Life Renewed - Revised

After two more weeks on Archnania:

The sound of an unknown voice interrupted the afternoon family cuddlepile, stating "Hey guys."

The group of boys immediately jumped to their feet, the older boys pulling little brothers under their arms protectively.

"Relax," the newcomer stated. "I'm Cory Short, the Clan Patriarch. I just wanted to meet all of you and welcome you to the family before you go home and things get nuts."

"He's good, guys," Kneau stated as he joined Cory. "I might still throw him in the pond for not warning me that he was coming, though."

"I dare you!" Vic quipped.

"Challenge accepted!" Kneau grinned as he picked up Cory and proceeded to toss him in the pond.

A few minutes later, Cory rejoined them, now soaking wet. "I'll get you when you don't expect it, Val!" Cory giggled. "How are the new little brothers doing, guys?"

Roy grinned as he poked Val, then replied, "Our little elf is awesome!"

"I wish Tarak was always my little brother!" Regan added as he gave Tarak a squeeze.

Val smiled, "Kent's doing a lot better than I would if I'd went through what he did; I think he's teaching me more than I'm teaching him. He's a great little brother."

"Great;" Cory smiled, "usually we don't do adoptions this way, but Dylan had a gut feeling, so I told him to go for it.

"You trusted his gut feelings?" Tommy risked hesitantly.

"You're okay, Tommy," Cory stated calmly, "I want other Clan members to question my decisions, it keeps me from doing stupid stuff. Dylan's pretty special, even for a Mikyvis. When he gets a gut feeling, it almost always means there is something that can't be seen in the Timeline that will make things better down the road."

"Kewl!" Jack giggled, "Damon and me got something to pick on Dylan about for not warning us!"

"I'll warn you," Cory giggled, "Dylan was born pranking people, be prepared to be in a prank war for the next couple of centuries!"

"Centuries?" Roy, Tommy, Regan, and Val queried in unison.

"Cam! Grab us some couches, this might take a while!" Cory stated, knowing Cam was monitoring them.

Once the couches appeared, Cory motioned for everyone to take a seat. "Okay guys, I'm serious, no matter how nuts it sounds. First, Antonio says that all that swimming has done what he expected; all of you are checking out as perfectly healthy; some of you just need to build up muscle mass now. I need to warn you, it looks like the same organisms that moved into your bodies to keep you healthy also appear to be affecting lifespans. From what we can tell, there's a chance you're going to physically look same basic age that you are now for a long time. The good news about that is that a whole bunch of us are going to be living longer too, for various reasons."

"So everyone's going to age like Elves?" Damon asked.

"Possibly even slower than that," Cory replied, "including you."

"Good, I don't want to lose Jack, he's the best big brother ever!" Damon stated with a big smile.

Barely holding back his grin at the goofy smile that appeared on Jack's face, Cory continued. "Things are changing for school stuff too; Tommy, you're going to have to take some more placement tests. These are different though; instead of testing you on what you know, they'll test you on what you have the natural skills to achieve. The rest of you will be taking them too, but since Tommy just went through it, I thought he'd like the warning."

"Why does everyone need to take the tests?" Tommy asked.

"Because all of you will be going to Clan schools; all of your parents already agreed to it," Cory explained. "When I took the tests, it verified that I was suited best for engineering, with a secondary skill for programming. I think you'll like it, one of the perks of Clan schools is that if you miss school for something, you get graded for what you did while you were not in school. When I miss school for Clan stuff, a lot of times I'm being graded on my leadership skills. Big brothers, you're going to be graded on how you're doing on helping your little brothers adjust to their new lives. Chief Tecumseh says that sometimes our school needs to be everyday life, and it is our teacher's job to help us understand our strong points and guide us through improving our weak points."

"But we'll miss the classroom stuff," Reagan countered.

"Going by what Intel has told me," Cory stated, "There's a good chance all of you are going to be independent study; you won't be sitting there listening to teachers all day. That's what I'm in; we teach each other, and just call over a teacher if all of us are stumped."

"What about us?" Damon asked.

"It's the same for everyone; if you do better in a classroom, that's where you go. If you'll do better in independent study, that's where they'll put you. Since age doesn't matter, any of you could end up with groups that have kids older than you and kids younger than you."

"What's the test like?" Kent asked nervously.

"Like no test you've ever taken before," Cory admitted. "The biggest difference is that you're expected to talk and help each other during the test. Mr. T, that's the Chief's son and the head teacher, told us that talking and helping gives the AI computer that's running the test an idea of what you're retaining, and what you know without being taught about it. It'll adjust your tests for anything you do so it can figure things out better." 

