The Town of Fallcrest

RIKKE

It had been weighing in her pretty much the entire night that Goodwin had not only been able to gain entry into the building, but had even managed to get his hands on Skylar, and she herself didn't even notice until it was too late. Rikke was their Paladin. She should've noticed that with Keagan gone and Luke busy chasing Lyra, the girls would need her to be closer and focused on them. Instead, Luke beat her to the punch and wound up taking a silver bullet to the shoulder. God, if _anything_ worse had happened to any of them-

Rikke let out a small groan, but stopped herself short of making too much noise. It was late, and even if Leo had thought ahead to get the suites -and each individual room- warded for silence, that didn't mean that superhearing couldn't realistically still be bothered. She let Jack and Hanuel take the rest of the night as she took guard by milling about in the common area. The lights weren't off because it was still a hotel, but she wouldn't have needed them to know someone was coming up behind her. "I would have expected you to be taking advantage of Lyra's need for sleep?" she teased before turning to face the witch.

PHOENIX

Honestly, when everyone turned in for the night, she thought her cousin would actually be the exception but lo and behold, Lyra fell asleep as soon as she hit the bed. One would assume the kids exhausted her but she wasn't the one taking care of the kids so Nix had no idea why she was so wiped out.

Regardless, she took the opportunity to step outside, finding the common area so different now that it wasn't filled with all the families. Finding the familiar figure, the witch made her way over - only to smile, the moment Rikke acknowledged her presence. "I *am* taking advantage of Lyra's need for sleep. I'm out here so that I won't wake her with whatever I do." She shrugged, "Not that I had a plan anyways. What about you? You looked quite deep in your thoughts just now."

RIKKE

The other woman's words immediately had Rikke's eyebrow raising in a mix of confusion and curiosity. "Oh? And exactly what is it that you could manage to do that would risk waking her?" She fixed her with a dubious look as she said, "So, let me see if I'm following: you didn't have plans to do anything, but you felt the need to leave the room in case you woke up Lyra with whatever you did...I'm sorry, just how _loud_ is your sleeping then?"

The light chuckle that had followed her teasing, died off at the question of what Rikke herself had been thinking about just before. Shaking her head, she shrugged and said, "Nothing terribly important. Constant thought is just one of those nifty Paladin side-effects. Can't turn the noggin off if you don't sleep, and we sleep so much during our stasis already that our bodies hardly ever get to a point where we might need it...of course, that might change now that we don't have to go back into stasis."

PHOENIX

She gave the paramedic a playful shove at the teasing. "Shut up, I don't *snore*, but Lyra's a light sleeper so any sort of noise would wake her - personally, I think it's because she doesn't want to miss a second of drama." She shrugged as if that made logical sense.

"So you're telling me that Jack and Haneul are most likely awake right now too? How come Haneul's the grumpiest one out of all of you?" She partially joked because it was still true in the end. While he wasn't *mean* or a complete asshole, but that man grumbled since he arrived with Dylan of all people. "I suspect that would result the need to find a lot of hobbies to occupy you guys at night? What do you normally do then?"

RIKKE

The shove did absolutely nothing on it's own, but feeling the need to afford her friend the slight satisfaction, she let out a small noise of complaint and threw in a -slightly delayed- shift to the other side. "See, again. I just don't understand, what could you possibly do to make a small noise? I've been in the cabin long enough to know that Lyra is _not_ light enough of a sleeper to where breathing would be enough to wake her." Rikke scoffed at the theorized reason for Lyra's light sleeping. "Yeah, missing 'drama', as you put it, really seems to be her biggest sore spot. She still hasn't let go that she was the last one in the family to find out about the twin's 'true father'." Lyra's exact words had been "true _daddy_" but the way everyone had squirmed, made the Paladin not want to repeat that.

She nodded. "We honestly have no idea why he's the grumpiest, if anything one would expect that if it were an age thing, Jack would take the grumpy role. I've theorized that it might his past, but I think given that he's my boss at the fire station, it might be bordering on Lyra territory for me to ask." A wry chuckle fell from her lips, blue eyes dropping down to the floor briefly before looking up and out over the now empty ballroom. "The way the seals on the Nexus work, by the time we were activated there wasn't really any time to spare to the idea of hobbies or anything outside of our duties to protect the charge we were assigned to. If woke up, it meant that the threat to their life was imminent and our time was ninety-five percent focused on keeping them alive, three percent focused on being a productive member of the hive mind to try and find a way to reverse the broking of the seals, and two percent trying to blend in and not out ourselves as not human."

PHOENIX

"*Okay*, so I just wanted to be out of the room, stop trying to call me out." She snorted. "Let me *breathe*." This seemed to be a common theme in this family - not letting Nix (or anyone) breathe was one of Lyra's favourite things to do. "Drama is her thing - Aunt Ianthe always did say that Lyra could've been a good agent if she actually used those skills for something other than gossip. It's almost scary sometimes how she find things out so yeah, no one is surprised when she got upset about being the last one to get the news. Keg and Luke definitely did that on purpose in order to tell people instead of having them hear from Lyra."

Nix had once guessed that Haneul was the oldest considering how grumpy he was, hence his nickname being 'gramps'. But that went out the window when she found out that wasn't the case. Still, since it might have soemthing to do with his past so the witch dropped the topic with a simple nod. "Right, the Nexus." It definitely slipped her mind when everything else distracting her, "The reason why the kids are babies now... So far the only threat was Goodwin, and he had nothing to do with the Nexus." She joked before continuing. "There's also the matter of certain people escaping after breaking that seal." It obviously didn't just end with Old Man Grey being killed off." The paperwork she had to do for that too.

RIKKE

Rikke held up her hands and said, "I'm sorry, calling you out was not my intention." Though the woman followed it up with a laugh, she also immediately diverted the focus back to Lyra. Rikke would like to think that she had a good grasp on things, but though not quite to Keagan's level, Phoenix was definitely harder to read than some of the other folks she now lived with. Nodding in agreement about Lyra, Rikke opted to play it safe and add, "Oh, and for the record, I'm also sorry if I've given you any reason to feel like you need an excuse or a reason to do stuff like leave your room or whatever. It's your business, and I'm completely okay with you just reminding me of that. Honest."

There was a failed attempt to stifle a sigh before she simply repeated back, "Right, the Nexus." Rikke's tone was empty as she said it, a part of her wishing she too had the privilege of forgetting it existed, if only so she could momentarily forget how she came to be tied to it in the first place. "It sounds like the town has been relatively lucky with the magic kickbacks after the seals being broken, but that thing is capricious and it won't always play out that way. Old Man Grey being killed off is currently a bit low on our priority list of things to address, seeing as we have to cleanup the mess he left behind first."

PHOENIX

Surprised at the apology, Nix smiled and shook her head, "Nothing to apologize about - I mean, everyone else is either sleeping or dealing with their kids at the moment so I guess it must be weird that I'm out here by myself. Wait, do I look suspicious?" She smirked, "I'm kidding. If you really must know - I got a song stuck in my head for the whole day and I was hoping I could dance it out otherwise, I really would just stay up all night thinking about it."

Her own lips flattened into a line, understanding that the seals breaking wasn't exactly good news. "The whole baby situation didn't make it look that bad for a moment." She sighed, shaking her head, "You're right, there's still a bunch of things to sort out. Hopefully we can get prevent any more seals from breaking." It was clear that the forces weren't going to stop anytime soon even if a few of them looked like 'accidents'.

RIKKE

"I mean, it's not _weird_, per say. Just, unexpected is all. I mean with everything that happened in a relatively short amount of time, I suppose I just expected most people to be too exhausted to make the trip back out of their suites," Rikke was quick to clarify. "Suspicious? No, not really. Not to me, but that's because I know who you are- As in like, that you're Phoenix. I wouldn't- I wouldn't like claim to _know you_. That would presumptuous." The Paladin took the woman's explanation as a time to pause and gather the bearings she'd clearly lost. "Jack says Diego told them the easiest way to get a song out of their head was to sing it from beginning to end."

