Mal arrived at the house around four pm, Friday afternoon with a government SUV to transport them to Coronado.

           Jack greeted her, “Hi Mal, we are almost ready.” He slightly bowed allowing her into the foyer, closing the door behind her.

           “I have good news for you two, Bell asked Gran to help solve your guardian problem. Gran is amenable to the idea and will not expect you to answer to her.” Mal said as she walked into the house. “She will sign any papers, after she reads them, which might help Snowy's pursuit of her career. She might, however, expect you to come over for dinner occasionally.”

            “That’s awesome, might cheer her up.” Jack said as he started picking up the bags piled on the floor.

           Mal informed them, “This weekend will be a meet and greet for most of the team and we are taking over a lodge. Since there are twenty five of us, we will be doubling up at a minimum. Snowy, would you like to share a room with me?”

           Jack answered for her, as he came in for more of the bags, "She would love that."

           Mal looked at Snowy.

           "Yes, that would be nice. I have never shared a room with any one before," Snowy answered.

           “Of course, you might want to room with Bell.” Mal grinned.

           "No thank you I would rather be with you, My lady, "Snowy replied.

           Jack picked up Snowy's phone putting it in his pocket.

           “Now, Jack, I am sure you’re a top flight snowboarder or skier... well, most of us aren't.” Mal requested. “You might have to play ski instructor, that okay?”

           Jack beamed, "That would be a blast!" He dropped Snowy’s earwig in front of Mal, "Does she have to wear this there too?"

           “HAVE to no, ideally yes, especially if you are on the mountain skiing. Unlike cell phones, there is no coverage black out,” explained Mal.

           Jack stuck the earwig in his pocket, "She plans on tutoring me while we have fun."

 ***

          They boarded the plane; Jack found a seat and buckled in. Snowy went to him and held his hand as she commanded, “Sleep now.” Jack drifted off to sleep as Snowy hummed a lullaby and brushed his hair from his eyes.

           Once the plane was in the air, Mal briefed them, “There's going to be a little show and tell at the lodge, don't be surprised and you don't have to share everything, just what you are comfortable with. The lodge staff has been replaced with military personnel that know of the Project. So use of powers is okay within the immediate area of the lodge. This will give us some live fire experience. Something we don't get enough of.”

           Ben grinned, "We do like to practice live."

           Snowy shrugged, "Not like I can do anything."

           “You did the display this morning, right?” Mal asked.

           "That's about it. Dad used me to help the boys train. I wasn't allowed to do anything else." she shrugged again.

           “Josh, then you try things on Josh, who's easy, then Slater, who isn't and maybe Chris.”

           Snowy gave her a side glance, "Slater is the one who carried me right? The one with the devilish grin.”

           “Yes”

           "He has powers like mine?" she asked.

           Mal shook her head, Different power set...he can...literally fry someone's brain. That's supposition...he has never had to do it.”

           "I wouldn't know, if I can do anything like that. I was told never touch a mind unless they are willing." She pulled out a book, "I only did it that night because I was scared.” Snowy flipped pages.

           “That's how we all discover things we can do. I was the middle of a bus/car sandwich. I was going to be the gushy middle.” Mal confirmed.

           "I already knew. I was forbidden. The command came in at eight when Ben helped us, in the change. He was the only one home at the time." she closed the book looking at another.

           “Do you remember how you felt when you power activated?” Mal inquired.

           "First time was when I was six and Jack rescued me. Dad was pissed. He almost made me give up my career, than eight, we where playing when it happen." she stated.

           “I was thirteen when mine came in." Ben added, "She gets headaches, that Jack feels, when either of them are going to change."

            “Order me to do something simple. Something we all will recognize as an order. Warning, I will not let you in freely.” Mal requested.

           Snowy closed her book, opening her mind, "Unbuckle Jack's belt"

           Mal got up, went over to Jack. She proceeded to unstrapped him, then unbuckled his belt.

           Snowy sighed, "Useless."

           “Thing is, while I did it under your compulsion, I remember it and will warn you one time. Don't get cute with this, anymore than a belt. You might expect some retaliation.” She warned.

           "You asked for something I could do. I couldn't make you do any more." she shrugged,

          "I was only thinking the seat belt, you choice to do his belt."

           “You were not specific.”Mal commented.

           "I know, I didn't think I could make you do more than the seat belt." she put the book away.

           Ben got up and buckled Jack’s belt and strapped him back in.

           “It is like hypnosis, right? The way you say it is the important part. You told a group of people to save your dad, right?”

           "I don't know, I never put force into anything till my dad needed help." she stared at the sleeping Jack. "I was not allowed to do more than my playroom images. Dad said that with them I could help them learn their gifts safely. I didn't mind. It was fun to be part of it. I just had to be careful, I didn't hurt them." she shrugged, "They are just images of my mind. I never understood why he told me to be careful."

           “Most people are prone to helping someone in distress, what stops them is fear of what everyone else will think. You say Help him! It overcomes that little fear and they are free to do it. You say "Kill him"...that might work on a sociopath and someone gets attack. Now try the same thing on a nun, Bet it doesn't work, not like you mean.”

           Snowy shrugged, "I have useless powers, Nat will like Ben and Jack on your team better than me. I am just the dead weight in the family." she looked to Ben. Ben shook his head no to her while strumming his guitar.

           “Your illusions...other than a light show, what do you do with those? Can you make me see a field right now?”

           "Yes, and if you are on a edge of a cliff you might walk off it, that’s why we didn't move in the clouds, Ben might of walked to the water. That would have ruined everything." Snowy examined her nails.

           “In our gaming training, we call you Crowd control.”

           She looked confused, "I don't understand that but if you say so. Do you do nails? I need mine done."

           Ben got up opening Snowy’s bag retrieving a file and knelt before her filing her nails.

           "We will get you to a salon when we get back." Ben said working on touching her nails up.

           Mal watched Ben, “You never learned to file your nails?”

           Snowy looked confused, "No, they take care of me."

           Mal opened her bag and pulled out a sketch pad and a piece of charcoal.

           Ben stated as he finished, "Just easier for us to do it for her and faster," He returned to his seat.

           “Oh...I could come at that in so many ways.” Mal sketched for almost the entire length of the flight from that point, “So, you think you are useless? How would you use my powers?”

           "No, I am a very talented singer; dancer and I will be a bio chemist. My gift.. powers are useless." while she admired the touch up nails. "I only know that you can kill and go clear. Neither interests me, since I will not kill." Snowy seemed confused, in a thought. "Most I would do is try and stop you from killing. Life is short."

           “Since I am terrified of killing...how useful is my power?”

           "It is useless I guess." she still was trying to figure out what Mal wanted to know.

           “I know what will happen if I stick my hand in your chest. I did it on a side of beef. You have no idea what you can do, so you are useless. And you are, as long as you think that way.”

