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During the holiday break the rumor mill was fast at work amongst the youth of Bayville. People were talking about the masquerade ball all over town. Some were only talking about the fight that broke out between Merrick and Landon and wondering what it was about. Others were making their speculations about some of the relationship statuses of those who before that night everyone saw as just friends. There were a few also trying to guess on who was behind a few of the masks in the room. No one had managed to figure out who was behind the masks of Lily Shadow, Atif Alston, and Cora lee Bryant’s dates. Though speculation was that at least Cora Lee’s date had a short life span before her big brother beat him up for making out with his sister at the dance. Any speculation about Rose Howlett and Mike Hagen was shot in the foot when it was found out, by a ‘reliable’ source that when Mike drove her home and went for a good night kiss he got denied hard. For Sherry, Kathy, and Daphne, a trio of rabid Meddling Kids fans, their speculations focused only on Landon Bryant their only reason for liking Meddling Kids. They were buzzing and talking with other friends about Landon and Rachel at the dance and Sherry even showed concern with how he danced with his lead guitarist Rose at the dance when no one else was allowed to take a slot on his dance card. As rumors of course go they traveled quickly and found their way to the ear of someone who knows Rachel and Landon.

Blaire Delaney was stretched out on her bed, hanging upside down with her long silky black hair hovering just above the plush pale blue circular rug that was positioned just under her bed. She had her phone to her ear listening intently. “What who said what about Rachel Howlett?”, Blaire questioned. She rolled to her stomach thinking maybe the blood rushing to her head had caused her to not hear her friend Jennie correctly. “You heard me. I heard from Alice who heard from Laura, who heard from Mary, who heard from Sherry that Rachel and Landon are an item.”, Jennie repeated. “No way. Just no way. Rachel would have called me. She would have told me if she had a boyfriend and she sure the hell would have told me if she was dating Landon Bryant.”, Blaire said shaking her head. “Well she showed up to the dance with him. They had matching masks, they danced practically all night and reports say were rather ‘cozy’ even whispering lovey stuff in each other’s ears. He even gave her a rather fancy gold bracelet. Plus Sherry saw him kiss her twice!”, Jennie defended. Blaire was still shaking her head. “There must be some kind of misunderstanding. This isn’t something Rachel would not tell me.”, Blaire said still in disbelief. “We all know her dad wouldn’t approve of her dating Landon. He’s older, has tattoos, and is a band. Not really ideal prospect for daddy’s perfect princess. So of course she’d want to keep it quiet.”, Jennie countered. “No way would she keep a secret from me. You know what I’m going to call her and invite her over to ask her myself. No grape vine stories. I want facts. I’ll call you later.”, Blaire said hanging up.

Blaire quickly dialed Rachel’s cell. “Come on pick up Rach…”, Blaire said impatient at the second ring. On the third she at least got an answer .”Hey Blaire. What’s going on?”, Rachel greeted her caller id having told her who was calling. “Hi Rachel. I wanted to know if you’d like to come hang out at the beach house with me? Mom’s at court and dad took Carter out to watch a basketball game in the city. So I’m going out of my mind with boredom.”, Blaire questioned. Rachel laughed. “I can ask dad, though no supervision…”, Rachel said concerned. “We are thirteen and legally old enough to be left home alone. Plus Atif and Ashley are literally next door with Darren while Aunt Sadria and Uncle Azriel are out on a day date. So my cousins are supposed to check in on me. Thus ‘supervision’. Go ask.”, Blaire insisted. Rachel laughed. “Alright alright.”, Rachel agreed walking downstairs to her father’s office. But he wasn’t in his office so she looked for her mom and found her making tea in the kitchen. “Hey mom it’s Blaire on the phone. She wants to know if I could come over to hang out.”, Rachel inquired. “Are Alison and Colby home?”, Sarael asked sipping her tea. “No Mrs. Delaney is at court and Mr. Delaney took Carter to a basketball game in the city. However Ashley and Atif are right next door and are checking up on her acting as her ‘adult’ supervision.”, Rachel explained. “Please mom? I don’t get to hang out with Blaire as much since I skipped grades and got into high school before her. And she’s really the only person I know that really understands the whole human born to famous mutant deal.”, Rachel added. Sarael sighed. “Alright fine. I’ll drop you off. Let me just let Xavier know I’m heading out so he can keep any eye on Jimmy.”, Sarael said heading for the stairs. “Alright Blaire I’ll be their shortly.”, Rachel said. “YAY! Then you get to fill me in on all the stuff my cousins didn’t tell me about that dance. See you soon.”, Blaire said hanging up.

Sarael stopped at the bottom of the stairs. “Xavier! Jimmy! I’m going out for a minute to drop Rachel off at the Delaney’s house. I’ll be right back.”, Sarael called up. Xavier hearing the name ‘Delaney’ quickly rushed from his room to peek down the stairs. “Rachel’s going to Ashley’s?”, Xavier questioned. “No not that Delaney house. She’s going to visit her friend Blaire.”, Sarael said shaking her head. “Oh. Alright. Jimmy and I will be fine we are playing video games up here in my room Aunt Sarael.”, Xavier said heading back to the room and picking up his controller. “So she’s not going to your girlfriend’s house so instead you stay here with me?”, Jimmy teased. Xavier smirked and pulled Jimmy into a headlock and gave him a noogie. “You may have powers like Uncle John and my grandfather but doesn’t mean I can’t still give you a noogie. Ashley isn’t my girlfriend, yet.”, Xavier said with a laugh. “Let me go.”, Jimmy demanded trying to push Xavier’s arm away and holding back just because he didn’t want to hurt his cousin. Xavier let him go and couldn’t help but laugh as he looked at Jimmy with his scruffy brown hair and the staple Howlett blue eyes. Xavier couldn’t remember his grandfather’s face, but he’d seen pictures so he knew that other than the facial hair and Jimmy having a dark complexion due to his Egyptian heritage he was the spitting image of his grandfather James Logan Howlett. Jimmy growled a little before picking up his controller again. “Come on I want to get back to kicking your ass in Street Fighter.”, Jimmy said with a smirk. “You’re on little cousin.”, Xavier said. Sarael just chuckled as she heard the sounds of the video game start again.

Rachel was already slipping her military style front close waist length black wool jacket on over her turquoise empire waist top with its crocheted accent along the bust line. Sarael noticed that the bracelet Landon had given her was still on her arm. “The mark’s gone right?”, Sarael asked. Rachel looked down at her left arm before slipping it into her jacket. “Yeah, I just really like the bracelet.”, Rachel explained with a smile before sitting down on a bench to pull her black riding boots on over her dark washed skinny jeans. “Alright. So you ready?”, Sarael asked zipping up her winter jacket. Rachel nodded. “Yup.”, Rachel said following her mom out to the car to drive to the small beach house community where only the Delaney brothers lived year round. During the summer months the place was packed with people but now as Sarael pulled into a spot outside Colby and Ailson’s beach house there wasn’t a car to be seen. “Thanks for dropping me off mom. I’ll call when I’m ready to come home if Mrs. Or Mr. Delaney haven’t gotten home by then to take me.”, Rachel said getting out of the car. “Have fun.”, Sarael said waving before pulling out to drive back home. Rachel knocked on the door and was quickly pulled inside by Blaire. “Damn it’s cold out there. Some days I hate living at the beach. Only some days though.”, Blaire said with her signature Blaire grin on her thin lips.

Rachel laughed shaking her head as she removed her boots and jacket and placed them in the coat closet by the door. As soon as she turned Blaire’s blue eyes were locked on the bracelet. “So that’s it huh?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel raised an eyebrow before looking down at the bracelet. “How do you know about this?”, Rachel asked pointing. “Jennie called me. She told me a few things she heard via the grape vine. Which I of course took with a grain of sand, like I take everything Jennie tells me unless it actually happened to her.”, Blaire explained with a grin. “So can I look at it?”, Blaire asked. “You know me and jewelry.”, Blaire added. Rachel nodded extending her arm. “Take a look.”, Rachel said. Blaire looked over every detail of the bracelet with great interest. “Gold, about 14 karat, I count over five dozen very small…not diamonds but…white sapphires… and then what is this word? You know I don’t read Arabic.”, Blaire said giving her official appraisal. The benefits of her mom being who she is Blaire learned early about jewelry and identifying fake from real. Rachel blinked not having realized exactly what Landon had given her. “Um..it’s joy.”, Rachel explained. “Which let me think, your middle name means Joy. Damn this boy is too much. You did get this from Landon correct? Or is my source wrong?”, Blaire questioned. “Umm well yes Landon made it for me at the dance to well I’ll explain it later.”, Rachel explained. “Made? Out of what?”, Blaire questioned. “An apple from his locker..”, Rachel answers. “Damn. Boy can take an apple and make gold and white sapphires. Thousands of years alchemists have tried to find ways to turn things like iron or other metals into gold and never succeeded. One boy with mutant powers to manipulate organic material into anything he wants can make an apple into gold. There are days I wish I had powers..”, Blaire said with a smile as she headed over to the kitchen area as the tea kettle started to sound.

Rachel followed and jumped onto one of the stools at the island. “Yeah it’s rather impressive what he can do. I didn’t think it was real gold or anything.”, Rachel said looking down at the bracelet as it sparkled under the hanging lights. Blaire put two mugs on the counter and opened two packs of hot coco and pour them in followed by the hot water from the tea kettle. “Alright so you better start talking sister. I want to hear every tiny detail from the beginning. I didn’t get to go to this, miss I’m going to skip grades.”, Blaire said stirring the coco and adding marshmallows before sliding one across the island to Rachel and caring hers to sit down next to her on the other stool. Blaire took a sip of her coco and looked at Rachel intently. Rachel smiled before taking a sip and sighed. “Alright so I guess I start with how I ended up going with Landon to the dance.”, Rachel said taking another sip. “Good place to start since you’d been turning down every guy in that school.”, Blaire said with a smirk. “Well Merrick had cornered me about going with him. I of course was continuing to refuse his invitation. Landon stepped in and got Merrick to leave me alone by saying he was taking me to the dance.”, Rachel explained. “I assumed he was just telling a lie to get Merrick to leave me alone. But apparently Landon hadn’t asked anyone else and had refused the other girls who’d ask. So he asked me to go since we are friends.”, Rachel added taking another sip of her coco. “Friends? Yeah because friends give friends bracelets like that.”, Blaire said pointing to the bracelet. Rachel blushed. “Who’s telling the story here?”, Rachel said shaking her head. “Fine fine. Please continue.”, Blaire insisted.

“Alright so he officially asked me, dad agreed to let me go and after a miss understanding about Merrick being the bully he usually is dad even paid for my dress. It was amazing. I’ll have to show you it and pictures. You’d have loved it. White and fitted with some rousing on the top, a gold flower design just up the left side, sweetheart neckline and one shoulder. I have never bought a dress like this but I was shopping with mom and she saw it and insisted I try it on. I did and when I looked in that mirror. I seriously could believe I’m beautiful. It was empowering.”, Rachel said explaining her dress. Blaire smiled. “Sounds spectacular. It’s about time you came around to realize you are beautiful. Alright so you had kick ass dress. Keep going edge of my seat here girl.”, Blaire said motioning with her hand to keep talking. “So night of the dance Landon showed up the house to get me. And alright, I’ll say it, he looked soo good. He had this great black suit set with a gold tie and white button up to go with my dress. The tips of the wings to his crow and raven were just visible above the collar.”, Rachel described with a smile. Blaire nodded sipping her coco. “He made me a beautiful wrist corsage. It was a gold daylily with this white henna pattern in the petals. I saved it of course. But it’s soo beautiful and smelled better than any daylily I’ve ever seen. And he was going to bring my mask and instead of buying one he made me one on the spot.”, Rachel explained. “On to spot? Explain.”, Blaire insisted. “Well..”, Rachel said blushing. “He took a petal of the same type of daylily he’d made for my corsage and a scrap of sheet music. Well not just sheet music it was the sheet music for Waterfall which is the first song I played at a recital. And he placed his hands over my face and with his powers he fused the sheet music and petal to make me a gorgeous white and gold mask that matched his and had pits of the sheet music imbedded in it.”, Rachel explained. “Wow. Like seriously wow. When do I get to find a guy that thoughtful?”, Blaire asked.

