and in his room at the institute where they’d spent some wild nights together before moving into the apartment above the pub. But she figured that if she could live in their old apartment above the pub she could handle touring the rebuilt institute. “It looks underful from here.”, Kurt commented giving his brother-in-law a smile before going to stand with his fellow alumni with Isis. Sarael gave Jacob a hug before squeezing in between him and John to hold John’s hand. “I’m so proud of you nephew.”, she said. Aurelia found a spot off to the side to watch the event.

The next group to come up was Mia with Cero, Max with Kyung Moon, Kamal with Callisto, Paige, and Lindee. “It looks amazing.”, Mia commented. Cero silently nodded, he’d never spent much time at the institute but the place held deep meaning to his wife and it had meant enough to his father that he gave his life for it. “When do we get to see if the inside matches the outside?”, Max asked his gloved hand locked with his wife’s gloved hand. “You will all just have to wait and see.”, Paige said walking past the group to stand with her husband Warren followed by Lindee who took Duncan’s hand. “Sorry I’m late Ororo just didn’t want me to leave even though she had all her little pales to keep her company.”, Lindee whispered. “It’s alright love.”, Duncan said giving her hand a kiss. “Well it looks like everyone who’s going to get here is here.”, Duncan said looking to the eager group of his former students. Solangel ran up the driveway a little embarrassed before she skidded to a stop next to Jacob. “Angel, what are you doing? I thought you were going to help Aislinn and David.”, Jacob questioned. “I wouldn’t miss your first opening for the world. The older kids said they’d help with the younger ones.”, Solangel said giving his a kiss on the check. Duncan glanced to Solangel before continuing. “So it give me great pleasure to finally cut this ribbon and open..”, Duncan said before the whirling of a helicopter cut him off as it landed on the street.

The helicopter door open and out ran Teresa. “WAIT FOR ME!!!”, Teresa shouted racing up the driveway. She took a few breathers. “Sorry I’m late. Weather was crappy but I made it.”, Teresa said out of breath. “You flew all the way from Mandipoor for this?”, Cero asked raising an eyebrow. “Of course I felt over half way around the world for this Cero. I lived in this school for a number of years. I made friends, found mentors, lost friends and lost mentors in this building. It’s my home as much as the Hamilton house in Italy or the castle in Mandipoor.”, Teresa retorted. “Where’s Hudson?”, Aurelia asked. Teresa glanced over to her mother-in-law and walked over giving her a quick hug. “Hi, mom. Hudson sadly can’t make it. There’s some silly UN meeting of world leaders that he’s required to attend.”, Teresa said rolling her eyes. “Trust me if it was any other meeting he would have rescheduled or cancelled to be here. This school means so much to his dad and even not being able to get here I know hurts Hudson.”, Teresa explained. Aurelia nodded. “I understand he’s a King with obligations.”, Aurelia said.

Duncan sighed and looked at Teresa. “Glad you could make it your highness, now can I start?”, Duncan asked. Teresa grinned and stuck her tongue out at him. “Don’t get cheeky Professor Fearbirigh, I may have married into a title but I’m still just Teresa.”, she said. “Well glad to see becoming a Queen has not changed your demeanor…”, Duncan said shaking his head. “Now as I was saying. This has been years in the making. But I stand here with great pride to officially say…”, Duncan said picking up a pair of large scissors. With a quick snip of the red ribbon he declared, “Xavier’s Institute for Gifted Youngsters is officially reopened!”, Duncan said and with John, Warren, and Jacob they pushed the gates open. “YAY!”, everyone cheered and applauded before heading up the drive into the courtyard. They all stopped to look at the golden statue in the center of a phoenix rising up with real flames around it. It was Sadria that first noticed the plaque that wrapped around the base, her emerald eyes stopping on one name engraved ‘Tanner Aliston’. She went to her knees not caring about the snow and softly ran her finger over the name. Azriel stopped behind his wife resting a hand on her shoulder. He knew better than to say a word, this meant so much to her. Everyone started looking at the names on the plaque finding names that touched them. Kisa started crying as she found her twin Hiro’s name.

Demitri took a deep breath, on the list of names were people he’d called friend like Atif and Ashley but the other names meant so much more to everyone around him. He bent down next to Jean and touched the ground causing the whole base to suddenly be surrounded by pearl white roses, a bud for each name on the plague with the name etched into the petals in gold. Everyone watched in wonder as the roses formed. Mia smiled brightly as she said a rose that said ‘Reine’ which was her little sister. Jean looked up at her husband with tears in her eyes but a smile on her face. “Thank you dear.”, she whispered. “Least I can do..”, Demitri said helping Jean up from the snow. Azriel and Iver helped their wives up as well. “Let’s head inside shall we?”, Duncan suggested opening the grand set of wooden doors for everyone. Everyone flooded past him, everyone except Aurelia. She headed down a separate path not ready to step inside the walls. While everyone looked over every nook and cranky of the rebuilt school trays of wines, sparkling juices for those expecting or not up for a drink, cheese and crackers were carried around by servers.

