7769/The Wayward Waif

The Wayward Waif
Date of Scene:	09 September 2021
Location:	Bushwick <Mutant Town>
Synopsis:	Members of the Xavier's staff meet a young homeless woman who never completed high school - so they bring Roxxi back to the school to hopefully further her education. Muffin comes, too.
Cast of Characters:	Laxmi Mallick, Logan Howlett, Roxxi Smith, Henry McCoy, Michael Erickson

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Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    Out for a bit of shopping after a private lesson, Laxmi has a canvas bag slung over one shoulder, pausing to look both ways at an intersection, before she'll job across the street. The bright colors of her sari silk skirt swishes around her ankles with each step as she moves.
    Certainly there were better neighborhoods to do your shopping in - but Laxmi believes firmly in supporting mutant run businesses when she can, to help support the neighborhood and the community.
    Just before she reaches the curb, there's a loud honk and a screetch as a car takes a corner too fast and almost doesn't her - forcing her to abruptly jump the short distance to the safety of the curb. A faint frown is all the reaction she spares the driver, who quickly rushes on about their day. Some people.

Logan Howlett has posed:
Bushwick. It was one of the few places that Logan tended to visit more regularly, and now that he was back from his wandering, he might even considering checking into some of the Neighborhood Watch patrols on weekends.

Coming out of a small bakery between two other small businesses, he has a bag of something in one hand, and the other remained emoty.

As the car nearly runs Laxmi down, her r reaction was calm, his was to flip the person off then head toward her.

"You alright Miss Mallick?" He asks as he approaches.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Newly arrived to Bushwick, Roxxi has yet to carve herself a place among the hierarchy of other runaways, street urchins, and general homeless. The teen managed to find a spot on a conveniently wide street corner, not presently claimed by other panhandlers. Situated near a set of markets, she's yet to be chased off, so that was a good thing, at least.
     Dressed in loose cargo pants, and a faded T-shirt, her disheveled hair and general appearance didn't set Roxxi out much from other vagrants. However, with a can set out nearby, she currently performed various acrobatic acts, handstands, backflips, things that were contained and didn't take up much space. The blaring of a nearby car horn brought her out of her current handstand. She kipped to her feet and brushed her hands on her pants. Glancing at Laxmi, as the dark-haired woman jumped to safety Roxxi asked, "You okay?"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Just a bit startled is all," Laxmi answers both Logan and the unknown youth, one hand going to her chest where she can feel her heart pounding uncomfortably. She takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly before she adds, "No real harm done." This time. She hopes the driver doesn't make a habit of such recklessness, though...
    "I didn't expect to see you here, Mister Logan," she remarks, before turning her attention to the unfamiliar youth. "Namaste," she says in greeting, pressing her palms together, and inclining her head. "It's kind of you to check on my well being - it's appreciated."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan gives Laxmi the once over with his eyes, making certain to keep a certain distance so as to not accidently touch her. He found himself wondering if in an emergency, touching her to save her life counted or not... he'd have to ask later.

"Yeah, people around here give no fu..." and that's when he notices the teen and offer a nod. "They aren't careful," auto correct. "No law around here, and takes emergency services at least thirty minutes to give a damn."

"Afternoon, kid," he then offers the girl. "Cookie?" And the bag in his hand gets offered Roxxi's way.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     As they spoke, and Laxmi affirmed her well-being, Roxxi slipped a long 'glove' from one of her belt loops and slipped it over her left hand. The glove, as it turned out was no glove at all, but an argyle sock puppet in burgundy and pink. Roxxi looked into the bright green button eyes of the puppet and spoke sincerely, "See Muffins? She's all good!"
     As attention shifted back to the teen, Roxxi smiled brightly. "Oh, I'm just glad you're okay." She said cheerfully to Laxmi. At Logan's question, her eyes went a little distant, "Cookie? No, my name's Roxxi!" She then looked into the bag and started to reach in. "Yum, can I have one?"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Well... It's a pleasure to meet you, Roxxi," Laxmi remarks, looking at the girl curiously, then over towards Logan for a moment, before back to the teen once more. "I'm Laxmi Mallick. This is Mister Logan," she offers, gesturing towards the man standing nearby, as she turns over the strange interraction with the girl. Was she just trying to be... 'cute'? Or was there something more concerning at work?
    "You were just doing a little tumbling - weren't you?"

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan blinks once, just once, while looking at Roxxi. There were so man comments that came to mind, but not one, not a single one, was suitable in front of a teenager.

"Sure kid," he then says a little flatly. "Help yourself, as many as you want."

Eyes shift to Laxmi now, because he still wants to make some of those comments, but he's not going to, he'll distract himself by looking at at the Indian with an expression of 'oh boy' instead.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     At the introductions, her cheerful smile brightened. Roxxi waved the un-socked hand and said, "Hi! Nice ta meetcha!" Muffins went without an introduction. Instead, she nodded at Laxmi. "Oh yes. There's not a lot of room here though. Parks are better. Then I can really put on a show!"
    Unaware of any internal dialogue that may be going on within the pair, Roxxi gingerly reaches into the bag. Pulling out a cookie, and takes the first bite before adding belatedly, "Oh, thanks!" The cookie disappears quickly with the speed setting somewhere between 'normal teen' and 'ravenous.'

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "I can imagine that would be a much better venue, yes," Laxmi agrees. "There's a little park not far from here where I've done a fair bit of practicing myself - but you don't get quite the same crowd there," she admits, folding her hands in front of herself as she studies the youth in front of them.
    "...you do have shelter for the evening, don't you?" she asks a little uncertainly, hoping she isn't jumping to the wrong conclusion. Perhaps the woman's hair only looks so unkempt do to her energetic performances...?