“So then mom of course took our pictures and we went to the dance. He is such a good dancer. I would never have guess it. But apparently Demitri taught him to dance and he’s got moves.”, Rachel gushed. “Ooo. Nice. A man that can dance is the best kind. So how good are we talking?”, Blaire asked. Rachel blushed. “He had a strong frame and was a great leader. Even twirled and dipped me a few times. And then there were slow songs where I got to be real close to him. I would never have imagined I’d be close enough to him that I could literally rest my head on him.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “Is he a cologne guy?”, Blaire asked. Rachel shook her head. “No. But he smelled amazing anyways. Then we drank some punch with Xavier and Ashley. He was trying to find Cora Lee because she had a secret admirer invite her and he didn’t trust the mystery guy. And since no one had seen her he went to go find her. But he did kiss my cheek before he walked away to find her.”, Rachel said turning a soft shade of red just thinking about it. Blaire covered her mouth. “Really? Oh wow. I’m liking this already. Keep going.”, Blaire insisted. “Well the next part isn’t all that nice. Merrick decided with Landon not right at my side he should harass me. I don’t want to give details or think about it. But he left a bruise on my wrist, he punched Xavier who tried to help me. Then he was going to punch Ashley who tried to stop him. Landon however stepped in and because I made him promise no fights didn’t fight back just blocked Merrick’s attacks till I said it was alright to fight back. Then Landon got him rather good in the nose I think he broke it.”, Rachel explained. Blaire frowned. “What a douche, glad Landon was there. But why didn’t you defend yourself. Our dads have taught us to fight.”, Blaire questioned. Rachel looked down. “You were too scared? It’s alright.”, Blaire said hugging her friend. “Did the dance get better after that at least?”, Blaire asked.

Rachel nodded. “Yeah. All the others came over to find out what happened with the fight and the teacher who broke it up even asked if I wanted to file a report. But I don’t want my dad to know what happened so I didn’t. But Landon saw I was on the verge of tears and escorted me to the hallway and gave me his jacket while he looked for tissues in his locker.”, Rachel explained with a sigh. “Aww how sweet I might need a dentist after this. But please continue cause I’m on the edge of my stool.”, Blaire giggled. “Well he noticed the bruise on my wrist and took the apple from his locker and made me this to hide it so I wouldn’t have to explain to the others about the mark. Then he escorted me back inside and we danced again. I asked why he didn’t have a girlfriend. He said he didn’t think he’s boyfriend material, using the whole mutant x-men scenario as an excuse. Which we both know mutants and x-men can find love and live happily ever after.”, Rachel said. Blaire nodded. “Heck yeah living proof right here.”, Blaire giggled pointing at herself and then Rachel. “Well he did admit there are a couple girls he likes but just hasn’t apparently had the nerve to tell them. And I’m kind of thinking I might be one. But I’m not sure. He was super nice all night and well when I tried to get down on myself for not being special he gave this great speech even using my full name and listed all the good qualities about me.”, Rachel explained. “Awe.”, Blaire said placing a hand over her heart. “Then we took a break from dancing and I decided to try and help Rose out. Her date Mike was a really bad dancer and Rose always tries to lead when dancing which doesn’t work. So we switched and I was going to dance with Mike and Rose dance with Landon. However I apparently said something about him being free for dancing too loudly. Because Sherry, Kathy, and Daphne appeared out of nowhere wanting to dance with him next. I explained I only said he could dance with Rose but otherwise his dance card was full. They left and he thanked me, called me his hero and kissed my cheek again.”, Rachel said the blush not fading.

“Nice. So how bad was Mike of a dancer?”, Blaire asked. “Not too bad once he learned the count and the fact I wasn’t trying to lead did help. But I cut out dance card short because I wanted to call my mom to drive me home. I’d promised I would tell her if Merrick did anything and I didn’t want dad to hear.”, Rachel explained. “Fair enough. Landon was okay with you ditching him for the last part of the dance?”, Blaire asked. “Well he came out and he found me. I explained why I was having my mom drive me home. And he was alright with it because he knew I needed to tell my mom what happened. But before I left we all did a picture, Ashley even convinced Lily, Atif, and Cora Lee’s mystery dates to be in the photo promising them they could keep their masks on and not have to talk. I brought the picture to show you.”, Rachel said getting up and digging into her jacket pocket and walking back over with a 5x7 photo of the group. Blaire looked at the picture and smiled. “Awe my cousins look so adorable. And oh my god Rachel that dress is fantastic.”, Blaire gushed. “And based on body language those may have been mystery dates but my money says that they are much more than some guys. Atif has a boyfriend. How cute! And Ashley has totally fallen for your cousin Xavier. Boy better just ask her to date him already.”, Blaire said. “Ooo..I feel so bad for Mike in this picture.”, Blaire commented making a face. “Why?”, Rachel asked. “Look at him, he is trying to be close to Rose like the other guys are but Rose is having none of it. You and Landon look rather cozy though.”, Blaire said handing the picture back. Rachel blushed. “Yeah he walked me outside at the end of the night and kissed my cheek again goodnight. So now I just need help. Cause I can’t tell is he into me or not?”, Rachel said looking for another opinion having told the story.

“Hmmm. It’s really hard to read.”, Blaire said standing up starting to walk back and forth as she thought. “So he asked you when he had a school full of girls he could ask. But that gets overshadowed by the fact his cousin was asking you and being a dirt bag. But then the thought and careful consideration he put into the corsage and the mask. Those are securely in the into you column. Because he could have bought a corsage, he works at a flower shop and he could have gotten a store bought mask. Instead he put careful thought and consideration into the corsage and mask. Then there’s the dancing which could go either way but he didn’t try to keep his distance during the dance so that is a positive. Then how he defended your honor, sure that’s just Landon being Landon he’s total class A hero material. But he held back in the fight because he promised you and only finished the fight because you gave him the okay. So point to into you column. Then the bracelet yes made to hide a bruise but he could have easily of made you a fake piece of jewelry and instead put in the effort to make it real and to even put the Arabic word ‘joy’ on it just for you. Totally into you points there. He listed your good qualities which means he sees them. So another point. He kissed you three times. Sure they were on the cheek which would be the not into you column but, he could just be shy about it since he said he likes a couple girls but hasn’t been able to tell them. God he’s so hard to read. I wish I could just ask Hope to read his mind, but he’s got a block up that Jean placed on him at his request.”, Blaire said frowning. Rachel sighed. “Yeah that’s my issue. I just can’t tell if he’s just being this super awesome nice friend or something more. Guess I’ll have to wait and see.”, Rachel said. Blaire frowned. “Why not just come right out and ask him? Or make a move yourself?”, Blaire suggested. Rachel turned as bright red as her complexion would allow. “I couldn’t..I couldn’t do that. I’m not as..”, Rachel said looking for the words. “Blunt? Forward? As I am? This is true.”, Blaire said with a grin. Rachel nodded. “Yeah, basically. I can’t just ask him and certainly couldn’t make a move.”, Rachel said. Though her own shyness was only part of her issue. He had told her about the vision Atif had, and knew that with his potential death looming over his head he wasn’t ready to be with someone in that way.

“So other than the excitement of the ball how has your holiday been?”, Blaire inquired. “Um well it’s been good. We went to visit Hudson in Mandipoor with the whole family for Christmas day. Oh and the day after the dance I got an in person actual apology for Merrick about his behavior and a promise in front of his mom that he would leave me alone.”, Rachel said casually. Blaire blinked in disbelief. “What? Merrick apologized to you? And his mom was there?”, Blaire questioned. “Yup. I’m not sure who told her, I’m going to guess it was my mom. But apparently she found out how he treated me before and at the dance. And it must have struck a nerve because she showed up at our house and he apologized to my whole family. And based on the look on his face and in his eyes he actually meant it. I’m not sure what his mom said to him, but whatever it was it made him actually feel genuinely sorry for his actions. So I’m hoping he can keep his promise when the holiday break is over and we are back at school. It’s be nice to walk down a hallway not worrying if he’s going to be around the corner to knock my books out of my hand or say something inappropriate to me.”, Rachel explained. “Impressive. So you’ve had an awesome holiday break so far. You’ve been given some rather nice things and got to dance with your crush then you get an apology and a promise to no longer be bothered by your bully. Merry Christmas to you.”, Blaire teased with a grin. Rachel smiled. “Yeah, when you put it that way I have had a great holiday break.”, Rachel admitted. “Oooh speaking of holiday break and having a good time.”, Blaire said jumping off her stool and digging through a bin of mail. “Ah ha. Here it is.”, Blaire said pulling out a dark embossed black envelope from the stack.

Rachel raised an eyebrow in question. Blaire opened the envelope and pulled out a black and white card. “Eat, Drink & Be Merry. 2023 Will Be Ours! Please Join Us at the Draven Teen Nightclub for a Night to Remember. Doors open at 7pm December31st and ends at 2:00am January 1st . Live Music provided by Meddling Kids.”, Blaire read. “I got this in the mail the other day. It’s a Nightmare Before Christmas themed New Year’s party. Not surprised of the theme given Landon’s dad is one of the owners. I’ve already talked to my mom and dad and since it’s at the Draven they said I can go. Did you get one or did you never sign up for their mailing list?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel shook her head. “I don’t think I ever signed up. But I think I remember Rose mentioning she had plans for New Years Eve. Guess this answers it.”, Rachel said with a shrug. “Well you should ask your parents if you can come. It’s New Years Eve and we are teenagers. We shouldn’t be home with them watching the ball drop on the TV.”, Blaire insisted. Rachel shrugged. “I don’t know. I mean dad might let me since it’s at the club and therefore there are adults around. So I’ll ask tonight when I get home. Alright?”, Rachel concluded. “Fine but they better say yes because come on this sounds too fun to pass up. I’ve already talked Bianca, Gabriel, and Hope into coming. Though Bianca wasn’t a tough sell since her dad is part owner. So you have to come because it’s like weekends, nights when you aren’t studying or at work and breaks that we really get to see you anymore since you skipped grades and got into high school for the rest of us.”, Blaire added.

Rachel nodded. “I know and I feel terrible in a way. I miss you guys a lot. But graduating early and getting to take these AP classes is really getting me ready for college and helping me figure out what I want to do with my life.”, Rachel said. “And what’s that other than become Mrs. Landon Bryant?”, Blaire teased. Rachel playfully shoved Blaire. “I’m actually finding ancient civilizations really interesting. I guess it’s in my DNA cause I might actually become an archeologist like my Aunt and Uncle.”, Rachel explained. “Very cool. Doesn’t Landon love history and all that?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel nodded. “Yeah he wants to be a history teacher.”, Rachel answered. “Nice see another good reason you two could work you both are history aficionados.”, Blaire teased. Rachel blushed. “Seriously let’s just not talk about Landon. Because I don’t think it will ever go anywhere.”, Rachel said with a sigh. Blaire frowned but nodded. “Alright. So now you need to come to my closet and help me decide what I’m wearing to this New Years Eve party. Because god damn it I’m finding a cute boy for my midnight kiss.”, Blaire said grabbing Rachel by the hand and rushing to her bedroom and flinging open her closet doors that were packed with dresses, skirts, pants, and tops. The rest of the afternoon for Rachel and Blaire was a fun mini fashion show of Blaire trying on different outfits to get Rachel’s opinion.

Across town at the Haven in the space above the garage which David and turned into the kid’s practice/hang out space sat the Meddling Kids; Rose, Cora Lee, and Landon. Landon was swiveling left and right on his drum stool spinning his sticks absent mindedly. “Alright guys we agreed to play this for my dad. So what do we want to play? We are supposed to play the three two hour sets. Ricky is going to DJ between our sets giving us a much needed break and time to enjoy ourselves too. But we need to figure out what we are playing to fill six hours.”, Landon said looking for Rose who was adjusting her guitar to Cora Lee who was moving her hand over her strings, not touching them yet still playing random notes. “We know it’s just we haven’t play six hours before.”, Cora Lee said sighing. “Well I’m sure between the three of us we can figure out six hours worth of music we can play. Come one we have a very eclectic set of tastes.”, Landon said. “Yeah but as a band we only have three songs we’ve written ourselves so everything else would be a cover.”, Rose said. “Alright so we have three songs, each ones is about three minutes. We’ll split our original work up between the sets. So we still have 351 minutes to fill. Just start calling out tracks and we can figure this out.”, Landon said. “You’re so smart why don’t you start Landon.”, Cora Lee said sticking her tongue out at him. “Alright fine. How about some Ramones. I say Blitzkrieg Bob, Let’s Dance, Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment, California Sun, Rockaway Beach, I Wanna Be Sedated, and Somebody to Love. To in total with those songs that uses up just short of 14 minutes. So now we still need to fill 337-ish minutes. Give options girls.”, Landon said rattling off the list of tracks he liked and knew they could play.