"I don't have to stare at a list of numbers again?" Tommy asked.

"Nope," Cory smiled. "The entire thing is like an interactive game that asks you random questions. there's a good chance that after you've introduced yourself, none of you will see the same question, since each of you gets tested on things that are unique to you."

"What about kids like me that have never been to Earth schools?" Aldrich asked.

"You're tested just like everyone else," Cory nodded. "You and Tommy will both be tested for what you learned through life, which is a lot more than you think it is. Neither of you will be classified as 'behind'; instead, you'll be directed towards classes that you are weak in, but only if those classes are needed for what you are best suited to do. You don't need to take Biology unless you're doing something that needs it. There's no real 'History' class, because what's not covered by your other classes gets naturally covered over time during Clan activities. The Tribal Customs classes cover a lot of things, including basic Vulcan customs; even then, you'll probably pick up things that are not covered because of Regan and Tarak teaching you by including you. Those kind of things we end up sharing with everyone else in the class, because sharing the knowledge makes us all more aware of things that we've never seen ourselves."

"Does that mean that I can tell the teacher that they are wrong about the Apache and I won't get in trouble?" Tarak asked.

"If the teacher doesn't thank you and ask you to explain what is different, Mr. T will chew them a new butthole!" Cory grinned. "Everyone is a student, and everyone is a teacher; Like Grandpa Sarek would say, 'It is logical to share knowledge that resolves incorrect data'."

"What's the catch? This sounds too good to be true," Roy stated bluntly.

"I'm pretty sure that Tommy's going to understand this better than most of you other guys," Cory admitted. "Usually anyone that has been abused gets it first. Without anyone telling us to, the Clan has an unofficial policy of 'paying it forward'; that means that if we see someone that needs help, we either help them or find someone who can. You've attempted suicide, Tommy's suffered multiple types of abuse. Can either one of you honestly say that you wouldn't help someone else who is about to commit suicide, or needs help escaping and recovering from abuse like Tommy went through?"

"No way!" both boys responded in unison.

Cory smiled. "That's what I thought. Regan, I'm pretty sure I know where you can naturally help, and Jack's the same way. Val, before you even think it, you're able to help in ways that are actually rare in the Clan; you can guide people who have never had normal lives with great parents into finding the same thing that you have for themselves. That is the hardest job for most of us, since most of the Clan lived through some kind of abuse."

"Told ya!" Kent giggled."Next time you'll listen!"

"You got lucky," Val grinned as he pulled his little brother into a friendly headlock. "Don't get used to it!"

"Yep, just like that," Cory giggled. "Roy, Tommy, Aldrich? Before I ask this, your parents and I have already discussed it, and they have agreed to let you decide. Don't worry Aldrich, I made sure that you are still a surprise, but your opinion matters just as much as your big brothers on this."

"Why do we decide?" Roy asked.

"Because I'm not Dylan," Cory grinned. "If something affects a Clan family, your votes count just as much as your parent's votes do; sometimes more. If you want to see me angry, let a parent ignore the input from their kids!"

Noticing the disbelief in Roy's face, Cory added, "Remember how your Mom was acting before she knew what Tommy went through? Your Dad rescued Tommy the way he did because of you, Roy. The way Tommy was treated pissed him off and put him on the warpath; his guess of how it could affect you drove him over the edge and made it an unacceptable personal attack on his family. If it had only affected one of you, he would have sought justice, since it affected both of you, he's out for blood. If your Dad hadn't done it already, I would have made sure your mom knew the facts, and if she didn't change her attitude like she did, right now I'd be chewing her out like nobody's ever done before. A family only works if the effect on everyone is taken into account. It doesn't mean that you'll get what you want, but it does mean that things can be adjusted to make it easier for you."

"Kinda like Aunt Marge making me go to the swim practice even though I was scared?" Tommy asked.

"Exactly," Cory nodded. "She saw that hiding wasn't helping you, so she made sure that you got out to spend time with boys she trusted to help you."

"So sometimes adults make us do stuff because they think it will help us with something we don't see?" Roy asked.

"Yep; and sometimes telling you why will make it not work," Cory acknowledged. "Sean and I have adopted a bunch of kids; Mom explained that to us just after we adopted Timmy, and I've seen it work with our sons and daughter."

"Oh!" Roy exclaimed, "That explains a few things, like them forcing me to join the swim team. I like it a lot now, but I didn't want to do it because Tommy was missing."