           Ben spoke up, "Not like we had people we could trust for John to teach her."

           “I learned how to make holes in a wall for people to pass through. I learned how to spread myself out and glide. I learned I can disintegrate a bomb before it goes off.”

           Snowy nodded at them both."The boys were taught, there was no one for me. It's okay I have my studies and songs and..."

           Ben interrupted, "What kind of bomb? was it a delayed detonator? Got the schematics?"

           “Maybe you can stop a killer from slitting someone's throat.” Mal gave Ben a side glance, ”It was a practice bomb, actually a practice navy 5" shell. This is what we train for.”

           Ben nodded and went back to his guitar,

           Snowy, how about the distraught man on the side of a building, threatening to jump? You could stop him? There are so many ways you could save people. Sure, you can't squirt ice all over a burning house, but you could stop the two guys mugging a little old lady, right?”

           Snowy nodded.

           “It's all how you look at it.” Mal turned her attention to Ben, “Ben, what are your powers? Bomb making?”

           "No bomb making will be my career, my powers is sound. I have a lot of fun with them. Me and Jack have played with them since I got them.” he continued, ‘‘Our Band is going to hit the top ten, than go on to our careers. We have it all figured out."

           “Bell's powers are sonic too. You hear bells ringing, odds are it is her but she's like Snowy, she can play a symphony without instruments.”

           "I will try my... powers on your Josh, if he agrees." Snowy stated.

           “You're kidding, right? Josh will let you try anything on him.” Mal seemed amused, “But you'll have to try Slater too, and maybe Deb.”

           "I don't know how to get through Ben's block. Do they have it too?" she asked, "Jack can't block me because of our link or he chooses not to."

           “Josh, no, Slater, yes, Wren and Chris too. Deb says Chris is the toughest, then Wren, then Slater.”

           Ben pulled out a warm pop can and put it in Jack’s hand. Snowy mumbled something and the can frosted.  Ben took it back to drink.

           “So, what else do you have him do in his sleep?” Mal asked as she watched.

           "Whatever is needed." she looked confused, "I would wake him if need be."

           “And you have to speak to get him to do something?” She asked Snowy.

           "That is how it works for me so Ben must be careful not to silence me." she stated.

           Ben chuckled.

           At last Mal handed the closed sketch pad to Snowy. The drawing was of Snowy as a queen with Ben as a knight knelt at her feet.

           Snowy eyes lit up, "IT IS BEAUTIFUL, my lady! My knight come look."

           Ben joined them looking at the picture, "Yes My lady has captured our souls."

           The knight in the scene was suited in black armor with a snowflake emblem.

           Snowy asked, "May we keep it?"

           “Of course, can we dispense with the My lady, makes me think of My Lady DeWinter.” Mal grinned, "Only a few minutes...let me have the pad back"

           "If you don't want the title, you can pick another." She carefully took the picture out handing it to Ben. Carefully Ben placed it in his guitar case, facing the bottom.

           Mal quickly drew in a cartoon style, a knight flat on his back with his hands and feet in the air, there was a huge puddle of drool under his head and a trail running down his cheek. “For Jack.” Mal handed it to Snowy.

           Snowy noted, “He is the prince.”

           Mal took the drawing back adding a small crown.

           "But he will like it." She handed the revised drawing to Ben. Ben repeated the placement in his case.

           "He asked me to sing a song for you but I think he wanted to be there." she let a small smile on her lips.

           "Snowy don't ruin it for him." Ben took a good look at Mal, "First one with looks, let him be. Boy has something for eyes, don't even notice the rest." He started playing the strings softly.

           Mal was drawing again as the pilot announced final approach. They strapped back in. Ben stowed his instrument, carefully placing it on top of the drawings. Mal closed the pad and stuck it back into her bag as the plane stopped.

           "I will wait till we stop to wake him."Snowy announced, "Ben please find a framing shop, I want those in the living room."

           When the plane came to a full stop, Jack woke up, "Are we there yet?"

           “Welcome to Tahoe.” Mal smiled at him. “Nat told me, they have a six foot base with 2 feet of powder...whatever that means.”

           Jack looked out the window. He could see the lake and snow-covered mountains all around. His smile broadened as he spoke, “That means to in his terms, surf is up." Jack grabbed the bags as fast as he could. Ben threw his guitar case strap on his shoulder and picked up his gym bag. Jack loaded himself with all the carryon bags.

           Mal carried her suitcase and her artist's bag. Nat was waiting at the bottom of the steps with Wren. Nat took Mal's case, as Snowy smiled at Nat. Mal and Wren kissed cheeks.

           Nat inquired,”Flight go okay?"

           Jack yelled out as he came closer to the group. "She is happy to see you again NAT"

           Nat leaned closer to Snowy and pointed at a distant mountain. "You want me to toss him there?"

           Snowy giggled and shook her head no.

           “You sure? I can get some really good hang time.”

           Jack looked at the bags cursing, "Shit!"

           Wren gazed at Jack, “Language please.”

           Ben helped Jack load the black van.

           Jack muttered, "I forgot my bag."

           Nat took driver seat with Wren Shotgun, Mal slipped into the third seat with the boys taking to each side of Snowy in the second seat.

           “Only about forty five minutes to the lodge,” informed Nat.

           Snowy pulled out a book and started to read. Jack rubbed his head as he received the information in the link.

           Wren prattled, “We were undecided about a menu, but I believe we have hit on a compromise.”

           Ben smiled at her, "I am sure the rabbits will find something to eat."

           “That means we are having whatever Wren decided,” Nat grinned as Wren gave him an arched look.

           Wren stated, “Pizza.”

           "I am in on that, we can find something for them." Ben chuckled.

           “Vegetarian pizza?” Wren enquired.

          “That would be Alicia, she is a strict vegetarian.” Nat noted.

           "Yeah they can scrape the crust off." Ben nodded. Jack said nothing

           Wren added, “And fruit.”

           “That would be the ballerina's idea,” Nat chuckled.

           Wren dismissed him, “I am quite sure I will not be the only one partaking.” 

           Jack asked, "Will there be any seafood?"

           The main room of the lodge was chaos, some people sitting and talking, others were dancing, and others eating. The food selection had exploded into about ten different things, including burgers, fries, shrimp, steak, fried chicken, an ice cream bar, and a salad bar.

           "Where is her room?" Jack asked as Ben grabbed a luggage cart.

           Wren folded her arms, “Well, I see while the cat's away.”

           A red headed guy with a crew cut announced "EVERYBODY, ATTENTION!"

           Wren rolled her eyes.

           Nat yelled back to the guy, “That COULD have waited a couple of minutes.”

           Second nature to the boys, they stepped in front of Snowy blocking direct sight of her with their bodies.

           Nat whispered, “Snowy or Icy?"

           "Icy please," she requested.

           “But Snowy is so much prettier" Nat added.