Cora Lee pondered for a moment. “Alright so how about some Kamelot. I say based on our vocals we go with Scarimony, Falling Like the Farenheit, Veritas, Prodigal Son, Ghost Opera, March of Mephisto, and The Human Stain.”, Cora Lee listed. Landon nodded. “Alright so that uses about 36 minutes. So we still have just over 301 minutes to fill.”, Landon said with a sigh. Cora Lee looked to Rose. “Alright you through out some tracks.”, Cora Lee teased. “Fine. How about some Sara Bareilles. Love Song, Between the Lines, Uncharted, Basket Case, Brave, Chasing the Sun, and Little Black Dress.”, Rose suggested. Landon mentally added it up. “So that’s another 26 minutes. 275 to go. So let’s throw some Atreyu in. Wait for You, Congregation of the Damned, Slow Burn, Epic, Honor, Your Private War, and So Others May Live. That gives us another 26 minutes down. How about a couple Hozier songs like Take Me to Church, From Eden, In a Week, and Like Real People Do. That uses another 17 minutes. So we have another 284 to go.”, Landon said with a sigh. It took them over an hour to list out enough tracks to play for all three sets. “God damn we are covering a huge spectrum. Ramones, Kamelot, Sara Barelles, Atreyu, Hozier, Panic at the Disco, Beatles, Rolling Stones, Maroon Five, Miles Davis, Billie Holiday, Nirvana, Jet, Fall Out Boy, Faith No More, The Clash, Pixies, Muse, P!nk, Johnny Cash, Craig Morgan, Lady Antibellum, Rascal Flats, Carrie Underwood, and Miranda Lambert. Plus our original songs. Seriously we have music ADHD.”, Landon joked laughing as he listed off all the bands they were going to cover for the gig.

“Well what are we waiting for. Some of these we need to change up to fit our instruments.”, Rose said. “Alright let me pull up the sheet music for some of these on my tablet and see what we can do to change them up.”, Landon said getting up and grabbing his tablet before plopping onto the old sofa. Cora Lee set her bass down and sat on his right and Rose set her guitar down and sat close on his left to look at the screen. “Alright take a look. We’ll have to change the key for this one to meet your vocals.”, Landon said starting to make changed on his tablet. Rose reached past him to make a change as well. “And here we need to change it up a little since we’re adding drums so I think this will work.”, Rose said making her change. Landon nodded trying to not think about the fact she was practically on his lap as she made changes on the tablet. “Oh and we can do this to this track.”, Cora Lee said taking the tablet and swiping her finger around moving parts of the song around and adding new notes. “I don’t want us to just cover these songs. I think we need to put the Meddling Kids stamp on them.”, Cora Lee explained as she continued to make her changes to the various electronic pages of sheet music. “Did I mention that when you die I’m taking your tablet because you got the cool tech on here.”, Cora Lee teased. Landon sighed but tried to play it off. Mentally though his mind was thinking it might not be too long before that time comes. “No way. I’m being buried with that thing.”, Landon teased back. Cora Lee stuck her tongue out at him again. “Brat.”, she declared making some additional changes. “There we go. All set. Let’s practice.”, Cora lee said tossing the tablet back onto her brother’s lap and racing to get her bass guitar. “Let’s get to it then.”, Rose said pushing herself up using Landon’s knee before grabbing her guitar. Landon smirked and shook his head. “Alright so let’s start with this one.”, He said and with a touch of his screen he pushed the needed sheet music to the screens on the stands by their instruments. “Have I mentioned loving that Forge hooked us up?”, Cora Lee asked strapping on her bass as she looked over the holographic screen in front of her. “It does pay to know the guy.”, Rose said. “Yeah no let’s start.”, Landon said. And for the rest of the afternoon and the next three days the muffled sounds of music could be heard outside of the garage.

Finally the night had come for the Draven’s New Year’s party. The whole club was decked out with black and white giving a subtle nod to the Nightmare Before Christmas theme. David was behind the bar double checking that it was stocked with enough non-alcoholic beverages for the night. Demitri was in the kitchen making sure the staff was ready to keep the food going through the party. Mikali was checking security to make sure everything was set there, his own daughter was going to be there that night so no trouble was going to be tolerated. Landon, Cora Lee and Rose were up on the stage setting up their instruments. Landon was dressed simple in black slacks, black button up shirt, a crisp white tie, and a pair of vintage black and white ‘tuxedue’ dress shoes for the night. He had his sleeves rolled up while he set up his drum kit and started drumming a little to test and make sure everything was in order. He was just happy this was an event he didn’t need to find a date for. It’d been difficult enough o find someone for the holiday masquerade ball. Though he had a lot of fun that night with Rachel. But seeing her as a young woman and not just some kid made things a little weirder and more difficult. He still didn’t know why he’d trusted her enough to tell her about the vision. A vision he hadn’t told anyone else. Sure he told Isis, but that was in a confidential session he had to attend after the whole turning his step-father into a shit flavored lollipop. Telling Rachel was very different from that. He hadn’t told any of his friends about it. Atif and Ashley were the only two that knew. And Ashley only knew because Atif told her. As he tested out his drums his ocean blue eyes glanced to his band mates who had no clue that sometime in the future, possibly soon, he was going to be gone.

His little sister Cora Lee was busy using her metal manipulation powers to carefully adjust the steel core strings of her bass. Her long purple hair was pulled up into a braided bun that looked very much like a flower even with a crystal pin at the center. It was impressive what Jean was able to do to his sister’s hair when she sat still. Though some of the unruly purple tendrils were escaping near the right side of her face. They’d all agreed to wear black and white to go with the party’s theme. He didn’t like to admit that his baby sister was growing up, but she did look rather grown up in her sleeveless tuxedo lace fit and flare knee length dress and her black studded point toe heels. She was almost as tall as him when she wore the heels. He knew when the time came and he had to tell her or he was already gone she was going to be so angry that him. Then he looked to the left side of the stage at his guitarist, Rose. She was busy checking her guitar and making sure it was perfectly in tune for the long night of playing they had ahead. He’d wanted to tell her how amazing she looked in her sleeveless knee length dress. To say how the skirt being the pure white and the top being the black lace over the white looked incredible against her pale skin and was a great contrast to her deep red hair. She’d even sat still for Jean to do her hair into a kind of loose side bun but with a rather intricate and almost Celtic knot design in the hair that swooped from the top of her head down to the bun. It looked amazing on her. Though it showed how close of friends her and Cora Lee were since they’d both fallen in love with the same pair of black studded point toe heels. She’s looked a lot older and more mature than one would assume when they saw her hair in a messy pony tail and dingy ripped jeans and a tee-shirt. But of course he kept his opinion to himself, he couldn’t bring himself to really fall for someone when he knew his time was going to be short. It just wouldn’t be fair. Landon returned his attention to his drum tightening the skins a little to get the right sound for the night.

Landon wasn’t the only one of the band looking around rather than just focusing on their instrument. Cora Lee’s mind was still reeling from finding out that Malcolm Duval liked her and was now kind of her secret boyfriend. She hadn’t gotten to see him since the ball because of the holiday. A part of her hoped that since this was such a big night and such he’d show up and maybe just lurk in a shadow somewhere in the club. She really hoped he did, because one of the breaks they got was the actual count down and midnight. She’d be happy to sneak off from the others to have her new year’s kiss with Malcolm. Cora Lee’s eyes kept scanning the room as people started to slowly make their way through the doors. But she didn’t see him. Didn’t stop her heart from skipping a beat every time a guy walked through the club doors. She tried to hide her frown each time just so no one thought she wasn’t happy to be there on stage that night. She was looking forward to the gig. Would be the longest they’d played but also that meant the most money they’d made. A large group walked in and her heart stopped for a moment as she scanned the faces. Yep she knew them. It was some of the Academy kids. She really hoped they didn’t start any crap tonight. But she couldn’t help but smile when she saw in the center of the group standing above all the others was Malcolm. She watched at the group of Malcolm, Tommy, Billy, Josalyn, Emma, Merrick, Talia, Alex, Apollo and Artemis crossed over to a large booth together. It was always odd to see Talia, Apollo and Artemis since they had to wear a watch disguise similar to Kurt and Stephan in public to hide their true forms. She tried to make it look less conspicuous as her blue eyes followed Malcolm across the club. Before the ball she’d taken little interest in how he appeared but now she was starting to realize he generally dressed nice even when he wore jeans his shirt was still crisp. Tonight was no different he had a pair of dark charcoal gray slacks on, a white button up which because of his broad shoulders fit a little tighter than probably designed, and a deep purple tie which she couldn’t help but think was a nod to her hair color.

Rose was trying to keep herself occupied with her guitar but she found herself continuing to glance over at Landon as he made adjustments to his drums. No one, well except Mike, knew she even saw him as more than a friend. She’d always cared about him, but recently it’s started to change. He started to change. He’d gotten much taller standing almost as tall as his dad now. The years of training at the institute also were helping his changes. She could remember old training sessions when if he didn’t have a shirt on it wasn’t a big deal there wasn’t any real definition to him. The only interesting thing before about him without a shirt was his crow and raven large shoulder tattoos that he got when he was thirteen, his Celtic tree of life sleeve tattoo that he’d been working on since he was fourteen that he added color to when he was fifteen,and the band tattoo he got on his back at sixteen. But the years of training had changed all that he hadn’t what would be called bulked up just became more toned and defined.

So now secretly she waited for the moment the training sessions would end and he’d decide it was now too hot and he was too sweaty to keep his shirt on. Though that was a thought she kept locked up tight. Last thing she wanted to do was make the band dynamic weird. Then there was the feeling she couldn’t shake, like there was something he was holding back from not just her but everyone. She just couldn’t put her finger on it. After all they were all best friends and told each other practically everything. She’d found herself thinking more about him since the masquerade ball and the short two dances she had with him. Being held so firmly and so close to him was something that in a good way haunted her. She still remembered the way he smelled. Sure it was the way he always smelled, but she’d never been that close before. It was a soft scent of the flowers he worked with an underlining masculine scent from perspiration and his Irish Spring shower gel. Though the masquerade ball hadn’t left her feeling truly certain that Landon didn’t harbor affection for anyone. From the two short dances she had with him she could feel there was something between them, but there wasn’t any signs that her interest was returned. And what bothered her most was that signs were pointing to him having feelings for your cousin Rachel. Though he’d given logically points for why he’d acted as he did around Rachel so it certainly could just be nothing. She’d been half paying attention to people starting to enter the club and felt a twinge of anger as she saw the Academy kids, most as she saw Merrick walk into the club. The nerve he had to show his face after how he bothered Rachel and punched Xavier at the masquerade ball.

Merrick quietly slid into the booth not really wanting to be there that night. He’d been catching shit since the ball for getting in trouble with his mother and being given the ‘dirty jobs’ tasks around the Academy. When it got out why his mom was so angry with him the reaction was hit and miss. Some, specially William, Thomas, and Malcolm who fully sided with his mom and had been looking down at him since. Though only Malcolm could physically look down at him since he had a few inches on William and Tommy. Others didn’t see what the fuss was, though Talia was the first and last to say something about the subject. Merrick’s only joy of the holiday break was the moment Talia dared to say how he treated Rachel Howlett shouldn’t be punished because she was after all just a human so her feelings didn’t matter. To watch his mother’s right arm suddenly double in size and turn to pure steel like that of Colossus and just well bitch slap Talia into a wall was too priceless for words. He remembered the look of pure fear in everyone’s eyes as they looked from Talia to his mom. None in the academy ever saw his mom as the type to hit one of them. She’d been the one who’d taken care of them all growing up, she was the den mother to them. So for her to without warning just slap one of them into a wall was scary. The subject was not mentioned, at least when they knew his mom was home again. His mom was the only reason he was at the stupid club that night. She insisted that he join the others for one night of fun though warned he better be on his best behavior or she’d hang him from the nearest tall tree. A threat that before he’d thought was a joke but now took very seriously.