Rikke offered her a half-smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "In all fairness, the Nexus may affect all supernaturals but, the responsibility to keep it sealed and protected falls on us and the Council." And boy was getting things done in the Council's best interest, given the Guild and other international supernatural leaders were already complaining about why the people in charge of the Nexus issue were all from the same town...

PHOENIX

She did not hide the smirk on her face because it was very endearing to see the woman trying to clarify what she initially meant even though there was no misunderstanding to begin with. "Diego's got a point. People normally do that; I just prefer dancing it out instead."

Perhaps she shouldn't have mentioned the Nexus to begin with because the expression on Rikke's face fell with every word exchanged about it. With the intent to comfort the other, Nix reached out and rubbed against the Paladin's arm gently as she gave a wry smile herself. "We're all here to help too so it's not *completely* on your shoulders. I'm sure the rest of us would rather have you share the burden than take it on all by yourselves. We've got the Guilden and other folks researching everything too."

RIKKE

The Paladin wasn't entirely sure where to go from there. A part of her wanted to take comfort in the reassurance and the warmth of the soft touch as well, if she were being honest but, there were things that were too deeply ingrained in her to allow it to be that simple.

With the entirety of her past now available to her, there were parts of herself that fell back into place to the Rikke before her last stasis. The society within which she was actually born and raised made it hard for her to truly appreciate any form of affection outside of family as anything other than platonic. Rikke was taught that even the idea that there would even be any other option for how to read Phoenix's action was revolting, and an offense to Phoenix herself. Not to mention that as a Paladin, it was constantly drilled into them that the entire reason they even existed was to keep their witch charges safe and to solve the matter of the Nexus so they _wouldn't_ be needed. The idea of allowing others to take on that burden _and_ get to remain free if and when the seals were restored?

It was way too much to try and sort out right now. "So, did you already have a dance in mind when you came out here?" she asked, then making to pull out her phone, "Oh, the girls taught me how to use this before their hands got too small to use their own. Unless you were planning on going the silent-movie route."

PHOENIX

The sudden topic switch back to music definitely caught her attention but Nix took it as a cue to *not* discuss about the town's problem anymore for tonight. One she shouldn't be surprised with since it might be too heavy of a topic to be discussing *this* late at night anyways. Welcoming the diversion back to the song and dance, Phoenix gave a little wave with her hand to cast another sound barrier around them. Even if all the rooms had proofing, it never hurt to add another one so that people who also happened to be in the hallway wouldn't hear them.

"Do you have a music app? Or we can youtube it." She peered over to look at the screen. The *plan* was letting the music lead me so sort of?" She chuckled, "The song's called Cure for Love by Ellie Goulding."

RIKKE

Rikke could see the spark of concern that her sudden change in topic had brought about in the younger woman, but greatly appreciated the fact Phoenix opted not to act on it. Even if it meant they would eventually loop back around to it -letting things go wasn't exactly a family trait- at least for now, they could shift focus over to something much lighter. And that would maybe place some very needed physical distance between the two.

"Letting the music lead? Sounds a lot like there wasn't really much of plan, but then again Lucas got her musical talents from her mother's side, not ours," she laughed. It was one thing to learn the mechanics of dancing, quite another to be able to just do it. As the song began to play, Rikke couldn't help but furrow her brow slightly at the lyrics. However, as Phoenix had been gracious enough not to pry before, she'd reciprocate and just *let the music lead*. "The dance floor is all yours."

PHOENIX

Learning that Lucas' musical skills was not inherited from Rikke's side of the family had her letting out a light laugh before shaking her head to disagree, "Rikke, I've seen you dance before and you did well! Dancing is all about letting the music move you. Choreography comes from that. I guess we can call it the makings of a plan then." She tapped on the screen to start the music, adjusting the volume a bit before walking backwards further into the area.

She started swaying left and right, getting a grasp of the feeling, "You want to join me?" She asked, almost smirking at the other. Her arms reached out in front of her to motion the other to come towards her. "Come on, it'll be fun!"

RIKKE

Rikke ducked her head and fiddled with the phone a bit in bid to ride out the warmth on her face. It wasn't like she was unaccustomed to being complimented on her skills or abilities or even just in general -hell one could argue that Lyra complimented her at least once an hour- but it had been a long time since she'd actually been affected by a compliment. It had been a long time since she _cared_ enough about what the person complimenting her for it to have an effect...for it to have _this kind_ of effect. The last time hadn't quite turned out so well though, and now there was the matter of her 'niece's family at play...

The Paladin hadn't even noticed when Phoenix approached the phone, but it would be a lie to say she'd managed to stay oblivious to the witch once she began dancing. The invitation had her laughing lightly in response, even as she shook her head. But once the arms were extended, it felt rude to not oblige. "I think it's fair to say you're leading, ye?"

PHOENIX

The playfulness shown in her eyes, Phoenix gave a shrug, "Unless you want to take the lead, I wouldn't mind that at all." She chuckled as she swayed with the other, similar to how they danced last time but a bit more controlled and a lot more sober. "I don't know what you were so worried about, you're doing well." Though she did want to dance tonight, she wasn't planning on doing anything too difficult to begin with - she didn't think this was the time to put in an actual work out.

"I'd say that Lyra would attest to that , but my cousin would take any chance to .. *compliment*." An understatement if her constantly hitting on Luke was any indication.

RIKKE

Rikke gave a low chuckle in response. "Oh no, this was meant to be _your_ time. I'm already technically intruding by having been here," she pointed out. Besides, nothing provided more reassurance that things would definitely remain within the witch's realm of comfort than handing control over to her. "I just happen to have a really good _lead_," Rikke quipped, not really trusting herself to be too chatty. Best way to keep from putting one's foot in one's mouth, was to open said mouth as little as possible.

Rikke could only roll her eyes at the comment. "That woman manage to _compliment_ just about anything with a pulse." Grumbling was easier than processing that Lyra's words had power, if only because most of her observations -about _anyone_- were usually objectively true. Having gotten caught up, she stopped actively paying attention to the music until the song changed. "Oh, uh, did it work? Or do you need another go to get the song out of your head?" Against her better judgement, she offered her hand back out along with the question.

PHOENIX

"Well, techinically I intruded on your time. You were out here first after all." She pointed out before making a face and shaking her head in disagreement. "You're definitely better than you give yourself credit for. Look, I'm not even leading you all that much." Despite the song choice, Nix was having a lot of fun even though she was sure she was more awake now than she initially intended.

And.. as soon as she noticed that, the song ended and had switched over to.. a classical music of all things. Her smile widened as she took the offered hand. "Rikke, you know how to waltz? I'm a bit rusty on my ballroom dancing but I can always do a little brush up. "

RIKKE

Something between a scoff and a chuckle left her lips at the thought. "Trust me, I've had plenty of alone time to last me several lifetimes. Besides, the person who said 'idle hands are the devil's playground' clearly didn't take into account an idle mind." The paladin spun her out and back in, though whether it was the music leading or a way to distract from her heavy statement was unclear even to her. Rikke could only chuckle in response to her next words, because her mind was immediately racing with the double-meaning the words could hold, and she didn't trust herself not to say something otherwise.

Placing a hand around her middle -feeling the waist might be too personal- Rikke smirked as she began to lead them. "Considering I'm ancient, ballroom dancing would be one of the very few things I was actually taught. Along with many other useful little things so one could seem the perfect lady, who would one day make a suitable wife."