"Now you've got it," Cory nodded. "Your Mom and Dad trust you guys to make the right decision, and normal Clan procedure is to not let an adoption happen unless EVERYONE in the family agrees. Like I said before, Dylan's an exception, and I'll be there to help you guys with explaining how each family got a kid they were not expecting. Mom's explained Mikyvis to all of them, so it should be easy."

Seeing the relief in the four youngest faces, Cory continued. "While I was talking with Danny and Marc about you guys being associated with the AI Annex, Marc told me about a young android who came in that just lost his family during the battle. After the reports on your progress up here, something told me that you guys would be just the brothers he needs. He looks like he's ten, but he was activated thirty-two years ago. Right now, he's going in and out of depression; Roy, you're going to probably be a lot of help for him as well as the help you're giving Tommy."

"You mean like distracting us every time we start to feel alone?" Tommy accused with a small grin.

"Believe it or not, that's sometimes the best help!" Cory smiled. "Do you guys want to meet him? His name is Vance."

Roy, Tommy, and Aldrich talked it over in low voices, then Roy turned to the rest of the group. "We want to meet him, but since it affects all of us, you guys need to be okay with it too."

Val, Regan, and Jack quickly checked with their little brothers, then each of them gave their approval. Impressed with the bond that was just exhibited, Cory smiled as he stated "Hey Cam, tell Chance he can go ahead and bring Vance over."

"Took you long enough, Gramps!" Chance giggled as him and a ten-year-old boy with long auburn hair appeared next to Cory.

"Hey Vance?" Cory said softly as he pointed at Roy, Tommy, and Aldrich, "The brown haired kid over there is Roy, the big blond is Tommy, and the little blond is Aldrich. Why don't you head over to meet them and get to know them?"

"Okay," Vance replied in a defeated tone.

"Hey Aldie," Roy stated softly, "Tommy time; you guys can help better if he's on my lap."

Aldrich nodded as he quickly shifted to be fully on Tommy's lap. Just as soon as Vance came to a stop in front of them, Roy held out his arms and stated "Hop on up, Vance; loss don't hurt as much inside if you're being held by someone."

Vance shrugged his shoulders, but took Roy up on the offer. Once Roy had Vance securely in his arms, he softly said "I almost killed myself because I thought Tommy had been killed. Even though he's alive and becoming my brother now, I still have times when it hurts. Tommy almost died from being neglected in jail. Val and Regan helped me through the worst of it; would you please let us help you by being our brother?"

Aldrich added his input. "I'm actually the same age that you look. I was rescued from another dimension, and the only people I really know are sitting right here. Roy and Tommy are helping me adjust to being the only one like me in all of this universe. Could you be my brother and help them help me learn?"

"Roy believed in me even though I thought I was nothing but street trash," Tommy stated softly. "He's the only thing that kept me sane in Solitary."

"What if your parents say no?" Vance whispered, "I'm just a washed-up android with no family."

Roy lifted Vance's chin and looked deep into his blue eyes. "The only part you got right is that you're an android. You're not washed-up, and you're our brother, so you have family. If Mom or Dad argue, we'll grab some popcorn and watch Cory teach them how life works in Clan Short. Kneau told us that our parents have no say in if we can stay part of the Clan; that means if we say that you need to be with us, they can't stop it."

"Can you really do that?" Vance risked.

Cory answered for Roy. "I just heard three boys declare an intervention to help you. In that situation, Roy is absolutely right; he declared you family as a member of Clan Short because he believes that the help that you need is in his own family. Since I agree with his logic, the adults would have to argue with me; that's one fight I would win one way or the other."

"Don't worry," Chance explained, "Grandma Teri covers stuff like that when she talks to new Clan parents. All of the adults know that sometimes their kids will add to the family because someone needs their help, or they think the parents are the perfect ones to help the kid. If there was going to be a problem, both her and Cory would already be expecting it."

"So don't add brothers because we want to," Regan clarified, "but if our Spirits tell us we are needed, then follow their guidance?"

"Exactly," Cory nodded.

Regan turned to Tarak. "That, my brother, is why you are Family."

"I love you, brother," Tarak whispered as he shifted to give Regan a tight hug.

*************************

AI Annex Family Room, 3 days after the boys left:

"I've been to Archnania," Josh explained to the worried parents waiting with him. "The most you need to worry about is the boys bringing back an animal that you've never seen before."

"But who is making sure they're fed?" Marge asked.

