Doc Austin smiled as he took a seat then looked around the room. Not only were the entire Clarke family present, but also Kyle, Tyler, Tuone, Chance, Antonio, and King Harroldo. "Okay everyone, let me just review what we're about to do so it is fresh in your minds. Antonio and I sat down with Kyle, and we reviewed the possibilities for how Kristina's pregnancy could turn out. We discovered that if it is allowed to go full term, her body would suffer damage due to not being fully ready to carry the extra weight and bulk of two babies. Inducing an early birth would only reduce the damage slightly. Since Kristina has stated that she wants the twins she is carrying, Kyle suggested that I consider his help."
After a pause to let things sink in, he continued. "Normally, Kyle, Ty, and their kids won't intervene in a medical situation unless it is an emergency. The exceptions come from either Antonio or me asking them to help; even then, they'll say no if it has bad effects on the future. Kyle did his checks, and decided that it was safe to try this way. What you're about to see is never going to be done on Earth; in fact, as far as Earth is concerned, she was sent off-planet for assistance, and we don't know how it was done."
After receiving nods of understanding, he kept going. "What Kyle and Ty are going to do is time-warp the entire cycle. Ty is in charge of the two babies; he's going to shield them while Kyle gets Kristina ready, then he'll put time in hyper-speed around them to allow them to grow naturally."
"What Kyle is going to do is temporarily age Kristina to her early twenties so that her body is safe for the birth. Once he's aged her, him and I are going to work together to keep hormone and nutrient levels steady for Ty to do his part. Once Antonio delivers the babies, Kyle will return her back to normal, and we'll balance her to a proper post-pregnancy hormone level so that she can feed the boys naturally if she wishes."
"Is this going to affect any future pregnancies?" Wanda asked.
"Only if the other party is human," Antonio interjected. "It looks like the pond organisms made some minor adjustments, since her and Tuone had just completed therapeutic intercourse before she went into the pond. Somehow, she's no longer genetically compatible with a normal human for reproduction; she is compatible with Archnanians, though. Since her and Tuone are together, me and Kyle decided that he's going to make sure that her bone structure and reproductive system are at a point where this won't be required again if the two of them make more kids."
Doc Austin nodded. "While her body is undergoing changes still, her aging markers have stopped. I think that once she's fully at her optimum health and development point, she's going to be that way for a very long time!"
Wanda smiled. "Considering that Kent is probably going to join his brother and sister in having a long life, I think it would be best if I was to also want to make sure that I am there for my family. The one question I do have is how are the babies affected as far as aging?"
Chance took a turn at answering. "Since we turned into a High Race, Archnanian babies actually grow both physically and mentally at a very accelerated rate, slowing down once they can be basically self-sufficient. While we don't know for sure, we're guessing that at some point they'll gain age control and then settle into the same form as the rest of us. In my case, I look the age I do because that's how I looked when it happened; I could allow myself to grow physically, but I don't, because I like being cute and cuddly."
Wanda snickered at the last line. "I'll give you that one, Chance. Considering what we're doing, I feel confident that if the twins require any assistance with growth, one of you will handle it."
"As far as you are concerned," Doc Austin stated, "Chance told me that the pond has already started assisting your body with an adjusted hormone balance. It appears that pregnancy kicked up some hormone outputs when Val was born, but never turned them back down. Since I'd feel more comfortable if the twins spend the first couple of months of their lives here, that should give all of you plenty of time for the pond organisms to do their thing. We'll re-visit lifespans once we see what they've done."
"I think that's going to work," Wanda admitted. "Enough of me, my daughter's waiting to meet her sons!"
"I had a couple of Japanese friends in first grade, they were twins and the nicest boys I've ever met," Kristina explained. "They were Kazu and Koto; I think I'd like for the boys to have their names."
Tuone smiled. "Kazu is 'first', and Koto is 'supplanter'; I think those are great names for our sons."
"Do you want to feed Kazu his first meal, and I'll feed Koto?" Kristina asked.
"Sounds like a plan," Tuone replied. "We can switch off on feeding, that way the boys can bond with both of us."
"I now pronounce you Husband and Wife," King Harroldo stated as he finished the ceremony. "You may now kiss the bride."
The assembled crowd , which consisted of not only family and friends from Arizona, but also the complete staff of both the AI Division and the AI Annex, applauded as Kristina and Tuone sealed their marriage.
Those that were not Clan already had been prepared for this unique experience, understanding that this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that they were being allowed to participate in without affecting their normal lives. The ages of the boys were explained away with the excuse that they had been here for an unspecified time. The parentage was left as Tuone as the father, with no mention of what had previously occurred.
As the kiss broke, two apparently four-year-old boys broke free of their Grandma's grasp, running up to their parents and latching onto their legs.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you the Clarke family; Tuone, Kristina, Kazu, and Koto!" King Harroldo announced. "Please join us for the reception in the Grand Hall!"
Once the family made it through the reception line, they took their places at the head table. Kristina couldn't suppress her smile as their boys, both with hazel eyes and auburn hair, took seats on either side of their parents. Both boys were extremely energetic, with their Archnanian heritage boosting their mental levels to an early pre-teen, even at their early age. Both boys adored their parents, and did their best to make their mommy and daddy proud of them.