PHOENIX

Though there were times when the two of them got pretty close together, it didn't seem as heavily emphasized as now with Rikke facing directly at her at such close proximity. However, Rikke mentioning that she was taught the dance did bring her mind back to reality. She couldn't help but snort at the term 'perfect lady' for the sake of being some man's wife. "I know those were the times, but honestly, you are plenty impressive even if you don't know how to dance." She pointed out as she followed the taller woman's lead.

Even if Rikke didn't mention anything, one could easily tell that this was a dance she was familiar with. "Do you know all sorts of ballroom dancing then? Almost tempting to find out just how much you know now."

RIKKE

"It's nice to know I can still make an impression," she chuckled. It honestly shouldn't feel like such a huge accomplishment to impress a _friend_, and Rikke was painfully aware of this. However, admitting the truth to herself wasn't really an option, and after Phoenix had taken her last attempt at a deeper compliment- it was just best to keep it tame.

It had been so long since Rikke had danced with someone like this -let alone someone who also knew what they were doing- she was surprised she still remembered. "Well, they gave us the basics in a few styles of the time but, the waltz was the one they hammered in the most and the tango is one I taught myself as a 'fuck you' to the waltz," she laughed.

PHOENIX

“Quite the impression.” As often as Lyra teased people, she didn’t *always* do it without reason. Rikke definitely left an impression on the witch and it didn’t help that they basically saw each other nearly everyday since they found out that they were part of the same family tree. Realizing that she had blurted that out, Nix cleared her throat and focused on the dancing.

“Tango?” She almost said it incredulously, “You’re surprising me with every fact you reveal, Rikke.” She chuckled, “I didn’t expect it to be tango. Almost thought you’d say something like.. foxtrot or i don’t know.. the cha-cha.” She shrugged. “Was it weird? Despite it being the thing to do at the time. That you had to dance to impress.. quite literally. Nowadays we dance just for fun or for competition but surely not required in our daily lives.”

RIKKE

Rikke's glanced down at their feet for a moment, giving the likely red tinge on her face to cool down to a rosy pink. Looking back up, she had a sheepish look on her face, but made an attempt at a smirk as she said, "Careful Miss Calvetti, your cousin might forget it -often- but she still does have super-hearing. If you continue to compliment me, I'll continue to be compelled to compliment you back, and we'll both increase the chances she'll hear something and run with it."

She chuckled a bit herself and said, "Yeah, that one was definitely learned once I was already over on this side of the ocean. We didn't exactly have the internet to learn things from other countries back then." A pensive look crossed her face at the question. "Honestly, it's far weirder when I think back on it now. But back then? It was just one of many things that I had to do in order to be considered as 'doing my duty'. One of the least bothersome too."

PHOENIX

She was feeling just as red herself but still she also made an attempt to keep a straight face, "It's merely the truth.. I'm sure Lyra would have also said it.. in a vastly different way but it also just means that I wasn't lying." She hummed, "But Lyra could also take *silence* and still run with it. She really could've been an agent if it weren't for her motivation for *gossip*."

"I must admit, the only thing I do like was that everyone seemingly knew how to dance." She tilt her head with a wry smile, "The fact that it was one of the integral things to being a wife.. I still can't believe it was a thing."

RIKKE

: "Okay, if we're going to use the fact that Lyra would also say the same thing, albeit with a different vocabulary, to further prove that a point is valid, then clearly my ability to dance falls far short to your ability to light up a room," Rikke retorted before swiftly adding in spin out. It wasn't a lie either, she could easily point out, after all Lyra had pointed out just that morning how Phoenix was 'hot enough to pull even the gayest waiter in the hotel'. "Her penchant for gossip can have its uses...sometimes."

Rikke tilted her head to one side and said, "Well, it was more like everyone who could afford to take the time to be taught how to dance and not have their entire family starve, but yeah that still left quite a few." She met the wry smile with one of her own. "It was often said that dance taught grace, and grace was a valuable quality. But really, it was more like if a girl could be made to do only activities that required her to do what she was told by a man, then it would be far more likely she would continue to blindly follow a man's direction as a woman...Honestly, the only thing about my life back then that I really miss would be my family. Even then, only _some_ of them."

PHOENIX

"I... don't know about that." Phoenix chuckled softly, feeling her cheeks grow warm again. The witch was far from being a shy person - though not the extent of whatever Lyra was, but something about Rikke's words actually made her somewhat ... bashful. She even found herself looking off to the side to avoid direct eye contact while she waited for her cheeks to cool. "Sometimes - it's also scary how fast she receives some of the information. I feel like my job would be way easier if I had half that talent." She snorted.

Nix gave a slight wince to the reasoning. "Right.. sorry. It was a different time, of course. " Her smile flattened into a thin line. It was hard to think of her family all learning how to dance and following the ways of that era considering what their current selves were like. Perhaps they'd be very different if they were living in that time. "Hmm... well, for one, I'm glad that you're part of *this* era now." She tried to lightened the mood. To think they were having this conversation while they were twirling about in the area. "Maybe we can teach you some of the more *modern* dances?"

RIKKE

"I do." There was a resolute tone with which she spoke, that indicated a level of confidence she didn't actually feel at the moment. At least not in herself. She was definitely confident in her observation that Phoenix was beautiful, but _that_ was also kind of the problem, wasn't it. Her brain immediately came up with like fifty different ways to play it off and not sound like she was being forward or predatory, but they all seemed to want to come out of her mouth at once and instead it all created a stopper and nothing came out. Clearing her throat, she opted to take the out given and speak to Lyra's skills instead. "I think it's less a talent, and more a honed skill that she happens to have been refining since like, birth."

Rikke immediately felt guilty. It was clear that her honesty in the moment had been upsetting to the witch, and that was far from her intention. "Oh well, I mean, it's quite literally a lifetime ago...or well, a _few_ lifetimes ago," she joked. The other woman's words made it to where she almost reflexively wanted to reply 'Stop saying things that make me like you even more' but her filter was kind enough to give her pause. "I'm glad to be a part of it too," she said instead, before laughing lightly at the suggestion. "I suppose there'd be no harm in learning something new."

PHOENIX

The amount of confidence behind those two simple words did surprise her, but made her smile nonetheless. As they've said earlier, compliments were not uncommon and Nix knew she had some level of attractiveness but to hear it from Rikke really gave her butterflies.. butterflies that she didn't know what to do with at the moment. "Umm." She chuckled, "Yeah.. Sometimes I just wish she filters her thoughts juuuuuust a little bit. Just a tiny bit. Think before acting.. But that will only happen when pigs fly.

Her eyes looked back up into the other's - she did it voluntarily but somehow her words caught in her throat for a moment. "A few lifetimes ago - To think you've seen allll the trends come and go... and come back again." She joined in. "It'll be fun! You know I've got classes of all levels going on at the gym, and if not that, I could give you *private* lessons."

RIKKE

"Considering your female cousin managed to give birth my female relative's _twins_, I'd say it's entirely possible for pigs to start flying tomorrow," Rikke pointed out. There truly was no telling what magic was capable of. Just a few hours ago they witnessed Luke trigger her werewolf gene with no full moon in sight. "For all the hive mind knows about magic, there's so much more we have yet to learn."

Rikke chuckled at the slight awe in Nix's words. "It was one of the weirdest experiences, once the seal broke, to have all of those memories just come rushing back. Some trends really should stay forgotten though." The taller woman had been nodding along to the idea of taking classes at the gym, but at the mention of private lessons -and the clear emphasis on _private_- she was unable to keep a brow from shooting up. "Well, there's plenty of modern music on the phone...unless you're tired of me already- or, in general. It is pretty late," Rikke stammered.

PHOENIX

She nodded with a snort, accepting the reality that pigs may just fly considering how things had been unfolding in this town. To think her own relatives were basically the unicorns of the supernatural world, life hadn't been one bit dull as they learned more about the Paladins. "You're right, for all we know, pigs might actually know how to flow." She sighed, "You'd think that it gets less surprising as we learn about things, but nope."

