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All the kids had gone to their homes since holiday break was going to begin and finally the night of the dance was at hand. Cora Lee gleefully put on her gown, which to make her dad happy she modified using some of Morpheus’ old feathers to cover more of her bust line. She also put on her mask and headed down the stairs. Landon was already sitting on the couch in his black suit, black vest, white button up and a gold tie borrowed from his dad tapping his fingers on the arms of the chair. “Let’s go Landon!”, Cora Lee yelled very ready and very excited to go meet her mystery date. “Hold up you two.”, David said. “Stand next to each other please I’m taking a photo to send to your grandparents.”, David said. Landon sighed and stopped at the doorway next to Cora Lee. “Mask on Landon.”, David insisted. Landon lifted his mask which was in his right hand and placed the gold and white mask that had sheet music pieces imbedded in it onto his face. David leaned in for a moment to look at the notes bobbing his head a little reading the notes. “Come As You Are…nice touch kiddo. Alright you two smile and say ‘death metal’.”, David joked. Cora Lee leaned on her brother smiling big and while laughing both said, “Death Metal” David took the picture. “Alright you may go. Landon drive carefully and keep an eye on her mystery date you have permission to use deadly force as needed.”, David said. Cora Lee shook her head lifting her mask to give David a kiss on the cheek. “Bye daddy.”, she said before grabbing her jack and heading out. “I’ve got it covered dad.”, Landon said grabbing his winter jacket and heading to the van. Xavier was borrowing John’s car to drive Ashley to the dance. And Mike insisted on driving Rose himself. So Landon picked up Lily and Atif at the institute and dropped them off with Cora Lee. “Alright you two you better keep an eye on my sister and this mystery guy till I get back with Rachel. I know you have your mystery guys too but please.”, Landon requested. “You got it cousin.”, Lily said holding the sides of her long red gown so it didn’t get wet from snow as she raced into the school with the others.

Once they got inside Lily, Atif and Cora Lee were scanning the gym for their dates. Lily easily spotted hers and smiled. “Cora Lee behave.”, Lily warned before running across the gym and hugging her date and giving him a kiss. “Did anyone see you leave or dye your hair. Brown’s a nice touch by the way.”, Lily whispered. Tommy laughed shaking his head. “Nope. I’m too fast for them to see and I did the hair here in the bathrooms. Now that you are here though let’s dance beautiful.”, Tommy said smiling and taking Lily by the hand to the dance floor. A boy in a silver mask that hid almost all his face walked up to Atif and smiled holding out his hand. Atif paused to look at Cora Lee. “You going to be alright by yourself?”, Atif asked. “She’s not by herself. Go on Atif.”, Rose said walked up behind them walking next to Mike dressed in a silver gown her typically wild red locks up in a elegant updo. “Thanks.”, Atif said taking his date’s hand and heading for the dance floor. Billy pulled Atif close and whispered in his ear. “Think they’ll ever figure it out?”,he asked. Atif smiled. “Some day I’ll tell them. Tonight however isn’t some day.”, Atif said before letting himself just enjoy dancing with Billy technically in the open. “Great so they’ve found their mystery dates now where is mine?”, Cora Lee said still scanning the room. Rose nudged her with her elbow and pointed to a guy standing off to the side. He was dressed in a black suit, black dress shirt, and shiny black tie with matching vest holding a bouquet of black dahlia flowers and the bigger give away was his raven style mask. Cora Lee turned to follow Rose’s gaze and smiled. “While Landon is off picking up Rachel I’m going to make the most of my unsupervised time with mystery man. Later.”, Cora Lee said before making her way to her mystery man.

“It is no time to chide you now. Affection is not rated from the heart. If love have touch’d you, nought remains but so Redime te captum, quam queas minimo.”, Cora Lee greeted. Behind his raven mask which hide most of his face a smile spread across his lips. “I knew you’d get the reference. These are for you.”, Malcolm said speaking deeper than his normal voice to help hide who he was as he extended the black dahlia’s to her. Cora Lee smiled taking the flowers and smelling them. “So you know I love black, I love ravens, I love black dahlias and I’m a closet romantic. Pretty big gamble you have taken inviting me to this dance.”, Cora Lee said. Malcolm knew the amount of grief and trouble he’d be in if it was ever known that he, the son of Lorna Dane Durov nephew to Wanda Maximoff had feelings for an X-Men who is the daughter of the infamous David Bryant. So tonight he had to keep his identity a secret. He wasn’t even sure he could let Cora Lee know who he really was. They’d been rivals their whole lives and with peer pressure as it was he usually picked on her. “Those were all not gambles. The gamble will be you finding out who I am. But till you do.”, Malcolm said bending at the waist and extending his hand to her. “Would you care to dance?”, Malcolm questioned. Cora Lee could actually feel a blush but forced it back as she set the flowers aside and took his hand and let him lead her to the dance floor.

Rose looked around the dance floor she could see Lily dancing with her mystery date, Atif dancing with his, Ashley dancing with Xavier and Cora Lee was now dancing with her date and all looked rather cozy. Rose looked to Mike who was still smiling and inwardly sighed. “Well since everyone else is dancing, would you can to dance too?”, Mike asked offering his hand. Rose nodded. “Alright I warn you I tend to try and lead.”, Rose said taking his hand. “And I warn you that I’m not all that impressive of a dancer.”, Mike said with a smile leading her out onto the floor. And true to both their words Mike had trouble finding the beat and occasionally stepped on Rose’s feet while Rose, despite a dance instructor in her brother’s kingdom’s best efforts just never got the hang of not leading, kept trying to lead which didn’t seem to be making it any better. But they laughed off the mistakes and continued to try.

Across town Landon pulled into the driveway to pick up Rachel. He knocked at the door, in his hand he had the clear box holding a wrist corsage with a very special gold daylily with a white henna patterned in the petals. In his jacket pocket he had one of the petal sand a special piece of sheet music ready to make Rachel’s mask to match his own. John pulled back the door and looked at Landon trying to hold back his annoyance that his daughter was going on a date with him, even if it was just as friends. Landon smiled. “Good evening Mr. Howlett. Is Rachel ready?”, Landon asked. Sarael tapped John on the shoulder. “Come on in Landon she’ll be down in a second just last minute touches to her make up.”, Sarael said. “Thanks Mrs. H.”, Landon said stepping inside. Sarael looked down at the flower and smiled. “Did you have Demitri make that for Rachel? It’ll look spectacular with her gown, and it’s her favorite flower too looks like he remembered. How sweet.”, Sarael commented. Landon shook his head. “Actually no Mrs. H. Uncle Demitri was so busy with other orders that well I made this one. Took a normal daylily, which I remembered Rachel likes, and with my powers altered it to compliment her dress.”, Landon explained. Sarael smiled. “That is just soo sweet. You are a very thoughtful young man. Isn’t he John.”, Sarael said elbowing John. “I suppose.”, John said.

“Ahem.”, Rachel coughed as she started down the staircase. John, Sarael and Landon’s attention turned to her. Rachel smiled trying to not blush as she found herself the center of attention. Landon blinked a little not having expected the style dress she had chosen. She’d only told him the colors but not the style. So he was surprised that the most proper of their friends she had chosen a white fitted dress with a sweetheart neckline and only one shoulder strap with a gold design up the left side of the skirt portion. The white dress did stand out against her darker Egyptian skin and with her hair up and pulled off to one side with a cascade of curls coming down to her shoulder well he’d never seen her look like this. She was even wearing some makeup which made her aqua eyes stand out even more than normal. “You look very nice Rachel.”, Landon stated. Rachel reached the bottom step and smiled. “You think so? I’ve never really tried something like this.”, Rachel questioned. “I know so. This is for you, I made it special.”, Landon said taking the corsage from its box and holding it out for her to slip an arm through. Rachel extended her right arm and slid it through the wrist band and smiled looking at the lily. “Wow Landon. You’re going to give Demitri a run for his money in the unique flower game.”, Rachel commented as she looked at the lily. “Guess it’s a fall back if my plans for being a history teacher doesn’t pan out.”, Landon joked.

“Alright before you two go I want pictures with and without your masks.”, Sarael said grabbing her digital camera. “Mask? But I don’t have one. Did you bring it Landon?”, Rachel asked looking to Landon. “Yes of course. Told you I’d handle that.”, Landon said reaching into his pocket. He held out his hand showing a single gold petal with part of the white henna design and a scrap of sheet music. Landon smiled as everyone looked at him puzzle. Rachel leaned to look at the music notes. “Waterfall by Jon Schmidt…”, Rachel said softly. Landon nodded. “Yup first song I remember you performing at a recital when we were little kids. I used Come As You Are by Nirvana for my mask since it’s the first song I played on drums.”, Landon explained holding up his mask in his free hand. Rachel smiled brightly. “You..you remember what I played at my first recital?”, she questioned. “Yeah we all went to it. Now, close your eyes and hold still please.”, Landon said setting his mask down.

Rachel nodded closing her eyes having complete trust in Landon. John raised an eyebrow not certain what was about to happen. Taking the petal and the scrap of sheet music in both his hands he placed his hands over her eyes, bridge of her nose and the upper part of her face. Landon took a breath and whispered, “Mask.” As he pulled his hands back the petal and sheet music and melded together and been reformed to a white and gold detailed mask matching his just with pieces of the Waterfall sheet music where on his was Come As You Are. “There now you have a mask that fits like a glove.”, Landon said. Sarael placed a hand to her mouth to hold back her ‘awe’. Even John couldn’t deny that Landon, specially for being ‘just a friend’ was being extremely thoughtful in his preparations for the evening. Rachel opened her eyes running her hands along the mask before taking it off to look at it. “Wow Landon. You..this..just amazing.”, Rachel said at a loss for words. Landon smiled. “Glad that you like it.”, Landon said picking his mask back up. “Alright now you two pictures without masks first then masks second. Say cheese.”, Sarael said holding up her camera. Rachel turned and smiled to her mom, Landon placed his arm around her shoulders and smiled. “Cheese.”, they said before being blinded by the flash. “You two look so cute together. Did you rent your suit and tie?”, Sarael asked as she got ready for her next picture. “Um no. I own the suit and the tie is my dad’s I lucked out he already had a gold tie.”, Landon explained. Rachel just tried to keep from blushing. “Alright masks on then say cheese.”, Sarael said. Landon and Rachel put their masks on and smiled for the camera.