While still nowhere near her pre-pregnancy with Val figure, Wanda's weight had retreated to a much safer level, where it now seemed to be tapering off to a stable point. Both her and Doc Austin were satisfied with where her vitals were appearing to stabilize, which turned out to be a lot better than her body would suggest.
Antonio had declared the entire Clarke family as no longer aging, which relieved Kent considerably. Val made sure to spend time with both his Archnanian brother and his sister, building bonds that would last their entire extended lives. The rest of the Arizona youth, this time with parents, had joined early in the second vacation, which allowed them time to bond as well.
Val stood up, and requested everyone's attention. "May I have your attention, please?" he asked, then waited for the reception crowd to settle down. "Thank you. Going by Earth time, yesterday I was blessed with the gifts of a little brother and sister, as well as being allowed to be part of the group that officially welcomed Tommy into his new family. All of this happened because the man I can now call Uncle Walter was not about to stand for what happened to Tommy, so he brought the problems to the attention of Federation Youth Services, and then Family Clan Short. Uncle Walter, could you please stand up?"
Walter stood, obviously not expecting this.
Val smiled. "Uncle Walter, your actions directly led to what we just witnessed today. Could we please have a round of applause for Uncle Walter, who stood up when others would have just let things go?"
The entire room exploded in applause in appreciation, with Walter nodding his thanks. Once the applause tapered off, Walter took his seat, and Val continued, "Now for the stars of the show, Kristina and Tuone. From what Antonio told me, they were love at first sight. When I actually got to meet Tuone, I was immediately impressed with how caring he is to my little sister. Her original family was less than ideal, and he worked with her to replace those memories with happy ones, including her in his family while he was waiting for the rest of us to re-join them. When he asked about becoming brothers instead of just in-laws, I had no other answer to give but yes; he's part of our family, and I'm proud to be his brother."
After turning and smiling at the newlyweds, Val continued. "Tuone and Krissy gave our entire family a gift that will last our entire lives, my nephews Kazu and Koto. They're our favorite miracles, just as compassionate as their parents. They say a young child reflects their parents; those two boys are reflecting two people who I am proud to be able to call my family. Everyone says I'm the reason that Krissy's my sister, since it was my decision that she should be added to our family before I even met her. It was the best decision that I ever made, and as long as I live, Krissy's family as if she was born to Mom."
As Val took his seat, Wanda stood up. "I wasn't aware long speeches were genetic, Val!" she quipped, spawning chuckles and giggles around the room. "Today I was able to witness something that makes everything I've done in my life worth it, I was given the honor of presenting my daughter to freely give her hand in marriage. To avoid repeating what Val stated, I'll just say that it couldn't have happened without all of you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I pray that Tuone and Kristina lead a long, happy life together, without the trials which have led some of the people present to be here today."
As Wanda sat, the DJ began playing music, signaling the official start of the celebration.
"Where are we?" Aldrich asked as the family appeared in their dining room.
"We're home," Roy replied as he looked around with relief. Despite it only being a day Earth time, the last time that he'd actually seen this room was well over a month ago, and it finally hit him just how much he missed it.
"Boys," Walter stated, "from what I was told, our house has had a few changes made to it while we were gone. I think all of us should take a chance to see what has changed so there are not any surprises."
"Too late, Mr. Benton," Alexis commented from the kitchen. "You might want to see this, Sir; it appears somebody decided that your kitchen was insufficient."
Before anyone could move, a voice came from hidden speakers in the ceiling. "Senator Benton?"
Recognizing the voice from when they were at the AI Annex, Walter replied, "How may I help, Nigel?"
"Director Page determined that a Divisional extension requires the same security measures as the AI Annex. While I am already monitoring the entire premises, Director Page believes that services as a butler would provide a more direct form of protection. I have been issued a second body to perform that function, and he is prepared to assume duty upon your approval."
"How can you be two places at once?" Walter asked.
"It is a modification of the systems used for our space fleet," Nigel explained. "While we share access to the same AI core, we are in actuality separate individuals, yet share the capabilities associated with identical twins. My twin has taken the name Nelson Michaels, and shares the memories and training that I have up until the point of his activation. As twins, our future experiences will be shared between us, yet we can distinctly separate our own from each others."
Walter thought it over for a minute, then replied, "With the duties that I'm suspecting our boys are taking on, I can see a time coming very soon where Alexis would be overloaded trying to keep up. Give me a minute to talk with her."
"Pardon my interruption, Senator," Alexis stated, "but I overheard the proposal. From the conversations that FYS Director Short had with myself and Mrs. Benton, I can assure you that the offered assistance will probably be required quite soon. Additionally, the experience with diplomatic visits would ease quite a bit of stress for all of us; it is my understanding that Nigel was doing those things before any of us were born."
Marge nodded. "Thank you, Alexis; I did not want to speak for you, but you are absolutely correct. It is my understanding that Nigel is also assisting his boys with the various things that are required for social interactions at that level, so Nelson would be an asset for all three of our sons who have not been raised with it. Tommy, that means that you'll finally understand which fork to use; it made me mad that your old mother never taught you that simple thing, but I never had a chance to tell you in a setting that would not embarrass you. Since all of us are here, I also want to announce that Alexis is no longer an employee; she now lives here, and is considered family."