This time her laugh was loud, "Seriously, some trends should stay forgotten. I don't know who thought it was a good idea to bring them back but that is a crime." She joked before stopping her feet while her eyes widen with surprise and immediately shaking her head to disagree. "Oh what? No, *never*. I'd never be tired of you. I didn't expect you wanted to learn like.. right now - and I was offering private in case you didn't want to dance in front of a group of people either. I- no, I'm not tired of you."

RIKKE

"We live in a pretty unpredictable world, Fee!" She exclaimed, using the nickname she'd gotten into the habit of using. Nix was perfectly fine, but it was what everyone else called her. This way, Phoenix knew who was calling out even before she looked. It was all to make her life easier. Just that. No other reason. "Our teenagers are all babies again. Seriously, flying bacon is not that much of a stretch anymore."

Rikke couldn't help the broad smile that came at the sound of Phoenix's laugh. It was truly a wondrous sound, and it took a bit more effort than she'd like to admit to _not_ focus on how it made her stomach do a few flips. "Well, it seems that corporate America really loves cashing in on people's nostalgia, so I expect baggy pants and chokers to pop back up soon enough." Rikke almost collided with her given the sudden stop, but she was able to stop as well just in time. "Sorry, I-" Truth be told, Rikke wasn't even sure what she was going to apologize for. "I didn't mean to imply that _you_ had implied you were or anything. You're a far better person and way too kind for that. I was just giving you an out, but I mean- I just- I-" The paladin stopped and let out a small breath before sheepishly grinning down at the witch and saying, "I'm not tired of you either."

PHOENIX

Did she beam a little at the nickname? Mayhaps. Or It was definitely about ... flying bacon being reality. Somehow. Yeah. Maybe that. "This town is just all sorts of craziness, whether good or bad. They did say, never a dull moment in ol'Fallcrest. That still rings quite true even after all these years. This town is very consistent."

It was.. endearing to see the older woman be so flustered after her explanation. Her hands moved onto the other's upper arms in hopes to also help calm her. "Good, because it would suck not being able to see you ever again. *Absolutely * miserable." She chuckled, "It's nice of you to give me an out, but I won't need it - *I* offered to teach you personally and I'm not one to walk back on my words."

RIKKE

The thought _did_ cross Rikke's mind that they hadn't even reached to the worst of the seals yet, but one glance at Phoenix and how giddy she seemed made her keep it to herself. She'd already ruined the witch's mood once tonight. "Kind of par for the course when most of the residents are supernatural," she quipped instead

It took a lot not to outwardly react to the touch, which was saying something, given they'd just been ball room dancing. Of course, a reassuring touch was a bit more personal than a hand on one's shoulder for a waltz. "Yes well, I'm beginning to see what side of the family Skylar gets her _dramatics_ from," she teased with a light chuckle, opting to shift the focus. "It's good to know, but for the record, I'd like to think I've gotten to know you well enough to say you don't strike me as someone who goes back on their word."

PHOENIX

Something about the fact that they were supernatural that peace was never an option for them which was not by choice. "I think it doesn't help that the town's pretty small - is this how those cities would feel like when superheros and villians fight? Just tearing up the place. That budget to fix the city every time though." Says the person who worked in the administrative sector.

Phoenix turned slightly, dipping her chin towards one shoulder to play coy, "I don't think it was that hard to guess, I am a Calvetti albeit less dramatic than Lyra. The whole family combined is less dramatic than Lyra." She smiled, "Good. Good.." She was weirdly happy at the thought that Rikke saw her in a good light, not that she really did anything out of the ordinary to disprove that. "So.. Was there a song you'd like to dance to?" She pointed out, realizing that the waltz had actually ended by now. "Or are you getting tired? .. Like in general, not of me, of course."

RIKKE

"Collateral damage is such a major pain in the ass," Rikke groaned. "Part of what we end up helping to help with, because as good as the town is about handling structural damage, there will always be something that would be _too_ hard to cover up without magic. That and the handful of mundanes that see more than they should...I'll take a busy shift at the fire station any day."

Taking note of the reaction, the words were out of Rikke's mouth before she'd even processed them herself. "Oh? And I'm assuming that as a Calvetti this is your way of trying to disarm me with cuteness then? Lyra, Sky, and Keagan use their puppy eyes, and you weaponize coyness. Lucas never stood a chance." Not wanting to risk being asked to elaborate, she latched onto the question and reached over for the phone. "Oh, uh. I...hadn't actually thought that far ahead," she chuckled. "We can hit shuffle and see what comes up?" Rikke turned back to look at her, "Come on, Fee. I already _said_ I wasn't tired of you, and believe it or not, it takes quite a lot to exhaust a Paladin....remind me to never mention that in front of your cousins."

PHOENIX

"Damage control is.. just... the worst." She groaned, "With all the things happening in this town, it's just a matter of time if we're being honest." Phoenix said flatly. It was miracle on its own that they've managed to *still* keep their supernatural world a secret in this town. Especially with all the stories she's heard of the times she wasn't around.

She went from coy to shy when Rikke basically called her cute. Her flush definitely was because they've been dancing all night, not because it was a compliment coming from the other. Fortunately, both of them opted to move onto the next topic. "Y-Yeah, that's a good plan." She nodded before her eyes widened at the comment about a Paladin never getting tired. "... Never in front of Lyra especially, the things she'll say to both you and Luke... that you're both.. um.. *very athletic*." She laughed at her own words. "

RIKKE

"It's been a secret for hundreds of years, we have to ensure it stays that way. At least for the duration of _our_ lifetime, because it would suck to be remembered as the generation of superanturals that broke the streak," Rikke noted. "Besides, it's the one secret that Lyra's been able to keep, so if she can do it, we can too."

Between the woman's body language and her actual spoken language, it was fair to say that Rikke was getting a lot of signals. If only she could manage to read and decipher them... The taller woman handed the phone over to Phoenix. "Here, I'll let you do the honors, so I can't be accused of cheating or something later. And I'm sure Lyra would just opt to focus no our stamina, and run with that until someone manages to either confirm she's right or prove her wrong."

PHOENIX

"From the rate the seals are unraveling, we might just be that very generation to break that streak." She sighed, "She could hide her secret as a supe is because she forgets she's a supe. Have you seen her use her wolf strength *or* speed? It only happens once in a blue moon and no, it's not even when her life is being threatened."

Taking a step closer as she took the phone, the witch looked down at the screen to pic a suitable playlist. In her opinion, any song should be able to work. "There are many things that Lyra would focus on." She muttered, "It's her way of multi-tasking, according to her." Eventually picking a random list, she hit play and set the phone aside. "You ready?"

RIKKE

Rikke scrunched up her face a bit. "If anything, I think it might be the fact everyone has cell phones and social media that might make it to where we're the generation that outs us, not so much the seals. I can't tell you how many cell phones I've had to wipe in the last month alone." She let out a snort of laughter and said, "Yeah I suppose it's hard to share a secret you've effectively forgotten yourself."

The comment made her eyebrow shoot up again. "Is that so? Please, since you would know her better than I, do tell what those things might be. Maybe I can find a way to prevent her attention that way." As the phone was set down, Rikke had begun to reply that she was ready, but then the first few notes of the song sounded. "Oh, this is one of the band's songs. "

PHOENIX

"Social media is a nightmare when you're trying to cover up something - because if they did share it, it's not just the people who originally took the videos and pictures." While she wasn't part of the tech departments, she understood the troubles that came with it. "She's really one of a kind." They may all complain about Lyra, but they all loved her just the same.

