We stood, staring in shock at the two of them.

" What?" They looked at us in confusion.

" What school?" Angel asked in a small voice. It's so weird. She said in my mind. I can't read their minds.

" Xavier Institute for Higher Living." Logan said.

We all visibly relaxed.

" I know that place!" Gazzy said enthusiastically. " Max, can we go there? Please?"

I looked around at all those faces, begging for a warm bed and food every day and a place where they wouldn't have to leave. I looked at them and I so wanted to say yes. But you know, leaders have to do hard things sometimes.

" No." I said. I held up a hand to all the protests. " I'm sorry guys. But we have a mission, remember?"

" You still expect us to 'save the world' or whatever?" Iggy said in disgust.

" Yeah, I do. I'm sorry guys." I replied. " Maybe some other time."

The flock sighed and gave up.

" We'll come there someday." I told Laura and Logan. " Just not right now."

" It was nice meeting you, Max." Laura said.

" Nice to meet you too."

Logan extended a hand. I took it, and then he pulled me into an embrace. " Good luck out there, Pipsqueak."

" Thanks, Logan." I replied.

Then I turned to my flock. We all flung out our wings and soared into the sky. To help Jeb. To save the world.

The minute my feet left the ground I began to miss X-23 and Wolverine already.

By the way, if any of you could come up with a better title, I would totally appreciate it!!!