           She whispered "I don't know them yet."

           Nat shrugged as he led them to the waiting crowd, Wren on his arm "Okay, boys and girls... the moment you have all been waiting for!"

           Snowy took a deep breath in collecting her being and stood poise. The boys separated a little allowing clear view of her.

           “May I present Ms. King, she prefers Icy, Mr. Vargo, he prefers Jack and, “Nat paused.”I never caught your last, name, Ben.”

           “Thomson.”

           “Anyway, Mr. Thomson, he prefers Ben!” Nat concluded as spontaneous applause rose up, a couple of cheers and a one very distinctive wolf whistle was distinctive above the rest.

           The boys bowed a little in jest and Snowy gave a wave. Ben still with his case on his back waded into the crowd.

           Jack and Snowy headed to the luggage cart. Two from the crowd joined them. The first was a Native American, with wings, and the second was Slater. They headed to Snowy’s room and started to unload the bags. Snowy entered taking a seat at the desk. Jack placed the book bag on it.

           Jack looked at the last duffle and shrugged, "That's Ben's bag, forgot mine. So who's up to hitting the slopes with me, or some cross country snowmobiling?"

           Snowy opened a book, as she removed her coat reading.

           Mal leaned against the door, “You are requested to return to the main room. The idea is to meet all these other freaks.”

           "On my way!" Jack said, “Hey Guy’s, either of want to do a moonlight run tonight.” The three headed back down.

           Snow picked up the book, kicking off Ben,s bag from the cart as she headed pass Mal to the hallway. Before her stood a guy in a tux, wearing sunglasses and those 'big foot slippers'.

           He whipped off his sunglasses, "The name is Temple, Josh Temple"

           Snowy slipped quickly behind Mal.

           Mal held her laugh, “He doesn't bite.”

           “Not where it can be seen!” he knitted his brows.

           "So you are to be my target?" she asked as she peeked out from behind Mal.

           Mal pointed out, “Only one you ever bit was Paige, when she was five and biting you first!”

           “HEY! I told you, not where it can be seen!” Josh grinned, ripping open the tux front, revealing it was a tare away. He was wearing a t-shirt with a big bull's eye that said TARGET above it! As he pulled the rest of  it off, he turned and pointing at the  bull's ass on the t shirt. “In case you can't hit a bull in the butt with a bass fiddle!” He spun around to face her and offered something a little fuzzy, "Jelly bean?"

           Mal rolled her eyes at Josh. "Don't take it, it is probably fuzz flavored.”

           "I will try and not hurt you I apologize in advance," Snowy softly said.

           Josh looked her up and down. “I trust ya.”

           "I don't eat candy." Icy stated.

           Josh clutched his chest and fell over dead. 

           Mal nudged him with a toe. "New York CPR, Josh"

           He opened one eye, "She still here?"

           From the main room came a scream of a high pitch female, “ACK!”

           "That's me!" Josh bounced to his feet, taking off down the hall and disappearing down the stairs.

           “That was Josh. Paige, his sister, the one you saw the other day popping around.”Mal mentioned.

           "Oh he is the boy Jack told me about that can move real fast." she stated.

           “She sort of turns into an electric girl, usually if she's excited or scared. No, that would be Carlos and you'd know if you met him.”

           Josh came back up the stairs with a blue electric girl over one shoulder.

           “Josh! I'm nakid!” Paige protested.

           Josh assured her, “Yea, but no one can tell.!”

           "Yes, Jack meet you too." Snowy stated.

           Josh grinned as he passed them with a little wave. "Hissy fit!"

           Paige protested, “WAS NOT, Carlos pinched me! on the BOOB!”

           “You have no boobs,” Josh spun as he opened the door to a room. "Tell Charlie he's dead meat."

            “And that would be the way Carlos operates.  Only girl he hasn't done that too is Rachel.” Mal headed down the hall "And Wren only once."

           "He does it to me I will defend myself." Snowy warned.

           “Ah ,” Mal pointed at a boy floating in the center of the room, well out of reach of anyone or anything. “That would be Carlos.”

           "I can give one mean headache to offenders." Snowy mentioned. "Could you warn him that Jack will freeze his balls if he touches me?"

           “I could warn him...but why. I have a feeling he's going to be stuck right there until Monday.”  Mal snickered.

           Carlos yelled out, “MAN I gotta pee!”

           There was a squeaking of wheels as Bell pulled a mop bucket in and positions under Carlos. Bell looked up at the floating boy, “ Dat the only ting you better 'hit' this weekend!”

           Mal watched the show below, “Personally, I think we should use him as a piñata But...he's my piñata.”

           "Can he be my target instead?" Snowy requested.

           “Up to him,” Mal leaned on the handrail of the balcony overlooking the room. “Charlie, what is the matter with you? The girl is eleven! If you touch her, or any other member of this team AGAIN, you can go back to East LA, no school, no nothing!”

           Snowy softy mentioned, "You are getting a gift tonight, should I not announce it or just let you figure it out when I do it?"

           Carlos screamed to Mal, “You can't do that! I got an agreement with Miller.”

           Snowy half smiled, watching the chaos of the room.

           Nat piped up, “She just did, Carlos, enough is enough; you stepped WAY over the line.”

           Mal questioned, “Wren?”

           Carlos dropped as Bell snatched the rolling bucket out from under him just before he stopped about an inch from the floor. He sat up as his ass hit the floor. “I'm sorry, man.” He muttered. A circle of hostile female eyed him. Carlos pulled himself to his feet and placed his hand over his heart "I swear, on my Abuala's life, I will never touch another Minuteman girl again."

           "Yes, I want him to be my target," Snowy said looking at Mal.

           “Only if he okays it. We don't practice on unsuspecting teammates.”

           "Yes my... Mal" she replied

           Mal called down, "Carlos, are you up for playing target?"

           "Once he gets a headache he won't touch me, unless I wish." Snowy nodded.

           Carlos looked up "Dat what you need, boss lady?"

           "No that is what I need," Snowy remarked in normal voice

           Carlos eyed her. "Whatcu powers?”

           "Mental." she replied to the whole room.

           Carlos vanished, appearing next to Snowy.  Icy stared in his eyes coldly. Jack and Ben rushed to the stairs, making their way quickly up. Paige came running down the hall and kicked Carlos in the shin "I am gonna fry you!"

           Josh grabbed Paige around the waist, pulling her back "You didn't bring any more clothes!"

           Mal ordered, “Everybody down stair and sit down!”

           Jack took Snowy hand as both glared at speed boy. Ben stepped behind her as Josh carried Paige under one arm down stairs

           Nat grumbled, “That is a hell of an introduction to new teammates.”

           The seating naturally arranged itself by teams with seating in the blue area for Jack, Snowy and Ben. The three picked a corner with the boys sitting to each side of her.