So against his better judgment he put on the new two button herringbone pattern brown suit, white button up, and basic white and green angled stripped tie. He’d tried to do something with his hair but the brown unruly locks wouldn’t be tamed. So despite looking nice from the neck down his hair was still a shaggy mess. He’d much rather have enjoyed an evening out in the woods or something where he could shift into any animal form he desired and just run and enjoy the cold December night. His twin sister Josalyn slid into the booth next to him, making sure to adjust the skirt of her sleeveless light silver metallic belted dress to not show too much as she crossed her ankles. “You really should try smiling brother. Mom let you come out tonight. It could be fun if you let it be.”. Josalyn said turning to lock eyes with Merrick. He had gotten their mother’s brown hair but what they all had in common was the Green-Yellow eyes of their biological father. “I’d rather not be here. I mean we all know the Institute kids will be here. For Christ sakes Landon’s band is playing. There only escape I get is at the Academy or when I’m alone.”, Merrick grumbled pointing to the stage. Josalyn turned her gaze to the stage and shrugged. “You’ll just have to suffer because mom insisted you come tonight.”, she stated simply her tone basically saying to stop arguing.

Emma slid in next to her older sister, tossing her long blonde hair over her shoulder with a smile and a bit of a devious glint in her blue eyes. “Just enjoy the night Merrick. Please… because mom and dad weren’t going to let me come unless both of you did. And sorry to interrupt your plans of sulking alone but I plan to find a cute boy to dance with and to kiss at midnight thank you very much.”, Emma said with a grin. Between her blonde hair and fair skin the burgundy color of her tight sleeveless keyhole dress popped. She had chosen the dress strategically hoping to catch someone’s attention at least for the night. Malcolm sighed and glanced to the stage briefly before sitting at the booth. Emma nudged him in the ribs with a grin. Malcolm rolled his eyes shaking his head. “Leave me be Emma.”, Malcolm requested. Talia tugged at bottom of her black leather dress as she sat down. “I don’t even understand why we are here. If we’d stayed at the Academy I wouldn’t have to wear this stupid thing.”, she grumbled holding up her left wrist to show the bracelet that disguised her natural blue fur covered skin, yellow eyes and tail. She adjusted her high pony tail of pitch black hair as Alex sat down next to her placing an arm across her shoulders. Alex’s pure white hair stood out against the black slim fit suit, navy button up shirt and black tie. “We are here to have a night of fun away from our parents. Weather you have that on or not you’re beautiful. So relax and we can enjoy the night. Remember we did have to promise to Scarlet Witch we’d start no fights so as to not draw attention to ourselves. So night fights just fun. And at midnight without your dad glaring at me we get a new year’s kiss.”, Alex said whispering the last part in Talia’s ear. Talia just grinned nodded. “I like this plan very much.”, Talia said smiling brightly a little bit of her natural fangs showing in her smile.

“You’re one to complain. How do you think my brother and I feel?”, Artemis said. “Having to alter our shapes to hide or scales, horns, tails, and wings. It’s an outrage really. Though thankfully for us we have our mother’s chameleon ability and don’t require that techno-bracelet you have.”, Artemis added as she fluffed her rather short spiky black hair. “Dad said it’s good for us to interact with people outside the Academy beyond our required time at school.”, Apollo stated stepping up behind his twin. Both had short black hair, jade green eyes, the olive Greek complexion of their father Aries, at least in this form. In either of their forms it was easy to tell they were twins. Only difference was that Apollo was tall with broad shoulders like his father. And Artemis had a more petite slim build like their mother Thereza. Even tonight unknowingly the two had coordinated. Apollo had chosen a black suit with a deep wine colored button up and unlike the other guys he chose to not wear a tie. Artemis had chosen a deep wine dress that was held on by a gilded cobra chain necklace that flowed much like a Grecian dress but with a deep keyhole in the back. “Could we all just try for tonight to not act completely dysfunctional?”, Billy asked stating by the table folding his arms in his navy suit. Behind his two button jacket was a white button up with a gold and white striped tie. Tommy walked up resting an arm on his twins shoulder a large smile on his lips. “Or like douchebags? That’d be greattttt…”, Tommy said for emphasis. He’d chosen a tan suit with a white button up and red tie all which complimented his white hair.”Now let’s have fun.”, Tommy said ruffling up his twin’s dark brown hair.

Another large group of people walked in, catching the eye of the Academy table. Mostly they all glared across the club but for some like Billy and Tommy there was a subtle hidden smile in their eyes. It was the institute kids with a few extras in tow. Xavier was simply dressed in a pair of black slacks and a white button up and blue tie. His arm was firmly around Ashley’s waist, his hand sitting just above the black bow and ribbon that accented the soft blue square neck sheath dress Ashley had chosen for the night. She’d curled her hair a little but otherwise just let it hang freely her blond locks contrasting against the soft blue fabric of her dress. She was just even with Xavier in height in her black sued Mary Jane’s. Her green eyes scanned the room, seeing a few people from school giving them a small smile then she frowned as she saw the Academy kids but chose to ignore them. She raised her right hand and waved to the stage before leading the group forward to the stage to say hello to the band. Lily had chosen a black long sleeved dress with a laced overlay on the top of the taffeta dress and a pair of three inch stiletto lace up peep toe booties. She adjusted her long red hair that’d been pulled to her left side as her green-yellow eyes scanned the floor. She smiled a little seeing Tommy but made no move in his direction just following Xavier and Ashley to the stage to greet her cousins and Rose.

Atif walked along side Lily his green eyes trying hard to not get caught looking across the room at Billy. Atif didn’t dress up too much just a pair of black slacks and a navy button up without a tie. Bianca didn’t come to her father’s club often, she found between studies and training she didn’t get much time to go out. So she was hopeful that despite her green eyes spotting the Academy kids no trouble would occur that night. Her Aunt Violet insisted on helping her decide on a dress, having picked out a simple square neck white dress with a fitted top that pleated and flared out at the waist. There was a benefit to having an Aunt in the fashion industry made up for her and her mom both having more tomboyish style tendencies. Bianca was a little uneasy as she walked next to Gabriel in a pair of white glitter and mesh platform heels. Thankfully any time she started to stumble Gabriel’s arm was securely around her to keep her up right. She felt kind of bad that he’d have to keep on his custom fitted navy suit jacket to hide his wings for the night. But she had to admit with his blonde hair, blue eyes, and general build he made that navy suit and simple white dress shirt with black tie look dashing.

Gabriel glanced back over his shoulder to the three stragglers as they headed for the stage to greet three of the team leaders. Hope felt almost out of place in the club wearing a plum Audrey Hepburn inspired dress her mom had pulled out of her closest to let her borrow. Hope was at least glade her mom didn’t try to make her wear heels. They may not have been her hightop sneakers but the plum slingback flats at least weren’t heels. She’d sat still just long enough o let her mom comb her hair and put it into a tight bun to keep it from getting in her face. Hopes pale green eyes noticed the Academy table and she glared right back despite following the others to the stage area. Of the younger girls Blaire was above and beyond the most girlie. She loved to stand out and was rather pleased with her final choice of a strapless gold dress with a sequin top and asymmetric pleated chiffon skirt. She’d also managed to talk her mom into letting her borrow her gold glitter four inch peep toe pumps. Which with her black hair pulled back and pinned at about the center of the back her head and then curled and running down the back of her neck plus wearing the makeup she almost wasn’t allowed to come her dad felt she looked too much older than she was but her mom shut him down and here she was. Her blue eyes glanced to the Academy table noticing that Merrick was there.

Her shoulders sank for a moment but reminded herself that he’d promised in front of the Howlett family to leave Rachel alone so maybe tonight wouldn’t be a bust. As she looked to the stage she took note of how the band was kind of matching, which was cool in her book though as she looked at Landon she smirked and elbowed Rachel. “There’s your boyfriend.”, she teased her voice a very soft whisper. Rachel had managed to get permission on the grounds that Xavier was going to be there and that there was going to be plenty of adult supervision at the club. To accent her complexion and bring out her blue eyes she picked a boat neck sleeveless large hem slim fit vintage sunflower yellow dress and a pair of yellow sued peep toe kitten heels with a wooden heel. Her hair she’d let just be loose though it had naturally started to curl just a little. The only jewelry she’d chosen was the bracelet that Landon had given her. She rubbed her side as Blaire elbowed her. Her eyes looking to Landon then back down trying to hide her blush. “Shut up Blaire..”, Rachel whispered back.

Landon, Cora Lee and Rose focused on their instruments not wanting to let the arrival of a group of Academy students interfere with their gig. “Hey guys!”, Ashley greeted with a smile. Cora Lee looked up first and set down her bass in its stand walking to the edge to carefully sit between some of the stage lights. “Hey guys. Glad you all made it.”, Cora Lee greeted. Rose set her guitar down and sat on the edge next to Cora Lee and smiled at her friends. “Everyone looks rather nice. She pointed to Xavier’s hand on Ashley’s waist. “So is that officially a thing now? Or is your hand just permanently stuck there and we should get you two medical attention?”, Rose teased. “I think we need a superglue specialist.”, Atif commented just to tease his twin. Ashley grinned and Xavier rolled his eyes. “Extremely amusing Aunt Rose. And yes it’s official that we are dating.”, Xavier answered. Landon stood up tucking his sticks into his back pocket before jumping down off the stage. “Congrats guys. Second official couple of the new generation. I think they had you two beat by a couple months.”, Landon said pointing to Bianca and Gabriel.

“B, does Uncle Mikali know you are here with Gabriel tonight? Or are we going to have to create a distraction at midnight so he doesn’t get all dad on you when Gab goes for his kiss?”, Landon teased. Bianca smiled nodding. “Yes dad knows I’m here and that I’m here with Gabriel. Gabriel’s literally an angel so dad’s not too worried. Dads around Bayville might be more worried about who the infamous Crow’s son will kiss at midnight.”, Bianca teased back. Landon smirked and shrugged his shoulders a little a devious glint in his eyes. “You never know…”, Landon commented. In the back of his mind he knew what was going to happen at midnight, absolutely nothing. The balloons and streamers would fall from their secured place on the ceiling and the DJ would cue up the old standard of ‘Old Lang Syne’ and couples would kiss and he’d be standing there with nobody. Landon looked behind the two couples to see Hope, Blaire, and Rachel. He gave them a smile. “Hope you aren’t wearing sneakers! And in a dress! Was this your mom’s plan?”, Landon teased. He figured he could tease her since Hope was on his team. Hope moved forward crossing her arms glaring up at her team leader. “Shut it Landon.”, she said sticking her tongue out. “Aww...you look nice though. At least she let you wear flats.”, he said pointing down at her shoes. “Yes at least there’s that.”, Hope commented.

“Ahem…”, Blaire said hooking arms with Rachel and moving a little closer. “If you are going to start passing out compliments Landon.”, Blaire teased. Cora Lee shook her head and chuckled a little at the antics. Rose seemed less amused with it all. Though part of her did start to wonder when midnight came and they weren’t on stage playing who was Landon going to give a New Year kiss to. Landon placed a hand over his chest giving a playful bow. “Oh my sincere apologies. Maybe I was just blinded by the gold glitter, Blaire. You trying to outshine the times square ball? Better question does Colby know you came to the club this dressed up?”, Landon teased. Blaire smirked. “Of course dad knows what I picked to wear, he didn’t like it but mom talked him off the ledge. And maybe I do plan to outshine it. What’s the harm in that? Gotta make sure I get noticed in this sea of people if I want to find a cute boy to dance with and kiss come midnight.”, Blaire commented. Landon rolled his eyes. “Are you certain you are Colby’s daughter and not Azriel because you are seriously too boy crazy for your own good.”, Cora Lee questioned with a smirk. Blaire stuck her tongue at her. Rachel stayed quiet she wasn’t looking for compliments or attention, she was shy like that. Landon however seemed to be in a rather good mood she noticed. He was joking around and smiling a lot. Which Rachel was glad to see. Since he’d told her about the vision she’d been rather worried about him. It couldn’t be healthy to know that you are going to die. As Rachel thought back to him telling her about the vision, not even thinking about it she started fiddling with her bracelet turning it around on her wrist. Landon looked over to Rachel and noticed she was fiddling with the bracelet. He sighed and put his hand over hers to stop her. “Hey, you’ll spin your wrist off you do that too much.”, Landon said with a smile. Rachel nodded her eyes locked on his hand covering hers and the warmth she felt. She could feel her heart starting to race even though she kept reminding herself that he’d already told her he wasn’t looking for anyone at the moment because of that vision. No one else seemed to notice as they were talking amongst themselves about how great the club looked and such, but Rose noticed Landon’s hand upon her cousin’s.