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan continues to hold the bag out for Roxxi, he did say help herself, which means she can eat the whole bag and he won't mind. Man's got a sweet spot in him when it comes to kids apparently.

"I was just gonna ask that," he admits to Laxmi, then looks to Roxxi. Yes, he's curious about the puppet, but the man's seen what the streets can do to a person, so assumes it is her 'friend'. "Don't think us to be creeping on you, we mutants just look out for each other."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi glances at that bag of cookies. She reaches for another. "Don't be silly Muffins. I'm not going to spoil my appetite." The teen says as a casual aside to the puppet. She devours the second cookie with a speed much closer to that of 'normal teen.'
     They question about shelter earns a careless shrug. "Meh, I'll find something." She spoke with a chipper tone, obviously not too concerned. However, Roxxi winced at Logan's casual mention of mutant. "Yeah, I'm not used to that." She laughed, her meaning not altogether clear.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Hope House isn't too far from here - they offer shelter in the evenings, and run a soup kitchen," Laxmi offers, nodding her head towards the building further down the street. "Without any of the preaching or proselytizing you might otherwise expect." She smiles encouragingly, before asking with a little uncertainty, "Though if you don't mind me asking, Roxxi... How old are you, dear?" It's not like Laxmi's that much older than the girl - only just out of college herself. Still... It was sometimes hard to guage the exact age of a teen, especially if they've been living rough for a while.

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan continues to just hold the bag there then gets a thought. "Hey, I was just about to head to the diner over there and buy a round of burgers and fries," she says to Laxmi, then looks to Roxxi. "Anyone interested in joining me? I know they have a vegie burger they cook on a different grill for ya Miss Mallick, and they have a really nice grilled vegie stick."

Henry McCoy has posed:
Bushwick was no stranger to Hank, he'd visited enough lately to be seen as a regular. This evening, he was strolling down the sidewalk, enjoying the night air. As he neared, Henry paused - hearing familiar voices. A smile crept over his face, the big man making his way in the direction of Laxmi and Logan.

"Evening, you two. How are you tonight?" A glance to Roxxi, and a smile. "Evening. Henry McCoy." He introduces.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi looks at the bag of cookies measuringly. She chews on her lower lip but eventually decides against a third. Instead, she focuses on Laxmi a moment. "Hope House, got it!" She pulls two dingy hair scrunchies off her wrist and uses them to tie disheveled hair into two equally disheveled buns. "Um, 18?" She answers the other woman, "but it's my birthday soon!"
     "I can always eat," She answers Logan with a mild giggle. "I.." She starts to add to her statement, but the arrival of the large, blue man causes her mind to grind to a halt. "Look Muffins...." She drawls, holding up the argyle sock puppet. Her manners are soon recalled, however, as the teen smiles brightly. "Roxxi!"
     at the conclusion of her self introduction, Roxxi slaps a hand across her forehead. "My can!" She then darts away from the growing grouping, to reclaim her abandoned 'tips' can. Fortunately, it had yet to talk away, and she finds it still contains a few bills and a handful of coins. "I can chip in for burgers!" She offers with relief.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "That's generous of you, Mr. Logan," Laxmi says warmly, before greeting the approaching mountain of blue fur with a broad smile, and her hands pressed together. "Namaste, Dr. McCoy!" she calls. "I'm quite well. I hope you are, too?"
    Her attention returns to Roxxi as she offers a reassuring smile. "Oh, please, it'll be our treat. Consider it an early Birthday present," she offers, as she gestures towards the nearby diner invitingly. "Do you frequent the diner here, Mr. Logan?"

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan eyes the diner for a moment. Looks like the cat was out of the bag. "Yeah I do," he admits. "Only place that makes poutine right that I've found."

He watches Roxxi go to collect her tips, which he had been watching from the short distance. If someone had tried something, they would have had one chance to put it back, and they weren't fast enough... unless they were a speedster of course.

"And please, just Logan," he adds before looking toward the walking wall of blue fur. "Hank, good to see you, mate. Care to have a burger on me?"

Henry McCoy has posed:
His hands come together in front of him, and Henry bows to Laxmi. "Namaste, Miss Mallick." He grins, nodding to the woman. "Doing well, just out and about on this lovely evening." His yellow eyes go to Roxxi, smiling to the young woman. "Pleasure to meet you, Roxxi." A cant of his head. "And please, allow us. Our treat for your birthday." A friendly smile.

A nod to Logan and a chuckle. "Of course, Logan. I don't generally pass up meals. My metabolism would be very upset with me, if I did."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    It's an evening out in the relative weeds for this particular Manhattanite, but for Michael Erickson, it might as well be another planet. Which, as it happens, it is - but that's a story for a whole other day.

    Walking aboung the sidewalks, hands in pockets of his jacket, he looks like any of a countless number of blandly handsome, intact human beings. Which may well make him the minority in Mutant Town, but he seems to have zero problem walking the streets. No staring, no frowning. Hell, he looks like he's just pleased to be here.