"Probably the King or Prince Chance," Josh smiled. "Based on what I know of Tommy's mental state when they left, I'm sure it was Chance. Since Prince Chance actually runs things, starving is the least of their worries."

"Jack's first time that he's been away from home more than a few hours was when he stayed over with Roy and Tommy," Dr. Frost stated. "Three days must have him terrified."

"They're all fine!" Dylan stated as he popped in. "It's been three months for them; they've been supporting each other and helping each other with problems that nobody here was aware of. You're going to see a lot of changes in how the boys that left to go there are interacting with each other. This vacation gave them time to bond in ways they never could have bonded with their daily responsibilities at home. As far as adults go, Tommy's still going to have issues, but the rest of the group being with him will help him deal with it better."

"Three months?" Walter verified.

"Archnania is outside time," Dylan explained. "They could be there three decades, not age, and be back here before they left. The three day delay in them coming back is because you needed time to get the protections in place for Tommy."

"So you hid our sons until you were sure they were safe?" Margie challenged bluntly.

"Yes, Aunt Marge," Dylan replied.

"Is there a reason you didn't explain that?"

Dylan nodded. "If you knew I could keep them away as long as needed, you wouldn't have acted as fast and a few kids would have died."

Marge sat back in shock. "You know that?"

"Four kids would have died, and six more would be in the hospital," Dylan stated seriously. "I can see all of the possibilities of an action affecting the future. If you were doing something that caused anything majorly bad, I would have stopped you, no matter how I had to do it."

Gathering her wits at the unexpected statement, Marge nodded. "I understand; and I'll never question why you are doing something again."

"Just ask nicely next time," Dylan grinned. "If I can tell you without messing anything up, I will."

"You won that round," Marge admitted.

"Just remember that looks and age in the Clan kids that you meet might not match," Dylan explained. "All I'll say is that I've experienced more years than all of the people in this room put together. I also spent multiple years as a manager for two major bands doing multi-universe concert tours, and tomorrow I'm planning on adding more years to the total. I almost went insane after accidentally ejecting someone's brain out of the back of their head trying to protect some of the family members of one of the bands I manage; there's a reason my branch of Humanity is not allowed to judge or kill humans, since if we go nuts, we could unintentionally blow up Creation due to the failure of our natural shields."

Marge had no doubt by the tone of Dylan's voice that he was absolutely serious. As she added him to the short list of people that she wouldn't cross, she stated "I think we should sit down and talk once everything's calmed down. It appears that there are things that I've not noticed that I really need to be aware of."

"I'll take all of you up to Archnania to meet the King and we'll all talk," Dylan offered. "We'll pick a time when the boys are busy, and spend a couple of seconds away when they won't notice."

"That sounds almost impossible to schedule," Walter observed.

"No, it's easy," Josh stated. "Knowing Danny, he'll probably be calling an AI Division Clan meeting soon to welcome the new guys and bring them up to speed on what resources they have available. We're not allowed in those meetings, so it'll be perfect timing."

Nigel interrupted over the room speakers, "Stevie has notified Director Page of the necessity of a meeting occurring soon. Director Page has stated that he will arrange for the necessary distraction to allow for the needed meeting."

"Thank you, Nigel," Josh smiled.

"Okay, the guys are ready to come home," Dylan announced. "Please, stop and think before reacting, since there are going to be things that they will be unsure of your responses to. Just remember, there is absolutely nothing they will say, do, or have done that hasn't already been cleared with not only me, but also Patriarch Short."

"One second, Dylan," Josh asked. "Nigel? Could you ask CJ, Chad, Willy, Johnny, and Andrei to join us?"

"They are on their way," Nigel replied.

"Why did you call for them?" Wanda asked, breaking her silence while she observed everything.

"CJ and Chad are the Directors that the boys report to, Willy and Johnny are the Assistant Directors, and Andrei is their advisor if needed. I think all of your boys will be more relaxed if they have Clan officers present."

Wanda nodded, "That makes sense; considering how long they've been away, I can't wait to hear about it."

Dylan tilted his head, then smiled. "One thing before they come back. One thing that Roy, Tommy, and Val are nervous about revealing is that they wish to learn more about Native American traditions and religion. While they are not renouncing your Church, they are interested in learning about things that have been lost through the ages. Native American religious beliefs, while different in some areas, mostly follow the original tenets of Christianity from before politics invaded the religion."

"Why do I get the feeling you have investigated this personally? " Marge asked.