“Alright enough pictures mom, we should really get to the dance and meet up with our friends.”, Rachel said. John went to the hall closet to get her jacket and something else special. “Here I insist that you wear this at least tonight.”, John said holding up a handmade white shawl with the letter ‘H’ crocheted on each corner. Rachel looked at the shawl wide eyed. “When did you have that made, dad?”, she asked as he placed it on her shoulders. “I didn’t have it made. This was my mother’s shawl from when she was a Hudson. It was in her hope chest I brought home from my last trip to the estate in Alberta.”, John explained. “I couldn’t wear such a beautiful heirloom to a school dance.”, Rachel protested. “Rose got Elizabeth’s locket with the picture of Elizabeth and baby James, you can certainly have her shawl. And since tonight is important to you as your first high school dance, you should wear something truly special.”, John insisted. “Alright, thank you daddy.”, Rachel said leaning up to kiss her father on the cheek. “make sure she is returned at a reasonable hour.”, John stated pointing to Landon. “Of course sir.”, Landon said. Sarael stopped Rachel before she went out the door. “If that boy, Merrick, starts any trouble tonight or going forward I want you to call me. I will at least then be able to handle it and how your father is told about it.”, Sarael said quietly. Rachel nodded before heading out the door and into the van with Landon.

As they walked into the gym Rachel kept her arm linked to Landon’s taking a deep breath. A few people noticed when they walked in and not really the people they wanted to notice them. Josalyn and Merrick were off on one side watching the sea of people talking to some other kids in their class, who despite not being mutants still had a taste for being bullies. Merrick elbowed his twin and nodded to the door. “Landon’s here which means that…that’s gotta be Rachel.”, Merrick commented. “How can you tell it’s Landon?”, Josalyn asked. “Easy can still see some of his tattoos above his collar.”, Merrick said. Josalyn narrowed her eyes trying to see. “Damn you and being able to use animal sight to see that far away with such a little detail.”, Josalyn said shaking her head as she looked to her brother who behind his black mask it was easy to see his eyes looks more like those of an owl before fading back to his human blue/green eyes he inherited from their mother. “Well we are apparently the only ones to notice it’s them.”, Josalyn commented nodding to the dance floor where the other institute brats were dancing.

Ashley was busy being twirled around her royal blue gown with gold embellishments by Xavier to notice anything really. Lily was contently dancing with Tommy who was in disguise. Atif and Billy had actually wandered off the dance floor and were in a dark corner of the gym kissing. Cora Lee was just lost in her own little world dancing with her mystery date. Rose however did notice Landon and Rachel walk in. Landon’s scent had drifted across the gym so she knew it was him. She took a step back from Mike just before he stepped on her foot again. “Landon’s here.”, Rose commented. Mike turned to look around and spotted Landon and Rachel. “Ah there he is with…wait is that Rachel?”, Mike questioned. “Must be he was bringing her as a friend.”, Rose commented. “She looks really great. Not as great as you but..”, Mike said trying to not sound like an idiot. Rose just shook her head. “She does look pretty.”, Rose commented. “Yeah, they make a good looking couple.”, Mike commented. Rose felt her heart stop and crack a little hearing the word ‘couple’. “They are just here as friends Mike.”, Rose corrected. Mike shrugged before he noticed Rose had started to walk away and he walked after her.

Cora Lee didn’t take even a moment to realize her brother had arrived. “So mystery man, what do I call you?”, she questioned. “Well my family calls me Zeus.”, Malcolm said shrugging his broad shoulders. “Zeus..alright. So can I ask some questions to figure out who you are? I do enjoy a good mystery.”, Cora Lee inquired. Malcolm smiled. “But of course. I banked on your genetic inclination for a mystery to get you to show up. So ask your questions.”, Malcolm said still trying to hide his voice. “Do we knew each other?”, Cora Lee asked starting her inquiry. “Yes we are acquainted. “, Malcolm stated. “Hmm. Alright how long have we been acquainted?”, Cora Lee countered. “Since kindergarten started, though we knew of each other before then.”, Malcolm said being honest just hoping he didn’t give too much away. “Hmmm, well that doesn’t help. Have we talked before today?”, she asked. “I wouldn’t say talked, but we have had words many times over the years.”, Malcolm said with a grin. “We haven’t talked but had words? Alright if we were walking down the hall without the masks on would I know you?”, Cora Lee asked. “Yes you would know me.”, Malcolm said taking enjoyment in the perplexed look on Cora Lee’s face. “You really aren’t giving me much here Sparky.”, Cora Lee stated. Malcolm’s smiled widened and he even laughed a little when she called him Sparky. “That apparently didn’t take you long to connect. And now for the biggest gamble of my young life.”, Malcolm said assuming she’d made the connection.

Seeing the smile on his face and him saying she had made the connection Cora Lee’s eyes went wide. “Sparky, Zeus…oh fuck no.”, Cora Lee said shoving Malcolm back. “Seriously? You? You have to fucking be kidding me?”, Cora Lee said starting to raise her voice. Malcolm held a finger over his lips. “Shh, not looking to cause a scene.”, Malcolm said. “Make a scene?”, Cora Lee demanded looking around and noticing some people were looking and in the distance she saw her brother. Cora Lee took a few deep anger filled breaths before grabbing Malcolm’s wrist and dragging him out a side door to the hall way and slamming him into the lockers. “Fine not making a scene in there. But out there I’ll make as much of a scene as I want. Is this some kind of fucking joke to you? Where are your academy pals waiting to jump out and laugh at me?”, Cora Lee shouted taking off her mask ready to throw it but it was far too beautiful to throw.

“This isn’t a joke Cora Lee.”, Malcolm protested. “None of the Academy students know I’m even here. They think I’m at the Academy in my room studying like always.”, Malcolm explained. “Not a joke? You have been my personal tormenter since we started school. And now you pull this shit? WHY? What do you get out of this? What is your twisted end game?”, Cora Lee demanded. “When we were kids it was simple you were the daughter of someone my family didn’t like and well really till the last couple years I didn’t think of any girls this way. Then I started..well I started seeing you differently.”, Malcolm explained. “Oh bullshit, you haven’t stopped torturing me once. Heck just yesterday you tied my pigtail braids into a knot during English.”, Cora Lee said glaring at him. “Peer pressure is a bitch. Plus I like your hair, it’s rather soft.”, Malcolm commented. “You attacked one of my best friends last year. You struck him with lightning in the food court.”, Cora Lee countered. “Two things, one Atif is a seerer and knew it was coming and two I dialed back my power to less than a police taser. His sister had Emma in a water bubble and I figured she’d lose focus if I hit her twin.”, Malcolm explained. “Oh that’s real sweet of you. This is such bullshit. I should go inside and tell my brother and friends exactly who you are.”, Cora Lee said turning to head for the door. “Wait..”, Malcolm said grabbing her wrist. “Please just wait. This isn’t a game to me and this isn’t a joke. You said getting the dress and the mask and the flowers was a gamble. I told you this was the gamble, you finding out who I am is the gamble.”, Malcolm said taking off his mask.

“I did all of this, all of it for you. I worked on these masks for months for you. I planned this whole masked ball for you.”, Malcolm explained. “For..for me? What?”, Cora Lee asked turning to look at him. “You planned this dance for me?”, she questioned. Malcolm nodded. “Yes. The dance committee needed a new president. I volunteered and used that position to convince the other committee members we should do a masked ball for the holiday dance. Because wearing a mask was the only way I’d get even three feet near you to tell you how I feel.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee gulped a little thinking about it. “You went through all this to tell me how you feel? You have any idea on insane that sounds?”, she asked. “Yes I do know how insane that sounds. But if I’d walked up to you any other way to express what I feel you would have thrown a locker at me then your brother would have turned me into god knows what. And this may be insane and crazy. But my dad always told me I should follow my heart. And he always said that when one listens to what’s in here.”, Malcolm said bringing her hand to his chest to feel the thumping of his heart. Which at the moment was going very quickly worried she was about to walk out. “Rather than what’s in here.”, Malcolm continued pointing to his head, but keeping her hand on his chest. “Is the definition of crazy.”, he finished.

Cora Lee looked up at his green eyes and then back at her hand. She could feel his heart racing and she quickly pulled her hand away not sure what she wanted to say or do or what to think. “You…you..”, she said bringing her hand up. Malcolm closed his eyes prepared for the slap or punch that he was going to receive. But he didn’t feel a punch or even a slap. Instead Cora Lee had gently rested her hand on his cheek. “You risked everything to give me tonight and to prove to me how you feel.”, Cora Lee said softly. Malcolm nodded. “Told you it was a big gamble. But usually the pay off from the gamble can be worth the risk.”, Malcolm said. “Well you aren’t the only one taking a risk tonight.”, Cora Lee said moving her hand from his check to the back of his neck and pulling him down and planting her lips firmly against his. Malcolm’s green eyes went wide for a half second in surprise before returning the kiss, his arms wrapping around her waist, lifting her the extra couple inches off the ground that her heels didn’t make up for in their height difference.