           A redheaded guy stood, "Are you three going to remain in formation in combat?” He almost marched over to them, "Mark Law, Ranger, combat leader, Team Red.”

           Ben spoke up, "Ben Thomson." he offered his hand. "I go where I am ordered to in combat."

           Mark goes to parade rest, feet slightly apart, hand clasped behind his back. Mark accepted his hand, “Code name?”

           “Box.”

           “Box, what might your powers be?”

           “I can jam communications and do a few mean sound tricks. I am sound based, Sir"

           Bell  stormed up, actually pushing Mark out of the way and rounds on Mark, "Dis ain't do battle, you don't get to interrogate them.." she sins to Ben, "You call him sir again, you n me gonna make a whole lotta noise!" More than a few of the team members stood watching with their mouths hanging open.

           "Habit I picked up in ROTC." Ben chuckled.

           Bell hooked a thumb at Mark, "Dat was he daddy, da general." She turned to the room. "deez is good people, day got sumpin' none o' you got, day got soul, screw with dem, screw wid me. Bell turned back to them "Jus' intro yo self, lil bout yo powers, dat it.”

           Ben said to Bell, "Thanks for the solid."

           Mark backed down and a blonde with hazel eyes, hooked his arm, making him smile.

           Ben whispered to Bell, "You want to be our drummer if Gran is cool?"

           Bell smirked, “Maybe.”

           Ben nodded.

           Nat Pointed out, “You do look like you're flying in formation.“

           Jack spoke. "I am sorry; we do it naturally, the way we were brought up. If it offends any one WE will try and change.”  

           Mark commented, “Just makes her a target you know."

           Snowy and Jack exchanged glances. Jack spoke, "To recently we had one mission, protect the queen."

           Mark shook his head “It tells everyone on the other side, she's the important target, take her out first. Like wearing a general's stars when there's a sniper is around. If your enemy is protecting something that closely, he really needs it or it is really important.”

           Snowy spoke up, "Where would you position them to protect me from grabby hands?”

           Mark looks over at Carlos who ducks his head, “That one problem is over.”

           "IS it?" she asked. Jack shot a look at her and she settled back in her seat.

           "So, what's next?" Jack asked.

           Carlos stood, his hand over his heart "My hand to God, Miss King, if I insult you, you have my permission to do as you see fit."

           "Then please be my target tonight. "She requested. Jack shot her another look.

           "I am Carlos Sentara, Code name Bolt. I am a speedster.”

           "I am Snowy King, Ice queen, Icy for short." she stated.

           Jack speaking up, "Jonathan Vargo, Jack Frost."

           Carlos added, “It would be my honor to be your target."

           Bell snorted.

           Slater stood, "And Nat suggested you try me as well. We have met but I did not introduce myself, Slater Monroe, Psiblade.” Snowy smiled at Slater.

           A blonde cheerleader looking girl beside him rose to her feet, looking deadly serious, "I am Christiana Girchrist, Venatrix. Nat also suggest you try me.” 

          "I have much I would like to ask you , later if you could." Snowy looked directly at Slater, ignoring the girl. Both Ben and Jack face bore a shocked look. Snowy continued, "I have not been allowed to use such but on accident or great stress. Only passive things am I trained in, please forgive me if I hurt you in advance."Snowy said her face reflected that of curious child.

           Another girl, this one ash blonde with heterochromatic eyes says "I am Debra Ange, Deb, if you please, I am the Seer and like Slater, we have much to discuss, including trying your gifts out on me. Just as I shall try mine out on you."

           "Would not that exhaust me with each use? I have never used it more than a training game we played with my dad." she stated again to the room. Snowy tried to hide her fear. To many people all together prying into her secrets made her anxious.

           Wren stated, “You have to learn your limitations, and you will try me as well.”

           Josh protested, “HEY!! That was MY job!”

           Snowy looked confused and looked to Jack thinking to him, “I’m afraid, they are all so scary. I don’t know if I can do this.”

            Jack patted her hand as he thought back to her, “It will be okay. We have Ben.”

           Nat explained, “Each has a tested threshold, Snowy, this will give us a baseline of your powers without the government sticking their noses in. You don't have to take them all at once.”

           Snowy nodded. Jack spoke for her, "WE understood We had to reveal our gifts, when do we start?"

           “As it is already 7 pm, I think tomorrow will be time enough,” Nat suggested, “Maybe Ben you start an avalanche and Jack, you stop it? Kidding.”

            "I bet we could do that!" He looked at Ben. Ben shook his head no. Jack spoke to Nat with excitement in his voice "We have a gift and would like all to see, May We perform it?"

           “Sure, if we can make enough room for you.” Nat agreed not sure what the gift was.

           ""They will have to accept her gift, she will be using, thus be warned."Jack confirmed, "No room is need we have enough."

           “Explain.” Requested Nat.

           "She wants to use her powers like at the funeral to perform a song to Mal," Jack said

           “That is an image, right?”

           "Yes, but since she has to show, she wants to do it for all and they are team mates thus permission." Jack looked at Nat, "Right? But it is still her power which means permission right?"

           “As long as there are no endomorphs jumping out, terrorizing Paige or making people blast holes in the walls. If you do something like the service, that's more art than attack.”

           Jack rambled off quickly, "No that is only for training. Yes we have made a few and never shared them before. She wishes to share."

           “Knock yourself out.” Nat shrugged.

           "Icy wishes to share something with all of you. I need everyone seated and please don't move around during as I don't want you falling or tripping." Jack took his seat

           Nat sat with Wren and Carlos sat on the floor, while Ben began to play. Snowy stood just a foot away from him.

           Snowy took a breath and stated, “This is for someone special, you know who you are. Please open your mind, See what I see, Hear what I hear.” She commanded her images to form around them all.

           A string orchestra join to accompany Ben as Snowy began to sing. “Starry, starry night.” The images filled  the whole room as if in the middle of space. The galaxy of stars spread out into infinity. “Paint your palette blue and grey,” The floor rippled in blue and gray, fading away. “Look out on a summer's day.” The room became a meadow in a full summers day with a hill. “With eyes that know the darkness in my soul.” The field became black and lonely. “Shadows on the hills.” The room a day time meadow again but clouded over head, a hill with the clouds casting shadow.  “Sketch the trees and the daffodils.” Trees and flower spouted on the hill to full bloom. “Catch the breeze and the winter chills.” The hill froze over as a cold wind blew through the room. “In colors on the snowy linen land. Now I understand what you tried to say to me.”  The room became a frozen landscape. Her voice pulling pain and anguish in each note, transforming the room back to the stars. She sang the last chorus. “How you suffered for your sanity how you tried to set them free. They would not listen they did not know how.” She paused and barely over a whisper she sang, “Perhaps they'll listen now.”  Ben played one more solo stance, the stars forming Vincent Van Gough before fading the room back to normal. Snowy looked at all in the room waiting for a response.

