Epilogue: A New Beginning “The service went well yesterday.” Ororo commented, holding Logan’s hand as they walked through the gardens. “Yeah, Scott and Jean gave some nice speeches.” He said. “How are you doing?” She asked after a brief silence. “Better. I think Chuck was right.” Logan said. “Oh?” “Yeah, we shouldn’t grieve him. We should keep livin’ for him.” “Yes, I suppose we should.” She smiled. “Speaking of which, Henry says we can try again in a few months.” Logan simply nodded, a small smile on his face. She smiled, content with his response. “How’re you feelin’?” Logan asked suddenly. She saw the concern etched on his face and smiled. “I’m doing much better, Logan.” She replied. “And you, love?” “I won’t lie.” He began. “I’m upset we lost the baby. But I’m glad you’re ok.” Ororo nodded and sat on the grass, looking at a blooming rose bush. “In time, we can try again.” She said, a distant look in her eyes. “Maybe Charles’ passing was a signal that the past is done with. I think this will be the start of a new beginning for us and for our teammates.” “That’s not a bad way of looking at things.” Logan smiled, joining his wife on the grass. “Kinda like it’s our turn to do something for the future, eh?” “Indeed.” She grinned. “I hear Jean and Scott are trying as well, but as of yet have had no luck.” “I guess we’re not the only ones thinkin’ of a different future.” He said, holding a green leaf between his fingers. “Ironic that it’s spring.” Ororo simply laughed and then they remained quiet for a few moments, enjoying the weather and each other. “Did you hear about Jubilation?” Ororo asked casually. “Yeah, her and Drake?” Logan grunted. “I dunno about those two. She’s a little too young.” Ororo laughed and looked at him from the corner of her eye. She could tell he almost approved, even if Scott didn’t whatsoever. Bobby and Scott still weren’t talking and it had been two days since their fight. “He’s a little on the old side, though.” He commented. “I’m gonna have t’talk t’that boy.” “Logan, what does age matter in love?” “She’s only fifteen!” He protested. “Yes, but she will be sixteen in another month.” Ororo laughed. “Besides, you and I are no different. Neither were Kitty and Peter.” “Yeah, but, it’s just different.” Logan stammered. “I see.” She smirked. “Logan, Jubilation is growing up. You’ve done a wonderful job with her. But you need to realize that she’s no longer the thirteen-year-old girl you found in Australia.” “I guess.” He sighed. “I’m not the only one who’s questioning it, though.” “No, but you’re the only one who’s opinion matters.” She said. He looked at her and raised an eyebrow. “Both Jubilation and Robert are looking for your approval.” She stated. “Why Bobby?” “Because he knows how much you mean to Jubilee.” “Hmph.” He grunted again. “Well, I’ll talk to her later.” “Please, don’t be another Scott.” “I don’t think anyone could handle the situation any worse.” Logan smirked. “I agree.” She laughed. “We should get back to the house. Scott wanted to go through the new plans for the school with everyone.” “Fun.” Logan mumbled. “Come, love. Let’s start getting back to living.” Ororo smiled.     *   *   *   *   * On the way to the meeting, Ororo went ahead to speak with Scott before things began. Logan, on the other hand, went towards the kitchen. Meeting or not, his stomach demanded some food and he wasn’t about to deny it. En route, he bumped into a very energetic teenager. “Ready, Wolvie?” Jubilee asked, eager. She was wearing gray sweat pants and a tight white tank top with sneakers. “For?” “You forgot again, didn’t you?” She sighed. His brow crinkled and then it dawned on him – he was supposed to hold a self-defense class with her on Tuesdays from 2-4pm. It was a little after 2pm and he sighed. Guess he was going to be later than usual for the team meeting. “Wanna cool it fer today?” He asked, hoping. “Um, ok.” She looked at him, confused. “Let’s go to the kitchen instead. I wanna talk to you.” Logan said flatly, turning towards the kitchen without waiting for her response. After two large sandwiches were made, a beer was cracked and a soda was poured. They sat at the table and Jubilee seemed slightly nervous. “Jubilee, yer not in trouble fer anythin’.” He began. She exhaled a deep breath she was holding and looked at him again, smiling. “Ok, then shoot.” She said, relieved. She took a large bite from her lunch as she waited for his