Inside the gym Landon was scanning the room looking for his sister. “I don’t see Cora Lee…”, Landon said his voice trailing off as he did see Rose walking over to his and Rachel. He’d never seen her in a dress before. And now here she was coming right at him wearing a scoop neck silver gown that was fitted at the top and at the waist started to layer out flattering her figure rather nicely. He was about to smile till he saw Mike right behind her. Rachel smiled in greeting. “Hi Rose. Hi Michael.”, Rachel greeted. “Hey guys.”, Landon said pushing his thoughts aside. “Hi Landon, Hi Rachel.”, Rose greeted. Mike waved, “Hey.” Rose noticed the very unique flower on Rachel’s wrist and when she squinted was able to read the sheet music on their masks. “Very cool corsage and masks.”, Rose commented. Rachel smiled. “Thanks. Landon made them. He used sheet music for Waterfall which was the song I played at my first recital for my mask.”, Rachel said running her hands over the mask. “Wow very thoughtful of you there Landon.”, Mike commented. Rose didn’t want to admit it was thoughtful of him, but part of her thought it was less friend thoughtful though. Rose shook her head a little trying to force away the thoughts that maybe this was an actual date between Landon and Rachel.

“Thanks. I try. Now have you seen my sister? I’m supposed to keep an eye on her and this mystery date.”, Landon questioned. Rose turned and looked around. “They were just here dancing. I’m sure she’s find. Cora Lee is a big girl and can take care of herself.”, Rose said. “I know she can but I’m still her big brother and it’s still my job to knock the teeth out of any guy’s mouth that even looks at her wrong.”, Landon explained. “She’ll turn up Landon. Just promise me no fights tonight.”, Rachel said turning her head to look up at him. Landon sighed. “Alright Rachel, no fights.”, Landon agreed with a sigh. “Good now can we enjoy the dance?”, Rachel asked. Landon nodded. “Yeah, let’s head to the dance floor then. I’m sure we’ll come across the others while out there.”, he said taking Rachel by the hand and heading out to the dance floor. As they walked out to the floor Rachel wondered if Landon could even dance. She had to teach his sister how to dance in the short two weeks before the dance and attempt to give her cousin Rose a refresher. Once they were out on the dance floor Landon took her left hand in his right and placed his left on her waist. “You ready?”, he asked with a smirk before falling in time with the music and twirling her out and back in. Rachel laughed a little smiling up at him. “How? I didn’t think you could dance? I mean I had to teach Cora Lee.”, Rachel asked as they continued to waltz. “Uncle Demitri taught me when I was little. Apparently his mom Judith taught him because and I quote ‘a woman is more attracted to a man that can sweep her off her feet on the dance floor’. So Uncle Demitri figured I should learn too.”, he explained. “He taught you rather well then.”, Rachel said enjoying being so close to him mentally reminding herself this wasn’t a date but two friends at a dance.

“Who knew Landon could dance like that.”, Mike commented. “They at least look elegant out there.”, he added. Rose sighed. “Come on Mike. Let’s see if we can do this and not kill each other.”, Rose joked trying to just ignore the continued comments about her cousin and Landon. Mike nodded. “Yeah lets.”, Mike said following her to the dance floor for another try to not step on her feet. It didn’t’ go even half as well as they’d both hoped eventually they gave up and just did the simple rocking back and forth in one place. Mike just kept smiling happy to be there with Rose, he was hoping at the end of the night to ask her out officially. He just needed to get the courage to do it. He didn’t even notice how Rose kept looking over to Rachel and Landon dancing together not far from them.

As they danced Rachel started to wonder something. “Landon? Could I ask you something?”, she questioned. Landon shrugged. “Yeah of course. What’s up?”, he asked dipping her before returning her upright. “Why did you bring me tonight? I’m fairly certain there are a number of girls at school who’d have been thrilled to have you as their date.”, Rachel questioned. “I didn’t want to go with them though. What’s so wrong about bringing you to the dance?”, Landon asked. “Well I mean you literally could have come with anyone. I could have stayed home and Merrick wouldn’t have known a thing. I just don’t see what would make me so special. Certainly not special enough to be asked or for this beautiful lily and mask.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “Like I said I didn’t want to bring any of them. Not sure if you’ve noticed by about in general the female population that wanted to go with me are groupies and they terrify me. And what would make you think you aren’t special?”, Landon countered. “I’m not special like you or Rose and the others.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “I’m just the mousey cousin to Rose, daughter of famous John Howlett who you asked because your cousin was being a jerk.”, Rachel explained. Landon laughed shaking his head. “You may not have mutant powers but that doesn’t mean you aren’t special. I don’t know another person who can play piano or violin the way you do. You skipped two grades, so you’re already the smartest person I know. And people may not see it or know it but you’re a warrior. You are more than ‘Rose’s cousin’ and much more than John Howlett’s daughter. You may be Rachel Farah Howlett but your name doesn’t fully define you. The rest of us have mutant powers and infamous/famous mutant parents but none of that makes us special. It’s who you are but what you do that defines you.”, Landon explained.

Rachel knew she was blushing again. “Why do you have to be so nice to me? Can’t just let a girl have her; self doubts and image issues?”, Rachel teased. “Because I was raised that way. And seriously you have no reason to ever doubt yourself and what the heck are you talking about image issues? There’s a line of guys at this dance right now waiting for me to leave you alone long enough to ask you to dance even though they know they couldn’t keep up with your grace.”, Landon said nodding his head in the direction of some guys standing by the bleachers watching them. Rachel blushed again. “They don’t see me for me. They look at me and just see dollar signs. They know who my dad is and they hear my full title of Countess Rachel Farah Howlett of Mandipoor and instantly think I am rich. They never see me.”, Rachel said with a forlorn sigh. “Any bozo that thinks because your dad having money and your cousin’s a king has anything to do with you are a fool. I know how hard you work. You don’t get handed anything on a silver platter. And anyone that can’t see you for the amazing and beautiful girl you are doesn’t deserve your time of day.”, Landon said simply. Rachel felt herself blushing again. “I think I need a drink.”, Rachel said quickly wanting to avoid anything further embarrassment. “Alright. I think I see Xavier and Ashley at the refreshment table. Maybe I’ll find Cora Lee during our refreshment break.”, Landon said escorting Rachel off the dance floor to the refreshment table.

“Hi Ashley. Hi Xavier.”, Landon greeted. “Hello Landon, and hi Rachel wow I didn’t even recognize you. Love that dress.”, Ashley said before taking a sip of her punch. Rachel smiled. “Thanks my mom helped me pick it out.”, Rachel said doing a little spin. “The shawl is I’m assuming Uncle John’s input.”, Xavier commented. Rachel nodded running her hands over the shawl. “Yeah but it’s a special shawl so I don’t mind.”, Rachel explained. Ashley leaned closer and looked at the crotchet work. “Is the H for Howlett?”, Ashley asked. Landon finished pouring drinks and offered Rachel one. “Thanks Landon.”, she said taking a sip then shaking her head. “Actually no it’s for Hudson. This was my grandmother Howlett’s shawl from before she married my grandfather.”, Rachel explained. “So Hudson is named for your grandmother’s maiden name pretty interesting.”, Ashley commented nodding. Rachel nodded. “Apparently.”, Rachel commented. “Have either of you seen my little sister around?”, Landon asked looking to Ashley and Xavier. Ashley and Xavier shook their heads. “Nope haven’t seen her in a while actually.”, Ashley said. Landon sighed. “Rachel do you mind hanging with Ashley and Xavier while I go look for her. No one has seen her and it was some mystery guy that invited her so I’m just…”, Landon asked. “You’re worried about your sister, it’s alright. I’ll be fine here with Ashley and my cousin. Go find her make sure she is okay and that the boy isn’t dead either.”, Rachel said with a smile. “Thanks, I should be too long going to check the dance floor then the halls if needed.”, he said giving her a quick peck on the cheek and walking away.

Rachel lightly touched the cheek that he’d kissed and knew she was blushing and probably a shade of red to rival her cousin Rose’s hair. Ashley glanced to Xavier who just shook his head smiling trying to not laugh. None of them were really sure how to interpret the impromptu kiss on the cheek but Xavier had no intentions of mentioning it ever in the presence of his Uncle. Ashley and Xavier did however notice how bright red Rachel was turning. As Landon walked away he removed his jacket dropping it at the coat check, rolling up the sleeves to his white dress shirt showing off his Celtic tree of life sleeve tattoo on his right arm which to anyone who saw him instantly knew it was him by the tattoo. He started walking the dance floor looking for Cora Lee and her mystery date. Randomly stopping to ask if they’ve seen his little sister always getting a head shake. Atif noticed Landon moving around the dance floor. “Shit I need to go find Cora Lee. I’ll be right back alright.”, Atif said looking to Billy not really wanting to leave him. “How do you even know where to find her?”, Billy questioned. Atif smiled. “Simple day she got the dress in her locker I touched the dress saw my vision. I know who the mystery man is and I know where I’ll find them. And I better find them before Landon or mystery man is dead.”, Atif said giving Billy a quick kiss before ducking out into the hall way.

Atif stopped behind Malcolm and sighed. “Ahem…”, Atif coughed. Malcolm nearly dropped Cora Lee he pulled back from the kiss so fast. Cora Lee was startled as well and looked around Malcolm to see who it was her heart racing worried it was Landon. “Atif?”, Cora Lee said. “Yes Atif. Look I know you’ve been enjoying your make out session with Malcolm here, but Landon is currently combing the dance for you and if he doesn’t find you he’ll come out here and he sees this Malcolm is dead.”, Atif explained. Malcolm and Cora Lee both looked surprised. Malcolm turning to face Atif. “How..how did you know?”, Malcolm questioned. “Seer hello. It took one touch of that dress when Cora Lee found it in her locker to get a vision. I knew it was you, I didn’t say anything because it’s not my place to burst bubbles. Plus Cora Lee deserves to have a real first kiss with a guy who’s heterosexual and into her. Now masks on and back inside.”, Atif ordered. “So you aren’t going to tell him?”, Cora Lee questioned. Atif shook his head. “I lack a death wish thank you. Tell my best friend his baby sister was making out with Malcolm Durvo? Yeah if he didn’t kill me for knowing your dad would. Thank you very much but I don’t want to be turned into anything or have metal objects thrown at me.”, Atif said shaking his head as he walked back into the dance to find Billy. “At least he isn’t going to tell your brother.”, Malcolm said putting his mask back on. “Before we go back in. I just want to know, do you think this could be something? I mean beyond tonight?”, Cora Lee asked grabbing Malcolm’s arm. “I do. But I think for both our sakes it wouldn’t be something we could go public with.”, Malcolm said. Cora Lee sighed and nodded. “Yeah wouldn’t be too safe for either of us. But I want to try. Now let’s get back inside before Landon finds us.”, Cora Lee said putting her mask on and walking back inside holding Malcolm’s hand.