           Bell was the first to start clapping followed by most of the room. One young black kid sitting behind Mark Law gave a golf clap and a short one at that. One girl they hadn't met twirling a finger that was on fire. Mal clapped the loudest knowing it was for her.

           Snowy took a bow sitting down as Ben put the guitar back in the case. She stood back up with Jack, taking his arm they headed to the stairway. Slater intercepted them. Snowy smiled at Slater while Jack eyeing him in mistrust.

           “Thought you wanted to talk a bit?”

           "Yes I would like that." she said

           “About anything in particular?” Slater asked.

           "Yes, but not in a crowded room, I would like it a little less people." she stated

           Slater offered, “There are several conference rooms available.”

           Jack spoke up, "lead on." He looked back at the common area full of people but stayed at her side. Jack mumbled to himself, "Ben gets to have all the fun."

           Slater gestured down a hall, "This way."

           They follow Slater as he led them to a small conference room with a table for ten, along with a desk, computer and two couches. Snowy sat on a couch, Jack stood next to her looking at the door.

           Slater sat on the opposite end of the couch. “What's up?”

           "Tell me about mental abilities. What use are they?" she watched his eyes.

           “Depends on what you can do. Mine are pretty limited to oh ... killing your brain and stuff.” Slater eyes stayed to hers. “I have some serious TK and of course, I can cause pain.... I can make someone shake...you know what Palsy is? It make you shake uncontrollable And..” He got up and crossed to the desk, finding a pencil and returned to the couch.

         "No, not really." she stated as Jack looked at the door, eager to leave. "That is not how mine works. I never met another of my kind and now there are so many. Can you help me to learn. You have already saved me once. I know I ask a lot.” She turned her head quickly to look at Jack, she snapped, "Fine but you better come if I call," Jack sprinted out the door before she could finish.

           “Mind link?”Slater noted,”Sort of turns your head blue.”

           "We have had it since birth, so our parents have told us." she stated, "It  frightens me when I cannot hear him. That is when I know he needs ice."

           “I don't have anything like that, Deb does, she can link the whole White Team Well, except Alicia. I'm mental attack powers, Deb is a telepath. She's out coordinator. We don't need earwigs with her in the link.”

           "I don't know my label." she said, "Though I do hope to get telepathy one day so I can talk to Ben. It just hasn't showed up yet."

           Slater shrugged, "You never know, it might develop.”

           Snowy stated, "I don't like the earwig, it is ugly and irritates me."  

           “I dunno, maybe Deb can show you or something. We got used to them.”

           "I hope so, it is so much easier talking through the link, than with my voice," she stated.

          "How does one train the gifts they have, when you are not allowed to use them?”

           A very faint tap on the door caught their attention. A mousy looking girl with obviously dyed black hair, round harry potter glasses and dressed a little like she got everything from the Salvation army stuck her head in. “Oh ... am I interrupting?”

           “Hey, Alicia, Icy, this is Alicia Cross, called Midnight.”

           Alicia whispered, “Hello.”

           Snowy replied, “Hello.”

           “I guess I'll see you after your talk.” Alicia ducked out of the room.

           Slater smiled at Alicia calling after her, "Where else would I go?"

           "I just want to understand what I have. Mal believes they are not as useless as I do." Snowy shrugged her shoulder dismissing the notion.

           Slater asked, “What do you have?”

           "I don't have labels for them." she stated.

           “What do your powers do, besides the light show?”

           “I can make people do what I want, run away or come help or unbuckle a belt."

           Mind control, a lot of the government researchers still think it's not possible but then neither is walking through walls or flying without an aircraft. You know you are the first, right? And there are only three of us, you, me and Deb, that have mental powers.”

           "No my dad had files of hundreds like us. Not sure exactly how many with mental gifts but he had a lot of files." she stated

           “And we are all different. Files?” Slater scratched his chin. “Someone has been busy.”

           "Nat has them I gave him Ben's copy." she again spoke like this was an everyday statement "It has the research on it to, that’s why i can't let my dad's private work go. It is dangerous."

           “That's a huge can of worms.” Slater was not happy, “Nat has it?”

           “The files and the companies work, not my fathers,” she said “I have the only copy safe."

           “Well, Miller will never see it. Have you read it?”

           "No one can but doctors doing good for meta. " she looked worried, "When I was allowed to. Yes My Dad was a bio chemist. I plan to be one too. I will finish his work."

           "What supports a subject being classified as a meta? Observation?"

           "The geno cell, I guess." she said, "Is this a pop quiz?"

           Slater was suddenly very serious. "No, this is life and death for us. How can they tell if a person is a meta?”

           "My Aunt was a DNA researcher, just like DNA there is a Geno cell." she looked confused

           “What do you mean geno cell?

           "That was what my father was working on, a way to mask it so no one could detect it. He wanted to keep us safe." she stated

           He asked, “So someone found a way to detect it?”

           "Yes but my dad figured it out and messed with the data to hide it for now, till he could find the answer before they rediscover it." she shrugged

           “Who are they?” Slater was on his feet pacing back and forth, stabbing the pencil into his palm.

            "Global Tech, you don't leave that company. No one that does ever is seen again." she shivered, "Most meta bad stuff was in Russia, Japan, and the middle east. I think they were trying to open in France."

           “No, no NO!”

           "I don't know how close my dad was." she looked confused

           Slater didn't seem to notice that the pencil had been driven through the palm of his hand.

          Snowy jumped up grabbing his hand, pulling the pencil out, "What is wrong?"she asked removing her scarf to bind the wound but the bleeding had stopped before it had time to flow.

           Slater pushed her hand away, “No, don't get blood on your scarf.” 

          Snowy stepped back, "What did I say wrong this time? I don't understand why you are upset?"

           “We need Freddie. God, I hope he isn't dead.” Slater grabbed her by the shoulders, "Because if any government gets a hold of this...every meta could end up dead.” He dropped his hands.

           She was please she held her headache from him but was confused to how or why but there was no time to think. She tried to ease his worry, "Now you see why it was important for us not to. My dad left us with a big responsibility and I gave most of it to Nat. My dad told us to trust no one but I trusted Nat Only thing I held was my father private work.” She paused in thought before adding. “It would give your people a head start. I could explain what I know in it."

           “None of us can do any of that biochem/DNA research...we are years away from it.”

           "I am and no one else knew what he found before he messed with the research at the company, to hide it. We might have years."

           “No, we have until Doc Freddie dies.”

           "Who's that?" she asked

           Slater looked directly at her, “Do you believe all the media talking about metas being the product of the nuclear age?”

           "No, our parents has their own belief they taught us." she stated not sure if to share.

           “What was that theory?”

           "The government injected all the military around the world and some normal’s with a bio weapon passed off as a cure, that had side effects. They surmised that was how metas were created and the altered geno was pasted on till manifestation. The data showed the military personal as being discovered as meta more so than any other group."