"I've only visited with Saint Peter a few times!" Dylan giggled. "Cory's Big Brother is Saint Mikey of Urbandale, and one of my brothers was with one of my Uncles when he visited Jesus back when He was alive."

"I don't know about you, Wanda," Marge stated, "but with references like that, I'm of a mind to encourage the boys exploring that option. At least they have sources available to help them sort out any conflicts they discover."

"I agree," Wanda replied. "They might actually discover the reason for the unease I feel with some sermon topics."   

"I'm thinking the same," Walter added.

"Thank you for thinking it over," Dylan stated. "The last thing any of them want is to disappoint you, which is why I brought it up now."

"I feel better knowing that you're looking out for them like that," Walter admitted. "I think I'm going to take any changes a lot better now."

"Okay, here they come!" Dylan warned seconds before the entire group of boys from Archnania appeared, with Chance as their escort.

Smiling, Dylan stated "Everyone, this is Prince Chance of Archnania; by Mandate, his father King Harroldo and myself share the designation of Father to him. I've already made sure that he knows all of you."

"Dad likes to cheat sometimes!" Chance grinned. "Dad, could you get Chief Silverhawk?"

"He just finished his meeting with the Elder Council," Dylan replied. "I'll be right back; Dr. Frost is free now, too."

Dylan seemed to flash, then returned with the missing parents. 

Chance tilted his head, then asked "Dilly? Where are Mr. Clarke, Mrs. Frost, and Mrs. Silverhawk?"

"May I have permission to speak of the missing family members?" Dylan asked. "I'll need permission from the affected adults and the affected eldest brothers, who shall speak for their little brothers after discussion with them."

"This can't be good," Walter muttered. Turning to the boys, he stated "If any of you need it, you have my support; I've learned that Dylan is very protective of all of you, so him asking that makes me worried for you."

The small smiles from Regan, Val, and Jack were all the answer that was needed; Walter felt confident that they'd follow through if needed.

Dylan waited until he had the needed approvals, then stated "Jessica Silverhawk is currently working with the Clan Construction Corps to prepare their home for the extra space needed when the boys all decide to visit. Tammy Frost is currently having a preventive measure completed by Clan Medical to prevent a future genetic issue which could shorten her lifespan; Doc Antonio says the issue will be resolved shortly, and she will return home tomorrow."

Dylan paused, then continued, "Val, I'm sorry. That funny feeling you got about your father was right; your Mom handled the public announcement alongside Aunt Teri. David Clarke has been sentenced to life on a Class Three Federation Prison Planet and has had all parental rights terminated for multiple inappropriate interactions with female students of Phoenix North Middle School as well as female students of his sixth and seventh grade Sunday School class. One of the victims, a twelve-year-old, is pregnant, and Antonio's verified he is the father. Her parents didn't take her being pregnant well, so Aunt Teri has her under FYS custody."

Reading the look on her son's face like a book, Wanda stated "Val, it is your decision as to what happens next. The only thing that kept me from divorce was Church doctrine; I wouldn't be surprised if you boys find that I had more rights than I was told."

Chief Silverhawk stated, "Within our Nation, such actions would banish the offender to the wilds and the family that he dishonored would be supported by the Nation."

"Thank you for your guidance, Wise Chief," Val stated. After closing his eyes for a few seconds, he re-opened them and turned to his Mom. "Mom? My Spirit says it's wrong for the girl he abused to suffer more because of his actions. If Kent agrees, I think you should adopt her, and the baby will be raised as me and Kent's nephew or niece. CJ and Chad can handle making it happen now instead of making her suffer through Arizona courts to make it official."

"Val's right!" Kent risked, latching onto Val as soon as the words left his mouth.

"I believe my son has been giving lessons," Chief Silverhawk smiled.

"Keep Grandma and Grandpa Clarke's name," Val added, "He who was formerly my father does not exist to this bloodline."

The room fell silent as everyone considered the repercussions of Val's declaration.

"Nigel, consult with Justy regarding the statement and situation that Val Clarke is referring to." CJ ordered.

"Acknowledged, Director," Nigel replied.

"Val, while I believe your statement is logical, I need to make sure that it is legal before I can approve it," CJ explained.

"Okay; thanks for the help," Val replied.

The room remained silent as they waited for the reply. a couple of minutes later, CJ and Chad's commbadges went off. "Headquarters to Directors Michaels," Justy's voice stated.

"Proceed," CJ and Chad replied in unison.

"Sarek of the House of Surak has confirmed the statement of Val Clarke of Family Clan Short of the House of Surak is logical and in full compliance with Vulcan law. You may proceed with confirmation."