Logan had followed Aurelia to the reopening wanting to see the work Jacob had put in. But as he was about to cross the threshold he noticed Aurelia headed a different direction. “I really want to go inside…but I want to make sure she’s alright.”, Logan said before following her down the path that lead to the memorial garden containing all the tombstones of those gone including his. He watched as she went over to his stone where the lantern Hudson had placed there nine years ago was still burning strong. Aurelia knelt in front of the stone and checked the lantern making sure it had enough fuel to continue burning. “I can’t believe it’s been this long. You’ve missed so much over the years. I just wish you’d finally come home because this place, this town they don’t feel like home without you here with me.”, Aurelia said her voice cracking. “I never left you Aurelia. I’ve been here all along. And someday when I figure out a way I’ll be back where you can see me and I can hold you again.”, Logan said carefully placing a hand on her shoulders. Aurelia’s head came up and she looked at her shoulder as she felt a brief amount of pressure there. “Logan?”, she questioned softly before shaking her head. She convinced herself it had to be her imagination. She’d started smelling him randomly in the last month including on that little wolverine toy Landon made for Rose. But it just had to be her head playing tricks on her other senses.

“MOM!?”, a familiar voice called coming across the hill. Aurelia looked up to see her daughter-in-law Teresa bounding down the hill. “Didn’t think I’d be missed.”, Aurelia said standing up checking that no tears were in her eyes. “I told Hudson that no matter how eager I was to explore the rebuilt institute I’d make sure you were okay. He worries about you.”, Teresa said stopping and looking to the lantern. “I miss him too. Wolverine was the one teacher I really looked up to, even though now I’d have to probably look down to look him in the eyes.”, Teresa said joking a little since she had finished growing at 5 foot 6 inches. “Let’s go inside where it’s warm though. There’s a room you need to see.”, Teresa said grabbing Aurelia and pulling her inside. She took her past everyone and over to the staff offices and stopped at the door marked ‘Professor Howlett’. “It’s his office…”, Teresa said opening the door. Inside the room had been rebuilt and configured exactly the way it had been the night of the attack. Aurelia stepped inside the room looking all around her taking it in. She looked at the ashtray and even saw one of his cigars. “One of his cigars…”, she said. Teresa nodded. “John put it there. He said this office would never be changed and left as is for his brother. I think he put the cigar there subconsciously hoping that it would entice Wolverine to come back.”, Teresa said. Aurelia smiled. “I hope it does.”, she whispered. Logan stepped inside and was taken back as he looked around his office. “Wow…John got Jacob to put so much detail in here.”, Logan commented.

Out in the large entryway Jacob was pacing the marble floor. Solangel watched as he walked from one side to the other. “Jacob please, stop pacing. You are going to make me dizzy and are going to wear a path in the marble at this rate.”, she said grabbing his arm. “I’m sorry. I’m just nervous. This is my first project, it’s huge and this place held so much value to these people. What if I screwed up?”, Jacob said trying to just breath. “Breath, please. You did an amazing job. You had blue prints, you had Duncan and Warren and John to give you insight and feedback. It will be fine.”, Solangel said. “She’s right Jacob. Don’t worry so much.”, Isis said offering he brother a glass of wine. “Easy for you both to say, neither of you lived here. These other people did. They are going to be so critical.”, Jacob said taking the glass his hand shaking. “I think it looks great.”, Kurt said appearing next to Isis. “I was just up in what used to my old dorm and looks the same way I remember it.”, he commented. “Thanks Kurt, but you’re family you kind of need to be supportive.”, Jacob said taking a sip of the wine hoping to calm his nerves.

Without any warning a set of arms wrapped around Jacob. “Thank you.”, Kisa’s soft voice said. Jacob look at her and smiled. “You’re welcome Kisa.”, he said. “It’s prefect. Absolutely perfect. From the plague at the gate and beyond it’s exactly how I remember it. This entity area was the first real impression Hiro and I had at the tender age of nine when Ashley and Atif took us in off the streets. It’s as pristine and grand as my memory. It’s been nine long years and finally I’m home again. I wish Hiro and Ashley and Atif were all here today to see this place. But their namesakes will get to grow and learn in these walls just as they did. I can’t wait for my niece Ashley and nephew Atif to come here and have that look of wonder in their eyes like Hiro and I had when we first got her. And to get to raise and train little Evan and Hiro in the same place their Uncles were and where they lost their lives…it’s just..”, Kisa said starting to cry into Jacob’s sleeve. Iver walked up and gently put his arms around Kisa getting her to let go of Jacob. “She’s a little emotional. But it is perfect, thank you Jacob. It’s complete just in time for us to bring our twins here where they can grown, learn and be safe.”, Iver said escorting Kisa away. Jacob just stood there a little dumbstruck till Solangel took his hand and kissed his cheek. “Told you that you nailed this.”, she whispered. The rest of the evening Jacob just kept smiling.