Her own brows shot up. "I... don't think that's possible." She chuckled, "Like.. I doubt you can stop being attractive. Luke may have prevented Lyra from visiting the gym when she's there but you well know that did not her from 'complimenting' at any other chance she got." She tuned onto the song and smiled, "Oh, what a coincidence." She started bopping to the beat, "Let's start easy a learn a few basics. Follow the beat and see if you can do these couple of moves." As the music progressed, she did a few standard basic moves to start them off with, pausing after each one so that Rikke could try it before either repeating it or moving on to the next one.

RIKKE

"That's where the advantage of having magic on our side truly comes in handy, but even then if we don't act quickly, magic may not be enough. Honestly a cluster each and every time something major happens. Luckily Luke was able to spin a good enough tale to explain the absence of the kids. One less headache." Rikke let out a snort as she said, "I don't think the word 'unique' is even good enough to describe her anymore."

Rikke was listening up until a certain point, and then everything just kind of zeroed in on one thing. "You think I'm attractive?" The question was out before she'd even realized it was. "I mean, like in a general aesthetic way or- I should really stop asking questions and digging this hole much deeper than it needs to be," she said with a nervous laugh. Diverting back to the music she said, "Well I did let the girls pick the music, so far less of a coincidence." The taller of the two shifted her focus entirely on learning the moves being shown. Yup. Learning. That was the only reason her focus was on Fee, anything else would be wrong. "I think I've got it."

PHOENIX

It took Rikke zoning in on her words for her to realize what she said exactly. All other topics thrown out the window as Nix also focused on this as wlel. "Um.. Well.. Yeah. You're hot." She said bluntly, "Everything you do is just.. attractive." Something about the Holstein family looking good while doing even the most mediocre things. "You, yourself is attractive as a person so I don't think you can just ... stop." She shrugged as if her answer was no big deal even though she could feel the heat oozing off of her cheeks.

The witch couldn't even hear the music anymore as she wondered what Rikke was thinking right now. Did rikke not know she was hot and was just asking for clarifications? Or was there other meaning behind it? Nix shouldn't think too much into this but her brain disagreed and went into overdrive.

RIKKE

It took her a bit to regain functional control of her voice. "Oh..." Was all she managed to say in response. For as much as Phoenix had said, it still didn't quite clarify whether the witch _personally_ found her attractive, though it was starting to sound like she was just stating more of an objective matter. Which was _oddly_ disappointing. Granted, it wasn't Phoenix's fault. Rikke should really know better by now than too get too hopeful on such matters.

She let out a wry chuckle as she finally added, "Oh, I think I can probably find a way or two to make myself unattractive if I really wanted to. I could be complete asshole, for one." Even as she said it, Rikke wasn't entirely sure she knew _how_ to be an asshole, but that was neither here nor there.

PHOENIX

Her brows furrowed at the reaction. Did she say something wrong? Because it didn't look like Rikke was at all pleased with her answer. The witch, who normally had her cool better than most Calvettis, was actually wracking her brain to see if there was anything she could do, analyzing their interactions tonight so far.

Then the other woman's word brought her thoughts back, which only make her snort. "Rikke Holstein, you couldn't be an asshole even if you tried. At least as far as I *know, there's not a mean bone in your body which is one of the many things I love about you." Although one shouldn't say that everyone in the family would be the same (take Dicky for example), Lucas and her nieces were all good people. That and Nix would like to think her eye for people was pretty good.

RIKKE

Oh there was so much confusion right about now, and Rikke did not feel that it would be appropriate to try and untangle the mess of it all right now. Especially if it turned out to be a complete misunderstanding on her part, which would then just lead to things becoming awkward for them over nothing, really. "Well, thank you. It's good to know that my character has made it hard to believe I'd be capable of acting ill towards someone else without reason," she said by way of just moving long. Rikke made a mental note of learning the differences between what was considered just and acceptable means of platonic affection and what wasn't.

"You know, growing up at the time I did, affection in any way, shape, or form was something that was rarely demonstrated in public past a certain age. We never got the chance to really know where we stood with any of our peers unless it was explicitly stated, and even then it was far more normally for someone to address you to mention how you messed up. It's nice to see that's changed. I can't imagine the girls growing up in a more nurturing environment."

PHOENIX

The shorter woman not really knowing what had resulted from her compliment, and nodded to agree with what she said, "it's easy to tell even if someone's trying to hide their assholeness - their big egos are a large factor, for one. What's hard to figure out if they're crazy enough...." If their recent experience was anything to go by. "You're definitely not an asshole."

Really, the whole family did provide the best environment for the girls. With the exception of the Bensons who were no help at all to no one's surprise. "I'm sorry that the times were like that back then." She sighed, "I'm just really glad that Luke is the person she is; she's pretty much the reason why the girls got to grow up the way they were. Mini-me's as they always say. The fortunate thing is that the Bensons literally have nothing to do with the girls."

LYRA

The woman had noticed her roommate dipping out on her almost immediately. She may have been thoroughly exhausted from the evening's events, but there was zero chance she was going to miss out on the potential dirt that would come from Phoenix -of _all_ people- sneaking out of their room, and then out of their suite entirely. It was already eyebrow raising enough that little miss goody-two-shoes was starting to randomly take pics for her insta that weren't necessarily Diablo levels of spicy, but they were more than simply Mild.....

She was able to keep herself quiet and out of site for the majority of the cavity-inducing interaction, though that was likely more due to the fact that she wasn't willing to risk the effects of whatever barriers Fawkes had decided to bubble themselves in. After a while, boredom won and she ended up sending Phoenix a voice message: "Hey cuz! Good morning! Because in case you've had such a wonderful time that you didn't notice, it _is_ in fact morning now. Just before the sun, no worries on that front. ANY WHORE! Just checking in to see if you were able to _relax_. You sounded hella frustrated, but like if it was a _bad_ kind of frustrated like because of something that happened or like a _good_ kind of frustrated because one of the waitstaff _actually_ caught your eye, like I couldn't tell. Fill me in!"

PHOENIX

Phoenix jolted out of her thoughts when her own phone rang out. Her phone had been scheduled to be on Do-Not-Disturb during the night so to have her phone ring aloud, it clearly meant that it wasn't nighttime anymore. "I - Wow.. Um.. It must be morning." She didn't take a step back but she did pull out her phone to see what the notification was for. A voice message? She frowned and played it on speaker - her face dropping to a very unimpressed look once she recognized Lyra's voice.

However, that also didn't last very long since it was basically her cousin calling her out, albeit a bit wrong with the details. "Jesus, Lyra.." She swore as she ended the message. "If only she was an agent.. Didn't think she'd notice I snuck out... but why would she think I was with one of the waitstaff off all people when she knows who I'm interested i- When she knows I have no interest in them." She looked down at her screen again, "Why is she even up at this hour?"

RIKKE

Rikke wasn't quite as startled by the phone going off, having heard the vibration before the actual tone sounded. She had been about to offer the woman some privacy when she began to play the voice message right then and there. There was an amused grin on her features as she listened to the youngest Calvetti cousin bringing her usual brand of chaos even to a message. Her features only faltered slightly at the last remarks.

The witch's slip-up didn't go unnoticed, but Rikke wasn't going to press her either. If anything, she smiled easily and just said, "You know Lyra, even when she knows you like someone, it's not a deterrent for her to try and hook you up with someone else. In Luke's case, the 'someone else' being _her_ self." Her tone remained pleasant. The sting of there clearly being someone Phoenix was interested in, _and_ the fact she clearly didn't want Rikke to know was present but she'd get over it.

PHOENIX

The shorter woman bit her lip as she observed the other. Something just didn't sit right with her especially since it felt as if Rikke was misunderstanding who she was interested in. Granted, she hadn't been upfront about her feelings either but hearing it like this felt.. wrong and it didn't help that she noticed the woman's expression as they listened to Lyra's message.