"I thought that you thought I was stupid," Tommy admitted.
Marge shook her head. "Anything where you thought that I thought you were stupid, I was actually thinking your mother was stupid. If you pay attention, Tommy, you'll notice that the only people close to Roy are exceptionally smart. Not book smart, life smart. That type of person gets frustrated with people who are life stupid. Not only did you make the grade to be close to Roy, but Val and Regan also accepted you. Then you went and made friends with Jack, who was possibly the smartest kid in the whole school; smart enough that the rest of your friends didn't think they were good enough to be around him. Saint Lukes has a pretty rigid social structure; before you even spent your first day there, you not only became part of one of the highest social circles in the school, you moved the circle up to the very highest circle."
"I did that? But they know a lot more than I do!" Tommy questioned.
"They've been taught things that you haven't ... yet," Marge explained. "Do you know what the first tests Mr. Arthur gave you were for?"
"To find out what I know," Tommy replied.
"Actually," Marge explained, "Those were standard tests for checking your ability to learn and comprehend advanced subjects. Just like the Clan schools, we needed to know your potential first. Mr. Arthur has only seen one score higher than yours - Dr. Frost's first son, Jack. Dr. Frost thinks that's why you were not completely destroyed by what you went through; your mind protected itself until you were safe, and then it started to slowly recover your abilities. What do you remember dreaming about the most while you were isolated?"
"My times with Roy," Tommy blushed.
"I don't want to know why you're blushing," Marge smiled. "That does tell me something; your mind had already picked up on a safe place where you were wanted, even if you didn't consciously see it. People who are life stupid blame everyone but themselves for their problems in life, and never try to find something better. You're life smart; you adapted when you could, and your mind latched onto your safe place once you were put into a position where it was impossible to adapt."
"What they did to you in Spring Ridge was the same thing used to try to get information out of captured spies; most adults go completely insane in that situation after a couple of months. You survived over a year in there, and the only real mental issues that you had were learning to relate with people again and learning to trust your senses as to what was reality again."
"But I still don't believe some stuff is real," Tommy countered.
"After everything that has happened since you were rushed to the hospital," Marge admitted, "you're not the only one! I promise you, there are still times that myself, Walter, and Roy can't believe that you are finally here for good. We spent so long trying to find you, that now we even wonder if we're dreaming. Your Dad and I talked with Dr. Richardson, and now that we understand how this has affected all of us, there's going to be a few changes."
"Changes?" Tommy and Roy both challenged, their worry obvious.
"Yes," Marge nodded. "I've been told that our house has grown a few rooms. One of them is a common room for all of you boys; when you need to sleep together or are having sleepovers, that is where you'll be. If any of you need privacy or just want to sleep alone, you each still have your own bedroom; from what I'm told, your beds still sleep three comfortably. You all have an office just like your Dad's now. The rules are reversed on it, though; while any of you boys can go in and out freely, adults and anyone that you don't consider family are not allowed to enter it without you inviting them in. That includes Alexis and Nelson, so I'm expecting you to keep it clean on your own. If you need help, ask, but we're not going to violate your private office."
"What else?" Roy asked with dread, not believing there were only good changes.
"Your common bedroom might get crowded sometimes," Marge replied. "Your Patriarch ordered something called Dimensional Doors for you. Teri told us that it is a special door that lets authorized people cross long distances, just like they are walking from one room to the other. Us adults are supposed to have a set for our use, too. Yours are linked to the Clarkes' house, the Silverhawk's house, the Frost's house, and the AI Annex in Montana. Ours are linked to those as well, along with Orlando at Director Short's house."
"And?" Tommy risked, obviously expecting the worst.
"Since you are all part of the Clan," Marge finished, "you need to keep your commbadges on at all times, even when swimming. They stick to your skin, so swimming with no suits isn't an excuse. While we won't be tracking you like the watches used to do, it does make it where we can call for you, or you can let us know if you are going somewhere. The important thing is that in case of an emergency, any of the Clan AIs can transport you out of trouble and to a safe place without you having to ask. I'm in full agreement on that, as it ensures that what happened to Tommy when his appendix went bad isn't going to happen again. With this in place, Tommy would have been on a biobed before it burst, not after. that's the changes that I'm aware of; I'm sure others were slipped in."
"Why didn't you talk to me and explain stuff like this before?" Tommy asked uncertainly.
"I needed help to overcome my anger at what your life was before we found you," Marge explained. "All of us need to heal from this, Tommy. It wouldn't have helped you if I ranted about what a useless piece of trash I thought your old mother was, and it took a lot of effort not to do that whenever I tried to explain things. While all of you were taking time to bond, I slipped off into my own time slot with your Dad and Dr. Richardson to get help with that issue. I might still have issues sometimes; just remember, it's not because of you, it's because of what you lived through that you did not deserve to suffer with."
"Would it be bad if I wanted to rant with you sometimes?" Tommy whispered.
"It might be good for both of us," Marge replied, "but we need to do it where your brothers and anyone not family can't hear it. I really believe Dr. Richardson should be there too, since he can help guide us to resolve a few things as we rant."