Landon instantly spotted her and went directly to her. “Where the hell have you been? And who’s mystery guy?”, Landon questioned. “Chill big bro. I can handle myself. We were just walking around getting some fresh air and talking where we could actually hear over the music. And well I haven’t figured it out yet. He’s kind of the silent type.”, Cora Lee stated. Malcolm nodded. “Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going to dance with my mystery man. Go find Rachel or something.”, Cora Lee said taking Malcolm by the hand and heading back to the dance floor. Malcolm watched as Landon walked away and as he scanned the dance floor he spotted Atif’s familiar red hair with a mask Malcolm had seen before. “That explains so much.”, Malcolm said quietly. “What explains what?”, Cora Lee asked. “Oh it’s nothing. I’m just glad your brother didn’t catch us. Don’t want anything to ruin tonight...”, Malcolm said pausing as he saw his roommate Merrick making his way to the refreshment table where Rachel was with Ashley and Xavier.

“What’s wrong?”, Cora Lee asked looking in the same direction she didn’t recognize who was approaching Rachel and the others. “Who’s that?”, Cora Lee asked. “It’s Merrick. I’d recognize my roommate anywhere. And he’s probably going to start problems.”, Malcolm sighed. “Merrick? Why can’t he just leave Rachel alone?”, Cora Lee said starting to walk away. Malcom reached out and grabbed her wrist shaking his head. “Don’t. Please don’t go over there. Merrick’s behavior isn’t acceptable I know but it’s also not really directed at Rachel she’s just a means to an end.”, Malcolm explained. “She’s my friend so I’ll go over there and make sure my own cousin leaves her alone.”, Cora Lee said trying to pull her arm free. “And what do you mean a means to an end?”, Cora Lee questioned. Malcolm sighed. “I don’t want you to go over there because it will ruin what time we have left tonight. Because you go over there it becomes a fight. It becomes a fight Merrick hits you, Merrick hits you I send a few thousand volts of lightening through him which blows my ‘mystery man’ gimmick out of the water.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee sighed having not thought about that part of it.

“Fine I won’t go over there, but explain what you meant about the means to an end.”, Cora Lee said. “Merrick doesn’t want Rachel, he doesn’t like her in any way. But he firmly believes that your brother does. And since your brother shows Rachel such favor he figures the easiest way to go to Landon is through her.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee raised an eyebrow and had to cover her mouth to stop from laughing. “That makes zero sense. My brother doesn’t see Rachel as more than a friend, he doesn’t see any girl as more than a friend. And why does Merrick have such an issue with Landon? Landon has only ever said something or done something to Merrick when Merrick started it.”, Cora Lee questioned. “Wait so your brother likes guys then?”, Malcolm questioned a bit confused. “No he doesn’t like guys. Landon just seems asexual. I’ve yet to see him show a romantic interest in anyone. Now answer my question why does Merrick have beef with my big brother.”, Cora Lee said trying to get the subject back on track. “Envy I think is the easiest way to describe it.”, Malcolm answered. “Envy?”, Cora Lee questioned.

Malcolm sighed. “Merrick is the oldest at the Academy, having a couple seconds on Josalyn, since Lily moved out. Which you’d think as the oldest he’d be the one the rest of us look to, but we don’t. We look to my cousin William, because he is Wanda’s first born son and truly the most powerful of us. So Merrick feels inferior to William, he is older but his power set is considered less powerful and being the illegitimate son of Kim and a human doesn’t help his cause in the regards of gaining respect of the other Academy kids. But he can’t challenge William for that alpha spot because he knows William would destroy him. So he has to channel that anger elsewhere.”, Malcolm explained. “But why my brother? Who is just as powerful as William.”, Cora Lee countered. Malcolm nodded. “Yes your brother is a powerful mutant. But that just adds to Merrick’s envy. Landon is the leader of you all. I know you have teams and a number of you are ‘leaders’ but all of you follow Landon. Landon gets the respect Merrick wants. Then there’s the hurt Merrick doesn’t want to talk about, the hurt that he feels about Lily. He really thinks that your brother has replaced him to his own triplet. So Merrick’s made it his mission to prove himself against Landon. He doesn’t think a direct challenge would go well so he tries indirect ways to get Landon to fight him. And with how your brother favors Rachel and that she has no powers to defend herself with she became the bait.”, Malcolm explained. Cora lee sighed not really sure how to feel about that. She was angry of course that Merrick was using Rachel to bait Landon. Yet it was a little depressing that Merrick though Landon had replaced him as a brother to Lily, she’d be mad if someone replaced her sister status to Landon. But another thought crept into her mind what if Merrick was right, what if the reason her brother was so nice to Rachel was that he actually liked her.

Merrick made his way through the crowd walking up behind where Rachel was standing talking to Xavier and Ashley. Merrick paused for a moment considering his strategy. He removed his mask, tucking it into his jacket pocket and looked over the floor with his green-blue eyes and smiled when he spotted Landon who was making his way over but kept being stopped by people wanting to talk to him. So now was Merrick’s chance to finally start the fight he’d been wanting basically his whole life. He just had to decide how he wanted to approach this situation. He decided the direct approach would be the most effective. He took a breath and continued on his path, purposely grabbing Rachel’s ass as he walked by before grabbing her wrist. “Who knew you could actually pull off a dress like that. Your dad let you out the door dressed this way? Impressive. So since Prince Charming is around, dance with me.”, Merrick said trying to pull Rachel to the dance floor. Rachel jumped startled and outraged when someone grabbed her and when she saw it was Merrick was even more outraged. “Let me go NOW!”, Rachel demanded trying to pull her arm away from Merrick’s grip. “I do not want to dance with you now leave me alone.”, Rachel insisted.

“You know you keep saying ‘no’ but I just don’t believe you and I’m starting to have my feelings hurt here.”, Merrick joked his grip tightening on her wrists temporarily using the animal strength of one of his favorite shapes, a silverback gorilla to keep hold of her. Xavier dropped his drink and started to try and pry Merrick’s hand away. “My cousin said to leave her alone. Take the hint Merrick. No means no, baka yarou.”, Xavier shouted swearing at Merrick in Japanese calling him a stupid asshole. “Stay out of it human.”, Merrick said punching Xavier square in the jaw knocking him back. Ashley quickly caught Xavier and helped him lean on the punch table. Ashley turned to look at Merrick her emerald eyes lighting up with anger. “You little jackass…”, Ashley growled. Landon had noticed from a distance something was wrong as someone approached Rachel and the others and then he realized who it was. “Merrick…”, he grumbled pushing through the crowd.

Merrick raised his hand again to hit Ashley but Landon grabbed his fist. “Anyone else having a case of déjà vu? Let Rachel go NOW!”, Landon demanded. Merrick smirked. “Oh Prince Charming is back again to rescue his damsel in distress.”, Merrick mocked letting Rachel’s wrist go. Rachel stayed back rubbing her wrist as she checked on her cousin. “Xavier? Are you alright?”, she asked. Xavier nodded. “I’m fine. Are you?”, Xavier asked. Rachel nodded. “I’m not looking for fight Merrick. I promised no fights tonight and I meant it. Now just walk away.”, Landon insisted. “I don’t think so cousin.”, Merrick said his face distorted with anger and hate as he slammed his free hand into Landon’s ribs. Landon moved his other arm to block but was too late, he didn’t show pain though he’d been trained well enough to control pain. “I said I’m not fighting now leave us alone.”, Landon repeated. “I made no such fucking promise.”, Ashley yelled before slamming her fist into Merrick’s face. “That’s for Xavier.”, Ashley said. “Back down Ashley. I’ve got this.”, Landon said glancing to her. Ashley sighed but nodded turning to make sure that Rachel and Xavier were alright. Merrick continued with a flurry of punches, most Landon blocked for ducked but some occasionally landing. Thinking he had the upper hand Merrick managed to pin Landon to the ground trying to punch at his face, while Landon blocked. Landon turned his head to look over at Rachel. “Can I fight now please?”, Landon asked. Rachel nodded. “I just didn’t want you to start fights, I said nothing about finishing them.”, Rachel said rubbing her wrist which still hurt.

Landon smiled. “About time. Now let’s see who’s better trained cousin.”, Landon said bringing his legs up and using Merrick’s own weight against him to kick him back. Landon quickly got to his feet. “I’m not going to hold back now.”, Landon said as he dusted off his dress slacks. Merrick scrambled to his feet letting his hate blind him. He started throwing punches again, but now Landon wasn’t just blocking he was countering and landing a number of punches on Merrick’s torso. But then with one solid punch at the center of Merrick’s face Landon broke his nose. “Hey what’s going on over there?!”, a teacher shouted noticing the brawl and making their way over as a crowd had formed to watch the two cousins fight almost all cheering Landon’s name. Atif and Lily pulled themselves away from their dates wanting to find out what was happening, Rose also raced over with Mike not far behind her. Merrick stumbled back holding his nose as blood flowed. “This isn’t over Landon. Next time there won’t be any teachers to interrupt.”, Merrick said before shoving his way through the crowd and out the gym doors.