           Slater shook his head "Wrong. Meta-humans have been around as long as the rest of humanity.We aren't an evolutionary advance. We are a parallel race.”

           Snowy backed away from him, "We were not allow to talk to others about anything like this.”

           “We'll have to get you in to meet Dr. Holland.”

           Fear raced through her as she shouted, "NO Doctors! Rule one no doctors.”

           “He knows more about metas than anyone that has ever lived.”Slater explained, “Dr. Holland back in the 30's and 40's was known as Sgt. Steel...he's a meta.”

           Her voice slightly trembled as she asked, "You trust him?"

           Slater nodded, “Freddie? Yes, with Alicia's life.”

           "Ben thinks I don't need to be on the same restrictions as Jack. Maybe, if he doesn’t touch me." she debated as she watched Slater.

           “Hard not to touch if you're a doctor, Blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, blood tests, the usual stuff.”

           "No idea what the usual is. I have never been seen by a doctor since I was five. "she change the subject and asked, ”Do you have a girl friend?'

           “Yes, you met her, Alicia.”

           "Will she propel me to the moon for being around you?"

           Slater grinned, “That's Wren...Alicia turns people to stone.”

           “Would she loan you out on occasions?"

           He was taken off guard, “Such as?”

           "If my career, goes back on track. I will need an escort. I am getting to old to keep using Jack for functions I will need to attend. You have the right look. I could pay you to be my date if you want."

           “Look, I know what Alicia would say..."Sure, you can do that."

           Snowy waited for the but all plus ones would use.

           “But I also know what she'd mean. Inside she'd be dying because she doesn't think she is pretty enough for me. I can't do that to the woman I am going to marry. I can't put her through that doubt. I am honored that you asked me, but I couldn't hurt Alicia like that.”

           "Yes that is what I thought you would say. ." Snowy had drifted into her own thoughts jumping the subjects as her mind processed all the new data.  “No wonder I didn't hurt you when you touched me. You did not trigger my reflex.”

           “Hurt me?” he was lost.

           "When I get touched I tend to hurt others. You have touched me twice and neither time did I blast you."

           “Is it Reflex or conscious decision?”

           "I don't have my dad to ask, they figured it out set rules to live by for our safety and health. This is new, I have always hurt those who dared touch me, when I am taken by surprise or it is unwanted." Snowy switched the conversation again, "I'll just use Jack, sorry I asked. I should of let Ben line it up. I am Useless."

           “Why are you sorry? I am just sorry that I can't help.”

           "I totally understand and no way would I be looking at you as more than a escort. Men with girlfriends, I tend to stay as far away as I can. But you touched me? that's confusing. And you are the first man I been alone with in eight years. She is lucky to have you."

           “Your powers are mental. I do have resistance to mental powers, like Deb can't read me.”

           "I don't know maybe, I don't know enough of the mental powers. How did you practice as a child?" Snowy looked at him.

           “Child?”

           "Yes WE where six for the first." She wondered why no one here was like them.

           “I was thirteen when I ran my bike off a cliff. I figure I broke everything I had broken my neck, has a rock went thru my chest in three places, dislocated my shoulder, the usual stuff.”

           "I am glad you lived."

           Slater grinned, "Me too!"

           "Ben was also thirteen. So far we received them at six, eight, twelve and now fourteen.”Snowy felt uncomfortable speaking so much, she needed to leave, “I need to go study. and just remember, live your dream." she opened the door.

           Slater called after her, “You need to go meet the others.”

           Dread filled at the thought of returning, just to many people. She opened the door with yet another situation  she didn’t want to deal with. Just outside in the hall, Alicia was leaning against the wall. She called for Jack in the link.

           She pushed off the wall making a move toward Slater but stopped extending her hand to Snowy "Welcome to the Program."

           Snowy took her hand, "I hope I am useful."

           “So do I, I mean, I feel the same way... Um...your...cousin?

           Jack came down the hall to them "Yes we were born on the same day. I am Jack "

           Alicia looked to Jack, “Um..ice powers, right?”

           Slater went over to Alicia and put his arm around her waist.

           'Yes," Jack formed an ice rose presenting it to her.

           “Um.. Alicia Cross.” She accepted the rose.

           “I didn't get to introduce myself the last time we...encountered one another...Slater Monroe.” He offered his hand.

           Jack went to take the offered hand but Alicia looked to be on the verge of tears. “Did I offend you?"

           Alicia almost whispered "No...I need a favor from you. You can go in real cold, right?”

           Slater looked down at the girl he held, “What is it?”

           Every word expressed Jack’s sincerity as he spoke. "Yes, if I can help you I will. I can go to the north pole in the clothes on me for you, if you wish."

           “It’s gonna die. I can feel it.”  Alicia hadn't quite broken down but the tears were rolling down her cheeks.. “It’s so small, out in the snow, it doesn't have cover and it's mother left it.”

           "Send us on our quest to aid you." Jack replied

           Alicia slipped out of Slater's arm and practically ran down the hall as Slater followed closely. Snowy and Jack followed after.

           Alicia called off a checklist to Slater “Warm towels, hot packs, something like that and warm milk.”

           Jack catching sight of Ben yelled, "Ben Red."

           Ben excused himself and headed to the four.  Slater headed off to gather the supplies for her. Alicia threw open the door to a blast of sub zero temperatures and blowing snow. Jack frosted up and Ben rocked out as they follow her outside, leaving Snowy in the lodge. The snow was a couple of feet thick on the porch.

           Alicia pointed "There about fifty yards, it's a kitten. Hurry, she's dying right now!”

           Jack danced on his snowflakes as Ben strummed out on his music wave.  Alicia broke down as Wren came up behind her giving her a hug. Jack snatched up the kitten handing it off to Ben. Ben tucked it in his coat. Alicia watched through tears as they raced back. The boys returned to normal before entering back into the lodge, Ben presenting the kitten to Alicia.

           “Give her to me!” Alicia snatched the kitten and pulled open about four layers of sweaters to press the little thing against her skin. Closing all the sweaters she hurried toward the fire, cooing softly. “You're not gonna die, please God, no.”

           Snowy headed for the food and picked at the shrimp.

           “Cook's putting something together for it,” Slater reported as he came back with a couple of hand warmer packs.

           “No, I think my body warmth is better.”Alicia sat on the hearth, facing the fire at an angle.

           Ben and Jack both grin, feeling good about the rescue.

           Slater looked totally lost and scowled, "What are you two grinning about?"

           Jack commented, "You have one wild kitty under those sweaters."

           Ben chuckled, not believing he said that.

           A glow formed on Slater's fist as a huge hand came down on Jack and Ben's shoulders from behind.

           Nat speaking, "Walk away now...."

           "Hey, SHE does have a WILD KITTEN," Jack stated.