"Okay, maybe we'll do that sometime," Tommy acknowledged.
"Just let me know when you feel ready, there's no rush." Marge replied softly.
The room fell silent as Tommy crashed into Marge, his soft exclamation of "thanks, Mom!" heard clearly by everyone.
"You're welcome, son," Marge replied as unbidden tears began falling down her cheeks.
The family was just finishing the tour of the house when, out of nowhere, a memory of something that was said at the swim practice popped into Tommy's head. "Dad?" Tommy asked, "Do you know if Don's parents were affected by the stuff that happened? His dad knew about me from work."
"We can find out," Walter started to say, only to be interrupted by Nelson.
"Master Tommy, are you aware of his surname?"
"Hemmer," Roy almost spat.
After a few seconds, Nelson shook his head. "I fail to comprehend the actions of some parents. While Mr. Hemmer was investigated for his part in your abuse, both him and his wife were found guilty of physical and mental abuse of both of their sons. Both boys are currently being processed for temporary placement."
"No, they're not!" Tommy stated firmly as he turned and stared into Roy's eyes. "You know why now, what do you want to do, bro?"
Roy's face turned pale. "Do you think he was being a butthole because he was being treated that way?"
"I know he was," Tommy replied. "It happens in Juvi; kids turn into buttholes because the guards are buttholes."
Roy's face dropped, and he stood there staring at his feet for a full minute before looking up. "Nelson, set the Arizona Extension to Condition Yellow. Recall all members to the Benton household. I don't care if you have to call God Himself, I want Don and Wendell here immediately!"
"As you wish, Director," Nelson stated. "Director Page is preparing to join you to assist."
After exchanging confused looks with Roy, Tommy motioned for their little brothers to join him. "Aldie, Vance? I think we're going to need a lot of help from you guys," Tommy stated softly. "Vance, could you handle the medical side; we need to know if there are injuries that they're hiding."
"Gotcha!" Vance smiled, "Nelson, could you please retrieve my Tricorder?"
"As you wish, Master Vance," Nelson replied as the tricorder appeared on a nearby table.
"Aldie," Tommy continued, "I think that you're gonna need to break out that magic tongue of yours. The last time I saw Don, he was actually more scared of me than I am of him. It wasn't a healthy scare; it was like I felt when I had it at the worst."
Aldrich nodded. "Got it; you're expecting a major panic attack from him, and I need to watch you too. What about Roy?"
"He's still enraged about how Don treated me the first time we met."
"Don't worry, I'll help him," Aldrich replied. "We got this."
As Tommy finished coordinating with Aldrich and Vance, the rest of the crew came running in, followed by their respective parents.
"What's up?" Regan asked as the group slid to a stop.
Noticing that Aldrich had pulled Roy off to the side, Tommy explained, "We just found out that Don and maybe Wendell were being verbally and physically abused at home. They don't have parents any more, and it explains why Don seems to be a bully. Forget what he did; he's one of us, so we have to help him. Timmy's Law, everyone."
"I get it," Jack added. "Tommy thinks that Don being mean was his call for help; that was the bad thing. Now that we can, we need to turn the worst day of his life into the start of a good life."
"I told you that there was more reasons to keep Jack around other than him being cuter than all of us!" Val sniggered. "I'm good; if these two say we're needed, I'm all in."
"Me too," Regan nodded.
Just then, Danny Page appeared carrying a box. "Nice! You got the whole crowd involved!" Danny giggled. "Hey, Jack? Could you pass these communicators out? You, Tommy, Roy, Val, and Regan get silver ones, the rest are for the remainder of the non-adults here."
"So Walter will have a communicator now?" Marge quipped.
"He will, actually," Danny smiled, "just not for that reason. Grandpa Ron wants him to be the Arizona branch of the AI Annex legal team, and I'm not in the mood to argue with him!"
Marge nodded, "After the way Roy just responded, that might just be a wise precaution."
"Thanks, Aunt Marge," Danny acknowledged. "Once Roy says everyone is ready, you're going to see what happens when the restraints are removed that kept youth from making things right."
Danny was about to check on Roy when he heard Wanda ask Marge "Have you checked your messages? The swim coach left one for me yesterday saying Val was off the team if he wasn't in school today."
Danny spun back around, all traces of humor gone from his face. "Aunt Marge? Would you mind if I joined you to hear that message if you have one too? Saint Luke's is part of the Clan Network now; that is one right he does NOT have, and since they are out on Doctor's Orders with the exception of swimming for the team, it is a demand he can't make even if we were not involved. If you have the same message, the school might be getting a new coach."
"Good," Tommy said, having overheard. "I don't like him; he sounds like a prison guard, and treats the swimmers like he owns them."
"Thank you for telling us that, Tommy," Marge growled. "I'm sure that your brothers put being on the team above their own comfort. Why don't you join the three of us to check?"
Something clicked in Tommy's head at the tone of her voice. While he'd heard it many times, this time there was no doubt that she was about to strangle someone to protect her son Roy. Being told she wasn't mad at him had helped a lot, but actually seeing it in action regarding his brother made everything fall in place. He could see that he didn't need to worry about her; anyone who messed with him or his brothers, however, needed to check their life insurance.