Description
During the next several months nothing major occurred. Rose returned from Hudson’s wedding and the group mostly focused on their class work. Landon of course always tried to find time to hit the library to look at the old news articles. He wanted to find something about what had happened in the past. But he kept turning up empty handed. The school year was going to be ending soon, the institute was about to be completed so he’d be moving just before having to spend a month in Texas with his mother and step-father. They were not thrilled that he had to visit after they were told about his mutation manifesting. Landon was not looking forward to his month of hell. It was always hell before and would just be worse now that he was a mutant.

Today happened to be one of those days he’d turned up with really nothing at the library, but he still brought back a bunch of news papers from the year Ashley and Atif was born to maybe find a clue to what happened. He headed up to his room. He could hear his sister and cousin in their bedroom with Rose and Ashley but chose to just go right into his bedroom and shut the door. He slumped down onto his bed pausing hearing a squeak. “Nathan..”, he grumbled pulling one of the toddler’s toys out from under his blankets and tossing it across the room to the crib. He started pulling the newspapers out of his messenger bag laying them out by month and in each month by date. “Somewhere in here has to be a clue.”, he said frowning. His blue eyes glanced to the calendar it was already March and by June he would be shipped to Texas. “Three months to find some type of answer before I don’t get to even say the word ‘mutant’.”,he said sighing leaning forward to look down at all the papers.

In the next room the girls were just hanging out. Cora Lee had three months ago manifested her metal manipulation power. She’d been so thrilled and her dad had been even happier about it. Cora Lee was lounging on her bed holding her new bass guitar practicing trying to strum without her finger since her dad had put in the steel core strings. Ashley was stretched out on the floor looking up at the ceiling as the water from her glass spun in circles above her bursting out randomly as she wanted; it was good practice of her powers. Lily was reading one of her science books studying for a test the next day, the pages flipping on their own as she decided to use it as extra telekinesis practice. Rose was leaning against the wall to the hallway holding her guitar that Mikali was teaching her how to play as she used her claws as a pick while she and Cora Lee tried to play a song together.

Rose’s power had also shown itself a few weeks ago after school when walking home with her cousin Rachel and Emma Frost decided she was going to try and start trouble since picking on the ‘humans’ always sounded like a laugh to Emma. She didn’t find it to funny when Rose pinned her to the ground her fangs out and her nails growing into claws. She actually seemed rather frightened as she took off running. When Rose told her mom and Uncle about her power manifestation they were both proud of her both for her powers emerging but because she used them to protect her cousin Rachel. A familiar scent hit Rose’s still forming heightened animal senses. “Landon’s back from the library.”, she commented. The others looked to the door put it didn’t open instead they heard a different door open and close. “Must not have had any luck or he’d have burst in here.”, Ashley commented. Rose set her guitar down as the others went back to what they’d been doing. “I’m just going to check.”, Rose said leaving the room.

Rose tapped at the door before opening it. “Hey Landon..”, she said heading into the room. She looked down at the stacks of news papers and then back at Landon who seemed to have a defeated look on his face. Rose sighed and walked over getting on the bed and kneeling behind him to rest her chin on the top of his black hair. “Why are we brooding?”, Rose asked. Landon sighed and tilted his head slightly as he looked up just catching a glimpse at the red locks of Rose’s hair hovering over him. “Am I brooding?”, he asked. “Umm yeah. You get here, we are all in Cora Lee’s room…well except for Atif who is having a bonding afternoon with Azriel, and instead of even saying hi to us. I come in here you look at broody and mopey with stacks of newspapers on the floor. So why are we brooding?”, Rose replied. “I keep finding dead ends. The construction on the institute is wrapping up so we all move to the dorms next week. The worst part is I only have three months to look into this mystery and practice my powers before I spend a month with my mother..”, he explained.

“So make the best of the next three months. The school will be finished and the whole gang will be moving to the same location. This is a good thing. We can access X-Men databases, an even better thing for this investigation. And you always spend June in Texas, what’s different now?”, Rose said trying to find silver linings. “I have powers this time. My step-dad is human. So I won’t be able to practice for a whole month and if I slip up…”, Landon said trailing. “You won’t slip up. You have three months so practice. Come on do something with your powers.”, Rose insisted. Landon sighed and looked around the room spotting the small rose plant Demitri gave him to practice with on the windowsill. Landon slid out from under Rose’s chin to stand up and pluck one petal from the rose.