response. “I’m worried about this thing goin’ on between you an’Bobby.” He stated. “Why?” She groaned around a mouthful. “It’s no one’s business.” “I want you to be happy.” Logan said, looking into her striking blue eyes. “I just don’t want to see you hurt.” “Well, Wolvie, I am happy.” She smiled. “With Bobby. And so far no one’s been hurt.” “Ok.” He nodded. “I’ll trust yer judgment, darlin’. Just be careful. If you have any problems, you know I’m still here, right?” “Oh, Wolvie, you think I’m going to forget about you!” She exclaimed. “You can be so silly sometimes. Trust me, Logan, you’re still going to be in my life! I know I can talk to you. I always have. Hell, I’m still living in the same house!” Instead of saying anything, he pulled her into an embrace. “Well, as long as you’re happy, I won’t kill the Icicle.” He smirked. “But if he does anything...” “Yeahyeahyeah...You’ll kill him.” She grinned. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” “Ok, good.” “And don’t worry – I’m still a virgin.” She whispered in his ear with a devilish grin. The color of his face was good enough for Jubilee and she bust out laughing. “I know that’s what your really worried about!” “Yeahyeahyeah.” He grumbled, still bright red. “Just don’t be stupid. I taught you better’n that.” “Yeah ya did. So stop worrying.” She grinned. The both ate for a few minutes in silence while Logan’s face faded back to normal. “Hey, are you going back to the Academy?” He said after a while, pulling her back into conversation. “Um...” Her hesitation told him already. “I don’t think so.” “Why not?” He asked, concerned. “The kids don’t really like me. Hell, none of ‘em called me while I was here for the past four months!” She explained. “Besides, I learn better here. What you guys’re teaching me is interesting! Hank actually makes science cool, if ya believe that.” Logan chuckled. “Well, so long as you finish school, I won’t argue.” “Besides, the Danger Room is so much better than the Danger Grotto.” She rolled her eyes. “And I’m actually learning something about my powers! I think Sean and Emma just ignored my abilities because they figured I knew enough for the time being.” Logan raised his eyebrows but didn’t pursue the topic. If Jubilation had been ignored in Massachusetts, then her rightful place was with her family anyways. He’d have to bring the topic up with Sean next time he spoke with him. “Anything else, Wolvster?” “Nah, go do yer homework and see the Ice Cube.” He said, shooing her away. “We’ll do self-defense later tonight, around 7?” “Ok, sounds good.” She grinned, finishing her soda. “Alright, I gotta get to that meeting.” He mumbled. “Thanks, Wolvie, for asking.” She smiled. “Yer the best!” She quickly kissed his cheek before running out of the living room in search of trouble.    *   *   *   *   * Scott was tying up his speech when Logan sauntered in the room. Scott raised an eyebrow but continued as if nothing happened. “So, in summary, the team will remain together as one unit for the time being. We’ll start recruiting more students since it’s time to use this building for what it was intended. And Sean and Emma will keep the current students in Massachusetts until we’ve got things underway.” He paused. “Any questions?” Everyone looked around and seemed generally happy with his announcements. He nodded, pleased that things had started off smoothly. “Next week, we’ll have another meeting about the jobs everyone will have to fulfill when we open for the school year this fall.” He said. A few grumbles were heard, but then it quieted down. “Ok, if there aren’t any problems or questions, then I think that’s it, people.” As the team began to leave, Ororo stopped and kissed Logan on the cheek. The rest of team quietly filed out behind her, all of them looking over the folder of information Scott had handed out. They had to vote on class sizes and what courses would be taught by next week’s meeting. There was work to be done and Scott didn’t want to dawdle. And neither did the team. Things were on a roll and Scott was extremely pleased that everyone had seemed very open to the new image he wanted to present for the school. “Sorry I missed it.” Logan said to Scott once everyone had left. Surprised at the apology, Scott simply nodded. “What held you?” Scott asked, flipping through piles of papers. “Got caught in a conversation with Jube.” “Lord.” Scott practically growled. “Don’t get