"I'm ready," Tommy stated.
It didn't take long to find the message. When they heard that despite the school giving clearance, the coach was not accepting it since Roy wasn't the one injured, Tommy forgot where he was, exclaiming "What the Hell! He's a total ASSHOLE!"
A split-second later, he realized what he'd done, and covered his mouth as he backpedalled and tried to make himself as small as possible.
"Tommy? Come here, please," Marge stated as she held out her arms, her tone suggesting it wasn't an offer.
With his eyes never leaving the ground, Tommy slowly made his way to what he was sure would be certain death. Even Marge pulling him into a hug didn't ease his distress.
"Tommy, look at me," Marge said as she stroked his back.
"I ... I'm ... I'm sorr ..." Tommy stuttered with tears running down his face.
"Where's my strong boy?" Marge asked, keeping her voice calm. "You're not in trouble. That was the exact right time and place for you to say that. I'm fully aware that you know a lot worse things that you could have said; as long as you save them for times like this, where just a couple of those words can save a lot of trying to explain things politely, I'll never be mad at you."
"Really?" Tommy sobbed.
"Yes, really," Marge replied. "Pull yourself together, son; I believe that you have an official request to ask Danny to handle?"
Tommy nodded, latching onto Marge as he regained control. Once he was stable again, he let go and turned to Danny. "Director Page, the Arizona Extension of the AI Annex requests immediate review for job termination of the swim coach at Saint Lukes Academy."
"Review request approved," Danny replied. "I'm going to kick it up to Chief Tecumseh," he added in explanation. "Cory thinks it works best if the Chief handles any education-related issues instead of one of us. That means you're doing it right; you told me what you expect, now I'll tell him what both of us expect. Since he works under Clan rules, this isn't going to take long."
"So I can't fire him?' Tommy clarified.
"Actually, with what I heard, yes, you can," Danny stated. "Sometimes it's better to let other people handle the messy part, though. Outside observers might think you did it to get back at him for kicking Roy off the team, not understanding that he overstepped his authority with multiple team members. This way, Chief Tecumseh can use the Camp Intel squad to verify everything, and then make it happen in a way nobody will argue with."
"Oh," Tommy nodded. "That's too bad; I wanted to try out some new bad words on him!"
Both Tommy and Danny turned to stare as Marge and Wanda both broke out in laughter. "Did I say something funny?" Tommy wondered.
Regaining enough control to speak, Marge replied "No, it's just the way you said it, Tommy! You sounded just like Walter; that's exactly how he would have said it if someone crossed him!"
"That reminds me of something," Danny mused. "Let's take out the trash, then I've got some good news, I think."
Ignoring the three faces now focused on him, Danny opened his communicator. "Director Page to Chief Tecumseh."
"Proceed, Director," Chief Tecumseh replied, his surprise obvious at Danny calling him officially.
"I have received a request from the Assistant Director of the Arizona Extension of the AI Annex. After review of the immediate evidence, I have determined that the logic of his request is sound. AI Division formally requests that an immediate employment termination review be initiated for Coach Taylor Darwin of Saint Luke's Academy. Additional safety checks are warranted for his family members based on observations of Director Thomas Benton. I am declaring this a priority investigation; all Family Clan Short resources are at your disposal. Set Camp Little Eagle to Condition Yellow."
"Request approved, Director; Ark and Klaus are feeding me the initial intel now. Camp Little Eagle is now at Condition Yellow."
"Thank you, Chief," Danny replied. "I have a Director here that would appreciate the option to have a few words with the subject if termination of employment or worse is decided. I believe JJ would want to be present, so that he can score the delivery."
"Mattering if my suspicions are right," Chief Tecumseh noted, "the initial reports could indicate the two of them tag-teaming him. I will ensure that Quint has popcorn ready if the need arises."
"I'll warn the parents!" Danny laughed. "Please keep me updated; this affects a few of my new brothers."
"Expect my results within an hour," Chief Tecumseh advised. "Headquarters just joined the party."
"Understood; Page out."
Seeing that Danny was done, Wanda asked "What do you need to warn us about?"
"I know you met JJ, but I doubt you've been warned about him," Danny grinned. "When someone's getting hurt, being mistreated, or has their head up their butt, him and Tommy have something in common. Not only does JJ know every single language known to Clan Short, including some not used in multiple centuries, but he can fluently and accurately cuss in every single one of them. I have fun counting how many different ones he uses when someone sets him off! I think Tommy unconsciously spotted something; basically Hawkeye just warned me that the crap's hitting the fan."
"Before you get any ideas, Tommy," Marge warned with a smile, "make sure that you talk with Danny and JJ about when you should use that option. If you're being responsible about it, I won't say anything; if you abuse it, you'll be restricted accordingly."
"Once you figure it out, explain it to Val," Wanda added. "He's not as careful as he thinks he is!"
"I can't wait to tell him that!" Tommy smirked.
"Before we head out," Danny stated, "We've learned a little more about Tommy's past."
Everyone else froze at the news; as soon as Marge recovered, she pulled Tommy towards her protectively.