Description
During the holiday break the rumor mill was fast at work amongst the youth of Bayville. People were talking about the masquerade ball all over town. Some were only talking about the fight that broke out between Merrick and Landon and wondering what it was about. Others were making their speculations about some of the relationship statuses of those who before that night everyone saw as just friends. There were a few also trying to guess on who was behind a few of the masks in the room. No one had managed to figure out who was behind the masks of Lily Shadow, Atif Alston, and Cora lee Bryant’s dates. Though speculation was that at least Cora Lee’s date had a short life span before her big brother beat him up for making out with his sister at the dance. Any speculation about Rose Howlett and Mike Hagen was shot in the foot when it was found out, by a ‘reliable’ source that when Mike drove her home and went for a good night kiss he got denied hard. For Sherry, Kathy, and Daphne, a trio of rabid Meddling Kids fans, their speculations focused only on Landon Bryant their only reason for liking Meddling Kids. They were buzzing and talking with other friends about Landon and Rachel at the dance and Sherry even showed concern with how he danced with his lead guitarist Rose at the dance when no one else was allowed to take a slot on his dance card. As rumors of course go they traveled quickly and found their way to the ear of someone who knows Rachel and Landon.

Blaire Delaney was stretched out on her bed, hanging upside down with her long silky black hair hovering just above the plush pale blue circular rug that was positioned just under her bed. She had her phone to her ear listening intently. “What who said what about Rachel Howlett?”, Blaire questioned. She rolled to her stomach thinking maybe the blood rushing to her head had caused her to not hear her friend Jennie correctly. “You heard me. I heard from Alice who heard from Laura, who heard from Mary, who heard from Sherry that Rachel and Landon are an item.”, Jennie repeated. “No way. Just no way. Rachel would have called me. She would have told me if she had a boyfriend and she sure the hell would have told me if she was dating Landon Bryant.”, Blaire said shaking her head. “Well she showed up to the dance with him. They had matching masks, they danced practically all night and reports say were rather ‘cozy’ even whispering lovey stuff in each other’s ears. He even gave her a rather fancy gold bracelet. Plus Sherry saw him kiss her twice!”, Jennie defended. Blaire was still shaking her head. “There must be some kind of misunderstanding. This isn’t something Rachel would not tell me.”, Blaire said still in disbelief. “We all know her dad wouldn’t approve of her dating Landon. He’s older, has tattoos, and is a band. Not really ideal prospect for daddy’s perfect princess. So of course she’d want to keep it quiet.”, Jennie countered. “No way would she keep a secret from me. You know what I’m going to call her and invite her over to ask her myself. No grape vine stories. I want facts. I’ll call you later.”, Blaire said hanging up.

Blaire quickly dialed Rachel’s cell. “Come on pick up Rach…”, Blaire said impatient at the second ring. On the third she at least got an answer .”Hey Blaire. What’s going on?”, Rachel greeted her caller id having told her who was calling. “Hi Rachel. I wanted to know if you’d like to come hang out at the beach house with me? Mom’s at court and dad took Carter out to watch a basketball game in the city. So I’m going out of my mind with boredom.”, Blaire questioned. Rachel laughed. “I can ask dad, though no supervision…”, Rachel said concerned. “We are thirteen and legally old enough to be left home alone. Plus Atif and Ashley are literally next door with Darren while Aunt Sadria and Uncle Azriel are out on a day date. So my cousins are supposed to check in on me. Thus ‘supervision’. Go ask.”, Blaire insisted. Rachel laughed. “Alright alright.”, Rachel agreed walking downstairs to her father’s office. But he wasn’t in his office so she looked for her mom and found her making tea in the kitchen. “Hey mom it’s Blaire on the phone. She wants to know if I could come over to hang out.”, Rachel inquired. “Are Alison and Colby home?”, Sarael asked sipping her tea. “No Mrs. Delaney is at court and Mr. Delaney took Carter to a basketball game in the city. However Ashley and Atif are right next door and are checking up on her acting as her ‘adult’ supervision.”, Rachel explained. “Please mom? I don’t get to hang out with Blaire as much since I skipped grades and got into high school before her. And she’s really the only person I know that really understands the whole human born to famous mutant deal.”, Rachel added. Sarael sighed. “Alright fine. I’ll drop you off. Let me just let Xavier know I’m heading out so he can keep any eye on Jimmy.”, Sarael said heading for the stairs. “Alright Blaire I’ll be their shortly.”, Rachel said. “YAY! Then you get to fill me in on all the stuff my cousins didn’t tell me about that dance. See you soon.”, Blaire said hanging up.

Sarael stopped at the bottom of the stairs. “Xavier! Jimmy! I’m going out for a minute to drop Rachel off at the Delaney’s house. I’ll be right back.”, Sarael called up. Xavier hearing the name ‘Delaney’ quickly rushed from his room to peek down the stairs. “Rachel’s going to Ashley’s?”, Xavier questioned. “No not that Delaney house. She’s going to visit her friend Blaire.”, Sarael said shaking her head. “Oh. Alright. Jimmy and I will be fine we are playing video games up here in my room Aunt Sarael.”, Xavier said heading back to the room and picking up his controller. “So she’s not going to your girlfriend’s house so instead you stay here with me?”, Jimmy teased. Xavier smirked and pulled Jimmy into a headlock and gave him a noogie. “You may have powers like Uncle John and my grandfather but doesn’t mean I can’t still give you a noogie. Ashley isn’t my girlfriend, yet.”, Xavier said with a laugh. “Let me go.”, Jimmy demanded trying to push Xavier’s arm away and holding back just because he didn’t want to hurt his cousin. Xavier let him go and couldn’t help but laugh as he looked at Jimmy with his scruffy brown hair and the staple Howlett blue eyes. Xavier couldn’t remember his grandfather’s face, but he’d seen pictures so he knew that other than the facial hair and Jimmy having a dark complexion due to his Egyptian heritage he was the spitting image of his grandfather James Logan Howlett. Jimmy growled a little before picking up his controller again. “Come on I want to get back to kicking your ass in Street Fighter.”, Jimmy said with a smirk. “You’re on little cousin.”, Xavier said. Sarael just chuckled as she heard the sounds of the video game start again.

Rachel was already slipping her military style front close waist length black wool jacket on over her turquoise empire waist top with its crocheted accent along the bust line. Sarael noticed that the bracelet Landon had given her was still on her arm. “The mark’s gone right?”, Sarael asked. Rachel looked down at her left arm before slipping it into her jacket. “Yeah, I just really like the bracelet.”, Rachel explained with a smile before sitting down on a bench to pull her black riding boots on over her dark washed skinny jeans. “Alright. So you ready?”, Sarael asked zipping up her winter jacket. Rachel nodded. “Yup.”, Rachel said following her mom out to the car to drive to the small beach house community where only the Delaney brothers lived year round. During the summer months the place was packed with people but now as Sarael pulled into a spot outside Colby and Ailson’s beach house there wasn’t a car to be seen. “Thanks for dropping me off mom. I’ll call when I’m ready to come home if Mrs. Or Mr. Delaney haven’t gotten home by then to take me.”, Rachel said getting out of the car. “Have fun.”, Sarael said waving before pulling out to drive back home. Rachel knocked on the door and was quickly pulled inside by Blaire. “Damn it’s cold out there. Some days I hate living at the beach. Only some days though.”, Blaire said with her signature Blaire grin on her thin lips.

Rachel laughed shaking her head as she removed her boots and jacket and placed them in the coat closet by the door. As soon as she turned Blaire’s blue eyes were locked on the bracelet. “So that’s it huh?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel raised an eyebrow before looking down at the bracelet. “How do you know about this?”, Rachel asked pointing. “Jennie called me. She told me a few things she heard via the grape vine. Which I of course took with a grain of sand, like I take everything Jennie tells me unless it actually happened to her.”, Blaire explained with a grin. “So can I look at it?”, Blaire asked. “You know me and jewelry.”, Blaire added. Rachel nodded extending her arm. “Take a look.”, Rachel said. Blaire looked over every detail of the bracelet with great interest. “Gold, about 14 karat, I count over five dozen very small…not diamonds but…white sapphires… and then what is this word? You know I don’t read Arabic.”, Blaire said giving her official appraisal. The benefits of her mom being who she is Blaire learned early about jewelry and identifying fake from real. Rachel blinked not having realized exactly what Landon had given her. “Um..it’s joy.”, Rachel explained. “Which let me think, your middle name means Joy. Damn this boy is too much. You did get this from Landon correct? Or is my source wrong?”, Blaire questioned. “Umm well yes Landon made it for me at the dance to well I’ll explain it later.”, Rachel explained. “Made? Out of what?”, Blaire questioned. “An apple from his locker..”, Rachel answers. “Damn. Boy can take an apple and make gold and white sapphires. Thousands of years alchemists have tried to find ways to turn things like iron or other metals into gold and never succeeded. One boy with mutant powers to manipulate organic material into anything he wants can make an apple into gold. There are days I wish I had powers..”, Blaire said with a smile as she headed over to the kitchen area as the tea kettle started to sound.

Rachel followed and jumped onto one of the stools at the island. “Yeah it’s rather impressive what he can do. I didn’t think it was real gold or anything.”, Rachel said looking down at the bracelet as it sparkled under the hanging lights. Blaire put two mugs on the counter and opened two packs of hot coco and pour them in followed by the hot water from the tea kettle. “Alright so you better start talking sister. I want to hear every tiny detail from the beginning. I didn’t get to go to this, miss I’m going to skip grades.”, Blaire said stirring the coco and adding marshmallows before sliding one across the island to Rachel and caring hers to sit down next to her on the other stool. Blaire took a sip of her coco and looked at Rachel intently. Rachel smiled before taking a sip and sighed. “Alright so I guess I start with how I ended up going with Landon to the dance.”, Rachel said taking another sip. “Good place to start since you’d been turning down every guy in that school.”, Blaire said with a smirk. “Well Merrick had cornered me about going with him. I of course was continuing to refuse his invitation. Landon stepped in and got Merrick to leave me alone by saying he was taking me to the dance.”, Rachel explained. “I assumed he was just telling a lie to get Merrick to leave me alone. But apparently Landon hadn’t asked anyone else and had refused the other girls who’d ask. So he asked me to go since we are friends.”, Rachel added taking another sip of her coco. “Friends? Yeah because friends give friends bracelets like that.”, Blaire said pointing to the bracelet. Rachel blushed. “Who’s telling the story here?”, Rachel said shaking her head. “Fine fine. Please continue.”, Blaire insisted.

“Alright so he officially asked me, dad agreed to let me go and after a miss understanding about Merrick being the bully he usually is dad even paid for my dress. It was amazing. I’ll have to show you it and pictures. You’d have loved it. White and fitted with some rousing on the top, a gold flower design just up the left side, sweetheart neckline and one shoulder. I have never bought a dress like this but I was shopping with mom and she saw it and insisted I try it on. I did and when I looked in that mirror. I seriously could believe I’m beautiful. It was empowering.”, Rachel said explaining her dress. Blaire smiled. “Sounds spectacular. It’s about time you came around to realize you are beautiful. Alright so you had kick ass dress. Keep going edge of my seat here girl.”, Blaire said motioning with her hand to keep talking. “So night of the dance Landon showed up the house to get me. And alright, I’ll say it, he looked soo good. He had this great black suit set with a gold tie and white button up to go with my dress. The tips of the wings to his crow and raven were just visible above the collar.”, Rachel described with a smile. Blaire nodded sipping her coco. “He made me a beautiful wrist corsage. It was a gold daylily with this white henna pattern in the petals. I saved it of course. But it’s soo beautiful and smelled better than any daylily I’ve ever seen. And he was going to bring my mask and instead of buying one he made me one on the spot.”, Rachel explained. “On to spot? Explain.”, Blaire insisted. “Well..”, Rachel said blushing. “He took a petal of the same type of daylily he’d made for my corsage and a scrap of sheet music. Well not just sheet music it was the sheet music for Waterfall which is the first song I played at a recital. And he placed his hands over my face and with his powers he fused the sheet music and petal to make me a gorgeous white and gold mask that matched his and had pits of the sheet music imbedded in it.”, Rachel explained. “Wow. Like seriously wow. When do I get to find a guy that thoughtful?”, Blaire asked.