me started.” “Hey, Scott, relax.” Logan stated simply. “The kids’re happy. Young, but happy. Leave it be and apologize to your best friend.” Scott’s mouth hung open, dumbfounded. “Hey, I’m allowed to give some advice every now and then.” Logan grinned. “I’d suggest you follow it.” “Yeah.” Scott sighed. “Maybe I will.” A small smile crept on his face and then he held out a manila envelope to Logan. “Just read through this stuff and let me know what you think.” He said. After flipping through the pages, Logan smiled. “No problem, Scott.” “Scott? That’s a first.” He smirked. Ignoring the jibe, Wolverine turned towards the door. “You’re doing good, Cyke.” Logan complimented, stopping by the door. “Real good.” “Thanks.” Scott genuinely smiled. “Hey, how’s Ororo holding up?” Logan faltered a step, unprepared for such a blunt question. “She’s doing better. The trip to Africa really helped her out.” He answered after a pause. “We’re both doing good. I think we’re going to give it another shot in a few months.” “That’s great news, Logan.” Scott replied. “I wish you both the best of luck.” “Thanks.” Logan nodded and, after a brief pause, he added, “I heard you were tryin’ too.” Scott blushed slightly but nodded. “Good luck. You guys deserve t’finally try having a life together.” Logan said simply. “Thanks.” Scott grinned. Satisfied, Logan nodded and left the room, bumping into Jean as he left. She smiled at him and went into the Conference Room. “What was that all about? He usually grabs the paper work and leaves without a word.” She asked. “Oh, just guy stuff.” Scott answered cryptically. Jean raised an eyebrow but he didn’t say any more.    *   *   *   *   * Three months later... “The results are in.” Henry said, a serious expression on his face. Logan and Ororo exchanged anxious looks and then looked back to Hank. “After careful analysis of the tests, I have concluded that you are indeed pregnant!” Ororo and Logan exchanged looks of pure joy. In one swift movement, Logan lifted Ororo from her seat and hugged her fiercely. Ororo merely laughed and then pulled back. She placed her hand on her belly and smiled. “Thank you, Hank.” She smiled. “You’ve been wonderful.” “I try, Mrs. Munroe-Logan.” Logan shook Hank’s offered hand and was yanked into the larger man’s arms. “Hank, I’m eating fur!” Logan protested, laughing. Henry McCoy laughed out loud and released the older man. “When am I due?” Ororo asked, excitement dancing in her eyes. “Well, you are three weeks pregnant, so...” Henry dug out a calendar. “According to the tests, your due date is March fifth.” They both smiled and again embraced. “Logan, go make your announcement!” Henry said, pushing the man towards the hall. “I need to finish some basic tests on Ororo before she can go play.” Logan grinned and Ororo smiled. “You want me t’stay?” Logan asked. “No, I’ll be fine. Go tell them, love. I’m in good hands.” She assured him as he walked towards the door. He winked before composing himself. He put on a serious face and walked into the hallway. Jubilation, Bobby, Remy, Rogue and Kitty stood in the hall, waiting. Kurt hung from the ceiling. Warren and Scott were standing next to Jean. They all turned as Logan entered the hallway, a somber look on his face. No one said anything, but a few had sad looks in their eyes. “Hank has t’finish some tests.” Logan said, neutral. They looked at him, waiting to hear more. “Well? What else did he say?” Jubilee finally asked. “Hank said,” He paused, “well, Hank said you’re gonna be an aunt!” Shouts of joy filled the hallway and Jubilee hugged him. “How dare you do that!” She yelled, hitting his arm. “Ya had us worried!” “Yeah, but the looks on yer faces were priceless.” He grinned. “Congratulations!” Remy shouted, handing him a cigar. Everyone hushed as the door opened again and Ororo stepped out. Again shouts of congratulations were given. The weather goddess laughed loud and hugged Logan. “Looks like a good beginning this time.” Logan said in her ear. “Yes, I think it’s a good start to a new beginning.” She said sweetly, laughing. ~Fin Author’s Note: I know I focused a lot on Logan and Ororo with a side on Jube and Drake, but I didn’t want to make the story a million pages long. But anyways, feedback please!! Should I continue with Bobby/Jubes? Do you want more stories about the “new” image for the school? And any requests to continue with the Ro/Lo situation?? Let me know! R&R!!