    Which is why he doesn't blink at the collection of people standing next to the /giant blue furry man/. Because it's Mutant Town. And he is chilly. Chilly down. Oh god why did I say that.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi looks a bit unconvinced as she stuffs the can and its contents into her messenger bag. "But my birthday isn't until October..." She gives up with another laugh and shrugs. She wasn't going to argue with three people wanting to buy her a burger, after all. "Well, okay, lead the way Logan!" The teen announces with a broad grin to the others.
     Amid the grip, Roxxi isn't so distracted by the talk of food that she fails to note the attention of a nearing figure. She raises the hand not garbed with a sock puppet and offers the man a frenetic wave. Friendly to a fault, or too naive to know better, though the latter seems unlikely given her transient nature.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Near enough," Laxmi replies with warmth, giving the girl a friendly smile, before her attention is drawn to see who the woman was waving at. She'd seen the man at the school - and he'd given two different names. She struggles to remember the name, a faint frown pulling her lips at her inability to recall it with certainty. "Mr... Emerson, was it?" she asks. It doesn't feel //quite// right. "We were just going to enjoy a meal," she remarks, flashing him a broad smile.
    Her gaze returns to the Canadian fellow, offering a slightly distracted nod. "If you prefer, Logan... And I suppose it'd be fine go as simply Laxmi, especially away from the school. What is poutine, though?"

Logan Howlett has posed:
He wants to look Laxmi right in the eye, grin broadly and go, 'Meat, lots and lots of meat!' but Logan is working on the whole be nice' thing. Professor Xavier was a scary man, nice was important.

"Poutine's a Canadian specialty, but has meat," he offers by way of an answer to Laxmi, but this new arrival causes Logan to pause. He didn't know him, never heard of him, so this gets the man scented from the distance he is at... and that may be be the biggest mistake Logan made today. That... well that was just plain entirely new and makes the hair on the back of the Canadian's neck stand up.

"You uh... know this ma... person?" He asks Laxmi, eyes on Michael. Henry is the only one present to know Logan well enough to recognize the body language and tone, he was tense and suspicious, and ready, so very ready, for action.

Henry McCoy has posed:
A confirming nod from Henry regarding poutine. "Very good, though. Comfort food - gravy, meat and french fries." A chuckle from the big blue man. As Michael approaches, Hank looks from the newcomer to Logan, an eyebrow arched. He turns to look over Michael again, his nostrils flaring to scent the air.

"Evening!" He offers, in a friendly manner. He's ready to act if needed, regardless of the charming demeanor.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    He's been a soldier for a very long time. Recon specialist. He expects to be eyed - and when multiple sets of eyes raise on his approach, Michael makes his way toward the group. "Hello," he announces in a pleasant way, his flat expression springing into something that matches his deep voice as he walks up to the lot. "Miss Mallick, hello again. Are these your friends?" Smiles all around. Confident. But, the fighters in the group might read, a certain preparation. He's just skilled enough to hide it far in the back of things.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi remains completely oblivious to any danger or tension in the air. The spritely teen remains blithely unaware at the subtle physical preparations towards readiness. What she realizes is they stopped progressing towards the diner, however, and looks between those gathered. "Mm, french fries..." Then again, she is also easily distracted.
     "We're going to get burgers, you should come too!" She informs Michael cheerfully. "Because french fries." Said in a wise tone, as if french fries were the answer to all. Roxi then turns to Logan to wrap her arm around his forearm and attempts to start dragging him. Not that she has any clue where the diner is. "Frenchfries!" She really likes French fries.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "French fries are a wonderful thing," Laxmi agrees with Roxxi, smiling at the girl, and then gesturing for the others to continue. "Was it Mr. Emerson? Am I getting that right?" she asks the man. "He met with Ms. Munroe not too long ago. This is Logan, and Doctor Henry McCoy," she offers to Michael. "They're both on the staff at Xavier's as well. And this is Roxxi, whom we've only just me," she offers, her tone light and friendly, as she remains seemingly completely unaware of any tension.
    She can control emotions - doesn't mean she can sense them.

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan promised the hungry teen a burger and fries, and her touch causes him to tense slightly then rips him out of the battle sense he was headed into. This Michael person wasn't all he appeared to be, that much was obvious not merely from his scent, but from his body language. Laxmi's information also helps to soothe the man, his hackles lowering a little, but still, something wasn't matching up.

Letting Roxxi 'pull' him toward the diner, since they had paused, he decides that the best thing to do for now was keep and eye on Michael. If he knew Ororo, he couldn't be all bad, right? Even if he smelled all wrong. "That's right kid, big honkin, hand cut french fries," he says to Roxxi because that's the safest way to keep his mood from turning snikty. "They also got great cheeseburgers."

One quick glance to Michael and he adds, "Sure, come get a burger if ya want." Best way to keep an eye on him.

Henry McCoy has posed:
The nose twitch from Henry gives him a moment's pause. Looking to Logan, he nods - nothing spoken, but clearly information passed. "You keep speaking of food, and you're going to make my stomach rumble." Henry chuckles, nodding to all. "Come on then, let's get some food and share some stories, yes?" Conversation is always pleasant, for Henry.

He gives look to Laxmi. "Are you restricted in diet, Miss Mallick?" A look to Roxxi then. "How about you? Any dietary restrictions?"