He sighed and looked from his friend to the petal and closed his eyes. He shifted through the thoughts in mind trying to think of just the right thing. Rose was one of those friends that always tried to cheer him up. Ever since they were little, though some would argue they are still little since he was going to be twelve and she’d be turning nine in June. Which was another thing he hated that his mom always picked June for the month he had to visit her. It took away his birthday with his friends and family. He didn’t get to go to Lily’s birthday or Rose’s because of it either. He always had to do something for his birthday over a week early just so he could celebrate with his family and friends. He couldn’t wait till he was sixteen and could say in court he wanted to not see him mother and step-father again. Which as he thought about how he never wanted to see his mother again it brought him back to Rose. She never got to meet her dad, Wolverine. Landon knew he was lucky he had his dad and mom around to be there for him, he was even lucky in some way he had his mother too. He couldn’t imagine what life would be like if he didn’t know his parents.

Rose repositioned herself Indian style on Landon’s bed watching intently to see what he was going to do with the rose petal. Unknown to her or Landon her father Logan was standing in the room. Logan was more focused on the newspapers. Logan bent down while the two kids weren’t paying attention and started gently shifting the papers looking for just the right one for the kids to see. Landon finally pictured what he wanted clearly in his mind. “Wolverine…”, he whispered barely even speaking the words. Logan’s head perked up hearing his name before remembering the kids couldn’t see him. As Landon opened his hand Rose’s blue-green eyes went wide as she watched the soft pink petal transform into a hand sized stuffed wolverine. “Wow…”, Rose said getting up from the bed. “Here ya go.”, Landon said handing it to her. “It’s…it’s a wolverine.”, Rose said hugging the toy then hugging Landon. “We were talking about parents and then your dad came into my head so...”, Landon said with a shrug. “Thank you Landon.”, Rose said stepping back. Logan had managed to move the papers just enough without them looking that as she stepped back she slipped on one to reveal an interesting headline.

“Whoa...”, Rose said falling back onto Landon’s bed with a thud. The girls in the next room came rushing in. “What is going on?”, Cora Lee asked looking from Rose to Landon. “Don’t look at me. She slipped on the news papers.”, Landon said bending down to fix the stacks of his news papers. Ashley leaned down to help their hands brushing as they reached for the same paper. “What’s this?”, Ashley and Landon questioned. Ashley let go as Landon stood up looking at the paper. Cora Lee jumped onto his bed next to Rose and looked at the stuffed animal. “Where’d you get this cute little guy?”, Cora Lee asked. “Landon made him for me.”, Rose replied. “Did I mention not liking that you got a nifty ass power? Granted my metal manipulation is kick ass and someday I’ll be as good as dad.”, Cora Lee said looking to her brother. “Yeah yeah. Shh I’m trying to read.”, Landon said. Lily peeked into the room and then decided to jump on the bed next to Cora Lee. “Well what’s it say Landon? I saw Warren’s name in the headline.”, Ashley questioned as she sat down taking up the last bit of space on Landon’s bed. Landon looked up from the paper and sighed. “Seriously my room and I can’t even sit on my own bed?”, he said shaking his head. The girls looked at each other and shrugged. “Looks that way bro. Now what’s the paper say?”, Cora Lee asked.

“This headline reads ‘Vice President Worthington being indicted for treason’”, Landon said turning the paper so they could see the headline with a picture of Warren in black and white. “Seriously? Warren indicted for treason? I don’t remember anything about that.”, Lily said taking the paper. “It’s dated August 21st, 2008. Did the Friends of Humanity attack the institute like four days later?”, Lily questioned. Ashley nodded. “Yeah my dad died August 25th, 2008. So this is before the Friends of Humanity attacked the school. What does it say about the indictment?”, Ashley asked. “Early this morning a press release from the desk of President Dane was made public indicting Vice President Worthington in treason on the grounds of conspiracy to assassinate the President. He was last seen leaving the country on what his office called a mission of ‘peace’ to meet with the UN. It is now being said this was just a cover and he was going to Europe to seek allies in his attempt to assassinate the President.”, Lily read aloud.

“Look we all know that Lorna is Polaris, but the general public doesn’t know that. We also all know that Warren would never have tried to kill her. He doesn’t work like that and neither does any member of the X-Men. So this has to be a lie.”, Ashley said. Landon nodded. “I agree. I don’t know if Lorna would have made this up on her own though, she’s smart but she’s not really all that evil.”, Landon said folding his arms. “Well her kid Malcolm is.”, Cora Lee stated. “I don’t give a shit about Malcolm. My concern is the adults.”, Landon said. “Don’t give a shit about the kid who constantly makes fun of me?”, Cora Lee asked. “Not like that Cora Lee. I care in the aspect he’s a bully and say the word and he’s dog food literally, till then let’s focus on the adults please.”, Landon said. Cora Lee smiled her need to know her big brother did care satisfied. “Fine.”, Cora Lee agreed.