“So then mom of course took our pictures and we went to the dance. He is such a good dancer. I would never have guess it. But apparently Demitri taught him to dance and he’s got moves.”, Rachel gushed. “Ooo. Nice. A man that can dance is the best kind. So how good are we talking?”, Blaire asked. Rachel blushed. “He had a strong frame and was a great leader. Even twirled and dipped me a few times. And then there were slow songs where I got to be real close to him. I would never have imagined I’d be close enough to him that I could literally rest my head on him.”, Rachel said with a sigh. “Is he a cologne guy?”, Blaire asked. Rachel shook her head. “No. But he smelled amazing anyways. Then we drank some punch with Xavier and Ashley. He was trying to find Cora Lee because she had a secret admirer invite her and he didn’t trust the mystery guy. And since no one had seen her he went to go find her. But he did kiss my cheek before he walked away to find her.”, Rachel said turning a soft shade of red just thinking about it. Blaire covered her mouth. “Really? Oh wow. I’m liking this already. Keep going.”, Blaire insisted. “Well the next part isn’t all that nice. Merrick decided with Landon not right at my side he should harass me. I don’t want to give details or think about it. But he left a bruise on my wrist, he punched Xavier who tried to help me. Then he was going to punch Ashley who tried to stop him. Landon however stepped in and because I made him promise no fights didn’t fight back just blocked Merrick’s attacks till I said it was alright to fight back. Then Landon got him rather good in the nose I think he broke it.”, Rachel explained. Blaire frowned. “What a douche, glad Landon was there. But why didn’t you defend yourself. Our dads have taught us to fight.”, Blaire questioned. Rachel looked down. “You were too scared? It’s alright.”, Blaire said hugging her friend. “Did the dance get better after that at least?”, Blaire asked.

Rachel nodded. “Yeah. All the others came over to find out what happened with the fight and the teacher who broke it up even asked if I wanted to file a report. But I don’t want my dad to know what happened so I didn’t. But Landon saw I was on the verge of tears and escorted me to the hallway and gave me his jacket while he looked for tissues in his locker.”, Rachel explained with a sigh. “Aww how sweet I might need a dentist after this. But please continue cause I’m on the edge of my stool.”, Blaire giggled. “Well he noticed the bruise on my wrist and took the apple from his locker and made me this to hide it so I wouldn’t have to explain to the others about the mark. Then he escorted me back inside and we danced again. I asked why he didn’t have a girlfriend. He said he didn’t think he’s boyfriend material, using the whole mutant x-men scenario as an excuse. Which we both know mutants and x-men can find love and live happily ever after.”, Rachel said. Blaire nodded. “Heck yeah living proof right here.”, Blaire giggled pointing at herself and then Rachel. “Well he did admit there are a couple girls he likes but just hasn’t apparently had the nerve to tell them. And I’m kind of thinking I might be one. But I’m not sure. He was super nice all night and well when I tried to get down on myself for not being special he gave this great speech even using my full name and listed all the good qualities about me.”, Rachel explained. “Awe.”, Blaire said placing a hand over her heart. “Then we took a break from dancing and I decided to try and help Rose out. Her date Mike was a really bad dancer and Rose always tries to lead when dancing which doesn’t work. So we switched and I was going to dance with Mike and Rose dance with Landon. However I apparently said something about him being free for dancing too loudly. Because Sherry, Kathy, and Daphne appeared out of nowhere wanting to dance with him next. I explained I only said he could dance with Rose but otherwise his dance card was full. They left and he thanked me, called me his hero and kissed my cheek again.”, Rachel said the blush not fading.

“Nice. So how bad was Mike of a dancer?”, Blaire asked. “Not too bad once he learned the count and the fact I wasn’t trying to lead did help. But I cut out dance card short because I wanted to call my mom to drive me home. I’d promised I would tell her if Merrick did anything and I didn’t want dad to hear.”, Rachel explained. “Fair enough. Landon was okay with you ditching him for the last part of the dance?”, Blaire asked. “Well he came out and he found me. I explained why I was having my mom drive me home. And he was alright with it because he knew I needed to tell my mom what happened. But before I left we all did a picture, Ashley even convinced Lily, Atif, and Cora Lee’s mystery dates to be in the photo promising them they could keep their masks on and not have to talk. I brought the picture to show you.”, Rachel said getting up and digging into her jacket pocket and walking back over with a 5x7 photo of the group. Blaire looked at the picture and smiled. “Awe my cousins look so adorable. And oh my god Rachel that dress is fantastic.”, Blaire gushed. “And based on body language those may have been mystery dates but my money says that they are much more than some guys. Atif has a boyfriend. How cute! And Ashley has totally fallen for your cousin Xavier. Boy better just ask her to date him already.”, Blaire said. “Ooo..I feel so bad for Mike in this picture.”, Blaire commented making a face. “Why?”, Rachel asked. “Look at him, he is trying to be close to Rose like the other guys are but Rose is having none of it. You and Landon look rather cozy though.”, Blaire said handing the picture back. Rachel blushed. “Yeah he walked me outside at the end of the night and kissed my cheek again goodnight. So now I just need help. Cause I can’t tell is he into me or not?”, Rachel said looking for another opinion having told the story.

“Hmmm. It’s really hard to read.”, Blaire said standing up starting to walk back and forth as she thought. “So he asked you when he had a school full of girls he could ask. But that gets overshadowed by the fact his cousin was asking you and being a dirt bag. But then the thought and careful consideration he put into the corsage and the mask. Those are securely in the into you column. Because he could have bought a corsage, he works at a flower shop and he could have gotten a store bought mask. Instead he put careful thought and consideration into the corsage and mask. Then there’s the dancing which could go either way but he didn’t try to keep his distance during the dance so that is a positive. Then how he defended your honor, sure that’s just Landon being Landon he’s total class A hero material. But he held back in the fight because he promised you and only finished the fight because you gave him the okay. So point to into you column. Then the bracelet yes made to hide a bruise but he could have easily of made you a fake piece of jewelry and instead put in the effort to make it real and to even put the Arabic word ‘joy’ on it just for you. Totally into you points there. He listed your good qualities which means he sees them. So another point. He kissed you three times. Sure they were on the cheek which would be the not into you column but, he could just be shy about it since he said he likes a couple girls but hasn’t been able to tell them. God he’s so hard to read. I wish I could just ask Hope to read his mind, but he’s got a block up that Jean placed on him at his request.”, Blaire said frowning. Rachel sighed. “Yeah that’s my issue. I just can’t tell if he’s just being this super awesome nice friend or something more. Guess I’ll have to wait and see.”, Rachel said. Blaire frowned. “Why not just come right out and ask him? Or make a move yourself?”, Blaire suggested. Rachel turned as bright red as her complexion would allow. “I couldn’t..I couldn’t do that. I’m not as..”, Rachel said looking for the words. “Blunt? Forward? As I am? This is true.”, Blaire said with a grin. Rachel nodded. “Yeah, basically. I can’t just ask him and certainly couldn’t make a move.”, Rachel said. Though her own shyness was only part of her issue. He had told her about the vision Atif had, and knew that with his potential death looming over his head he wasn’t ready to be with someone in that way.

“So other than the excitement of the ball how has your holiday been?”, Blaire inquired. “Um well it’s been good. We went to visit Hudson in Mandipoor with the whole family for Christmas day. Oh and the day after the dance I got an in person actual apology for Merrick about his behavior and a promise in front of his mom that he would leave me alone.”, Rachel said casually. Blaire blinked in disbelief. “What? Merrick apologized to you? And his mom was there?”, Blaire questioned. “Yup. I’m not sure who told her, I’m going to guess it was my mom. But apparently she found out how he treated me before and at the dance. And it must have struck a nerve because she showed up at our house and he apologized to my whole family. And based on the look on his face and in his eyes he actually meant it. I’m not sure what his mom said to him, but whatever it was it made him actually feel genuinely sorry for his actions. So I’m hoping he can keep his promise when the holiday break is over and we are back at school. It’s be nice to walk down a hallway not worrying if he’s going to be around the corner to knock my books out of my hand or say something inappropriate to me.”, Rachel explained. “Impressive. So you’ve had an awesome holiday break so far. You’ve been given some rather nice things and got to dance with your crush then you get an apology and a promise to no longer be bothered by your bully. Merry Christmas to you.”, Blaire teased with a grin. Rachel smiled. “Yeah, when you put it that way I have had a great holiday break.”, Rachel admitted. “Oooh speaking of holiday break and having a good time.”, Blaire said jumping off her stool and digging through a bin of mail. “Ah ha. Here it is.”, Blaire said pulling out a dark embossed black envelope from the stack.

Rachel raised an eyebrow in question. Blaire opened the envelope and pulled out a black and white card. “Eat, Drink & Be Merry. 2023 Will Be Ours! Please Join Us at the Draven Teen Nightclub for a Night to Remember. Doors open at 7pm December31st and ends at 2:00am January 1st . Live Music provided by Meddling Kids.”, Blaire read. “I got this in the mail the other day. It’s a Nightmare Before Christmas themed New Year’s party. Not surprised of the theme given Landon’s dad is one of the owners. I’ve already talked to my mom and dad and since it’s at the Draven they said I can go. Did you get one or did you never sign up for their mailing list?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel shook her head. “I don’t think I ever signed up. But I think I remember Rose mentioning she had plans for New Years Eve. Guess this answers it.”, Rachel said with a shrug. “Well you should ask your parents if you can come. It’s New Years Eve and we are teenagers. We shouldn’t be home with them watching the ball drop on the TV.”, Blaire insisted. Rachel shrugged. “I don’t know. I mean dad might let me since it’s at the club and therefore there are adults around. So I’ll ask tonight when I get home. Alright?”, Rachel concluded. “Fine but they better say yes because come on this sounds too fun to pass up. I’ve already talked Bianca, Gabriel, and Hope into coming. Though Bianca wasn’t a tough sell since her dad is part owner. So you have to come because it’s like weekends, nights when you aren’t studying or at work and breaks that we really get to see you anymore since you skipped grades and got into high school for the rest of us.”, Blaire added.

Rachel nodded. “I know and I feel terrible in a way. I miss you guys a lot. But graduating early and getting to take these AP classes is really getting me ready for college and helping me figure out what I want to do with my life.”, Rachel said. “And what’s that other than become Mrs. Landon Bryant?”, Blaire teased. Rachel playfully shoved Blaire. “I’m actually finding ancient civilizations really interesting. I guess it’s in my DNA cause I might actually become an archeologist like my Aunt and Uncle.”, Rachel explained. “Very cool. Doesn’t Landon love history and all that?”, Blaire questioned. Rachel nodded. “Yeah he wants to be a history teacher.”, Rachel answered. “Nice see another good reason you two could work you both are history aficionados.”, Blaire teased. Rachel blushed. “Seriously let’s just not talk about Landon. Because I don’t think it will ever go anywhere.”, Rachel said with a sigh. Blaire frowned but nodded. “Alright. So now you need to come to my closet and help me decide what I’m wearing to this New Years Eve party. Because god damn it I’m finding a cute boy for my midnight kiss.”, Blaire said grabbing Rachel by the hand and rushing to her bedroom and flinging open her closet doors that were packed with dresses, skirts, pants, and tops. The rest of the afternoon for Rachel and Blaire was a fun mini fashion show of Blaire trying on different outfits to get Rachel’s opinion.

Across town at the Haven in the space above the garage which David and turned into the kid’s practice/hang out space sat the Meddling Kids; Rose, Cora Lee, and Landon. Landon was swiveling left and right on his drum stool spinning his sticks absent mindedly. “Alright guys we agreed to play this for my dad. So what do we want to play? We are supposed to play the three two hour sets. Ricky is going to DJ between our sets giving us a much needed break and time to enjoy ourselves too. But we need to figure out what we are playing to fill six hours.”, Landon said looking for Rose who was adjusting her guitar to Cora Lee who was moving her hand over her strings, not touching them yet still playing random notes. “We know it’s just we haven’t play six hours before.”, Cora Lee said sighing. “Well I’m sure between the three of us we can figure out six hours worth of music we can play. Come one we have a very eclectic set of tastes.”, Landon said. “Yeah but as a band we only have three songs we’ve written ourselves so everything else would be a cover.”, Rose said. “Alright so we have three songs, each ones is about three minutes. We’ll split our original work up between the sets. So we still have 351 minutes to fill. Just start calling out tracks and we can figure this out.”, Landon said. “You’re so smart why don’t you start Landon.”, Cora Lee said sticking her tongue out at him. “Alright fine. How about some Ramones. I say Blitzkrieg Bob, Let’s Dance, Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment, California Sun, Rockaway Beach, I Wanna Be Sedated, and Somebody to Love. To in total with those songs that uses up just short of 14 minutes. So now we still need to fill 337-ish minutes. Give options girls.”, Landon said rattling off the list of tracks he liked and knew they could play.