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Ahhhh." Michael nods to the two additional staff, nodding his head to them first, then gives Roxxi a smile. "Miss." Then he returns his attention to Laxmi. "Well I was just taking a walk, really - friend of mine told me they had amazing milkshakes in the area and I happened to be here for work. So if you don't mind, then I shall." And he falls in line, hands tucked behind his back, politely following.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi isn't entirely sure how she got to lead this train. She hasn't any idea where they are going. A quick conference with her sock puppet confirms that Muffins, too, has no idea. She then slips behind Logan and the others, falling into step behind Michael so she might follow.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "I'm a vegetarian, Dr. McCoy," Laxmi offers. "And I don't drink alcohol. But both of those things are easy enough to accomodate. I could absolutely murder a dal curry, but... well. Even diners have plenty of vegetarian options." As they reach Fred's Diner, she holds the door open, adding towards Michael, "The shakes here aren't quite as good as the ones at Mootant Milkshakes across the way - so if you have your heart set on a milkshake - I'd say save a little space for one of theirs. They're absolutely legendary in these parts."

Logan Howlett has posed:
At the diner, Logan pulls the door open for everyone, letting them pass inside before following them in. Yes, he does steal another sniff of Michael as he passes, it's called confirmation, which he gets.

"Table's better than a booth," he comments as he steps inside. "Hank here and booths, entertaining but let's not."

The waitress is already collecting menus to take to which ever table is selected, she's on the ball, and the extra two arms helps a lot.

Henry McCoy has posed:
A smile and a nod, moving with the others into the diner. He watches Roxxi, canting his head at the puppet and the conversation. "Interesting friend there, Roxxi." He muses, letting the others find their seats first. Once everyone's got a chair, he takes one for himself - easing into it carefully. A smile to Laxmi after. "Good to hear - I wanted to make sure you could get something while we were here. I wouldn't want anyone to miss the chance at a good meal."

A glance then to Michael. "So, how did you come to meet Miss Mallick, Mr. Emerson?"

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Yes, that's what I'm told," Michael says in reply to Laxmi's recommendation. "I live in Manhattan, but I figured after such a great recommendation I should come out and give it a try." He follows the group to their table and takes a seat himself, folding his hands in his lap. Looks to Henry.

    "I came to speak with the Headmistress," he offers. "Mister McCoy, was it? We had business, nothing more."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi seated herself with the others, quietly reviewing the menu. Absently and a bit belatedly, she answers Henry's questions in a single go. "Oh, no, I'm not on a diet!" She laughs, followed up by, "Oh, that's just Muffins." With a click of finality, she sets down her menu. "Can I get friends, a cheeseburger, and a chocolate shake?" With a look to those offering to foot her bill.
     She then adds, as an afterthought to Michael. "Aren't you too old for school?"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Well... There's also a college at the school now," Laxmi offers. "But I don't think he was visiting with Ororo to become a student," Laxmi remarks with amusement as she slips into one of the seat, and picks up one of the menus. "Oh, you know what sounds lovely?" she muses. "This avocado toast with tomatoes and fried eggs... Perhaps with a side of fruit?" she muses in a thoughtful tone, "with a tea."
    She sets the menu down again, looking towards Roxxi and Michael as she remarks, "I teach music and dance at the school."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Settling himself into a chair by Roxxi, Logan accepts a menu even though he already knows what he intends to get.

"Kid, you can order anything you want on the menu. Just remember to tell them the homemade fries with your burger," he nods knowingly, then uses the menu to conceal his face and pretend he's looking so he can take just one moment and not kill a stranger.

"Their pies are also home made," he offers after a moment, then lays the menu back on the table. "Make sure to say 'real tea' Laxmi," trying her real name. "Or you'll get the crap from a tea bag. Costs a little more, well worth it."

Henry McCoy has posed:
Once answered by Michael, he nods. "Looking to take some classes?" He wonders, grinning. "Did you visit Ororo or Jean?" Henry asks, looking a bit confused at Laxmi's comment about who he was visiting. And then it's on to the menu! He takes his time, fishing out his reading glasses to get a good look. When it's his turn to order, he smiles. "Two burgers, an order of fries and a chocolate shake, please."

A grin to Logan, eyeing the other man. "Any other suggestions on the food?" His menu is set down and he looks to Roxxi. "Muffins, quite the name for your friend."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "The headmistress at the time was Ororo Munroe," Michael says to Hank's question, then further offers, "I volunteered to assist the student body. To teach, I suppose." A smile. "Physical education." Then to Roxxi, "You're never too old to learn."

    And then, the server! "Four cheeseburgers, please. And the fries. And a Coke."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi makes sure to request the homemade fries. She then glances first at Laxmi, and then Michael. She smiles brightly and shrugs. "Well, I just meant High School, but I didn't even finish mine so I guess I can't say much on that." Did she feel awkward being surrounded by school staff and teachers, as a High School dropout herself? She didn't seem to be.
     Speaking of Muffins, Roxxi carefully stripped him from her left hand and strung him through a belt loop. At Henry's observation, she laughed. "Well, it's not his fault. It's not like he picked it." She points out reasonably.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Well. I suppose the only name we pick for ourselves, in many cases, is the alias so many mutants adopt based on their powers. I've never come up with one myself, though," Laxmi admits. She does indeed make sure to order the 'real' tea - which she assumes must be looseleaf. "Chai if you have it," she adds. "But if not, any black tea is fine." She picks up her water glass for a sip, while considering Roxxi.
    "Would you like to finish your high school education?" she asks. "I mean - having at least a high school diploma opens so many doors for your future..."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan listens to the varies angles of the conversation, the tones used, the mood. Thing were relaxing, which was probably for the best. Tense always let to blood, he didn't want blood today, he wanted a burger.

"Good coffee," it about all he can add to Hank with a slight shrug of his shoulders. "Specialty is burger and fries, but I've never had anything off this menu that wasn't good. Chicken fried steak, biscuits and gravy, and of course the poutine."