Description
All the kids had gone to their homes since holiday break was going to begin and finally the night of the dance was at hand. Cora Lee gleefully put on her gown, which to make her dad happy she modified using some of Morpheus’ old feathers to cover more of her bust line. She also put on her mask and headed down the stairs. Landon was already sitting on the couch in his black suit, black vest, white button up and a gold tie borrowed from his dad tapping his fingers on the arms of the chair. “Let’s go Landon!”, Cora Lee yelled very ready and very excited to go meet her mystery date. “Hold up you two.”, David said. “Stand next to each other please I’m taking a photo to send to your grandparents.”, David said. Landon sighed and stopped at the doorway next to Cora Lee. “Mask on Landon.”, David insisted. Landon lifted his mask which was in his right hand and placed the gold and white mask that had sheet music pieces imbedded in it onto his face. David leaned in for a moment to look at the notes bobbing his head a little reading the notes. “Come As You Are…nice touch kiddo. Alright you two smile and say ‘death metal’.”, David joked. Cora Lee leaned on her brother smiling big and while laughing both said, “Death Metal” David took the picture. “Alright you may go. Landon drive carefully and keep an eye on her mystery date you have permission to use deadly force as needed.”, David said. Cora Lee shook her head lifting her mask to give David a kiss on the cheek. “Bye daddy.”, she said before grabbing her jack and heading out. “I’ve got it covered dad.”, Landon said grabbing his winter jacket and heading to the van. Xavier was borrowing John’s car to drive Ashley to the dance. And Mike insisted on driving Rose himself. So Landon picked up Lily and Atif at the institute and dropped them off with Cora Lee. “Alright you two you better keep an eye on my sister and this mystery guy till I get back with Rachel. I know you have your mystery guys too but please.”, Landon requested. “You got it cousin.”, Lily said holding the sides of her long red gown so it didn’t get wet from snow as she raced into the school with the others.

Once they got inside Lily, Atif and Cora Lee were scanning the gym for their dates. Lily easily spotted hers and smiled. “Cora Lee behave.”, Lily warned before running across the gym and hugging her date and giving him a kiss. “Did anyone see you leave or dye your hair. Brown’s a nice touch by the way.”, Lily whispered. Tommy laughed shaking his head. “Nope. I’m too fast for them to see and I did the hair here in the bathrooms. Now that you are here though let’s dance beautiful.”, Tommy said smiling and taking Lily by the hand to the dance floor. A boy in a silver mask that hid almost all his face walked up to Atif and smiled holding out his hand. Atif paused to look at Cora Lee. “You going to be alright by yourself?”, Atif asked. “She’s not by herself. Go on Atif.”, Rose said walked up behind them walking next to Mike dressed in a silver gown her typically wild red locks up in a elegant updo. “Thanks.”, Atif said taking his date’s hand and heading for the dance floor. Billy pulled Atif close and whispered in his ear. “Think they’ll ever figure it out?”,he asked. Atif smiled. “Some day I’ll tell them. Tonight however isn’t some day.”, Atif said before letting himself just enjoy dancing with Billy technically in the open. “Great so they’ve found their mystery dates now where is mine?”, Cora Lee said still scanning the room. Rose nudged her with her elbow and pointed to a guy standing off to the side. He was dressed in a black suit, black dress shirt, and shiny black tie with matching vest holding a bouquet of black dahlia flowers and the bigger give away was his raven style mask. Cora Lee turned to follow Rose’s gaze and smiled. “While Landon is off picking up Rachel I’m going to make the most of my unsupervised time with mystery man. Later.”, Cora Lee said before making her way to her mystery man.

“It is no time to chide you now. Affection is not rated from the heart. If love have touch’d you, nought remains but so Redime te captum, quam queas minimo.”, Cora Lee greeted. Behind his raven mask which hide most of his face a smile spread across his lips. “I knew you’d get the reference. These are for you.”, Malcolm said speaking deeper than his normal voice to help hide who he was as he extended the black dahlia’s to her. Cora Lee smiled taking the flowers and smelling them. “So you know I love black, I love ravens, I love black dahlias and I’m a closet romantic. Pretty big gamble you have taken inviting me to this dance.”, Cora Lee said. Malcolm knew the amount of grief and trouble he’d be in if it was ever known that he, the son of Lorna Dane Durov nephew to Wanda Maximoff had feelings for an X-Men who is the daughter of the infamous David Bryant. So tonight he had to keep his identity a secret. He wasn’t even sure he could let Cora Lee know who he really was. They’d been rivals their whole lives and with peer pressure as it was he usually picked on her. “Those were all not gambles. The gamble will be you finding out who I am. But till you do.”, Malcolm said bending at the waist and extending his hand to her. “Would you care to dance?”, Malcolm questioned. Cora Lee could actually feel a blush but forced it back as she set the flowers aside and took his hand and let him lead her to the dance floor.

Rose looked around the dance floor she could see Lily dancing with her mystery date, Atif dancing with his, Ashley dancing with Xavier and Cora Lee was now dancing with her date and all looked rather cozy. Rose looked to Mike who was still smiling and inwardly sighed. “Well since everyone else is dancing, would you can to dance too?”, Mike asked offering his hand. Rose nodded. “Alright I warn you I tend to try and lead.”, Rose said taking his hand. “And I warn you that I’m not all that impressive of a dancer.”, Mike said with a smile leading her out onto the floor. And true to both their words Mike had trouble finding the beat and occasionally stepped on Rose’s feet while Rose, despite a dance instructor in her brother’s kingdom’s best efforts just never got the hang of not leading, kept trying to lead which didn’t seem to be making it any better. But they laughed off the mistakes and continued to try.

Across town Landon pulled into the driveway to pick up Rachel. He knocked at the door, in his hand he had the clear box holding a wrist corsage with a very special gold daylily with a white henna patterned in the petals. In his jacket pocket he had one of the petal sand a special piece of sheet music ready to make Rachel’s mask to match his own. John pulled back the door and looked at Landon trying to hold back his annoyance that his daughter was going on a date with him, even if it was just as friends. Landon smiled. “Good evening Mr. Howlett. Is Rachel ready?”, Landon asked. Sarael tapped John on the shoulder. “Come on in Landon she’ll be down in a second just last minute touches to her make up.”, Sarael said. “Thanks Mrs. H.”, Landon said stepping inside. Sarael looked down at the flower and smiled. “Did you have Demitri make that for Rachel? It’ll look spectacular with her gown, and it’s her favorite flower too looks like he remembered. How sweet.”, Sarael commented. Landon shook his head. “Actually no Mrs. H. Uncle Demitri was so busy with other orders that well I made this one. Took a normal daylily, which I remembered Rachel likes, and with my powers altered it to compliment her dress.”, Landon explained. Sarael smiled. “That is just soo sweet. You are a very thoughtful young man. Isn’t he John.”, Sarael said elbowing John. “I suppose.”, John said.

“Ahem.”, Rachel coughed as she started down the staircase. John, Sarael and Landon’s attention turned to her. Rachel smiled trying to not blush as she found herself the center of attention. Landon blinked a little not having expected the style dress she had chosen. She’d only told him the colors but not the style. So he was surprised that the most proper of their friends she had chosen a white fitted dress with a sweetheart neckline and only one shoulder strap with a gold design up the left side of the skirt portion. The white dress did stand out against her darker Egyptian skin and with her hair up and pulled off to one side with a cascade of curls coming down to her shoulder well he’d never seen her look like this. She was even wearing some makeup which made her aqua eyes stand out even more than normal. “You look very nice Rachel.”, Landon stated. Rachel reached the bottom step and smiled. “You think so? I’ve never really tried something like this.”, Rachel questioned. “I know so. This is for you, I made it special.”, Landon said taking the corsage from its box and holding it out for her to slip an arm through. Rachel extended her right arm and slid it through the wrist band and smiled looking at the lily. “Wow Landon. You’re going to give Demitri a run for his money in the unique flower game.”, Rachel commented as she looked at the lily. “Guess it’s a fall back if my plans for being a history teacher doesn’t pan out.”, Landon joked.

“Alright before you two go I want pictures with and without your masks.”, Sarael said grabbing her digital camera. “Mask? But I don’t have one. Did you bring it Landon?”, Rachel asked looking to Landon. “Yes of course. Told you I’d handle that.”, Landon said reaching into his pocket. He held out his hand showing a single gold petal with part of the white henna design and a scrap of sheet music. Landon smiled as everyone looked at him puzzle. Rachel leaned to look at the music notes. “Waterfall by Jon Schmidt…”, Rachel said softly. Landon nodded. “Yup first song I remember you performing at a recital when we were little kids. I used Come As You Are by Nirvana for my mask since it’s the first song I played on drums.”, Landon explained holding up his mask in his free hand. Rachel smiled brightly. “You..you remember what I played at my first recital?”, she questioned. “Yeah we all went to it. Now, close your eyes and hold still please.”, Landon said setting his mask down.

Rachel nodded closing her eyes having complete trust in Landon. John raised an eyebrow not certain what was about to happen. Taking the petal and the scrap of sheet music in both his hands he placed his hands over her eyes, bridge of her nose and the upper part of her face. Landon took a breath and whispered, “Mask.” As he pulled his hands back the petal and sheet music and melded together and been reformed to a white and gold detailed mask matching his just with pieces of the Waterfall sheet music where on his was Come As You Are. “There now you have a mask that fits like a glove.”, Landon said. Sarael placed a hand to her mouth to hold back her ‘awe’. Even John couldn’t deny that Landon, specially for being ‘just a friend’ was being extremely thoughtful in his preparations for the evening. Rachel opened her eyes running her hands along the mask before taking it off to look at it. “Wow Landon. You..this..just amazing.”, Rachel said at a loss for words. Landon smiled. “Glad that you like it.”, Landon said picking his mask back up. “Alright now you two pictures without masks first then masks second. Say cheese.”, Sarael said holding up her camera. Rachel turned and smiled to her mom, Landon placed his arm around her shoulders and smiled. “Cheese.”, they said before being blinded by the flash. “You two look so cute together. Did you rent your suit and tie?”, Sarael asked as she got ready for her next picture. “Um no. I own the suit and the tie is my dad’s I lucked out he already had a gold tie.”, Landon explained. Rachel just tried to keep from blushing. “Alright masks on then say cheese.”, Sarael said. Landon and Rachel put their masks on and smiled for the camera.