"I want to say that the only reason why she'd set me up with someone else is so that she could hit on *you*." It felt like a reveal but one that wasn't surprising because Lyra was still hitting on Luke after learning the younger Paladin was quite literally the twins' other bio mom. "But obviously, no one can really stop her." She stopped to take a deep breath as if to gather all her courage for her next words. "...Honestly, there'd be no point in setting me up with someone else because I'm .. I'm interested in .. well, *you*."

RIKKE

The comment made Rikke's brow knit in confusion. "Well that doesn't make any sense, she's been hitting on -and a _very_ take Luke- since ever- Oh, unless you're saying she's set you up with others before...though I'm still unclear as to how that would directly impact her hitting on me." It had become one of the rare instances in which talking out her thought process _didn't_ help to clarify things.

"Oh..._oh_...I- are you sure? I'm not all that interesting. I mean, _you_, you are young and talented, and beautiful both inside _and_ out. I think Lyra was onto something when she said you could have your pick," she laughed nervously.

PHOENIX

It would've been adorable to see Rikke figure this out if it weren't for her own anxiety and nervousness as she braced herself for the woman's reaction once she understood what she meant. When the other started to downplay herself for some reason, Nix let out the breath she had no idea she was holding and took a step closer towards the Paladin while frowning.

"You are and have been interesting since the first day we meant. Rikke, you are .. amazing for lack of a better term, more amazing than what you apparently believe yourself to be ." Her eyes looked down and reached out to hold the woman's hands in hers again. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't into you since day 1... Learning that you were literally Luke and the twins' ancestors did surprise me which I still apologize for the way I acted.. But you're you.. And you're right saying that you're not defined by that and I should know that because I've enjoyed all the times we've spent together.

RIKKE

Of all the things that Phoenix said, her brain latched onto only one almost immediately. "You have _nothing_ to apologize for. No, it wasn't the best feeling," she chuckled, "_But_ it was also very understandable. It's not every day that you find out your new friend is technically someone's very great grandmother...even though they're the same age- Magic is fucked and we all end up in situations where the reality of it smacks in the face and catches unaware. It's all good."

There was a silent pause between them as Rikke offered Phoenix a reassuring smile, and the witch just seemed to look at her expectantly. "Oh! Right, yes. The other stuff you said. Sorry, brain is processing a bit slowly. It's not used to hearing such things and not have to also consider how acknowledging them would be a _terrible_ idea- Because it totally wouldn't be! Not this time. Not with you. I'm going to stop talking."

PHOENIX

She only smiled when Rikke answered to *that* of all the things she said. Still, Nix nodded to what the other was saying because that was pretty much the reason why she acted the way she did. To learn that she was basically hitting on her friend's great ancestors.

Even after all that, the Paladin still rambled on. Still on that adrenaline, the witch grabbed the taller woman by the collar and pulled her down so she could press her lips against the other. The height disadvantage she had, honestly. The shorter woman was literally tip-toing. '

RIKKE

There was the briefest of seconds where the sudden tug on her collar had Rikke thinking she'd managed to severely overstep and said something that would require the witch to bring her down to her level for a proper smack. The most telling thing about it all, was the fact that even though she believed this is what was going to happen, Rikke made no move to avoid being smacked to being with.

Obviously having been geared up for one thing, and instead being greeted with warm lips pressed against hers, it did cause her brain to stall for a moment as it processed the change of plan, but once she was on the same page, Rikke wasted no time in looping an arm around Phoenix's waist to help hoist her up as she herself lowered to meet her in the middle.

PHOENIX

Phoenix really hoped they were on the same page when she took the leap and kissed the other. She was about to back off but fortunately, Rikke did not have her in suspense for that long before she reciprocated the kiss. Her very muffled and abrupt squeal when she was suddenly lifted up into the air.

A arm wrapped around the other, and the other elbow rest on the woman's shoulder while her fingers played gently with the hair. Even while they were doing this, Phoenix still couldn't quite believe that Rikke was actually kissing her back. She really should've done this earlier if she had known Rikke felt the same way.

RIKKE

Rikke gently set Phoenix back as reluctantly pulled away just enough for them to be able to catch their breath. "At the risk of embarrassing myself, I'll admit to having wanted to do that pretty much since the night we met," she whispered with a chuckle.

Rikke didn't rush anything though, taking the time to run her hand through Phoenix's hair, hand coming to rest at the woman's jawline, gently cupping her face. "Magic or not, I don't think I'd ever find a way to describe that gaze of yours other than absolutely bewitching."

PHOENIX

She couldn't stop smiling even when they broke apart despite both their reluctance. Her body just naturally leaned in closer - if it was even possible given their distance. Somehow Phoenix didn't expect that confession. "Really?" She whispered, almost giddily. "What a coincidence, I was the same."

With the hand on her, she instinctively leaned into it. That snuggling Calvetti trait simply shining through at this rate. Said eyes soften at the compliment; something about the way the Paladin described her had her melting. "God, why are you so romantic?" She tiptoed again to steal another kiss.

RIKKE

"I think the only thing that stopped me that night, was the fact that we had an audience in the form of the shared braincell that is Lyra and Maths," Rikke admitted, somewhat emboldened by the witch's own confession. "Of course, once we regained all of our past memories, it was less the audience and more the repression that made it easier to just run every little action through the 'that's just what friends do' filter."

Happily obliging to the stolen kiss, Rikke chuckled at the question before replying, "Well I did hang out with Emily Dickinson a bit." She lent down to give the woman another kiss of her own before slowly pulling back and saying, "If that convenient phone call is anything to go by, you're probably going to have a lot of questions to answer to _if_ you go back to your room..."

PHOENIX

“I think Lyra was actually disappointed that nothing happened that night other than the dance. Meanwhile Maths just didn’t want to be stuck with her *alone*.” Her nose lightly brushed against the other’s. “Mmm. Now you don’t need that filter with me. But it’s also because things really hadn’t calmed down since we got back in town. Event after event. As we’ve said, Fallcrest doesn’t let us breathe.”

Her jaw sort of hung there at the idea that Rikke actually hung out with *the* Emily Dickinson. “That is.. “ So cool, she would’ve said but was interrupted by the kiss, not that she minded. “How accurate was the show?” She *had* to ask. Then her curiosity turned into dread. “Oh god, I… How shameless would I be to ask if I can just be your new roomie.” She sighed, “I don’t want to deal with her yet.”

RIKKE

"The fact that Lyra holds expectations for _other people's_ interactions is not as surprising as it should be," Rikke noted. "I think Teagan may be the only one that can handle Lyra alone, I mean, you tend to only deal with her one-on-one at bedtime so..." The paladin nodded and hummed in agreement. "Considering this is the quietest things have been recently, I wouldn't be surprised if all the adults took advantage of the babies' sugar comas to sort themselves out." If the emotions she was picking up from Luke _way_ in the back of her head were anything to go by...

Blue-eyes narrowed a bit as she thought about the question. "You know, I only even learned about the show because Miles wanted me to watch it with her. I'd say it was accurate enough. Emily, poor dear, was twice as gay, twice as sick, and and twice as depressed because of how it all played out. Also, she was a witch, hence why I wound up involved." Rikke laughed at the response and said, "You're more than welcome in my room any time you'd like, _but_ that doesn't guarantee there won't be questions. If anything, there might be _more_ questions."

PHOENIX

"He is the only one. You have no idea how thankful we are to have Teg in our lives." She chuckled. "Lyra's got a soft spot for him even if she never admits it. He's been able to wrangle Lyra when all of us failed so that's saying something." The witch hummed, "I'm sure everyone's taking advantage of the peace and quiet, as short-lived as they might be." Who knows when the babies would wake up.

Phoenix's eyes grew even larger, "She was a witch? Oh my god, that's.. Wow, I never expected that. To think she was a witch too? ... Did you guys secretly date?" She joked before letting out a groan again, "I don't want to deal with it today at the very least. Maybe not tomorrow - maybe I'll avoid her until I could actually give her answers and/or deflect. Keg's plan on letting her be the last to know is honestly the best plan."