His eyes shift over to look at Michael again. "How'd you hear about the school?" He asks bluntly and with a level tone before his attention goes back to Roxxi.

"Muffin's a fine name, Roxxi. He could have gotten much worse names, like Croissant, or Bagel, and the worst yet for a friend, Donut."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "I don't feel it appropriate to talk about it in mixed company." Michael leans over toward the man, though. "But I'll whisper it in your ear, if you like." Flutters his lashes at Logan. Is he kidding? Flirting? Screwing with him? Who knows.

    The server, of course, stares at the man for ordering /four cheeseburgers/. Probably just as surprised that nobody else said anything. Wanders off to fulfill the order, shaking his head as he goes - only in New York, folks.

Henry McCoy has posed:
A deep laugh from Henry at the names suggested from Logan. The man shakes his head, amused. "Indeed. Often we affix ourselves with a nom de plume when we determine our gifts... or one is chosen for us." A wry grin. "I hadn't really settled on my own alias, but it came to me with the help of friends. I had thought about taking up my football nickname." He confides to the table.

A glance to Laxmi, a smile. "Perhaps we can discuss your gift another time?" He wonders.

A glance then to Michael. "Hungry, then?" A look to Logan, watching his friend to see how he reacts to the baiting comment.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     As they wait for food, Roxxi fidgets. She rearranges the salt and pepper shakers, she plays with the packets of sugar, and just generally seems to have a hard time sitting still. Nonetheless, she managed well enough to keep the threads of conversation. To Laxmi, she grins, though the smile turns a bit sheepish. "Well, maybe. I had a hard time at my last school. Cause, you know.." She leans forward to whisper. "I'm different." Did she mean the sock, mutant powers, or all of the above? Likely.
     Now shredding a packet of sugar, and making a neat little mountain of white crystals, Roxxi laughs at Henry. "Well, I didn't pick his name either silly. His mom and dad did. Though if //I// had a 'secret' name, I'd be.." She thought for a moment, and announced brightly, "Pop Rocks!"
     Though as the waitress walked away looked bemused by the enormous amount of food being ordered by six people, Roxi giggled at Michael. If he was reachable under the table, she playfully nudges his shoe with her booted foot. "You must be hungry too, huh? Or saving some for later? I do that too."

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "There are options for people who are different, my dear," Laxmi offers in a warm, gentle tone. "If you're interested in completing your education... I'm sure we can find you the resources needed to accomplish that." She looks towards Hank, and Logan, not entirely sure what the process is for getting a new student involved at the school. Especially an adult student.
    "And some people simply have an increased metabolism to accomodate their gifts," she remarks, nodding towards Michael. That must be why she didn't even bat an eye at his order.
    Looking towards Hank she adds, "Oh, I don't mind discussing my gifts in mixed company. I don't treat them as any sort of secret," she remarks. "Much to my parents' chagrin, I will admit."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan lifts one brow straight up to his hairline, and decides f--k it, he'll play along with this game. In a single move, he slides his chair around the table to place himself right beside Michael. Giving the 'man' an actual charming smile, he leans in with a soft, somewhat flirty, "I can hardly wait to have your breath against my ear."

If Michael decides not to whisper, which is what Logan really expects, he however will whisper >Schools a secret bub, damn well better keep it that way.< while he's leaned in so close. If Michael does whisper, he won't say a damn thing about it.

Looking to Hank he says, "You already know it took me a /long/ time to even accept I was a mutant, and I've forgotten more by now than most of you know. That said, there's no shame in being a mutant."

He shifts to looking at Roxxi, her wince earlier being enough to tell him something was going on. "We all gotta stick together kid, so don't run from what you are, we're here to help." He then adds, "Wolverine, I heal and stab."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Michael /does/ whisper. < When my people attacked your school recently, > he tells him, his voice a soft, quiet thing, death and honor wrapped up in chains of breath. < I was there to help stop them. I slew my own comrades to help save the lives of your students and your headmistress, and nearly died for it. Now I offer to serve your school to help pay this debt that they incurred with innocent blood. /That/ is who I am. Bub. >

    And he leans back in his seat, flashing Logan a wink before looking back to the rest. "I work out a lot," he explains to the rest at the table. "Metabolism's just crazy, you know?"

Henry McCoy has posed:
Tension, tension, tension. There's a ripple of it, very obvious, going over Henry. His eyes narrow for a moment, looking to Michael, then Logan. "Gentlemen..." He says, his tone firm. "Perhaps we should table that conversation for another time." He says, rolling his neck. He takes a breath, looking then to Roxxi.

"Pop Rocks? A play on your name?" A smile finally returns to his face. "Are you gifted as well then? Forgive me for prying, you have no reason to answer if you don't like." He smiles.

"Miss Mallick, I'd love to hear more about your gifts, then. As for Roxxi, I am sure things can be arranged, should the pre-requisites be met?"