“It has to be Wanda.”, Lily said. “Wanda is top dog at the Academy. Even Azazel listens to her and he’s the ruler of a demonic dimension. If anyone would push Lorna to put out a false story that would get Warren out of the way it would be Wanda.”, Lily said. Logan stood in a corner and smiled. “These kids are pretty smart.”, Logan commented. “Alright so we know that Wanda used Lorna to try and get Warren our of his VP role. But one that wouldn’t cause the Friends of Humanity to decide to have a very strategic strike against the institute and members living off grounds. It also doesn’t answer why our dad won’t talk to your mom. He wouldn’t care about Warren. He’s not someone our dad cares enough about to begrudge his own blood.”, Landon said. “Something is not fitting. There’s got to be a connection between this article and what happened. Let’s check the other papers leading up to the attack.”, Landon suggested sitting down on the floor handing out news papers. They all began to flip through pages trying to find even the smallest hint about what happened. It wasn’t till the newspaper after the attack that anything was printed and it was the same old story about the Friends of Humanity destroying a local school and killing a number of mutants and taking others hostage. “And back to the dead end.”, Landon grumbled. “We’ll figure it out.”, Ashley said patting his shoulder.

“ROSE! ASHLEY! Downstairs please. Your moms are here for you!”, David shouted from the bottom of the stairs. Rose and Ashley frowned. “We better go. Just think a couple more weeks in the grand re-opening of the Institute then worse case will be people yelling at us to get back to our own dorms.”, Ashley said. “I’ll fill Atif in when I get home.”, she added. “Later everyone”, Ashley said waving before heading downstairs. She reached the bottom step and gave her mom a smile, who despite the cold weather outside and her natural pale Scottish complexion seemed to glow as she was five months along. “So what is the baby? Was Mikali able to get a good look?”, Ashley asked eagerly. Sadria laughed nodding her head. “Ya aren’t gonna like it darling.”, Sadria replied her accent still a constant despite the many years in the United States. Ashley’s shoulders sank. “It’s a boy? I was hoping for a sister. Oh well.”, Ashley said before giving her mother’s stomach a light rub. “Hi little Darren.”, Ashley said sweetly. “That is what Azriel and you agreed on for a boy right?”, Ashley asked. Sadria nodded.”Aye. Darren for your Uncle who gave his life for… well he saw that the good of the one didn’t out weight the good of the many and leave it at that.”, Sadria said lightly rubbing her stomach.

“Any signs of this one being a mutant early like the twins where?”, Aurelia asked while she waited for her daughter. Sadria shook her head as she held a winter jacket out to Ashley. “Not at the moment. He might be the first Kearney since Colin and I to not be a mutant.”, Sadria commented. “Have either of Kisa’s twins shown signs of mutation?”, Aurelia questioned. Sadria nodded. “Oh yeah both boys have wings like their da.”, Sadria said holding Ashley’s jacket as she slipped into it. “It’s going to fun having cousins with wings. They can play with Stephan.”, Ashley said zipping her jacket up before putting on her winter hat. Rose gave Cora Lee and Landon each a hug. “See you tomorrow at school guys. And thanks again Landon.”, she said holding up the wolverine before racing down the stairs. Logan followed close behind Rose.

“Ah there’s mine.”, Aurelia said seeing Rose finally come downstairs. “Sorry mom had to thank Landon for the gift.”, Rose said holding up the small stuffed wolverine. Aurelia smiled looking at the toy taking it to turn it in her hand. She sniffed the toy and caught a scent that was familiar at first “It smells…nah..”, Aurelia quietly said shaking her head before taking a second sniff. “It smells like a rose.”, Aurelia commented raising an eyebrow. “Yeah Landon made it from a rose petal.”, Rose explained taking her jacket from David who was holding it out for her. “Landon used a rose petal to make a wolverine for you. David your kid thinks way too much about things. Who’d he get that from?”, Aurelia questioned. “Extremely funny, wolf. My son is a sentimental kid, what can I say?”, David said with a shrug. “If they were teenagers I’d be more concerned.”, Aurelia commented. Rose groaned shaking her head as she zipped up her jacket. “See you at school Rose.”, Ashley said before heading out the door with Sadria. “But they aren’t teenagers. So don’t worry for a few more years before natural Bryant charm kicks in.”, David teased. Rose just started to blush and took her stuffed animal back. “Seriously people, our gang is like a family. That’s just gross.”, Rose said. Aurelia nodded. “Yes let’s not worry about boys for many more years please.”, Aurelia said escorting Rose outside to the car.