           Slater came up off the hearth "You might want to take your ass out of my sight." The glow on his hand extended to about 18" long.

           Nat snapped, “Slater.”

           "I am sorry Slater it sounded funny in my head." Jack tried to explain, "We just got the kitten for her, it was in her sweater. Slater looked lost, it just came out. I thought it funny. As Ben said I didn't think it through I spoke to quickly." I am sorry I will not slip again." Jack headed to his room leaving Snowy at the food bar as he made his way to the stairs.

           Nat turned the boys physically away from the hearth. “You probably just fucked up more than you know. And frankly, I don't see the joke either.”

           Jack kept walking mumbling, “Seems I am having a streak of that lately."

           Ben shook his head, “It was a play on words, he didn't think it through. I'm working on him."

           “What would you do if Snowy was all broke up and someone started laughing at her?” Nat went off, “And you did not help, Ben. I suggest you stay out of Slater's way for a while...and Chris' too.” Nat nodded at the cheerleader type, who looked like she was ready to murder someone.

           Ben replied, "No mute button on that boy. I am working on it."

           The conversation in the room slowly began to pick up again

           Mal went to Snowy, “What the heck was that?”

           Snowy emotionless tone answered, "Jack’s attempt at humor. He's not very good at it. He did state facts. There is a wild puma in her sweater."

           “Just like Bell stated facts, 'white boy'? He didn't get it and Slater certainly does not get it.”

           "Yes, but you said we must get over that. We are trying to fit in." Snowy picked at some more shrimp.

           “You might want to tell him he'd better get his ass down here and apologize.”

           "I'll tell jack to stop trying humor. Will that work?"Snowy spoke to Jack in the link than said, "He is on his way"

           Jack came down the stairs to apologize again. He stumbled over the mess in his head trying to figure out where he went wrong, what to say. This group wasn’t like the kids back home, at least with them they didn’t try to kill him for a bad joke. Slater still sat on the hearth next to Alicia at the fireplace.

           He opened his mouth and let his first words that came to mind flowed out. "I am greatly sorry for my words. I didn't mean no harm in them. I took a second look at her and understand my mistake. Please accept my apologies to both of you. I will not try humor again."

           “Second look?” Slater seemed even more pissed, “What did you mistake her for?”

           "I only look into her eyes, the shell means nothing in my eyes. I didn't notice how lovely she was. It now makes sense why you wished me harm. If you still do, I will not stop you. Ben says when I open my mouth, I insert my foot,"

           Slater stood, "That was an apology? I'm not sure if that wasn't a further insult. What the hell do you mean? She's trying to save a tiny life and you're making jokes about wild kittens in her sweater, then you come back and tell me the shell means nothing? I need a damn translator!”

           Alicia squeaked, "Slater, she's moving.”

           "I am sorry. I don't want people to dislike me. We are not use to making friends." Jack was at a loss  for words.

           Slater dropped Jack like a hot potato, as he left, "I'll get the milk!"

           Jack stood still; he could feel the eyes judging him. He was totally out of place here. The heat of the fire was unbearable making everything seem so much worse. Without a word he walked out into the blizzard. Winds whipped around him as he frosted up and danced among the snowflakes trying to clear his mind.

           Snowy started to follow Jack with just the clothes on her, she didn’t care if the cold would kill her she just want to be with him..Ben grabbed her before she could get to the door.

           Ben sighed, handing Snowy to Nat, "Don't let her leave, I’ll get him."

           Nat laced his fingers together on top of his head “Couldn't he just say "I apologize and leave it at that?"

           Ben sighed again, "I been working on him, he's getting better. Please just keep her in here I need to go after him." He bolted out the door into the blizzard.

           Chris came over speaking to Snowy, "Hey, your cousin, by any chance, need hand to hand combat training?"

           "More than likely,” Snowy replied, looking for a opportunity to follow Jack.

           “Put it away, Chris.”  Nat looked down at Snowy, “and you are not going out in that.”

           Snowy said nothing in response; she turned away from Nat heading for the stairs and her coat.

           “Mal?” Nat spoke after losing sight of Snowy.

           Mal looked at him “Yeah?”

           Nat responded, “Stick with Snowy...I'll go get him...where's Ben, Alicia.”

           Alicia opened her sweaters cradling the kitten as she feeds it a bottle of milk. “He's 60 yards out,” Alicia pointed "That way.”

           Nat disappeared out the door wearing only his Hawaiian shirt.

           Alicia called out "Deb, link Nat and Slater.” Deb was sitting perfectly still in an armchair, eyes closed. Alicia said, “ Never mind...":

           Mal entered the room watching Snowy put on her coat, “You like to freeze to death? Wind chill in like -20.”

           "No, I plan on dragging him back," Snowy fiddle with the zipper.

           “Nat is very good at dragging.”

           She paused and removed her jacket, she needed a new plan.

           Ben and Jack were yelling at each other, when Nat loomed up in the swirling snow and stood watching, arms crossed over his chest. They looked at him, falling silent.

           “Snowy is about to run out naked to find you two. She was stripping down as I left.”

           Ben said, “That’s why I asked you to watch her. She can be the fu."

           “Relax, Mal will have her tied up.” Nat assured him.

           Jack plopped down into the snow, holding his face in his hands.

           Nat went on, “You saved that kitten, Alicia will be forever grateful...she’ll keep Slater from making your brains explode.”

           "I always seem got get something wrong.” Jack sighed.

           “And I wouldn't let Chris try to 'teach' you anything involving hand to hand for a while.

          "You met Ern yet? Guy with the wings? You could learn a lot from him. Ern uses about 20 words a day. Something you might consider emulating.”

           "Yeah I think he is who helped us with bags" Jack said without lifting his head.

           Ben said, "He’s a work in progress."

           Jack made a snow ball, "I just need more time to think. Wish she wasn't screwing with me. I like her better when she wasn't doing so many new things."

           Ben said, "We knew she would one day."

           Nat informed them, “Mal suggests we get back inside, Snowy is showing signs of panic.”

           Ben helped Jack to his feet as Jack looked at Nat, "I am trying. I am sorry."

           “Tell that to Slater, just that, nothing more don't try to explain it.”

           "I don't think I should try quite yet, she is screaming in my head. I can't think." he sighed

           “Have you tried a tin foil hat?” Nat held up a hand, finger and thumb a faction of an inch apart. "See, little joke, very little.”

           Jack shook his head, dreading entering that building, "Do you want a ride or do we walk?"

           Meanwhile inside, the guy with the wings and a Latina with gorgeous blue eyes joined Alicia and Slater at the hearth.  Mal was trying to introduce Snowy to people she hadn't met yet.

           Snowy seems elsewhere, not really feeling comfortable with all these people even with Mal at her side. Her eyes stayed glued on the door.