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi just smiles and smiles. At this point, it's likely hurting her cheeks. Once again the tension passing between the three men seems to escape her entirely. "I would love to go back to school. Am I too old?!" She asked worriedly, smile briefly faltering. "I finished to the tenth grade, no problem. Eleventh grade was the problem..."
    Roxxi trails off and instead focuses on the talk of abilities. Henry's question about her name gets a firm nod. "Well, and I do this..." There's a moment of concentration, as the light over their table briefly seems to dim. Still maintaining her focus, the teen then looks at the pile of sugar in front of her. The pile erupts as if disturbed by a sharp gust of air or some other explosive force. A small explosion, but one all the same. "Pop Rocks, get it?" She grins proudly.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "No one is too old to finish an education," Laxmi offers firmly, giving Roxxi a reassuring smile, though now she's beginning to catch onto the odd interraction between Michael and Logan, as she turns an uncertain expression on the pair. It doesn't occur to her that it could be anything //dangerous,// however. They're all friends here - aren't they?
    She turns her attention back to Roxxi's demonstration - a broad smile crossing her features. "Well. The name certainly makes sense, then," she answers. "For my part... I can create illussions, but it seems reliant on movement. I use it to enchance the storytelling in my dancing. And I can manipulate emotions using my voice. Which... can come in rather handy when I'm singing," she says with a smile. "I try not to use the emotional manipulation, though, outside of performances - or to calm people in moments of panic, as necessary. I think to behave otherwise would be less than ethical."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan wiggles his brows as if the man whispered something completely sexual, then again with a fluid motion, slides his chair back to where it was.

"No worries Hank," he says calmly. "Nothin to worry about." Holding his hand up in the mock phone position he mouths to Michael, 'Call me' then looks back to the others at the table just in time to watch Roxxi make sugar micro-splode.

"Huh," he offers with a nod of approval. "That could be useful." He of course is thinking much larger and of certain places that needed to be blown up, but there was training and education to think of before all that. "It's a perfect name if ya ask me."

The drinks are not delivered to those who ordered then, which makes Logan chuckle a little because the sugar packets were just blown up. Black will work for now, but he is grinning as he debates what the teen just did.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    He catches the effect as he leans away from Logan, giving the man a nod just as the packet of sugar detonates. He says nothing about it, though his brows lift slightly. "I'm sure you're a talented voice," he says. "Alas, I have no ear for music. I'm more of a theater person."

    A smile to Hank. "No trouble at all."

Henry McCoy has posed:
There's a grin, then laughter from Hank at the display. "Quite a fitting name, indeed!" He agrees with Logan. "Is that static discharge or?" He wonders, trying to sort out the science of it. Go figure. "Roxxi, if you like, we can speak to the Headmistress. I think you might fit in." A wink to her.

A look to Laxmi, nodding. "I would love to attend a performance some time. Perhaps you'll indulge us at a talent show on campus?" A chuckle. "I've got a trophy from one, myself." A sage nod.

With the tensions gone, Henry beams to Logan and Michael. "Glad to have come to an accord. I am sure there is a story to be told there, Michael. I for one, would like to hear it at another time."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
    Roxxi does some of her own beaming. This is not the reaction she typically gets or expects. As Henry asks about her ability she can only shake her head. There was some science behind her ability, she just had no idea what it was. "Uh, I don't know. I can kinda feel the um, light? The energy in the light? And I kinda pull it into myself, and turn it into a different kinda energy?" She looked hopefully at the blue man, to see if that answered his question.
     WhenLaxmi describes her abilities Roxxi gasps and clasps her hands together. "I wish I could do that! I don't sing, or dance, or nothing. Just the tumbling..." She then looked expectantly at Hank and Michael, waiting to hear what they did, taking a deep slurp of her milkshake as she did so.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Oh, I'm more than happy to perform for the staff or students at any time," Laxmi answers warmly, giving Hank a smile, as she pours a few creamers into her tea. "I mean, my music students have heard me perform already, of course. And I do practice out on the lawn sometimes." She takes a sip of her tea, before direction her attention back to Roxxi.
    "Anyone can improve their musical talent if they're motivated to try. Should we be able to get you enrolled at the school, I'd be happy to help." She pulls out a business card, offering it towards Roxxi as she adds, "You can contact me here if you need to get in touch with us, or if you need any sort of help. Is there somehow we can contact you?"

Logan Howlett has posed:
Taking a drink of his coffee, Logan looks to Laxmi for a moment, then to Hank.

"I say we skip the middle," he states bluntly. "If she's willing, I say we just take her back to the school with us. If the Headmistress has an issue with this, you all can blame me. Don't like the idea of her out here alone, and seeing as I don't really intend to let that remain a thing either way, it's just smarter." He smirks with a small snort, "Look at me, being logical."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Michael just shrugs. Not his circus, not his monkeys. He knows, at least, that these people aren't kidnappers. He just watches, now that his cheeseburgers are delivered, and he tears into those quietly and with gusto as they talk.

Henry McCoy has posed:
The doctor is thinking, listening to Roxxi as she describes her talent. "Perhaps? A collection of energy, conversion and redirection. Fascinating." He grins, nodding and tapping fingers on the table. He looks to Logan, canting his head. "I suppose that's one way of doing things - you have a far different connection to the Headmistres than I do." The man smirks. "I've no problem with inviting her to see the place, regardless. Logic." The man agrees.

Oh! "As for my gifts, Roxxi... I've got the obvious." He motions to his appearance. "Some would say I am quite intelligent, too." A wink. "I've got a above average strength, agility and endurance." Humble.