It was just a few short weeks that flew by but finally it was time for the re-opening of the institute. Duncan, Warren, John and Jacob all waited at the gates to the school despite the snow as cars started to line the street. All the surviving students arrived leaving their children over at the Haven since this was going to be a rather emotional evening for them all. First to arrive was Jean on the arm of Demitri. Jean looked beyond the four men to the large brick building in the distance with a smile. She squeezed Demitri’s arm tight. “I just can’t wait to get inside.”, Jean said. “I know I know.”, Demitri said for him this night held no sentimental value but he knew what this place meant to his wife and to his friends. “Hello Jean.”, Duncan greeted. “Hi Professor Fearbirigh.”, she greeted. Duncan smiled shaking his head. “Jean I’m not your professor anymore. You are allowed to call me Duncan.”, he said with a smile. “I tend to forget specially on this prop…”, Jeans aid her voice trailing as she saw the sign. She pulled away from Demitri’s arm and ran her gloved hand across the plague that read ‘Xavier’s School For Gifted Youngsters’. “The sign. The original sign. It was this sign that I kept seeing in a reoccurring dream up to when Professor Xavier arrived at my family’s house to convince my parents to send me here.”, she said her voice cracking a little and tears starting to form as she thought back to that day. Demitri walked over and put his arms around her shoulders bringing her back to stand and wait.

Next to arrive was Scott and Meghan. Scott was wearing his standard red sunglasses to control his powers. As Meghan’s eyes looked beyond the fence she exclaimed, “Wow” Scott looked and nodded before noticing the sign which made him smile a little. “Looks good from a distance.”, Scott said. “It’ll look just as good on the inside.”, John assured. “Here’s hoping that your nephew hit the mark.”, Scott said giving a nod to Jacob. John just shook his head placing a hand on Jacob’s shoulder who’s eyes showed a little glimmer of worry. “Don’t worry about Scott. He’s always been a bit of a prude and has a isn’t able to convey humor.”, John whispered. Alison arrived next with Colby following quickly behind her. “Can we go in yet?”, Alison asked. “We need to wait for everyone.”, Warren said. “A little patience Alison.”, Duncan added. “I’ve been telling her that since yesterday guys. She doesn’t like to wait for anything.”, Colby said catching up. “Serious in three inch heels in snow you still walk faster than me. HOW? I know it’s not a mutation.”, Colby said walking with Alison to stand with the others. “Talent.”, Alison said simply with a smile.

Not far behind them was Sadria racing up the driveway Azriel right behind her. “Please stop running Sadria, you’re pregnant after all.”, Azriel called. “What’s that go to do with anything? Do you recall what I accomplished when pregnant with twins? Oh yeah I kicked a mini platoon and Pretender’s collective asses.”, Sadria shouted as she came to a stop. Azriel sighed stopping next to his wife. “Yeah I was there, I watched in complete awe and horror. But difference is Darren hasn’t shown signs of powers in the womb like the twins.”, Azriel said shaking his head. Sadria just shook her head and looked up at the building beyond the gate. “I remember the first time I stood right here. I had my duffle bag of clothes in one hand and then Professor Xavier rolled up to the gate from the inside to let me in with his warm welcoming smile.”, Sadria said holding the gate. “Come on let’s wait with my brother.”, Azriel suggested. “We’ll open the gates once everyone is here.”, Duncan assured her. Sadria nodded and walked over to stand with her brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Not far behind Sadria’s arrival was that of her twin Colin and his wife Mary. Colin walked up his arm locked with Mary’s to ensure she didn’t slip as they headed up the driveway. “COLIN!”, Sadria shouted waving her hand to him. Colin and Mary both smiled and walked over to Sadria. Colin gave his twin a side hug. “It’ll be go good to be home again. Strange to finally be coming home.”, Colin said Mary nodded.

“Aye it will be.”, Iver’s voice could be heard as he had quietly snuck up on his elder siblings, his arm locked with that of his rather pregnant wife Kisa. Kisa’s golden eyes just remained locked on the building in the distance. “Home..”, she said softly rubbing her stomach. “Hey there Iver and Kisa.”, Sadria and Colin greeted. Mikali walked up the driveway his hand linked with Annai’s and his sisters Anita and Violet not far behind with their husbands Justin and Adian. “It looks as impressive as it did the first day I arrived. Hard to believe that was nearly twenty years ago that I arrived at these gates.”, Mikali said. “Even harder to believe it’s been almost nine since any of us have been inside it.”, Annai added. “I can’t wait to get inside and just see what is looks like now.”, Anita said. “I wonder if Teresa will be able to make this from Mandipoor.”, Adian commented. “If she can’t…”, Violet said holding up a camera. “I’m going to be videotaping the walk through to send to her.”, she explained. “Good plan Vi.”, Justin commented.

Next to walk up was Kurt, Isis on his arm, with Aurelia and Sarael. The school held less value to Isis and Sarael, but given that this was important to Kurt and John not to mention the first big project Jacob did they wouldn’t pass on showing up. Aurelia was a tad reluctant on being there because it held memories of Logan. It was in the woods at the edge of the grounds that she had first met Logan and in his room at the institute where they’d spent some wild nights together before moving into the apartment above the pub. But she figured that if she could live in their old apartment above the pub she could handle touring the rebuilt institute. “It looks underful from here.”, Kurt commented giving his brother-in-law a smile before going to stand with his fellow alumni with Isis. Sarael gave Jacob a hug before squeezing in between him and John to hold John’s hand. “I’m so proud of you nephew.”, she said. Aurelia found a spot off to the side to watch the event.