CJ stood straight, his face going blank, then stated, "As Director of the AI Annex of Family Clan Short of Vulcan, I, CJ Michaels of Family Clan Short of the House of Surak of the Planet Vulcan terminate and void all direct and indirect blood ties of the Earth citizen David Charles Clarke, formerly of Arizona, to any ancestors or offspring that he might otherwise claim. Any and all relationships that may be claimed are hereby nullified. Applicable documentation of the offenses leading to this action shall be filed by the Family Clan Short liaison. This judgement is immediate and permanent. My word is given." 

"Received, Submitted, and Approved, Director," Justy stated professionally.

"Your assistance is appreciated, Liaison," CJ replied.

Shifting gears now that the official part was done, Justy added "Great job, CJ; you handled that like a pro!"

"Thanks, Justy!" CJ replied. "I think I nullified the marriage to Aunt Wanda too; did it sound right to you?"

"Bro, not only did you nullify the marriage, you nullified his relationship with the pet turtle he had as a kid!" Justy giggled. "Not only does his family tree have no branches, it also has no roots. What you just did is exactly what would be done on Vulcan for his crimes; he no longer exists as a person in the eyes of Vulcan. With the treaties the Terran governments signed after the Battle of Earth, he doesn't exist here either; the only way he could exist less would be to have never been born, but that would mess up timelines."

"Thanks, bro; hang around, it looks like a few family updates are about to happen. Could you ask Aunt Teri to bring over the girl that became pregnant?"

"On it, Headquarters Out!"

CJ smiled as he turned to Wanda. "Aunt Wanda? If your church gives you any trouble about what I just did, let me know. I'm pretty sure a visit from Saint Mikey will shut them up. If that don't work, my cousin Pablito is his assistant, and he'll explain it in words that'll never be in the dictionary!"

"I could always ask Saint Peter to join the party!" Dylan offered.

"I'm not sure what is more concerning, the offers of help from you, or the feeling I'm getting that either one of you could easily pull it off," Wanda admitted.

"Choose 'All of the above'," Chad giggled. "It's safer that way!"

Deciding to push his luck, Val nervously said, "Mom? This is Kent, Dylan said he needed a big brother so I said yes and now that I know him good I really need to keep him and..."

"Slow down," Wanda said gently as she held out her hand. "You found a new brother, and it's Dylan's fault, right?"

"Yes, Ma'am," Val squeaked.

"Once things calm down, we can plot getting even with Dylan," Wanda smiled. "Right now, I think Kent needs to drag his big brother over here so we can have our first family hug."

Kent's eyes grew wide at the statement, but he immediately grabbed Val's hand and pulled him along to his new Mom.

Once she had a boy under each arm, Wanda asked "CJ? Could you please make sure that this is official? I don't think it is fair for Kent to have to wait."

"Did you catch that, Justy?" CJ asked after tapping his badge.

"Got it, and Vulcan just confirmed," Justy replied. "Nigel sent me the family picture, I'll send over a copy for your Family Wall once things settle down."

"Thanks, bro!" CJ smiled. One glance at Roy, Tommy, and their brothers told CJ that it was going to take some help for them to update their parents on the new additions. Knowing that Dylan would hear him, he thought "Dylan, fill me in on Roy and Tommy's brothers; I need to give them some help."

Seconds later, CJ had what he needed. "Uncle Walter? Aunt Marge? Could you join me, please? Roy and Tommy need some help figuring out how to tell you a couple of things."

"Do you know why they need help?" Walter asked softly as him and Marge came to a stop next to CJ.

Keeping his voice low as well, CJ replied. "They're like me and Chad. Our heads know we can talk to Dad about anything, but our mouths won't work to say stuff."

"How do you get around that?" Walter asked after a glance at Marge.

"We tell Andrei, and he starts the talk with Dad for us," CJ stated.

"That's a smart choice," Walter admitted. "Marge, what do you think?"

"That explains why we didn't know how bad Roy was getting until it was almost too late," Marge admitted after some thought. "Now I'm even more worried about Tommy, and I'm not to sure that Roy will take the other thing well now."

CJ nodded. "I think that I can take care of all of that. I asked Dylan to fill me in, and I'm fully aware of what you're trying not to say. Aunt Marge, to make it work, I'll have to say something about the problem you don't discuss. If I can say it right, Roy will take it good; Dylan's parking in my head to help me, and he's linking in Dr. Frost, since he knows how Roy thinks."