A look to Michael, canting his head. He's got questions, just not going to ask them now.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi does not have much in the way of table manners, as the food gets set before her. The cookies earlier and milkshake have managed to tide her hunger enough that she doesn't inhale her food. She still manages to make it disappear fairly quickly. She glances at Logan when he mentions bringing her to the school tonight. Around a mouthful of half-masticated cow, Roxxi says, "I don't mind. I've slept in shelters before. I don't want to get anyone into trouble."
     She grins and nods at Laxmi. "Well, if the headmistress lets me into the school, I would love to take one of your classes. I can't really pay, though..." She just looks between the three Xavier's staffers as they continue to discuss her situation. Henry's interpretation of her ability is met with a widening smile. "Oh, that makes sense!" It doesn't.
     When Beast describes his own abilities, she nods. "Oh, yes, you're so pretty. I love blue! Oh! I'm pretty agile too. And I stab things, though I try not to! Just sometimes, on the street, you know..." She trails off again, distracted as Michael does a disappearing act on his own food. She's quite impressed.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    Laxmi takes dainty bites of her food - eating neatly with her utensils as the conversation continues. "Well. Logan knows the rules of the school better than I do. If he thinks it's acceptable, then I have no reason to question his decision," she points out. "And you really don't need to worry about funding. Xavier's believes that all people have an inherent right to an education, isn't that right?" she asks, smiling at Hank and Logan, and giving small nods of her head.
    She shows no reaction to the way Michael tears into his burgers.

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan grabs the ketchup to make a puddle on his plate for the fries and then to shake some onto the burger. As he puts the top bun back on he says, "Nah kid, you won't get anyone in trouble, and none of us will either. That was just to assuage those two's worries, and remove any risk from them. Truth is, I'm sure Jean'ed have no troubles with it at all."

Now a fry goes into his mouth, because they were some of the best fries in the country, well at least New York. He's not one to stand on ceremony, or worry about table manners for that matter, so the way Michael eats gets noticed but no comment. Whatever makes the 'man' happy, hell he hadn't even commented on the fact that it was four burgers. To each their own.

"Yeah kid, money ain't an issue," he then adds. "That sort of thing gets worked out with scholarships and grants, stuff way over my head."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Michael goes through the things like a Marine - not rude, just...urgent. Maybe he's starved before, or just was in the service. But he's eating like he was bivouaced. After a moment he pauses, smacking his lips, and swallows the last bite of his first burger as he reaches for his Coke. "I can confirm," he says, "The people who run the school are good souls. Your abilities would likely find great focus there. Excellent training."

Henry McCoy has posed:
The Beast takes his time with his food - enjoying the flavor and savoring the taste. He nods in agreement with all, regarding the school. After dabbing his lips with a napkin, he grins. "Grants, scholarships, all that sort of thing. It's not something to worry over, truth be told. Fortune always finds a way for deserving students." He chuckles. "Assuming you're interested in continuing your education, Roxxi? We have dorm rooms, too."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi nods at the assurances of the others. "Okay then. Let's do that!" She agrees. She then looks down to the limp sock pocket hanging from her belt loop. "Hear that Muffins? We're heading back to school!" She looks up at Hank and beams. "Yeah, I'll give it a try."
     Roxie quietly watches Michael as he systematically devours his food. Vets aren't uncommon on the streets, so some of his behaviors are recognized. "So, are you a ..you know, a mutant, too?" She asks, obviously unfamiliar with being so glib about the subject. Sitting up straight, hands on the table, she gasps. "Is it okay, to ask like that? I mean here. Not outside Bushwick."

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "In the current company? Certainly. Though, people who don't wish to divulge that information are certainly under no requirement to do so," Laxmi replies with a calming smile. "I know for many reasons there are people who don't feel safe being open about such things. I think, however, the more people who are open, the better it will be for all of us in the long term."
    She takes another bit of her toast before adding, "The school is absolutely lovely, and there are a few other students whose education has been interrupted for one reason or another. I'm sure you'll be very comfortable there, once we get things ironed out with the Headmistress."

Logan Howlett has posed:
The burger before Logan begins to disappear. He's not as systematic as Michael is, but there are all the same indications to his eating. Precise, quick, making sure to leave nothing behind with each bite. Between those bites it the coffee, a necessity for any military man really.

"I'll send a text off to Jean, give her a heads up," he then offers, not bothering to wipe his mouth... why? Just get dirty with the next time anyway.

"Also good to remember that some people out there may /look/ like Mutants, but're something else. Inhumans are a thing, some of those magic types have the look but aren't. Generally asking politely gets either the answer of yes or no, though sometimes people get pissy about it."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Michael is halfway through the burger before he swallows and looks back up at Roxxi. "Oh, no," he says, "I'm not. I just don't believe that mutants should be persecuted. That's bullshit, miss."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Speaking of texts! Distracted by food, and other things, Roxxi had completely failed to answer Laxmi. Now, with most of her burger and fries demolished, the teen starts digging through her faded messenger bag. She pulls out a cell phone, mane models out of date. The screen looks cracked, and the casing scratched, but it turns out without a problem. "You want my number still, uh, Miss Mallick?"
     Roxxi nods as the others advise her about etiquette with dealing with other mutants and non-humans. The news that some none humans are things other than mutants is a bit of a surprise. "You get to see some weird stuff, out on the street, but usually it's just better not to ask."
    Michael's response just gets a crinkle-nosed assessment. "Okay." She finally says, rather simply but with a brilliant smile.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Sure, Roxxi," Laxmi agrees. "I'll take your number." Even though her hands were perfectly clean, she wipes them on a napkin before pulling out her phone, inputting the number as Roxxi reads it off to her. Even if they were bringing the girl back with them - it would be good to have a way to contact her, if anything did lead to her bolting - now or in the future. After all, the girl didn't seem to be entirely in her right mind.
    "The world can be a very diverse and interesting place," she remarks. "I met a woman who appears for all the world to be a felinoid mutant - but is instead a magical being. A lovely woman, really."