Cora Lee pondered for a moment. “Alright so how about some Kamelot. I say based on our vocals we go with Scarimony, Falling Like the Farenheit, Veritas, Prodigal Son, Ghost Opera, March of Mephisto, and The Human Stain.”, Cora Lee listed. Landon nodded. “Alright so that uses about 36 minutes. So we still have just over 301 minutes to fill.”, Landon said with a sigh. Cora Lee looked to Rose. “Alright you through out some tracks.”, Cora Lee teased. “Fine. How about some Sara Bareilles. Love Song, Between the Lines, Uncharted, Basket Case, Brave, Chasing the Sun, and Little Black Dress.”, Rose suggested. Landon mentally added it up. “So that’s another 26 minutes. 275 to go. So let’s throw some Atreyu in. Wait for You, Congregation of the Damned, Slow Burn, Epic, Honor, Your Private War, and So Others May Live. That gives us another 26 minutes down. How about a couple Hozier songs like Take Me to Church, From Eden, In a Week, and Like Real People Do. That uses another 17 minutes. So we have another 284 to go.”, Landon said with a sigh. It took them over an hour to list out enough tracks to play for all three sets. “God damn we are covering a huge spectrum. Ramones, Kamelot, Sara Barelles, Atreyu, Hozier, Panic at the Disco, Beatles, Rolling Stones, Maroon Five, Miles Davis, Billie Holiday, Nirvana, Jet, Fall Out Boy, Faith No More, The Clash, Pixies, Muse, P!nk, Johnny Cash, Craig Morgan, Lady Antibellum, Rascal Flats, Carrie Underwood, and Miranda Lambert. Plus our original songs. Seriously we have music ADHD.”, Landon joked laughing as he listed off all the bands they were going to cover for the gig.

“Well what are we waiting for. Some of these we need to change up to fit our instruments.”, Rose said. “Alright let me pull up the sheet music for some of these on my tablet and see what we can do to change them up.”, Landon said getting up and grabbing his tablet before plopping onto the old sofa. Cora Lee set her bass down and sat on his right and Rose set her guitar down and sat close on his left to look at the screen. “Alright take a look. We’ll have to change the key for this one to meet your vocals.”, Landon said starting to make changed on his tablet. Rose reached past him to make a change as well. “And here we need to change it up a little since we’re adding drums so I think this will work.”, Rose said making her change. Landon nodded trying to not think about the fact she was practically on his lap as she made changes on the tablet. “Oh and we can do this to this track.”, Cora Lee said taking the tablet and swiping her finger around moving parts of the song around and adding new notes. “I don’t want us to just cover these songs. I think we need to put the Meddling Kids stamp on them.”, Cora Lee explained as she continued to make her changes to the various electronic pages of sheet music. “Did I mention that when you die I’m taking your tablet because you got the cool tech on here.”, Cora Lee teased. Landon sighed but tried to play it off. Mentally though his mind was thinking it might not be too long before that time comes. “No way. I’m being buried with that thing.”, Landon teased back. Cora Lee stuck her tongue out at him again. “Brat.”, she declared making some additional changes. “There we go. All set. Let’s practice.”, Cora lee said tossing the tablet back onto her brother’s lap and racing to get her bass guitar. “Let’s get to it then.”, Rose said pushing herself up using Landon’s knee before grabbing her guitar. Landon smirked and shook his head. “Alright so let’s start with this one.”, He said and with a touch of his screen he pushed the needed sheet music to the screens on the stands by their instruments. “Have I mentioned loving that Forge hooked us up?”, Cora Lee asked strapping on her bass as she looked over the holographic screen in front of her. “It does pay to know the guy.”, Rose said. “Yeah no let’s start.”, Landon said. And for the rest of the afternoon and the next three days the muffled sounds of music could be heard outside of the garage.

Finally the night had come for the Draven’s New Year’s party. The whole club was decked out with black and white giving a subtle nod to the Nightmare Before Christmas theme. David was behind the bar double checking that it was stocked with enough non-alcoholic beverages for the night. Demitri was in the kitchen making sure the staff was ready to keep the food going through the party. Mikali was checking security to make sure everything was set there, his own daughter was going to be there that night so no trouble was going to be tolerated. Landon, Cora Lee and Rose were up on the stage setting up their instruments. Landon was dressed simple in black slacks, black button up shirt, a crisp white tie, and a pair of vintage black and white ‘tuxedue’ dress shoes for the night. He had his sleeves rolled up while he set up his drum kit and started drumming a little to test and make sure everything was in order. He was just happy this was an event he didn’t need to find a date for. It’d been difficult enough o find someone for the holiday masquerade ball. Though he had a lot of fun that night with Rachel. But seeing her as a young woman and not just some kid made things a little weirder and more difficult. He still didn’t know why he’d trusted her enough to tell her about the vision. A vision he hadn’t told anyone else. Sure he told Isis, but that was in a confidential session he had to attend after the whole turning his step-father into a shit flavored lollipop. Telling Rachel was very different from that. He hadn’t told any of his friends about it. Atif and Ashley were the only two that knew. And Ashley only knew because Atif told her. As he tested out his drums his ocean blue eyes glanced to his band mates who had no clue that sometime in the future, possibly soon, he was going to be gone.

His little sister Cora Lee was busy using her metal manipulation powers to carefully adjust the steel core strings of her bass. Her long purple hair was pulled up into a braided bun that looked very much like a flower even with a crystal pin at the center. It was impressive what Jean was able to do to his sister’s hair when she sat still. Though some of the unruly purple tendrils were escaping near the right side of her face. They’d all agreed to wear black and white to go with the party’s theme. He didn’t like to admit that his baby sister was growing up, but she did look rather grown up in her sleeveless tuxedo lace fit and flare knee length dress and her black studded point toe heels. She was almost as tall as him when she wore the heels. He knew when the time came and he had to tell her or he was already gone she was going to be so angry that him. Then he looked to the left side of the stage at his guitarist, Rose. She was busy checking her guitar and making sure it was perfectly in tune for the long night of playing they had ahead. He’d wanted to tell her how amazing she looked in her sleeveless knee length dress. To say how the skirt being the pure white and the top being the black lace over the white looked incredible against her pale skin and was a great contrast to her deep red hair. She’d even sat still for Jean to do her hair into a kind of loose side bun but with a rather intricate and almost Celtic knot design in the hair that swooped from the top of her head down to the bun. It looked amazing on her. Though it showed how close of friends her and Cora Lee were since they’d both fallen in love with the same pair of black studded point toe heels. She’s looked a lot older and more mature than one would assume when they saw her hair in a messy pony tail and dingy ripped jeans and a tee-shirt. But of course he kept his opinion to himself, he couldn’t bring himself to really fall for someone when he knew his time was going to be short. It just wouldn’t be fair. Landon returned his attention to his drum tightening the skins a little to get the right sound for the night.

Landon wasn’t the only one of the band looking around rather than just focusing on their instrument. Cora Lee’s mind was still reeling from finding out that Malcolm Duval liked her and was now kind of her secret boyfriend. She hadn’t gotten to see him since the ball because of the holiday. A part of her hoped that since this was such a big night and such he’d show up and maybe just lurk in a shadow somewhere in the club. She really hoped he did, because one of the breaks they got was the actual count down and midnight. She’d be happy to sneak off from the others to have her new year’s kiss with Malcolm. Cora Lee’s eyes kept scanning the room as people started to slowly make their way through the doors. But she didn’t see him. Didn’t stop her heart from skipping a beat every time a guy walked through the club doors. She tried to hide her frown each time just so no one thought she wasn’t happy to be there on stage that night. She was looking forward to the gig. Would be the longest they’d played but also that meant the most money they’d made. A large group walked in and her heart stopped for a moment as she scanned the faces. Yep she knew them. It was some of the Academy kids. She really hoped they didn’t start any crap tonight. But she couldn’t help but smile when she saw in the center of the group standing above all the others was Malcolm. She watched at the group of Malcolm, Tommy, Billy, Josalyn, Emma, Merrick, Talia, Alex, Apollo and Artemis crossed over to a large booth together. It was always odd to see Talia, Apollo and Artemis since they had to wear a watch disguise similar to Kurt and Stephan in public to hide their true forms. She tried to make it look less conspicuous as her blue eyes followed Malcolm across the club. Before the ball she’d taken little interest in how he appeared but now she was starting to realize he generally dressed nice even when he wore jeans his shirt was still crisp. Tonight was no different he had a pair of dark charcoal gray slacks on, a white button up which because of his broad shoulders fit a little tighter than probably designed, and a deep purple tie which she couldn’t help but think was a nod to her hair color.

Rose was trying to keep herself occupied with her guitar but she found herself continuing to glance over at Landon as he made adjustments to his drums. No one, well except Mike, knew she even saw him as more than a friend. She’d always cared about him, but recently it’s started to change. He started to change. He’d gotten much taller standing almost as tall as his dad now. The years of training at the institute also were helping his changes. She could remember old training sessions when if he didn’t have a shirt on it wasn’t a big deal there wasn’t any real definition to him. The only interesting thing before about him without a shirt was his crow and raven large shoulder tattoos that he got when he was thirteen, his Celtic tree of life sleeve tattoo that he’d been working on since he was fourteen that he added color to when he was fifteen,and the band tattoo he got on his back at sixteen. But the years of training had changed all that he hadn’t what would be called bulked up just became more toned and defined.

So now secretly she waited for the moment the training sessions would end and he’d decide it was now too hot and he was too sweaty to keep his shirt on. Though that was a thought she kept locked up tight. Last thing she wanted to do was make the band dynamic weird. Then there was the feeling she couldn’t shake, like there was something he was holding back from not just her but everyone. She just couldn’t put her finger on it. After all they were all best friends and told each other practically everything. She’d found herself thinking more about him since the masquerade ball and the short two dances she had with him. Being held so firmly and so close to him was something that in a good way haunted her. She still remembered the way he smelled. Sure it was the way he always smelled, but she’d never been that close before. It was a soft scent of the flowers he worked with an underlining masculine scent from perspiration and his Irish Spring shower gel. Though the masquerade ball hadn’t left her feeling truly certain that Landon didn’t harbor affection for anyone. From the two short dances she had with him she could feel there was something between them, but there wasn’t any signs that her interest was returned. And what bothered her most was that signs were pointing to him having feelings for your cousin Rachel. Though he’d given logically points for why he’d acted as he did around Rachel so it certainly could just be nothing. She’d been half paying attention to people starting to enter the club and felt a twinge of anger as she saw the Academy kids, most as she saw Merrick walk into the club. The nerve he had to show his face after how he bothered Rachel and punched Xavier at the masquerade ball.

Merrick quietly slid into the booth not really wanting to be there that night. He’d been catching shit since the ball for getting in trouble with his mother and being given the ‘dirty jobs’ tasks around the Academy. When it got out why his mom was so angry with him the reaction was hit and miss. Some, specially William, Thomas, and Malcolm who fully sided with his mom and had been looking down at him since. Though only Malcolm could physically look down at him since he had a few inches on William and Tommy. Others didn’t see what the fuss was, though Talia was the first and last to say something about the subject. Merrick’s only joy of the holiday break was the moment Talia dared to say how he treated Rachel Howlett shouldn’t be punished because she was after all just a human so her feelings didn’t matter. To watch his mother’s right arm suddenly double in size and turn to pure steel like that of Colossus and just well bitch slap Talia into a wall was too priceless for words. He remembered the look of pure fear in everyone’s eyes as they looked from Talia to his mom. None in the academy ever saw his mom as the type to hit one of them. She’d been the one who’d taken care of them all growing up, she was the den mother to them. So for her to without warning just slap one of them into a wall was scary. The subject was not mentioned, at least when they knew his mom was home again. His mom was the only reason he was at the stupid club that night. She insisted that he join the others for one night of fun though warned he better be on his best behavior or she’d hang him from the nearest tall tree. A threat that before he’d thought was a joke but now took very seriously.