"Relax," Danny advised. "Walter's brother, Tomias, wasn't just the best boyfriend that Tommy's old mother ever had. He had met her about fifteen years ago. Dylan went back and did a detailed check, then went back again with Antonio to verify a few things. Tommy? Even though he didn't know it, Tomias Benton is your father; he vanished before your mother even knew she was pregnant. By the time he ran into her again, she had forgot why she named you Thomas, so he never knew. Davie's fixed that, so now your birth father is watching you from the afterlife. Aunt Marge? I think that you unconsciously spotted some family resemblance, which is why you insisted that your nephew called you and Uncle Walter Aunt and Uncle."
"That just gives me one more reason to make sure Tommy never vanishes again," Marge smiled. "Tommy, I'll let you tell Roy; I think it might be best if you wait to do it until it is just you, him, and your little brothers. Let him tell everyone else; I think it'll do him good. I'll pre-warn Walter, that way if it brings up memories of his brother, we can deal with them in private."
"Okay, Mom," Tommy smiled, the knowledge that he really was related to his new family helping him feel more secure in his new life.
With that, they all returned to join the rest of the group. Before Tommy had taken three steps past the doorway, Roy was securely attached to his right side, and Jack was glued to his left. "Guys?" Tommy stated, "Ignore any messages or anything that you hear that Coach Darwin might have said or threatened. Danny and me have it handled already."
"Don't mess with Coach," Regan said as his face paled. "He'll make all of our lives su ... really bad."
"If you look up 'protective' in the dictionary," Danny quipped, "you'll see a picture of Tommy. Your coach crossed the line, and Tommy's out for blood. Tommy doesn't need to fight with his fists; he fights with justice, and the coach doesn't have a chance against him."
"What did you do?" Roy squeaked.
"He threatened my brother and boyfriends," Tommy stated. "I requested that he get reviewed to lose his job for breaking Clan school policies, then Danny set Headquarters loose on him for a full check on him and his family."
"Oh, crap," Roy whispered. "We're dead meat."
"He tries anything, he's just dead," Tommy stated firmly. "That's not a threat."
"Roy, your brother could give you boys' Dad lessons," Marge added. "If someone goes after any of the kids in this room, they'll wish that they'd never heard the name Thomas Benton."
"Val?" Wanda added, "Please warn us if you and Tommy team up against someone! Us adults are going to hide on Archnania while you two are on the warpath; it's safer that way!"
"Young Masters," Nelson interrupted, "I have been asked to deliver the message that you will have a new swim coach next practice. Also, Don and Wendell are preparing to join you, as well as a young man by the name of Taylor Zachary Darwin, Junior. Be aware that his preferred nickname is Taz."
"Has a time been set for me and JJ to have a friendly chat with the former coach?" Tommy asked hopefully.
"Once your current local business is completed, JJ has indicated that he will be ready," Nelson replied. "I have been designated the official bookie for those who wish to wager on how many languages are used between the two of you; Klaus is the official counter."
"I've got two dozen chocolate chip cookies on seventeen!" Danny announced.
"Registered, Director," Nelson acknowledged.
"Betting, Daniel?" Wanda asked with a glare.
"Not in the sense of gambling, Aunt Wanda," Danny explained. "I really did pledge two dozen cookies; anyone who wants to play pledges food or something similar. There's no 'house cut', if Nelson states a pledge, it is just like any of us. Klaus stands as judge, he can't join in, and he determines the exact outcome based on facts. Think of it like a football pool with food - with the ones who guessed right getting to split the munchies."
"If allowed, I would wish to place a devil's food cake on twenty-two," Marge quipped. "Dr. Richardson warned me about his son!"
"I have registered your entry," Nelson replied. "Trusted adults are encouraged to join in the festivities." After a pause, he added "Directors, I am about to deliver your guests outdoors on the pool patio."
Roy nodded, "Val, Regan? Your families are wave number two; Nelson's going to tell you when it's safe. Jack? You and Damon are with our family; the two of you might keep Wendell calmer that the rest of us."
With that decided, the first wave went outside to receive their visitors. Once everyone was seated at the patio tables, Nelson teleported Don, Wendell, and Taz to join them.
As soon as he saw the waiting group, Don's face went ghost white. Roy took one look, then stated "Don, chill; that shit's over. Tommy figured out why you were being a butthole, and now we've fixed it. You're safe, Wendell's safe, and Taz is safe. As long as you're being yourself, and not acting like that butthole that called himself your father, we're cool."
"Tommy?" Taz whispered, "He's here?"
Overhearing, Tommy turned his attention to the pencil-thin seven-year-old strawberry blond that was nervously standing off to the side. "That's me; are you Taz?"
"Uh-huh," Taz replied with a weak nod.
"How'd you hear my name?" Tommy asked softly.
"The furry guy said that Tommy ordered to take my bad daddy away so he couldn't hurt me no more."
"Would you like to come over here and sit with me?" Tommy asked, recognizing that the young boy was struggling to remain standing.
Taz made about five feet before starting to collapse. Don was closest, so he quickly grabbed the youngster and steadied him, then picked him up and carried him the rest of the way to Tommy.
"On my lap, please, Don," Tommy smiled. Once he had Taz held securely against his chest, Tommy added as he looked at Don, "What was done to you is done in jails to prisoners. We sprung you from jail, now you got to let us help you undo the bad stuff."