           The first were a couple of girls, one with light brown hair and freckles, the other a girl with black hair with pale blue streaks.

           Mal introduced, “Snowy, this is Mari and Rachel.”

           Mari spoke, “Hey! Nice ta meet you.” She was the one with the black and blue hair.

           "Oh sorry, nice to meet you.” Snowy tore her eyes from the door looking at the girl blankly, "Just my cousin being a fool, has me distracted."

          Rachel piped in, “Aren't fools supposed to distract kings and queens?”

           "He is my prince but at this moment..." She went quiet as the link blinked on and off in her mind. "That's new.” Her eyes returned to the door.

           Mari jested, “Have you considered putting him in a harlequin outfit?”

           Rachel could see Snowy’s worry, “Hey, he'll be okay, Nat's out there.”

           "No Jack is fine in the cold." she looked back at the girls.

           “Shh...here they come!” Mari ran over to the door and suddenly there's an alien xenomorph standing there ready to open the door.

           Rachel watched Mari transform, “Crap, there goes another dress!”

           Mal ordered, ”Mari, no scaring the shit out of the new people.”

           Mari snapped  her claws "Ah, mom!" She looked down at her alien body, “Crap...another dress. How many wanna see me naked?”

           Carlos blurted out, “ME!”

           “Okay!” Mari shifted to Carlos with a little tiny dick. “How's this?”

           Mal protested, “Mari, some people are too young to be seeing that!”

           Snowy rolled her eyes as Paige just giggled.

           Bell looked Mari over "I dunno, you think dat’s too big?"

           Mal snapped, “MARI!”

           “Yes, mom.” Mari moaned. Rachel pulled a throw off the back of a couch and wrapped Mari in it as she shift back to herself.

           Snowy ran to the door as soon as it opened, giving Jack a look to kill but hugged him tightly.  Jack gave her a hug back pushing her gently and made his way to the hearth. Ben went to Snowy’s side taking her hand and watched Slater stand as Jack approached.

           "I apologize.” Jack said bracing to get punched.

           Slater offered his hand "Apology accepted."

           Jack looked surprised as he took his hand with a smile.

           The puma kitten was asleep in Alicia's arms. She looked up at Jack."What was your mom's name?"

           “Tina.”

           Alicia considered, "A puma named Tina?”

           "Sarah was Icy's mom" he offered an option.

           Slater said "Sounds like a great children's book.”

           “Sarah?” Alicia opened the blanket to reveal a very fat bellied little kitten of about five pounds

           "Life is precious."Jack said looking at the kitten.

           Out of Snowy, Jack and Ben's line of sight, Chris relaxed and took a bite of a strawberry.

           "Icy, you have some studying before bed," Ben stated.

           Snowy nodded, then stated, “It is getting late, we have all weekend, mind if we talk tomorrow?"

           Nat responded, “That's why we are here.”

           "Good night, than." Icy headed up the stair.

           There was a chorus of 'good nights as she disappeared from sight, Ben went for his guitar and started playing

           Jack just stood there silent watching the kitten, till he grabbed his head."Excuse me. I am being summonsed." He slowly moved to the stairs.

           Mari flipped open her throw and gathered Rachel inside "I'm cold!"

           Mal shook her head as she eyed Pagie, “Rachel, you and Mari take that upstairs.”

           Wren started, "Where can I ge..."

           Nat cautioned, “Don't you even think about it!”

           Jack made it to the bottom steps looking up them.

           Nat went to Ben "Can you tell her to let it go?”

           "Yeah, I'll tag him out, " Ben handed his guitar to Bell and stopped Jack. Ben headed up the stairs.

           Jack sat on the steps, shaking his head and rubbing his neck.

           The guy with wings sat down beside Jack. A look of relief came over Jack’s face.

           “Somebody kicked your puppy?” the guy offers a hand, "Ern Ts'aak

           "My cousin is making me crazy." he said as he took the hand.

           “No, you let her make you crazy.”

           "Jack as in ass." He tried humor again, "You try living your whole life with a girl in your head. Sometimes it is more than I can handle especially when she tries new things. Just easier to do things for her."

           “Old Haida saying "Never laugh at a crying woman."  Ern goes "Hmp"

           "I have a lot to learn."

           “Least you know that.”

           "Yeah, know it two well." Jack looked at all the people."Think I can learn fast enough?"

           “You learn as fast are you want.”

           "If that was true, I would be in a cool zone, not messing up."

           Jack looked to Ern, "You want to hit the slopes after whatever it is we have to do?”

           “You don't do that snowmobile stuff do you?”

           "Yeah I love that too. We did it all back home. Ice fishing, camping, hunting: Dirt bike, training with her images, all the normal kid stuff.”

           “Sound like me and you gonna have to have a little talk about noise.”

           "Noise? that's Ben ? I am ice."

           “You on a snowmobile, dirt bike... you think animals like that?”

           "Never thought of it, like that." Jack admitted.

           “Snowboard, skis, sled, leave the forest in peace. And that is the first step to enlightenment.. you thought.”

           "Oh the husky races are awesome, I loved watching them at the finish line" he sighed, "My parents would take me to see them so I could stay cold in the summer."

           The Latina girl came over and Ern let her sit on his lap. "This is Shannon Flores, Glory.”

           "Hello Shannon.” Jack greeted her.

           Shannon replied, "Hi."

           Ern offered, “I am going to go sledding with Shannon tomorrow, you and your cousin, are welcome.”

           Shannon added, “Less chance of  broken legs."

           "One moment I will ask," Jack grabbed his head.

           Ern raised an eyebrow, "I think she said no.”

           "No, no, She would love to." Jack said.

           Shannon asked, "Mind link?"

           Jack nodded, ”She is in a middle of a fight, volume control problem when she is in that state."

           Ern joked, "I got 20 on her.”

           Nat stepped out into the middle of the room. "Okay, everybody. Looks like we are in for a storm, they expect up to six FEET tonight.

           Jack became visibly excited at the news.

          The black kid whined, “You said I'd get back to the lab tomorrow!”           

          “Sorry, Q, but you know I only predict beach weather.”

           "Oh man am I going to play." Jack could barely hold in his delight.

           Ern looked up at Shannon "Look like we might get snowed in."

           Shannon smiled, “and that just terrifies you!"

           Ern shrugged "Not my first rodeo."

           "Now if I test out something." Jack smiled, "I always wanted to try this! Excuse me guys, I have to talk to Nat." Jack strolled up to Nat, "Mind if I try something in the storm?"

           Nat looked at Jack, “Provided it does not include weapons of mass destruction.”

           "Okay deal,” He walked quickly back into the storm. He frosted up and headed away giving distant. He summoned his powers as he attempted to control the storm.

           Nat muttered, “Why do I sense disaster?"

           Wren replied, "Because you understand karma. Besides, how bad can it get?"

           Nat says "Oh, ye of little faith!"