RIKKE

"That boy is a godsend. From what Lucas has told me, he's been there not only to keep Lyra in check but to help Luke through some of the most difficult moments. If Lyra doesn't wife him up, she'll be sorry when someone else does," Rikke said, casually dropping in the lingo she'd learned from the twins...hopefully in the right context.

"No, we didn't secretly date," Rikke said with a roll of her eyes. "She was my charge, and her heart was claimed by and always belonged to Sue. I did help them meet up far more often than is documented, just by virtue of being able to orb them into the same room though." The blonde let out a laugh and said, "It's going to be kind of hard to make it to where Lyra is the last to know when I'm pretty sure she's been watching us this entire time."

PHOENIX

Phoenix agreed with everything she said about Teagan. That boy was such a blessing to have. They really were quite the trio; all of which was roped in by Lyra no doubt. Her eyes did go up when she heard Rikke suggest Lyra to 'wife' Teagan up. "Teagan, patience of a saint. I'm rooting for them. Endgame as they say."

"Ohh. That's cute. You just orbing them to have *their* secret rendezvous. Orbing really is so convenient; honestly wish I could orb - saves the car trip being trapped on the road for hours with Lyra." She really loved her cousin but as everyone in the family agreed, one could only handle Lyra in small doses. Again, Teagan with his saint-like patience. She whipped her head around to see if Lyra was actually watching them ever since - or even before - the text. "Is .. Wait, do you sense her around?"

RIKKE

"Good things cone to those who wait," Rikke remarked. "And I can personally attest to that being true now more than ever. Hopefully he won't have to wait centuries though. Still a human, after all."

Rikke smiled and said, "The next best thing to having love, is being able to see the look on the faces of those whom you help find it. And orbing is very much a handy tool, but not very stealthy. I want whatever Luke, and probably the twins, have. Do wish I had more answers for them." She was briefly side-tracked by that thought before laughing at Fee's question. "I don't need magic to sense that one."

PHOENIX

"I'd say we should help him but Lyra listens to no one." Phoenix shrugged since it sure wasn't about lack of trying. Lyra was the infamous Hurrnado for a reason.

"No, I wouldn't think it's all that stealthy - the bright light is *really* telling. Like you have a better chance of 'hiding' it during the day than when you orb at night." Her smile softened, "Luke is all about that patience too.. To think she waited for Keg for so long - even having taken care of the twins on her behalf." She sighed, "I'm beginning to think the entire Holstein family tree is a bunch of romantics." She groaned, "She's stalking us right now, isn't she? Nope, not heading back. let's go to your room and when time lets us.. orb me back into the room so I can grab my things."

RIKKE

"That's the thing, isn't it. We all just be default always go with 'Lyra listens to no one' but as we were just discussing, she clearly listens to both herself _and_ Teagan. If anyone will be able to figure out how to get a point across to Lyra without any help, it'll be him...eventually."

Rikke looked unimpressed with the commentary, and jokingly threw in, "Well just go ahead and tell me blue is your most hated color while we're at it." She couldn't help the look of pride and almost wonder that overtook her features at the thought of her descendant. "Lucas is...something else entirely. The way she's been putting those girls first, from day one, and not even remotely considering they were hers. I can't claim that comes from any side of the family, to be honest. It's all her." Rikke laughed at the groan and simply said, "Yeah sure. Let her see us orb off together and then have her not see _you_ until a later time. That'll keep her quite, surely."

PHOENIX

Though they had broken up, Nix was still rooting for Teg and Lyra - they felt like endgame afterall. "I'm really glad that Lyra - and Luke - has Teagan." She concluded.

She shook her head as she bit down her lower lip, "I didn't say I hate it." She chuckled, "Hmm, perhaps.. Though I do have a feeling you might do the same." It did back up her belief that the entire Holstein tree was romantic, and really the best people in general. "Either way, it's admirable, what Luke did - And it looks like she got the girl too in the end. Patience of a saint, the two of them." There was a slight pause when a thought came to mind, "Or does that say something about us Calvettis?" Her arms came down, only to wrap themselves around the woman's waist, "I don't think it'll keep her quiet, but at the very least, she won't be able to bombard me with questions?" Her tone went up with uncertainty. "I just want to be here with you and not think about what my cousin will say with that unfiltered mouth of hers."

RIKKE

"Oh you have a feeling? Is this your way of easing me into the news that you have a child or even chil_dren_ that I have yet to be made aware of? I mean, I think after dealing with Lyra just so I could get to spend time with you as a friend, I'd be prepared to take a few 'your not my mom' s if it means getting to get a proper _goodnight_ instead of whatever awkward dance we've been doing," Rikke teased.

AYDEN

Thankfully the kids were already halfway asleep by the time they returned to the suite - at least the youngest set of twins were. Once all the kids were in their respective cribs, Ayden found refuge on the bed in Iz's room - lying right on top near the end of the bed right as soon as she got inside. "I feel like I would pass out at the steering wheel if I drove home right now." She raised her arms above her head and stretched out her back. "Was it because of Hendrix's sudden appearance? I feel like today felt like a week after that."

IZZY

Izzy took a bit of extra time making sure that every diaper was dry, and every bottle was full. She managed to make her way into her room just as Ayden finished speaking, her brows furrowing. "I'm sure the chaos of that moment, and the excitement of the cake and gifts after, had something to do with it but, were you genuinely considering leaving?" she asked. Taking a moment to put up the small jewelry she removed, Izzy took a seat at the vanity and turned back to Ayden. "I thought it was a given that you'd be staying here since there were no goodbyes for the kids tonight. Tomi would be very upset, and Sean might just outright cry if you're not here when they wake up," she chucked, before asking, "Is something wrong?"

AYDEN

She looked over from her spot, and stayed quiet for a beat or two before using all her ab muscles to sit up again. "Nothing's wrong, just.. I... I actually thought that Brax would be sharing the suite with you guys." Though the man seemed to have excused himself earlier, she thought he'd be back *eventually* since his kids were still here. Last she checked, the youngest Rendall brother was trying to 'make things right' - whether they were actually working or not was questionable. "Didn't want to third-wheel you guys.. but from the way you're putting it, he's not..?"

IZZY

Izzy knew that she had been as honest and transparent with Brax the last time they had spoken as she could manage, without causing more harm than needed, of course. But having been mature about things, and admitting that their heart wasn't where it needed to be -and honestly, as much as Brax _wanted_ his to be, she wasn't entirely sure it was either...- having managed to be an adult about the matter, didn't mean it came entirely free of guilt. "No," she finished for Ayden, "He's not coming back. He actually hasn't been sharing the suite for a while. He says he doesn't Avery to be left completely home alone when Col is out, but I'm pretty sure he just finds it awkward."

AYDEN

That was definitely news to her. "Oh." She said as she processed that in her mind. She only knew that they were willing to give it a chance but clearly it didn't go the way as expected. "Are you okay?" She asked, being more concerned about Izzy than she was about Brax and it wasn't just because the other didn't have four kids to look after and siblings to keep an eye on him. It also wasn't because this was Brax's own doing in the first place so there was little sympathy. "I had no idea things didn't quite work out between you two.. I just thought he was sulking because Tomi didn't cling to him." She tried to lighten up the mood a little.

IZZY

"I actually _do_ believe that is the more upsetting aspect of things," she said with a small chuckle of her own. "And honestly, in a way, it's absolutely refreshing. For a parent to be more upset by where they stand with their child over where they stand with a friend or potential significant other? That's the how it should be. It's the mature response." And she meant it too. She was proud of him. "I'm alright, though. I knew what it was that we were going to get into when attempting to give things a proper go, though in the end I guess he put more hopes into the idea of what could be than actual effort into making it happen...and again, that's not entirely unexpected. If anything, I think what hurt his feelings more in the end what that _my_ feelings weren't necessarily hurt. But, I do think it was the right thing to do. It would have been far worse to lead him on and then have to let him know I wasn't nearly as invested as he had made it out in his mind that I would be."