"With help like that," Marge admitted, "you should do fine. Say what you need to; there is nobody here that I wouldn't trust to keep it discreet."

Catching a thought from CJ, Chad announced "Nigel, seal the room, Security level Alpha."

"Security Level Alpha set, Director."

Chad went over to where Roy, Tommy, Aldrich, and Vance were standing. "Roy, Tommy, you need to take a seat on the loveseat next to you. Aldrich, Vance? Pick a big brother, park on that brother's lap, and make sure that they don't go anywhere if their brains stop paying attention to their ears."

"What's wrong?" Roy asked, his unease obvious.

"Nothing is wrong," Chad explained, "But CJ has to tell you some things that all four of you need to know."

Suspecting that Chad wasn't going to elaborate, the boys did as he asked. Once they were seated as instructed, CJ came over with Walter and Marge. 

"Okay guys," CJ started, "the first thing is that you're all brothers. Nothing that I'm about to say can change that. Where one of you goes, all four of you go. Before I can make it official with your Mom and Dad, theres a list of things that they need to know, and a list of things that you need to know. Roy and Tommy, you're a lot like me and Chad; we need help talking to Dad because our mouths won't say what we want them to sometimes. I'm gonna help you like Andrei helps us."

All four boys relaxed slightly, relieved that CJ didn't start with breaking them up.

"Uncle Walter, Aunt Marge? There's a few things that you need to know about the youngest pair on the loveseat," CJ stated. "Neither one is the age that they look. The blond is Aldrich; even though he looks six, he's actually ten, and he's an Elf from a different Universe that had to be brought here to save his life. The other little guy with auburn hair is Vance, He's an android, and even though he looks ten, he's got thirty-two years of memories in his head. His old family was killed during the Battle of Earth, and he was promised by Tommy and Roy that they would give him a new family."

Marge nodded. "I expected no less of Roy and Tommy, I'm just surprised they didn't adopt them for themselves. Thanks to Tommy, I understand now that it doesn't matter where you came from or what happened in your past; you are both boys, and I won't let anyone treat you different."

Walter started to say something, but CJ held up his hand. "Dilly says not yet."

CJ turned his attention to Roy. "Roy, this is something that your brothers need to know. Can you think of any time that your Mom and Dad did anything to make you think that they didn't love you totally and completely? Pretend it's just us, the adults that you think you see don't really exist here."

"Not really," Roy stated uncomfortably. "Even if they're mad, it never felt like they hated me."

"Do you think that they'd be any different for the rest of your brothers?"

"No," Roy said as he shook his head. "Mom was mean to Tommy some until she understood what he lived through, but I don't think she ever hated him. Before he vanished, she used to make sure that whenever he was around the two of us had time to spend together. After he'd have to leave, she'd always complain about his mom, but the only thing she'd say about him was that if someone took the time to teach him a few things, he'd be a lot better person."

"So she was mad FOR him, not AT him? CJ clarified.

"I think so," Roy admitted.

"Is that why I'm scared but not scared?" Tommy asked.

Vance decided to add his perspective. "I think you knew she was angry, but it didn't feel like it was directed at you," he explained. "That's kinda confusing unless you're aware of it."

"How do I know?" Tommy asked.

"The eyes never lie," Aldrich stated. "If it is not you, but something that affects you, the eyes will be sad even if the face is angry."

"Okay," Tommy acknowledged. "Thanks, bros."

CJ became serious. "All of you need to remember everything that we just talked about, because you are not the only ones who have things that your mouths refuse to say. Listen to your spirits, not your heads."

All four boys nodded. Satisfied that they understood, CJ began. "I have the okay to tell this to you, but you need to not react to anything until I reach today again. The past shapes the future; I'm telling you of past things that made today possible, keep reminding yourselves of that."

Four more nods signaled that the point was made.

"Back when Aunt Marge was a little girl, she got really sick. When she grew up, they found out that it messed up her body some. After her and Uncle Walter got married, they found out how bad it was. A few years after Uncle Walter got out of Law School, Aunt Marge's big sister Stella died while giving birth, and the father had vanished. Since Aunt Marge is unable to have children, her and Uncle Walter immediately adopted their nephew, vowing to raise him as their own son. A while later, they tried to get custody of a boy they considered a nephew, but he vanished before they could do it. They finally found the second boy, and involved every person they knew with the power to return him to the family. Today, those two boys offered them the chance to have one of their dreams come true from when they got married. Today the two boys that they took in without any reservations offered them the chance to share their love with a big family by taking boys in like they themselves had been taken in."