“Alright enough pictures mom, we should really get to the dance and meet up with our friends.”, Rachel said. John went to the hall closet to get her jacket and something else special. “Here I insist that you wear this at least tonight.”, John said holding up a handmade white shawl with the letter ‘H’ crocheted on each corner. Rachel looked at the shawl wide eyed. “When did you have that made, dad?”, she asked as he placed it on her shoulders. “I didn’t have it made. This was my mother’s shawl from when she was a Hudson. It was in her hope chest I brought home from my last trip to the estate in Alberta.”, John explained. “I couldn’t wear such a beautiful heirloom to a school dance.”, Rachel protested. “Rose got Elizabeth’s locket with the picture of Elizabeth and baby James, you can certainly have her shawl. And since tonight is important to you as your first high school dance, you should wear something truly special.”, John insisted. “Alright, thank you daddy.”, Rachel said leaning up to kiss her father on the cheek. “make sure she is returned at a reasonable hour.”, John stated pointing to Landon. “Of course sir.”, Landon said. Sarael stopped Rachel before she went out the door. “If that boy, Merrick, starts any trouble tonight or going forward I want you to call me. I will at least then be able to handle it and how your father is told about it.”, Sarael said quietly. Rachel nodded before heading out the door and into the van with Landon.

As they walked into the gym Rachel kept her arm linked to Landon’s taking a deep breath. A few people noticed when they walked in and not really the people they wanted to notice them. Josalyn and Merrick were off on one side watching the sea of people talking to some other kids in their class, who despite not being mutants still had a taste for being bullies. Merrick elbowed his twin and nodded to the door. “Landon’s here which means that…that’s gotta be Rachel.”, Merrick commented. “How can you tell it’s Landon?”, Josalyn asked. “Easy can still see some of his tattoos above his collar.”, Merrick said. Josalyn narrowed her eyes trying to see. “Damn you and being able to use animal sight to see that far away with such a little detail.”, Josalyn said shaking her head as she looked to her brother who behind his black mask it was easy to see his eyes looks more like those of an owl before fading back to his human blue/green eyes he inherited from their mother. “Well we are apparently the only ones to notice it’s them.”, Josalyn commented nodding to the dance floor where the other institute brats were dancing.

Ashley was busy being twirled around her royal blue gown with gold embellishments by Xavier to notice anything really. Lily was contently dancing with Tommy who was in disguise. Atif and Billy had actually wandered off the dance floor and were in a dark corner of the gym kissing. Cora Lee was just lost in her own little world dancing with her mystery date. Rose however did notice Landon and Rachel walk in. Landon’s scent had drifted across the gym so she knew it was him. She took a step back from Mike just before he stepped on her foot again. “Landon’s here.”, Rose commented. Mike turned to look around and spotted Landon and Rachel. “Ah there he is with…wait is that Rachel?”, Mike questioned. “Must be he was bringing her as a friend.”, Rose commented. “She looks really great. Not as great as you but..”, Mike said trying to not sound like an idiot. Rose just shook her head. “She does look pretty.”, Rose commented. “Yeah, they make a good looking couple.”, Mike commented. Rose felt her heart stop and crack a little hearing the word ‘couple’. “They are just here as friends Mike.”, Rose corrected. Mike shrugged before he noticed Rose had started to walk away and he walked after her.

Cora Lee didn’t take even a moment to realize her brother had arrived. “So mystery man, what do I call you?”, she questioned. “Well my family calls me Zeus.”, Malcolm said shrugging his broad shoulders. “Zeus..alright. So can I ask some questions to figure out who you are? I do enjoy a good mystery.”, Cora Lee inquired. Malcolm smiled. “But of course. I banked on your genetic inclination for a mystery to get you to show up. So ask your questions.”, Malcolm said still trying to hide his voice. “Do we knew each other?”, Cora Lee asked starting her inquiry. “Yes we are acquainted. “, Malcolm stated. “Hmm. Alright how long have we been acquainted?”, Cora Lee countered. “Since kindergarten started, though we knew of each other before then.”, Malcolm said being honest just hoping he didn’t give too much away. “Hmmm, well that doesn’t help. Have we talked before today?”, she asked. “I wouldn’t say talked, but we have had words many times over the years.”, Malcolm said with a grin. “We haven’t talked but had words? Alright if we were walking down the hall without the masks on would I know you?”, Cora Lee asked. “Yes you would know me.”, Malcolm said taking enjoyment in the perplexed look on Cora Lee’s face. “You really aren’t giving me much here Sparky.”, Cora Lee stated. Malcolm’s smiled widened and he even laughed a little when she called him Sparky. “That apparently didn’t take you long to connect. And now for the biggest gamble of my young life.”, Malcolm said assuming she’d made the connection.

Seeing the smile on his face and him saying she had made the connection Cora Lee’s eyes went wide. “Sparky, Zeus…oh fuck no.”, Cora Lee said shoving Malcolm back. “Seriously? You? You have to fucking be kidding me?”, Cora Lee said starting to raise her voice. Malcolm held a finger over his lips. “Shh, not looking to cause a scene.”, Malcolm said. “Make a scene?”, Cora Lee demanded looking around and noticing some people were looking and in the distance she saw her brother. Cora Lee took a few deep anger filled breaths before grabbing Malcolm’s wrist and dragging him out a side door to the hall way and slamming him into the lockers. “Fine not making a scene in there. But out there I’ll make as much of a scene as I want. Is this some kind of fucking joke to you? Where are your academy pals waiting to jump out and laugh at me?”, Cora Lee shouted taking off her mask ready to throw it but it was far too beautiful to throw.

“This isn’t a joke Cora Lee.”, Malcolm protested. “None of the Academy students know I’m even here. They think I’m at the Academy in my room studying like always.”, Malcolm explained. “Not a joke? You have been my personal tormenter since we started school. And now you pull this shit? WHY? What do you get out of this? What is your twisted end game?”, Cora Lee demanded. “When we were kids it was simple you were the daughter of someone my family didn’t like and well really till the last couple years I didn’t think of any girls this way. Then I started..well I started seeing you differently.”, Malcolm explained. “Oh bullshit, you haven’t stopped torturing me once. Heck just yesterday you tied my pigtail braids into a knot during English.”, Cora Lee said glaring at him. “Peer pressure is a bitch. Plus I like your hair, it’s rather soft.”, Malcolm commented. “You attacked one of my best friends last year. You struck him with lightning in the food court.”, Cora Lee countered. “Two things, one Atif is a seerer and knew it was coming and two I dialed back my power to less than a police taser. His sister had Emma in a water bubble and I figured she’d lose focus if I hit her twin.”, Malcolm explained. “Oh that’s real sweet of you. This is such bullshit. I should go inside and tell my brother and friends exactly who you are.”, Cora Lee said turning to head for the door. “Wait..”, Malcolm said grabbing her wrist. “Please just wait. This isn’t a game to me and this isn’t a joke. You said getting the dress and the mask and the flowers was a gamble. I told you this was the gamble, you finding out who I am is the gamble.”, Malcolm said taking off his mask.

“I did all of this, all of it for you. I worked on these masks for months for you. I planned this whole masked ball for you.”, Malcolm explained. “For..for me? What?”, Cora Lee asked turning to look at him. “You planned this dance for me?”, she questioned. Malcolm nodded. “Yes. The dance committee needed a new president. I volunteered and used that position to convince the other committee members we should do a masked ball for the holiday dance. Because wearing a mask was the only way I’d get even three feet near you to tell you how I feel.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee gulped a little thinking about it. “You went through all this to tell me how you feel? You have any idea on insane that sounds?”, she asked. “Yes I do know how insane that sounds. But if I’d walked up to you any other way to express what I feel you would have thrown a locker at me then your brother would have turned me into god knows what. And this may be insane and crazy. But my dad always told me I should follow my heart. And he always said that when one listens to what’s in here.”, Malcolm said bringing her hand to his chest to feel the thumping of his heart. Which at the moment was going very quickly worried she was about to walk out. “Rather than what’s in here.”, Malcolm continued pointing to his head, but keeping her hand on his chest. “Is the definition of crazy.”, he finished.

Cora Lee looked up at his green eyes and then back at her hand. She could feel his heart racing and she quickly pulled her hand away not sure what she wanted to say or do or what to think. “You…you..”, she said bringing her hand up. Malcolm closed his eyes prepared for the slap or punch that he was going to receive. But he didn’t feel a punch or even a slap. Instead Cora Lee had gently rested her hand on his cheek. “You risked everything to give me tonight and to prove to me how you feel.”, Cora Lee said softly. Malcolm nodded. “Told you it was a big gamble. But usually the pay off from the gamble can be worth the risk.”, Malcolm said. “Well you aren’t the only one taking a risk tonight.”, Cora Lee said moving her hand from his check to the back of his neck and pulling him down and planting her lips firmly against his. Malcolm’s green eyes went wide for a half second in surprise before returning the kiss, his arms wrapping around her waist, lifting her the extra couple inches off the ground that her heels didn’t make up for in their height difference.