The next group to come up was Mia with Cero, Max with Kyung Moon, Kamal with Callisto, Paige, and Lindee. “It looks amazing.”, Mia commented. Cero silently nodded, he’d never spent much time at the institute but the place held deep meaning to his wife and it had meant enough to his father that he gave his life for it. “When do we get to see if the inside matches the outside?”, Max asked his gloved hand locked with his wife’s gloved hand. “You will all just have to wait and see.”, Paige said walking past the group to stand with her husband Warren followed by Lindee who took Duncan’s hand. “Sorry I’m late Ororo just didn’t want me to leave even though she had all her little pales to keep her company.”, Lindee whispered. “It’s alright love.”, Duncan said giving her hand a kiss. “Well it looks like everyone who’s going to get here is here.”, Duncan said looking to the eager group of his former students. Solangel ran up the driveway a little embarrassed before she skidded to a stop next to Jacob. “Angel, what are you doing? I thought you were going to help Aislinn and David.”, Jacob questioned. “I wouldn’t miss your first opening for the world. The older kids said they’d help with the younger ones.”, Solangel said giving his a kiss on the check. Duncan glanced to Solangel before continuing. “So it give me great pleasure to finally cut this ribbon and open..”, Duncan said before the whirling of a helicopter cut him off as it landed on the street.

The helicopter door open and out ran Teresa. “WAIT FOR ME!!!”, Teresa shouted racing up the driveway. She took a few breathers. “Sorry I’m late. Weather was crappy but I made it.”, Teresa said out of breath. “You flew all the way from Mandipoor for this?”, Cero asked raising an eyebrow. “Of course I felt over half way around the world for this Cero. I lived in this school for a number of years. I made friends, found mentors, lost friends and lost mentors in this building. It’s my home as much as the Hamilton house in Italy or the castle in Mandipoor.”, Teresa retorted. “Where’s Hudson?”, Aurelia asked. Teresa glanced over to her mother-in-law and walked over giving her a quick hug. “Hi, mom. Hudson sadly can’t make it. There’s some silly UN meeting of world leaders that he’s required to attend.”, Teresa said rolling her eyes. “Trust me if it was any other meeting he would have rescheduled or cancelled to be here. This school means so much to his dad and even not being able to get here I know hurts Hudson.”, Teresa explained. Aurelia nodded. “I understand he’s a King with obligations.”, Aurelia said.

Duncan sighed and looked at Teresa. “Glad you could make it your highness, now can I start?”, Duncan asked. Teresa grinned and stuck her tongue out at him. “Don’t get cheeky Professor Fearbirigh, I may have married into a title but I’m still just Teresa.”, she said. “Well glad to see becoming a Queen has not changed your demeanor…”, Duncan said shaking his head. “Now as I was saying. This has been years in the making. But I stand here with great pride to officially say…”, Duncan said picking up a pair of large scissors. With a quick snip of the red ribbon he declared, “Xavier’s Institute for Gifted Youngsters is officially reopened!”, Duncan said and with John, Warren, and Jacob they pushed the gates open. “YAY!”, everyone cheered and applauded before heading up the drive into the courtyard. They all stopped to look at the golden statue in the center of a phoenix rising up with real flames around it. It was Sadria that first noticed the plaque that wrapped around the base, her emerald eyes stopping on one name engraved ‘Tanner Aliston’. She went to her knees not caring about the snow and softly ran her finger over the name. Azriel stopped behind his wife resting a hand on her shoulder. He knew better than to say a word, this meant so much to her. Everyone started looking at the names on the plaque finding names that touched them. Kisa started crying as she found her twin Hiro’s name.

Demitri took a deep breath, on the list of names were people he’d called friend like Atif and Ashley but the other names meant so much more to everyone around him. He bent down next to Jean and touched the ground causing the whole base to suddenly be surrounded by pearl white roses, a bud for each name on the plague with the name etched into the petals in gold. Everyone watched in wonder as the roses formed. Mia smiled brightly as she said a rose that said ‘Reine’ which was her little sister. Jean looked up at her husband with tears in her eyes but a smile on her face. “Thank you dear.”, she whispered. “Least I can do..”, Demitri said helping Jean up from the snow. Azriel and Iver helped their wives up as well. “Let’s head inside shall we?”, Duncan suggested opening the grand set of wooden doors for everyone. Everyone flooded past him, everyone except Aurelia. She headed down a separate path not ready to step inside the walls. While everyone looked over every nook and cranky of the rebuilt school trays of wines, sparkling juices for those expecting or not up for a drink, cheese and crackers were carried around by servers.