Pausing, CJ added softly, "Roy? They were going to tell you, in fact if Tommy had stayed they were going to tell both of you at once. When you broke down after Tommy vanished, they were afraid that it would destroy you completely if they added that onto what you were already feeling. They didn't tell me that; Dylan found it when he was doing the security scan that all adults have to pass before they are allowed around Clan members."

Roy nodded, letting CJ know that he'd heard. As he continued processing the information, he found himself buried under three other bodies, showing their support silently.

Chief Silverhawk came over then stated, "Roy, think of what Val just did. The Great Spirit has many plains on the Happy Hunting Ground, and the very best are reserved for those who open their hearts to orphans and love them as their own, Just as you have done with your new brothers, your parents did for you. Even if they did not give birth to you, their spirits have bonded you as their offspring."

"Thanks, Chief," Roy whispered. "I think I understand." He fell silent for a few more minutes before saying softly to nobody in particular, "That's why nobody ever talks about Mom being pregnant, or how long she was in the hospital like other families do."

CJ nodded at Walter, letting him know that now was the right time to talk. Walter walked over, and gently placed his hand on Roy's shoulder. "Roy, you have always been, and always will be, our son. I'm pretty sure that you, and now your brothers, mean more to us than kids that are born into a family, just because you all are giving us something that we could never have; you're giving us a family. Can you forgive us for not telling you?"

Roy looked up, his face streaked with tears. "CJ says you didn't want to hurt me," he whispered. "I believe him; I know Dr. Frost is still worried about me because of what happened."

"He's not the only one, son," Walter replied. "All of us are. You and Tommy should talk to your brothers to see if they can help you talk to us when, as CJ puts it, your mouth won't do what your brain tells it to. Your Mom and I understand, and we'll work with whatever you boys come up with. If we have to adopt a telepath to help you, we will; that's how much you guys mean to us."

"I love you, Dad," Roy admitted softly.

Sensing that Roy was going to be okay, Tommy looked around, his eyes landing on Marge. "Aunt Marge?" Tommy asked nervously.

"Yes, Tommy?"

"Did you ... do you ... I mean ... will ..." Tommy tried to ask.

Marge gave Tommy a soft smile, "I think I know what you're afraid to ask," she stated calmly. "It was my idea for you to call us Uncle and Aunt; Walter and I saw your potential the first day that we met you, and it made me furious to see how your birth mother was letting it waste away. Think of this, Tommy; you've seen how picky I am about who Roy associates with; with the exception of the first day you were back, when I'll admit I was being over-protective after what happened with Roy, has there been any other time that I refused the two of you spending time together?"

"No ..." Tommy risked.

"Tommy," she continued, "Roy needs you, in some ways he needs you in a way I don't fully understand, but if it means that both of you are happy and safe, I can accept it. Walter and I fell in love with the boy that visited a lot less than we'd like, and I was blindsided when I found out what the state turned the energetic, intelligent, happy boy that I knew into. You're starting to let that boy out again, even if it's only for a few seconds at a time. I know you've seen a lot of anger since you came back; that anger was at what was done to you and how it affected you, it's never been at you. Yes, I want to finally be able to be your Mom, and I want to be there to celebrate with you every time you overcome another thing those bastards did to you."

"Really?" Tommy asked softly.

"Yes, Tommy; this isn't a dream. You're a part of a real family now, and you have three brothers ... so far ... that are there to remind you of that every single day."

Marge watched as Tommy buried his face in Roy's shoulder to hide the tears that began running down his face. "Boys, I think that the best thing for your big brothers would be little brothers comforting them. It's going to take some time for them to finish sorting things out in their heads, your Dad and I are going to sit down over by your Uncle Josh to give you space to help them."

"Okay, Mom," Vance and Aldrich replied, having understood clearly that they were family as well.

"You heard them, Justy," CJ stated over his subvocal.

"I've filed it; Uncle Josh is letting Uncle Walter know it is official, but we're waiting on the guys to be composed before I announce it."

"Okay, that works," CJ replied. "Only two more families to go!"

"If they start themselves, do it;" Justy advised, "Otherwise, Liam says to wait."

"Gotcha!" CJ replied as he looked around, finding Dr. Frost talking to Jack and Damon, while Chief Silverhawk seemed to be in serious conversation with Regan and Tarak. Deciding that things could wait, he went over and joined Chad, Johnny, Willy, and Andrei on their favorite couch.

*************************

 

To Be Continued ...