Inside the gym Landon was scanning the room looking for his sister. “I don’t see Cora Lee…”, Landon said his voice trailing off as he did see Rose walking over to his and Rachel. He’d never seen her in a dress before. And now here she was coming right at him wearing a scoop neck silver gown that was fitted at the top and at the waist started to layer out flattering her figure rather nicely. He was about to smile till he saw Mike right behind her. Rachel smiled in greeting. “Hi Rose. Hi Michael.”, Rachel greeted. “Hey guys.”, Landon said pushing his thoughts aside. “Hi Landon, Hi Rachel.”, Rose greeted. Mike waved, “Hey.” Rose noticed the very unique flower on Rachel’s wrist and when she squinted was able to read the sheet music on their masks. “Very cool corsage and masks.”, Rose commented. Rachel smiled. “Thanks. Landon made them. He used sheet music for Waterfall which was the song I played at my first recital for my mask.”, Rachel said running her hands over the mask. “Wow very thoughtful of you there Landon.”, Mike commented. Rose didn’t want to admit it was thoughtful of him, but part of her thought it was less friend thoughtful though. Rose shook her head a little trying to force away the thoughts that maybe this was an actual date between Landon and Rachel.

“Thanks. I try. Now have you seen my sister? I’m supposed to keep an eye on her and this mystery date.”, Landon questioned. Rose turned and looked around. “They were just here dancing. I’m sure she’s find. Cora Lee is a big girl and can take care of herself.”, Rose said. “I know she can but I’m still her big brother and it’s still my job to knock the teeth out of any guy’s mouth that even looks at her wrong.”, Landon explained. “She’ll turn up Landon. Just promise me no fights tonight.”, Rachel said turning her head to look up at him. Landon sighed. “Alright Rachel, no fights.”, Landon agreed with a sigh. “Good now can we enjoy the dance?”, Rachel asked. Landon nodded. “Yeah, let’s head to the dance floor then. I’m sure we’ll come across the others while out there.”, he said taking Rachel by the hand and heading out to the dance floor. As they walked out to the floor Rachel wondered if Landon could even dance. She had to teach his sister how to dance in the short two weeks before the dance and attempt to give her cousin Rose a refresher. Once they were out on the dance floor Landon took her left hand in his right and placed his left on her waist. “You ready?”, he asked with a smirk before falling in time with the music and twirling her out and back in. Rachel laughed a little smiling up at him. “How? I didn’t think you could dance? I mean I had to teach Cora Lee.”, Rachel asked as they continued to waltz. “Uncle Demitri taught me when I was little. Apparently his mom Judith taught him because and I quote ‘a woman is more attracted to a man that can sweep her off her feet on the dance floor’. So Uncle Demitri figured I should learn too.”, he explained. “He taught you rather well then.”, Rachel said enjoying being so close to him mentally reminding herself this wasn’t a date but two friends at a dance.

“Who knew Landon could dance like that.”, Mike commented. “They at least look elegant out there.”, he added. Rose sighed. “Come on Mike. Let’s see if we can do this and not kill each other.”, Rose joked trying to just ignore the continued comments about her cousin and Landon. Mike nodded. “Yeah lets.”, Mike said following her to the dance floor for another try to not step on her feet. It didn’t’ go even half as well as they’d both hoped eventually they gave up and just did the simple rocking back and forth in one place. Mike just kept smiling happy to be there with Rose, he was hoping at the end of the night to ask her out officially. He just needed to get the courage to do it. He didn’t even notice how Rose kept looking over to Rachel and Landon dancing together not far from them.

As they danced Rachel started to wonder something. “Landon? Could I ask you something?”, she questioned. Landon shrugged. “Yeah of course. What’s up?”, he asked dipping her before returning her upright. “Why did you bring me tonight? I’m fairly certain there are a number of girls at school who’d have been thrilled to have you as their date.”, Rachel questioned. “I didn’t want to go with them though. What’s so wrong about bringing you to the dance?”, Landon asked. “Well I mean you literally could have come with anyone. I could have stayed home and Merrick wouldn’t have known a thing. I just don’t see what would make me so special. Certainly not special enough to be asked or for this beautiful lily and mask.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “Like I said I didn’t want to bring any of them. Not sure if you’ve noticed by about in general the female population that wanted to go with me are groupies and they terrify me. And what would make you think you aren’t special?”, Landon countered. “I’m not special like you or Rose and the others.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “I’m just the mousey cousin to Rose, daughter of famous John Howlett who you asked because your cousin was being a jerk.”, Rachel explained. Landon laughed shaking his head. “You may not have mutant powers but that doesn’t mean you aren’t special. I don’t know another person who can play piano or violin the way you do. You skipped two grades, so you’re already the smartest person I know. And people may not see it or know it but you’re a warrior. You are more than ‘Rose’s cousin’ and much more than John Howlett’s daughter. You may be Rachel Farah Howlett but your name doesn’t fully define you. The rest of us have mutant powers and infamous/famous mutant parents but none of that makes us special. It’s who you are but what you do that defines you.”, Landon explained.

Rachel knew she was blushing again. “Why do you have to be so nice to me? Can’t just let a girl have her; self doubts and image issues?”, Rachel teased. “Because I was raised that way. And seriously you have no reason to ever doubt yourself and what the heck are you talking about image issues? There’s a line of guys at this dance right now waiting for me to leave you alone long enough to ask you to dance even though they know they couldn’t keep up with your grace.”, Landon said nodding his head in the direction of some guys standing by the bleachers watching them. Rachel blushed again. “They don’t see me for me. They look at me and just see dollar signs. They know who my dad is and they hear my full title of Countess Rachel Farah Howlett of Mandipoor and instantly think I am rich. They never see me.”, Rachel said with a forlorn sigh. “Any bozo that thinks because your dad having money and your cousin’s a king has anything to do with you are a fool. I know how hard you work. You don’t get handed anything on a silver platter. And anyone that can’t see you for the amazing and beautiful girl you are doesn’t deserve your time of day.”, Landon said simply. Rachel felt herself blushing again. “I think I need a drink.”, Rachel said quickly wanting to avoid anything further embarrassment. “Alright. I think I see Xavier and Ashley at the refreshment table. Maybe I’ll find Cora Lee during our refreshment break.”, Landon said escorting Rachel off the dance floor to the refreshment table.

“Hi Ashley. Hi Xavier.”, Landon greeted. “Hello Landon, and hi Rachel wow I didn’t even recognize you. Love that dress.”, Ashley said before taking a sip of her punch. Rachel smiled. “Thanks my mom helped me pick it out.”, Rachel said doing a little spin. “The shawl is I’m assuming Uncle John’s input.”, Xavier commented. Rachel nodded running her hands over the shawl. “Yeah but it’s a special shawl so I don’t mind.”, Rachel explained. Ashley leaned closer and looked at the crotchet work. “Is the H for Howlett?”, Ashley asked. Landon finished pouring drinks and offered Rachel one. “Thanks Landon.”, she said taking a sip then shaking her head. “Actually no it’s for Hudson. This was my grandmother Howlett’s shawl from before she married my grandfather.”, Rachel explained. “So Hudson is named for your grandmother’s maiden name pretty interesting.”, Ashley commented nodding. Rachel nodded. “Apparently.”, Rachel commented. “Have either of you seen my little sister around?”, Landon asked looking to Ashley and Xavier. Ashley and Xavier shook their heads. “Nope haven’t seen her in a while actually.”, Ashley said. Landon sighed. “Rachel do you mind hanging with Ashley and Xavier while I go look for her. No one has seen her and it was some mystery guy that invited her so I’m just…”, Landon asked. “You’re worried about your sister, it’s alright. I’ll be fine here with Ashley and my cousin. Go find her make sure she is okay and that the boy isn’t dead either.”, Rachel said with a smile. “Thanks, I should be too long going to check the dance floor then the halls if needed.”, he said giving her a quick peck on the cheek and walking away.

Rachel lightly touched the cheek that he’d kissed and knew she was blushing and probably a shade of red to rival her cousin Rose’s hair. Ashley glanced to Xavier who just shook his head smiling trying to not laugh. None of them were really sure how to interpret the impromptu kiss on the cheek but Xavier had no intentions of mentioning it ever in the presence of his Uncle. Ashley and Xavier did however notice how bright red Rachel was turning. As Landon walked away he removed his jacket dropping it at the coat check, rolling up the sleeves to his white dress shirt showing off his Celtic tree of life sleeve tattoo on his right arm which to anyone who saw him instantly knew it was him by the tattoo. He started walking the dance floor looking for Cora Lee and her mystery date. Randomly stopping to ask if they’ve seen his little sister always getting a head shake. Atif noticed Landon moving around the dance floor. “Shit I need to go find Cora Lee. I’ll be right back alright.”, Atif said looking to Billy not really wanting to leave him. “How do you even know where to find her?”, Billy questioned. Atif smiled. “Simple day she got the dress in her locker I touched the dress saw my vision. I know who the mystery man is and I know where I’ll find them. And I better find them before Landon or mystery man is dead.”, Atif said giving Billy a quick kiss before ducking out into the hall way.

Atif stopped behind Malcolm and sighed. “Ahem…”, Atif coughed. Malcolm nearly dropped Cora Lee he pulled back from the kiss so fast. Cora Lee was startled as well and looked around Malcolm to see who it was her heart racing worried it was Landon. “Atif?”, Cora Lee said. “Yes Atif. Look I know you’ve been enjoying your make out session with Malcolm here, but Landon is currently combing the dance for you and if he doesn’t find you he’ll come out here and he sees this Malcolm is dead.”, Atif explained. Malcolm and Cora Lee both looked surprised. Malcolm turning to face Atif. “How..how did you know?”, Malcolm questioned. “Seer hello. It took one touch of that dress when Cora Lee found it in her locker to get a vision. I knew it was you, I didn’t say anything because it’s not my place to burst bubbles. Plus Cora Lee deserves to have a real first kiss with a guy who’s heterosexual and into her. Now masks on and back inside.”, Atif ordered. “So you aren’t going to tell him?”, Cora Lee questioned. Atif shook his head. “I lack a death wish thank you. Tell my best friend his baby sister was making out with Malcolm Durvo? Yeah if he didn’t kill me for knowing your dad would. Thank you very much but I don’t want to be turned into anything or have metal objects thrown at me.”, Atif said shaking his head as he walked back into the dance to find Billy. “At least he isn’t going to tell your brother.”, Malcolm said putting his mask back on. “Before we go back in. I just want to know, do you think this could be something? I mean beyond tonight?”, Cora Lee asked grabbing Malcolm’s arm. “I do. But I think for both our sakes it wouldn’t be something we could go public with.”, Malcolm said. Cora Lee sighed and nodded. “Yeah wouldn’t be too safe for either of us. But I want to try. Now let’s get back inside before Landon finds us.”, Cora Lee said putting her mask on and walking back inside holding Malcolm’s hand.