Joining them, Roy stated, "Jack and Damon are helping Wendell understand. C'mon, I'll introduce you to our little brothers, then I'll call everyone else out and we can talk about what you lived through and how we can help you fix it."
"Me too?" Taz whimpered.
"You're going to stay right here and cuddle," Tommy said softly. "When was the last time that you ate, Taz?"
"I had toast for breakfast," Taz replied.
Tommy considered that Taz seemed to weigh half of what Aldrich did, and came to a conclusion that made his stomach turn. "Vance, could you please do a scan and send it to 'Tonio? Also, ask CJ if he tried out those new red lights that Danny gave him."
"Gotcha, bro," Vance nodded, easily reading between the lines. After grabbing the requested scan, he stated "I'm gonna go in and call Antonio and tell him to check his AI mail."
The look on Vance's face told Tommy that his worst fears were possibly true. "Roy, can I borrow Jack? I think Taz and me are going to be taking a road trip."
"Take Wendell and Damon too," Roy replied. "While you're making sure Taz and Wendell ain't been hurt, we'll help Don figure out his new life."
"Where are they going?" Don asked.
"To see the best doctors in the Clan," Roy replied. "There's no way you could have protected Wendell from everything; Tommy's going to make sure that he's healthy while you're finding out what happens next."
Don's reply was cut off by Nelson's voice coming over every speaker and commbadge in the house. "General Quarters, General Quarters! AI Annex set condition red, incoming injuries. This is not a drill! ..."
"What?" Don exclaimed as the message repeated itself.
"Some things changed," Roy grinned as Tommy, Jack, Taz, Damon, and Wendell vanished. "Dad got so pissed about what happened to Tommy that he went above the heads of every Earth government. You're here now because of that; as soon as we found out that your parents were arrested in the sting that was ordered once Clan Short found out about Tommy, we intercepted your placement to give you a chance at healing and joining us. On Tommy's orders, we're getting a new swim coach, and Taz is going to have a new family instead of our old coach."
"We've been given the power to punish adults who hurt kids," Val added as the rest of the group joined them. "When we do it, we don't use Earth courts; in fact, once we say that someone is under our protection, nobody on Earth can touch them."
Don looked at the boys around him, taking in the serious faces. "You're not joking? Where does that put me and Wendell?"
"Under the protection of the Arizona Extension of the AI Annex of Family Clan Short of Vulcan," Regan stated. "Tommy assisted us with understanding what caused you to be such a bully; it is up to you if you will accept our help in restoring the person that you are meant to be."
"Where are we?" Taz whimpered as he latched on to Tommy as tight as his weak arms could.
"I'm gonna have some of my brothers make sure that you and Wendell are healthy," Tommy replied, deciding that saying he expected the answer to be a resounding no wasn't a good idea. "They just helped me, so I'm asking them to help you."
"Are you going to leave me?" Taz asked, his fear obvious.
"I'll be right there with you, just like Jack and Damon are going to stay with Wendell," Tommy replied softly.
They were interrupted by Johnny and Willy jogging into the intake room. As he came to a stop, Willy announced "Dad's standing by if needed; CJ and Chad are running the beds, Antonio and the Mini's are going to check Taz, and the rest of the team's helping me and Johnny with Wendell."
"We're ready when you are," Johnny added.
"Taz needs me with him," Tommy stated, "and Wendell's going to need Jack and Damon."
"Good," Johnny smiled. "We can handle having our brothers in there; adults would just get in the way." Turning to Jack, he added "You guys are in OR-2; Willy's going to take you there. I'll join you after I take Tommy and Taz to OR-1."
**********
"How in the fuck was he even walking!" Antonio exclaimed. "He should have been in so much pain that he'd pass out!"
"Morphine ... adult dosage," CJ scowled. "Look at these genetic maps - I'm seeing more warnings than genes."
Antonio looked over CJ's shoulder, then turned to Tommy. "Who's his guardian or parent?"
"I'm who gave the order that saved him," Tommy explained, "and right now I'm the only one he's latched on to."
"Well, 'daddy'," Antonio grinned, "You're about to learn a few things none of your brothers in Arizona know about. Before you ask, I think Taz claimed you; in the condition he's in, he won't accept anyone else if he survives. We're going to call in the big guns, because I'm not giving up on him that easy."
The recent revelation about his new family's history popped into Tommy's head, immediately giving him the realization that he was being asked by Taz to do what had just been done for him. "Do it," he stated.
Antonio nodded. Tapping his commbadge, he stated "Dr. Morrison to Klaus Medical, Code Red! Dr. Morrison to Klaus Medical, Code Red!"
"I just told Chad we're transferring," CJ stated. "Minis; stick with us - you're gonna get some updates!"
Antonio nodded, "Klaus, take everyone here to the Medbay Kerry's setting up, including the patient. Medical Priority One."
"We're ready, teleporting," Klaus replied.
*********
"Johnny?" Mitch asked, his little face showing he didn't like what they'd found.
"What'd you guys find?" Johnny asked.
"Everything bone related from the hip joints on down is one big scar," Mitch stated. "Basically, his legs are nothing but improperly healed greenstick, spiral, and compression fractures with damaged joints and weak tendon and muscle connections. There's nothing left to try to fix it."