So against his better judgment he put on the new two button herringbone pattern brown suit, white button up, and basic white and green angled stripped tie. He’d tried to do something with his hair but the brown unruly locks wouldn’t be tamed. So despite looking nice from the neck down his hair was still a shaggy mess. He’d much rather have enjoyed an evening out in the woods or something where he could shift into any animal form he desired and just run and enjoy the cold December night. His twin sister Josalyn slid into the booth next to him, making sure to adjust the skirt of her sleeveless light silver metallic belted dress to not show too much as she crossed her ankles. “You really should try smiling brother. Mom let you come out tonight. It could be fun if you let it be.”. Josalyn said turning to lock eyes with Merrick. He had gotten their mother’s brown hair but what they all had in common was the Green-Yellow eyes of their biological father. “I’d rather not be here. I mean we all know the Institute kids will be here. For Christ sakes Landon’s band is playing. There only escape I get is at the Academy or when I’m alone.”, Merrick grumbled pointing to the stage. Josalyn turned her gaze to the stage and shrugged. “You’ll just have to suffer because mom insisted you come tonight.”, she stated simply her tone basically saying to stop arguing.

Emma slid in next to her older sister, tossing her long blonde hair over her shoulder with a smile and a bit of a devious glint in her blue eyes. “Just enjoy the night Merrick. Please… because mom and dad weren’t going to let me come unless both of you did. And sorry to interrupt your plans of sulking alone but I plan to find a cute boy to dance with and to kiss at midnight thank you very much.”, Emma said with a grin. Between her blonde hair and fair skin the burgundy color of her tight sleeveless keyhole dress popped. She had chosen the dress strategically hoping to catch someone’s attention at least for the night. Malcolm sighed and glanced to the stage briefly before sitting at the booth. Emma nudged him in the ribs with a grin. Malcolm rolled his eyes shaking his head. “Leave me be Emma.”, Malcolm requested. Talia tugged at bottom of her black leather dress as she sat down. “I don’t even understand why we are here. If we’d stayed at the Academy I wouldn’t have to wear this stupid thing.”, she grumbled holding up her left wrist to show the bracelet that disguised her natural blue fur covered skin, yellow eyes and tail. She adjusted her high pony tail of pitch black hair as Alex sat down next to her placing an arm across her shoulders. Alex’s pure white hair stood out against the black slim fit suit, navy button up shirt and black tie. “We are here to have a night of fun away from our parents. Weather you have that on or not you’re beautiful. So relax and we can enjoy the night. Remember we did have to promise to Scarlet Witch we’d start no fights so as to not draw attention to ourselves. So night fights just fun. And at midnight without your dad glaring at me we get a new year’s kiss.”, Alex said whispering the last part in Talia’s ear. Talia just grinned nodded. “I like this plan very much.”, Talia said smiling brightly a little bit of her natural fangs showing in her smile.

“You’re one to complain. How do you think my brother and I feel?”, Artemis said. “Having to alter our shapes to hide or scales, horns, tails, and wings. It’s an outrage really. Though thankfully for us we have our mother’s chameleon ability and don’t require that techno-bracelet you have.”, Artemis added as she fluffed her rather short spiky black hair. “Dad said it’s good for us to interact with people outside the Academy beyond our required time at school.”, Apollo stated stepping up behind his twin. Both had short black hair, jade green eyes, the olive Greek complexion of their father Aries, at least in this form. In either of their forms it was easy to tell they were twins. Only difference was that Apollo was tall with broad shoulders like his father. And Artemis had a more petite slim build like their mother Thereza. Even tonight unknowingly the two had coordinated. Apollo had chosen a black suit with a deep wine colored button up and unlike the other guys he chose to not wear a tie. Artemis had chosen a deep wine dress that was held on by a gilded cobra chain necklace that flowed much like a Grecian dress but with a deep keyhole in the back. “Could we all just try for tonight to not act completely dysfunctional?”, Billy asked stating by the table folding his arms in his navy suit. Behind his two button jacket was a white button up with a gold and white striped tie. Tommy walked up resting an arm on his twins shoulder a large smile on his lips. “Or like douchebags? That’d be greattttt…”, Tommy said for emphasis. He’d chosen a tan suit with a white button up and red tie all which complimented his white hair.”Now let’s have fun.”, Tommy said ruffling up his twin’s dark brown hair.

Another large group of people walked in, catching the eye of the Academy table. Mostly they all glared across the club but for some like Billy and Tommy there was a subtle hidden smile in their eyes. It was the institute kids with a few extras in tow. Xavier was simply dressed in a pair of black slacks and a white button up and blue tie. His arm was firmly around Ashley’s waist, his hand sitting just above the black bow and ribbon that accented the soft blue square neck sheath dress Ashley had chosen for the night. She’d curled her hair a little but otherwise just let it hang freely her blond locks contrasting against the soft blue fabric of her dress. She was just even with Xavier in height in her black sued Mary Jane’s. Her green eyes scanned the room, seeing a few people from school giving them a small smile then she frowned as she saw the Academy kids but chose to ignore them. She raised her right hand and waved to the stage before leading the group forward to the stage to say hello to the band. Lily had chosen a black long sleeved dress with a laced overlay on the top of the taffeta dress and a pair of three inch stiletto lace up peep toe booties. She adjusted her long red hair that’d been pulled to her left side as her green-yellow eyes scanned the floor. She smiled a little seeing Tommy but made no move in his direction just following Xavier and Ashley to the stage to greet her cousins and Rose.

Atif walked along side Lily his green eyes trying hard to not get caught looking across the room at Billy. Atif didn’t dress up too much just a pair of black slacks and a navy button up without a tie. Bianca didn’t come to her father’s club often, she found between studies and training she didn’t get much time to go out. So she was hopeful that despite her green eyes spotting the Academy kids no trouble would occur that night. Her Aunt Violet insisted on helping her decide on a dress, having picked out a simple square neck white dress with a fitted top that pleated and flared out at the waist. There was a benefit to having an Aunt in the fashion industry made up for her and her mom both having more tomboyish style tendencies. Bianca was a little uneasy as she walked next to Gabriel in a pair of white glitter and mesh platform heels. Thankfully any time she started to stumble Gabriel’s arm was securely around her to keep her up right. She felt kind of bad that he’d have to keep on his custom fitted navy suit jacket to hide his wings for the night. But she had to admit with his blonde hair, blue eyes, and general build he made that navy suit and simple white dress shirt with black tie look dashing.

Gabriel glanced back over his shoulder to the three stragglers as they headed for the stage to greet three of the team leaders. Hope felt almost out of place in the club wearing a plum Audrey Hepburn inspired dress her mom had pulled out of her closest to let her borrow. Hope was at least glade her mom didn’t try to make her wear heels. They may not have been her hightop sneakers but the plum slingback flats at least weren’t heels. She’d sat still just long enough o let her mom comb her hair and put it into a tight bun to keep it from getting in her face. Hopes pale green eyes noticed the Academy table and she glared right back despite following the others to the stage area. Of the younger girls Blaire was above and beyond the most girlie. She loved to stand out and was rather pleased with her final choice of a strapless gold dress with a sequin top and asymmetric pleated chiffon skirt. She’d also managed to talk her mom into letting her borrow her gold glitter four inch peep toe pumps. Which with her black hair pulled back and pinned at about the center of the back her head and then curled and running down the back of her neck plus wearing the makeup she almost wasn’t allowed to come her dad felt she looked too much older than she was but her mom shut him down and here she was. Her blue eyes glanced to the Academy table noticing that Merrick was there.

Her shoulders sank for a moment but reminded herself that he’d promised in front of the Howlett family to leave Rachel alone so maybe tonight wouldn’t be a bust. As she looked to the stage she took note of how the band was kind of matching, which was cool in her book though as she looked at Landon she smirked and elbowed Rachel. “There’s your boyfriend.”, she teased her voice a very soft whisper. Rachel had managed to get permission on the grounds that Xavier was going to be there and that there was going to be plenty of adult supervision at the club. To accent her complexion and bring out her blue eyes she picked a boat neck sleeveless large hem slim fit vintage sunflower yellow dress and a pair of yellow sued peep toe kitten heels with a wooden heel. Her hair she’d let just be loose though it had naturally started to curl just a little. The only jewelry she’d chosen was the bracelet that Landon had given her. She rubbed her side as Blaire elbowed her. Her eyes looking to Landon then back down trying to hide her blush. “Shut up Blaire..”, Rachel whispered back.

Landon, Cora Lee and Rose focused on their instruments not wanting to let the arrival of a group of Academy students interfere with their gig. “Hey guys!”, Ashley greeted with a smile. Cora Lee looked up first and set down her bass in its stand walking to the edge to carefully sit between some of the stage lights. “Hey guys. Glad you all made it.”, Cora Lee greeted. Rose set her guitar down and sat on the edge next to Cora Lee and smiled at her friends. “Everyone looks rather nice. She pointed to Xavier’s hand on Ashley’s waist. “So is that officially a thing now? Or is your hand just permanently stuck there and we should get you two medical attention?”, Rose teased. “I think we need a superglue specialist.”, Atif commented just to tease his twin. Ashley grinned and Xavier rolled his eyes. “Extremely amusing Aunt Rose. And yes it’s official that we are dating.”, Xavier answered. Landon stood up tucking his sticks into his back pocket before jumping down off the stage. “Congrats guys. Second official couple of the new generation. I think they had you two beat by a couple months.”, Landon said pointing to Bianca and Gabriel.

“B, does Uncle Mikali know you are here with Gabriel tonight? Or are we going to have to create a distraction at midnight so he doesn’t get all dad on you when Gab goes for his kiss?”, Landon teased. Bianca smiled nodding. “Yes dad knows I’m here and that I’m here with Gabriel. Gabriel’s literally an angel so dad’s not too worried. Dads around Bayville might be more worried about who the infamous Crow’s son will kiss at midnight.”, Bianca teased back. Landon smirked and shrugged his shoulders a little a devious glint in his eyes. “You never know…”, Landon commented. In the back of his mind he knew what was going to happen at midnight, absolutely nothing. The balloons and streamers would fall from their secured place on the ceiling and the DJ would cue up the old standard of ‘Old Lang Syne’ and couples would kiss and he’d be standing there with nobody. Landon looked behind the two couples to see Hope, Blaire, and Rachel. He gave them a smile. “Hope you aren’t wearing sneakers! And in a dress! Was this your mom’s plan?”, Landon teased. He figured he could tease her since Hope was on his team. Hope moved forward crossing her arms glaring up at her team leader. “Shut it Landon.”, she said sticking her tongue out. “Aww...you look nice though. At least she let you wear flats.”, he said pointing down at her shoes. “Yes at least there’s that.”, Hope commented.

“Ahem…”, Blaire said hooking arms with Rachel and moving a little closer. “If you are going to start passing out compliments Landon.”, Blaire teased. Cora Lee shook her head and chuckled a little at the antics. Rose seemed less amused with it all. Though part of her did start to wonder when midnight came and they weren’t on stage playing who was Landon going to give a New Year kiss to. Landon placed a hand over his chest giving a playful bow. “Oh my sincere apologies. Maybe I was just blinded by the gold glitter, Blaire. You trying to outshine the times square ball? Better question does Colby know you came to the club this dressed up?”, Landon teased. Blaire smirked. “Of course dad knows what I picked to wear, he didn’t like it but mom talked him off the ledge. And maybe I do plan to outshine it. What’s the harm in that? Gotta make sure I get noticed in this sea of people if I want to find a cute boy to dance with and kiss come midnight.”, Blaire commented. Landon rolled his eyes. “Are you certain you are Colby’s daughter and not Azriel because you are seriously too boy crazy for your own good.”, Cora Lee questioned with a smirk. Blaire stuck her tongue at her. Rachel stayed quiet she wasn’t looking for compliments or attention, she was shy like that. Landon however seemed to be in a rather good mood she noticed. He was joking around and smiling a lot. Which Rachel was glad to see. Since he’d told her about the vision she’d been rather worried about him. It couldn’t be healthy to know that you are going to die. As Rachel thought back to him telling her about the vision, not even thinking about it she started fiddling with her bracelet turning it around on her wrist. Landon looked over to Rachel and noticed she was fiddling with the bracelet. He sighed and put his hand over hers to stop her. “Hey, you’ll spin your wrist off you do that too much.”, Landon said with a smile. Rachel nodded her eyes locked on his hand covering hers and the warmth she felt. She could feel her heart starting to race even though she kept reminding herself that he’d already told her he wasn’t looking for anyone at the moment because of that vision. No one else seemed to notice as they were talking amongst themselves about how great the club looked and such, but Rose noticed Landon’s hand upon her cousin’s.