Logan Howlett has posed:
For this Logan will use a napkin to clean off his fingers and add Roxxi's number to his own phone, just in case. He's not about to go calling a teenage girl for random reasons, that's how you end up in jail, but it's always a good idea to have it for an emergency.

Felines... why does it always have to be felines? He was still working on not having issues with Hank being more feline than he used to be. "Worlds full of interesting people," he finally offers, just to get away from thinking about feline mutants, that never ends well for him. "You'll learn how to deal with asking and talking to them in time. Gonna ask a question kid, but ya don't have to answer if you don't want to." He picks up his coffee cup, since his hand is clean. "How long ya known about your powers?"

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Back to eating. Mike's polished off the second, and is now moving to number three. Letting folk talk about the important things. That pointedly do not involve him.

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Once the phone situation is dealt with, hers gets stashed back into the messenger bag. Roxxi nods as she listens to Laxmi and Logan talk. How much she's retaining is another matter altogether. She's drinking her mostly melted milkshake, and swinging her legs under the table. She does soon realize Logan asked a direct question and grins as she answers it, "Oh, um. That was with Foster Mom Three. So I was around thirteen, I guess?" A moment of thought, before she corrected. "Well, that's about when they started I think. I was around fifteen when I really got it. That's about the time I got to the group home."
     While she answers, she watches Michael. His quiet is puzzling to her. Finally, she asks, "Are you mad?"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "I think he might simply be hungry," Laxmi remarks with some amusement, as her own phone is quickly stashed away, as well. She spears a little of her fruit with her fork, nibbling at it appreciatively, and letting out a quiet 'mmmm.' Someone enjoys cold fruit.
    "Foster homes?" she asks. "Again - you don't need to answer if you feel I'm prying but... That must have been difficult."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan's phone goes back in his pocket and he goes back to eating his burger and fries. The talk about foster homes he'll leave to Laxmi, most often it's easier for girls to talk to women, so he'll just eat his burger and pretend not to be there for this, just in case that makes it easier for Roxxi to talk about it.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "I'm not mad," Michael says with a chuckle around a mouthful of burger. "I'm hungry, like Miss Mallick said. And honestly, I tend not to talk unless I have something to say. If it makes you nervous, I can speak up more."

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi drank from her milkshake long after her straw began to pull up more air than shake. At Laxmi's question, she shook her head, not seeming to mind. "Yeah, since I was about five. We lived in a big house, with lots of trees, and a beautiful garden. My parents loved me a lot, but they died. In a.. plane crash." She isn't lying, so much as spinning a fanciful story, and it's an obvious one.
     Roxxi falls quiet once more and looks at Michael. She's quick to reassure him. "Oh no. You don't have to talk if you don't want to. Muffins doesn't talk much either!"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "I'm very sorry for your loss," Laxmi answers with a sympathetica smile. Whether she believes the young woman's words or not - it hardly helps to call her on untruths so early in a relationship, does it? "To lose your family so young, and go through so many changes and trasitions... That must be challenging. Still - hopefully at the school you can build some lasting friendships? Relationships you can rely on now, and into the future?"

Logan Howlett has posed:
One brow lifts. Logan believes he heard that exact same version of the story a few years back, but there was no garden... nice twist. He's not going to call her out on it, but glances to Laxmi to see in her expression or eyes perhaps that she wasn't buying it either.

"That's one of the nice things about the school," he adds on to what Laxmi said. "Lots of kids, various age ranges, people to hang with and build friendships with."

His own burger is now almost gone, the fries on the plate down to the last three or four. "There's also lots a older kids, like older siblings, and of course the teachers actually give a damn."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Number three is down. Mike's not going to call her on it either, even though he can smell a story from a mile away. "I think I'm going to take a walk," he announces, smiling at them all. "I still need to stretch my legs. I'll see you all at the school, apparently, so! Take care, won't you?" He's getting to his feet, wavng at the server. Someone needs a doggie bag!

Roxxi Smith has posed:
     Roxxi nodded at Laxmi and Logan. "Oh good! And, I'll have Muffins. I can always rely on him." The teen looks down at her diminished plate. Well, that ended way too fast. At least she was satiated. She burped quietly and stretched her arms. "That was good. Guess we should probably be heading towards the school?"
     As Michael stood, Roxxi looked towards him once more. "Oh, don't forget your last burger! You can save that for later."

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan shifts his eyes to Michael as he prepares to leave, then offers a polite sounding, "Nice to meetcha, Mr. Emerson. Maybe see you round the school sometime." He had offered to pay for everyone's burgers and he intended to, didn't matter to him if the 'man' ate four, ten or one. "Take care out there."

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Goodbye, Mr. Emerson! See you at the school," Laxmi calls cheerfully after the man.
    She finishes off the last of her toast, pushing her plate away slightly, and wiping her hands on a napkin once more. "I think going back to the school and getting you settled into some guest's quarters for the night would be good," she agrees. "We'll see about getting you assigned to a permanent dorm tomorrow. I came by public transit... We could always call an uber. Unless you brought a vehicle, Logan?" she asks - looking to the man for confirmation, as she rises and picks up her canvas bag. The trio leave together, not long after Michael.

Logan Howlett has posed:
Logan considers for a moment then nods. "Yeah, I got my truck. I can drive us all back to the mansion. Good thing I didn't bring my bike, that would have been interesting."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "I'll catch up in a bit." Michael touches two fingers to his temple in a faint salute, and then he's off, getting a bag from the server while he lets Logan pay the bill - because he insisted. He'll get there later under his own good old hypersonic steam.