Logan had followed Aurelia to the reopening wanting to see the work Jacob had put in. But as he was about to cross the threshold he noticed Aurelia headed a different direction. “I really want to go inside…but I want to make sure she’s alright.”, Logan said before following her down the path that lead to the memorial garden containing all the tombstones of those gone including his. He watched as she went over to his stone where the lantern Hudson had placed there nine years ago was still burning strong. Aurelia knelt in front of the stone and checked the lantern making sure it had enough fuel to continue burning. “I can’t believe it’s been this long. You’ve missed so much over the years. I just wish you’d finally come home because this place, this town they don’t feel like home without you here with me.”, Aurelia said her voice cracking. “I never left you Aurelia. I’ve been here all along. And someday when I figure out a way I’ll be back where you can see me and I can hold you again.”, Logan said carefully placing a hand on her shoulders. Aurelia’s head came up and she looked at her shoulder as she felt a brief amount of pressure there. “Logan?”, she questioned softly before shaking her head. She convinced herself it had to be her imagination. She’d started smelling him randomly in the last month including on that little wolverine toy Landon made for Rose. But it just had to be her head playing tricks on her other senses.

“MOM!?”, a familiar voice called coming across the hill. Aurelia looked up to see her daughter-in-law Teresa bounding down the hill. “Didn’t think I’d be missed.”, Aurelia said standing up checking that no tears were in her eyes. “I told Hudson that no matter how eager I was to explore the rebuilt institute I’d make sure you were okay. He worries about you.”, Teresa said stopping and looking to the lantern. “I miss him too. Wolverine was the one teacher I really looked up to, even though now I’d have to probably look down to look him in the eyes.”, Teresa said joking a little since she had finished growing at 5 foot 6 inches. “Let’s go inside where it’s warm though. There’s a room you need to see.”, Teresa said grabbing Aurelia and pulling her inside. She took her past everyone and over to the staff offices and stopped at the door marked ‘Professor Howlett’. “It’s his office…”, Teresa said opening the door. Inside the room had been rebuilt and configured exactly the way it had been the night of the attack. Aurelia stepped inside the room looking all around her taking it in. She looked at the ashtray and even saw one of his cigars. “One of his cigars…”, she said. Teresa nodded. “John put it there. He said this office would never be changed and left as is for his brother. I think he put the cigar there subconsciously hoping that it would entice Wolverine to come back.”, Teresa said. Aurelia smiled. “I hope it does.”, she whispered. Logan stepped inside and was taken back as he looked around his office. “Wow…John got Jacob to put so much detail in here.”, Logan commented.

Out in the large entryway Jacob was pacing the marble floor. Solangel watched as he walked from one side to the other. “Jacob please, stop pacing. You are going to make me dizzy and are going to wear a path in the marble at this rate.”, she said grabbing his arm. “I’m sorry. I’m just nervous. This is my first project, it’s huge and this place held so much value to these people. What if I screwed up?”, Jacob said trying to just breath. “Breath, please. You did an amazing job. You had blue prints, you had Duncan and Warren and John to give you insight and feedback. It will be fine.”, Solangel said. “She’s right Jacob. Don’t worry so much.”, Isis said offering he brother a glass of wine. “Easy for you both to say, neither of you lived here. These other people did. They are going to be so critical.”, Jacob said taking the glass his hand shaking. “I think it looks great.”, Kurt said appearing next to Isis. “I was just up in what used to my old dorm and looks the same way I remember it.”, he commented. “Thanks Kurt, but you’re family you kind of need to be supportive.”, Jacob said taking a sip of the wine hoping to calm his nerves.

Without any warning a set of arms wrapped around Jacob. “Thank you.”, Kisa’s soft voice said. Jacob look at her and smiled. “You’re welcome Kisa.”, he said. “It’s prefect. Absolutely perfect. From the plague at the gate and beyond it’s exactly how I remember it. This entity area was the first real impression Hiro and I had at the tender age of nine when Ashley and Atif took us in off the streets. It’s as pristine and grand as my memory. It’s been nine long years and finally I’m home again. I wish Hiro and Ashley and Atif were all here today to see this place. But their namesakes will get to grow and learn in these walls just as they did. I can’t wait for my niece Ashley and nephew Atif to come here and have that look of wonder in their eyes like Hiro and I had when we first got her. And to get to raise and train little Evan and Hiro in the same place their Uncles were and where they lost their lives…it’s just..”, Kisa said starting to cry into Jacob’s sleeve. Iver walked up and gently put his arms around Kisa getting her to let go of Jacob. “She’s a little emotional. But it is perfect, thank you Jacob. It’s complete just in time for us to bring our twins here where they can grown, learn and be safe.”, Iver said escorting Kisa away. Jacob just stood there a little dumbstruck till Solangel took his hand and kissed his cheek. “Told you that you nailed this.”, she whispered. The rest of the evening Jacob just kept smiling.