Overhearing the report, Kerry groaned. "I was afraid of that. Do we need to call in Kyle? His upper body's bad too, but not that bad."
"I just asked him to pop in," Willy added. "Klaus, how's the research going?"
"His nervous system damage will be easy," Klaus stated. "Ark and I have discussed the problem with the morphine over long durations; we think Kyle would end up causing memory issues trying to fix that, but the combination of the nervous system upgrade and Vifer should stabilize him and take care of physical dependancy. We're still going to need to do a few organ transplants, but those are standard procedures for the Medbots. I'd suggest a bone density upgrade too; it appears that his body is at the point that recovery is going to be only about 55%."
Kyle popped in at that moment. "Thanks for the update, Klaus; let me look," he stated before closing his eyes. A few seconds later, he opened them, the frown on his face telling everyone that the news wasn't good. "He was born with deformed arms and legs; his former caregivers took it upon themselves to 'fix' him instead of letting medical professionals do it. I'll take care of the torso, neck, and head; call in Marc for the limbs, he's going to need a full set. You were right, he's been on morphine most of his life, so any head repairs I would do would wipe out most of his memory."
Turning to Tommy, Kyle added, "Tommy, even though you probably think that you're not ready, you need to adopt him for his own mental stability. You're one of the few people that can understand what the torture he's went through all his life feels like mentally - he's been isolated just like you were."
"Klaus, connect me to JJ ... Priority one," Tommy said in a voice that sent chills down everyone's spine.
"This is JJ, what's up, Tommy?" JJ's voice answered over the overhead speakers.
"Prepare the former caregivers of Taz for a discussion with you and me immediately; have someone standing by for immediate termination of both upon us completing our discussion with them of their transgressions. See if any of the angels are free to escort them to Hell."
"That bad?" JJ asked, suddenly serious.
"Kyle can't help," Tommy growled, "The damage is that severe."
"Klaus, move the subjects into one of your holding cells, then teleport myself and Tommy outside the cell," JJ replied in a tone that matched Tommy's. "Record it; the victim will need to see that justice has been delivered. Tell Hac that we need him to assist with punishment."
"Yes, Sir," Klaus stated, his voice shaking as he realized just what had been unleashed.
"Fix. My. Son." Tommy stated. "Call in Marc and give JJ the FULL report."
"Yes, Director," Klaus said before teleporting Tommy to join JJ and teleporting Marc in to join the medical team.
"What have we got?" Marc asked as he appeared, just catching a flash of Tommy leaving.
"I'll give you a dump," Kyle stated. "Right now, Tommy and JJ are taking care of the cause of this ... and JJ's called in Hac to deliver Justice."
"Right now, we've got the bed working on getting his levels up to a safe point to proceed," Willy added. "Most likely, he'll need to take a few swims as well to finish everything."
As Marc reviewed the long list of issues that Kyle placed in his head, he watched the screen where JJ and Tommy were verbally assaulting the former parents of Taz. It was obvious that both had been pushed beyond their breaking points by this abuse, and that both of them were releasing rage that they had held inside for way too long. "Klaus? Could you arrange for Spock and Joel to be ready when they are done? They're both going to need help after this."
"Got'cha Marc," Klaus replied. After a pause, he added "Both of them are waiting outside the holding area, and they agree that while this release will be good for JJ and Tommy, the aftermath is going to be taxing without assistance."
After five minutes of Galactic-level ass-chewing, Tommy and JJ fell into each other's arms, both openly crying as they held onto each other like their lives depended on it. Hac entered the cell in full wolf form, proceeding to disassemble the former parents into the smallest pieces possible. Spock and Joel moved in just as the feed went blank, each taking one of the boys to assist them with the emotional overload.
"Pablito's doing the escort duties," Kyle stated. "Kuan-Ti is helping."
Seeing the confused looks on the newer faces, Marc stated "That means a direct escort into the depths of Hell; Kuan-Ti is one of the Avenging Angels. That means their Final Judgement was done before we ever heard about them - and they won't even get to see the Pearly Gates to receive their sentence."
"How do you know that, bro?" Johnny asked.
"This isn't the first time I've seen it," Marc replied. "The last time I saw it, KC ended up with a statue because of the effect it had on him being present. That was the most terrified KC has ever been."
.< Marc, I have been calculating the sequence that would be most appropriate for ensuring success of the proposed procedures, >. Ark announced. .< The most effective order would be to have Kyle perform his adjustments, then Vifer conversion. Once that is completed, he would be stable enough to do the organ replacements, and the morphine will no longer be in his bloodstream. Upon completion, the additional genetic modifications for his nervous system and bone density would be logical, as those will reduce any lingering morphine dependancy. At that point, his body would be prepared for you to replace all four limbs, as the base that you need to adapt them to will be stable. >.
"Thanks, Ark," Marc replied. "When do we need to transfer Taz to your compound?"
.< That will not be necessary, as the medical bay that you are using has been upgraded to allow myself and Klaus to both operate our respective medical equipment in unison, >. Ark replied.
"Minis," Willy stated, "why don't you guys help Marc get his parts ready, while me, Johnny, and Antonio help out here?"
**************