Landon instantly spotted her and went directly to her. “Where the hell have you been? And who’s mystery guy?”, Landon questioned. “Chill big bro. I can handle myself. We were just walking around getting some fresh air and talking where we could actually hear over the music. And well I haven’t figured it out yet. He’s kind of the silent type.”, Cora Lee stated. Malcolm nodded. “Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going to dance with my mystery man. Go find Rachel or something.”, Cora Lee said taking Malcolm by the hand and heading back to the dance floor. Malcolm watched as Landon walked away and as he scanned the dance floor he spotted Atif’s familiar red hair with a mask Malcolm had seen before. “That explains so much.”, Malcolm said quietly. “What explains what?”, Cora Lee asked. “Oh it’s nothing. I’m just glad your brother didn’t catch us. Don’t want anything to ruin tonight...”, Malcolm said pausing as he saw his roommate Merrick making his way to the refreshment table where Rachel was with Ashley and Xavier.

“What’s wrong?”, Cora Lee asked looking in the same direction she didn’t recognize who was approaching Rachel and the others. “Who’s that?”, Cora Lee asked. “It’s Merrick. I’d recognize my roommate anywhere. And he’s probably going to start problems.”, Malcolm sighed. “Merrick? Why can’t he just leave Rachel alone?”, Cora Lee said starting to walk away. Malcom reached out and grabbed her wrist shaking his head. “Don’t. Please don’t go over there. Merrick’s behavior isn’t acceptable I know but it’s also not really directed at Rachel she’s just a means to an end.”, Malcolm explained. “She’s my friend so I’ll go over there and make sure my own cousin leaves her alone.”, Cora Lee said trying to pull her arm free. “And what do you mean a means to an end?”, Cora Lee questioned. Malcolm sighed. “I don’t want you to go over there because it will ruin what time we have left tonight. Because you go over there it becomes a fight. It becomes a fight Merrick hits you, Merrick hits you I send a few thousand volts of lightening through him which blows my ‘mystery man’ gimmick out of the water.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee sighed having not thought about that part of it.

“Fine I won’t go over there, but explain what you meant about the means to an end.”, Cora Lee said. “Merrick doesn’t want Rachel, he doesn’t like her in any way. But he firmly believes that your brother does. And since your brother shows Rachel such favor he figures the easiest way to go to Landon is through her.”, Malcolm explained. Cora Lee raised an eyebrow and had to cover her mouth to stop from laughing. “That makes zero sense. My brother doesn’t see Rachel as more than a friend, he doesn’t see any girl as more than a friend. And why does Merrick have such an issue with Landon? Landon has only ever said something or done something to Merrick when Merrick started it.”, Cora Lee questioned. “Wait so your brother likes guys then?”, Malcolm questioned a bit confused. “No he doesn’t like guys. Landon just seems asexual. I’ve yet to see him show a romantic interest in anyone. Now answer my question why does Merrick have beef with my big brother.”, Cora Lee said trying to get the subject back on track. “Envy I think is the easiest way to describe it.”, Malcolm answered. “Envy?”, Cora Lee questioned.

Malcolm sighed. “Merrick is the oldest at the Academy, having a couple seconds on Josalyn, since Lily moved out. Which you’d think as the oldest he’d be the one the rest of us look to, but we don’t. We look to my cousin William, because he is Wanda’s first born son and truly the most powerful of us. So Merrick feels inferior to William, he is older but his power set is considered less powerful and being the illegitimate son of Kim and a human doesn’t help his cause in the regards of gaining respect of the other Academy kids. But he can’t challenge William for that alpha spot because he knows William would destroy him. So he has to channel that anger elsewhere.”, Malcolm explained. “But why my brother? Who is just as powerful as William.”, Cora Lee countered. Malcolm nodded. “Yes your brother is a powerful mutant. But that just adds to Merrick’s envy. Landon is the leader of you all. I know you have teams and a number of you are ‘leaders’ but all of you follow Landon. Landon gets the respect Merrick wants. Then there’s the hurt Merrick doesn’t want to talk about, the hurt that he feels about Lily. He really thinks that your brother has replaced him to his own triplet. So Merrick’s made it his mission to prove himself against Landon. He doesn’t think a direct challenge would go well so he tries indirect ways to get Landon to fight him. And with how your brother favors Rachel and that she has no powers to defend herself with she became the bait.”, Malcolm explained. Cora lee sighed not really sure how to feel about that. She was angry of course that Merrick was using Rachel to bait Landon. Yet it was a little depressing that Merrick though Landon had replaced him as a brother to Lily, she’d be mad if someone replaced her sister status to Landon. But another thought crept into her mind what if Merrick was right, what if the reason her brother was so nice to Rachel was that he actually liked her.

Merrick made his way through the crowd walking up behind where Rachel was standing talking to Xavier and Ashley. Merrick paused for a moment considering his strategy. He removed his mask, tucking it into his jacket pocket and looked over the floor with his green-blue eyes and smiled when he spotted Landon who was making his way over but kept being stopped by people wanting to talk to him. So now was Merrick’s chance to finally start the fight he’d been wanting basically his whole life. He just had to decide how he wanted to approach this situation. He decided the direct approach would be the most effective. He took a breath and continued on his path, purposely grabbing Rachel’s ass as he walked by before grabbing her wrist. “Who knew you could actually pull off a dress like that. Your dad let you out the door dressed this way? Impressive. So since Prince Charming is around, dance with me.”, Merrick said trying to pull Rachel to the dance floor. Rachel jumped startled and outraged when someone grabbed her and when she saw it was Merrick was even more outraged. “Let me go NOW!”, Rachel demanded trying to pull her arm away from Merrick’s grip. “I do not want to dance with you now leave me alone.”, Rachel insisted.

“You know you keep saying ‘no’ but I just don’t believe you and I’m starting to have my feelings hurt here.”, Merrick joked his grip tightening on her wrists temporarily using the animal strength of one of his favorite shapes, a silverback gorilla to keep hold of her. Xavier dropped his drink and started to try and pry Merrick’s hand away. “My cousin said to leave her alone. Take the hint Merrick. No means no, baka yarou.”, Xavier shouted swearing at Merrick in Japanese calling him a stupid asshole. “Stay out of it human.”, Merrick said punching Xavier square in the jaw knocking him back. Ashley quickly caught Xavier and helped him lean on the punch table. Ashley turned to look at Merrick her emerald eyes lighting up with anger. “You little jackass…”, Ashley growled. Landon had noticed from a distance something was wrong as someone approached Rachel and the others and then he realized who it was. “Merrick…”, he grumbled pushing through the crowd.

Merrick raised his hand again to hit Ashley but Landon grabbed his fist. “Anyone else having a case of déjà vu? Let Rachel go NOW!”, Landon demanded. Merrick smirked. “Oh Prince Charming is back again to rescue his damsel in distress.”, Merrick mocked letting Rachel’s wrist go. Rachel stayed back rubbing her wrist as she checked on her cousin. “Xavier? Are you alright?”, she asked. Xavier nodded. “I’m fine. Are you?”, Xavier asked. Rachel nodded. “I’m not looking for fight Merrick. I promised no fights tonight and I meant it. Now just walk away.”, Landon insisted. “I don’t think so cousin.”, Merrick said his face distorted with anger and hate as he slammed his free hand into Landon’s ribs. Landon moved his other arm to block but was too late, he didn’t show pain though he’d been trained well enough to control pain. “I said I’m not fighting now leave us alone.”, Landon repeated. “I made no such fucking promise.”, Ashley yelled before slamming her fist into Merrick’s face. “That’s for Xavier.”, Ashley said. “Back down Ashley. I’ve got this.”, Landon said glancing to her. Ashley sighed but nodded turning to make sure that Rachel and Xavier were alright. Merrick continued with a flurry of punches, most Landon blocked for ducked but some occasionally landing. Thinking he had the upper hand Merrick managed to pin Landon to the ground trying to punch at his face, while Landon blocked. Landon turned his head to look over at Rachel. “Can I fight now please?”, Landon asked. Rachel nodded. “I just didn’t want you to start fights, I said nothing about finishing them.”, Rachel said rubbing her wrist which still hurt.

Landon smiled. “About time. Now let’s see who’s better trained cousin.”, Landon said bringing his legs up and using Merrick’s own weight against him to kick him back. Landon quickly got to his feet. “I’m not going to hold back now.”, Landon said as he dusted off his dress slacks. Merrick scrambled to his feet letting his hate blind him. He started throwing punches again, but now Landon wasn’t just blocking he was countering and landing a number of punches on Merrick’s torso. But then with one solid punch at the center of Merrick’s face Landon broke his nose. “Hey what’s going on over there?!”, a teacher shouted noticing the brawl and making their way over as a crowd had formed to watch the two cousins fight almost all cheering Landon’s name. Atif and Lily pulled themselves away from their dates wanting to find out what was happening, Rose also raced over with Mike not far behind her. Merrick stumbled back holding his nose as blood flowed. “This isn’t over Landon. Next time there won’t be any teachers to interrupt.”, Merrick said before shoving his way through the crowd and out the gym doors.