AYDEN

"At least Brax is beginning to.. sort himself out." About time really.. better late than never as they say even if the results weren't exactly how he anticipated. "He seems to be handling it rather well considering everything. " She was one to talk, being the one who had been feeling awkward for a while around the other Rendall brother since that day. "I guess there isn't a need for me to head home then." She switched topics, "I will definitely need to borrow a few things because I didn't come prepared." She smiled, "Unless Leo also somehow had that planned out too. I've never met someone so meticulous with events."

IZZY

"Brax has recently shifted his main focus to Tomi and making up time with her, so if anything, I think he was worried if we didn't somehow end up together, I might end up being a missing part in Tomi's life again. I've since made it clear that now that my father is gone off to who-knows-where, that's not going to be an issue." Izzy had always known that Fallcrest was her home, but she was certain -now more than ever- that it was where she belonged. The fact Sean and Tomi were both babies again was just a happenstance.

The speed with which the topic was completely swept aside in favor of asking for clothes to sleep gave her a bit of whiplash, but if was being honest with herself, it wasn't surprising either. Whatever Ayden's true sentiments on the matter or how the news correlated with whatever was happening with her and Col....Izzy was more likely to get information out of a spy. If only because at least the spy would be consciously aware of the knowledge they had... "She actually _did_ have some sleep clothes here for us, not having known how prepared we'd all be able to get with several infants," she chuckled, "But I have since used them, so I'll get you some clean clothes. You still a fan of my oversized flannels?"

AYDEN

"Braxton actually thinking about consequences? Guess the wake-up calls worked finally. Sort of. " Her smile widened even more knowing that Izzy was here to stay. Both her best friends were back in town permanently; she really couldn't be any happier about that because it just felt the whole gang was back now. Well, almost the whole gang. JJ was still convinced about staying as far away as he could, and no one would blame him but other than that, everyone else was *home*. "I, for one, am glad you decided to stay."

Perhaps the bright side to this was that she didn't have to worry about Braxton hurting Izzy again. "Of course, they're comfy - I'm surprised you opted for the clothes she prepared rather the the flannels yourself. Was it because you wouldn't need to wash them later?" She laughed, "Go wash up first, I can go after."

IZZY

"I think the fact he had an eighteen year-old daughter he didn't know was _his_, would have been a wake-up call to anyone," Izzy said before scrunching up her face for a second then adding, "Well, almost anyone. I also think the fact said daughter is constantly entrusting her current baby-self to someone _other_ than him is starting to set off some alarms as well." Izzy knew it wasn't a slight towards Brax, Tomi just felt safer otherwise. She smiled at her best friend, internally willing herself not to read more into the statement than what was said. "Well thank you, it does a girl's ego good to have their choices validated," she joked.

It really seemed nothing had really changed. Ayden was her lovely, oblivious ~~denialist~~ self, and her sleepwear choices were the same. "I never said I only had one pair. I only used what was provided _first_, as a courtesy. The woman managed to get sizes right and everything, and they were silk so..." Izzy went ahead and took the offer, washing up and changing before walking back into the bedroom with the spare set of clothes. "All yours"

AYDEN

"Thankfully he's not actually an insane asshole." Because there were many who came to mind when it comes to negligence of their own kids. She did feel like she had a hand in making Brax sulk considering that his kid crawled straight to her instead of him everytime Izzy let Tomi on the floor. It was definitely guilt on her part.

While Izzy got herself washed up, Ayden laid back down on her back as she waited and eventually dozed off a bit before the bathroom door opened again. "Oh thanks." She rolled off the bed and took the clothes with her to get cleaned up. When she came back out, a wide smile was plastered on her face. Iz's oversized clothes were honestly one of her favourite things. How she hadn't gotten herself a set was beyond her. "This hotel is very nice." She commented as she continued to dry her hair with the towel, "Makes me want to renovate my bathroom a bit."

IZZY

Though she knew what Ayden meant, she couldn't help but roll her eyes dramatically and say, "Geez, you marry _one_ insane asshole and you never live it down." The smirk made it obvious she wasn't serious. Other than being incredibly happy to have been able to get her babies away from the man early on enough, her ex-husband was but a footnote to Izzy now.

While her friend went off to get ready for bed, she pulled out her phone and began to go down her to-do list. She needed to make sure the ranch and the construction company were still running efficiently even without Sean and Tomi to oversee their usual tasks, _and_ she needed to have at least an outline of a plan for the day so she had even a chance of being able to manage four babies... Izzy glanced up from her phone at Ayden's voice, and could smile and nod at the woman's comments, the sight of her so comfortable in Izzy's own clothes, just drying her hair...it took Izzy's breath away for a moment. "I'm sure Sean and Tomi would love to hook you up," she finally managed.

AYDEN

Hanging the towel so it could dry, Ayden shuffled backed to the bed and sat down. "I feel like if I bring up the suggestion to them, they might end up renovating my entire house. The shifter didn't have an eye for decor since comfort was really the most important thing for her. If anything, all her time and effort would be for the shop. "Although my intention won't be to redo the entire house, I'm sure the kids would end up doing so - like cabin 2.0."

Peeling back the sheets, Ayden crawled into bed, "My crew knows I won't be around for a while with the kids being babies, so I can keep an eye on the kids." She offered, after noticing what was on Iz's phone. The advantage of being the boss of her own shop and the fact that her team was pretty dependable.

IZZY

"All I'm saying, is that if either girl finds out you so much as re-painted a wall in your home without asking them for help to at least mask it off for you, they are both likely to hit you with the pouty face," Izzy noted, knowing full well that such antics are what got the duo involved with the Benson renovations to begin with."Oh, and if Tomi happens to so much as tear up while she tells Sky about it -which of course she's going to tell Sky about it- then you'll have that to deal with too."

At Ayden's remark, Izzy snapped her eyes over at the other, brows furrowed as she said, "Well that's news to me. You know you don't have to do that right? I mean, I appreciate the forethought, more than I can say really, but the shop is _your_ baby just as much as the kids are mine. I don't expect you to spend large chunks of time away from it. Especially since we don't really know _how long_ the kids will be younger than they should be."

AYDEN

"Tell me about it. They've been asking about my shop since forever - as if I didn't know what they were up to when they pulled out organization 'ideas' for what I could do with my tools. It feels like I'll be opening pandora's box if I even entertain the idea of remodeling anything." She smiled, "Oh no, Sky's going to come after me for making Tomi cry." It wouldn't be the first time, but it was still cute to see Sky get all flustered if Tomi made the slightest pout.

"I don't have to but I want to - besides, it's easier for me to take time off my own shop than it'd be for you to apply for time off at the hospital, no? Besides, this could just be me wanting to skip out on work to hang out with my favourite kids." Her smile never faltered, "It's not my first rodeo either, so why not?"

IZZY

Izzy she didn't have to defend the girls, but felt the desire to anyway. "They just want to help! They've heard you cursing up a storm more than once when you can't find the tool you need, _and_ they know you haven't bothered to do more than basic upkeep on the shop since...ever, really. I'm not saying you _have_ to let them do anything, but you could at least entertain the idea...for me?"

The wolf could've easily just accepted the offer of help and moved on, but Tomi got her persistence from somewhere... "Speaking of opening Pandora's box though, you wouldn't be trying to use the babies as a means to hide from Col even more, would you?"

AYDEN

There was little she wouldn't do for Izzy so this was an easy request. Resigning to her fate, she gave a nod and agreed to hearing the kids out about their idea.

The question did make her smile falter a bit. "I'm not.." The denial was ready at her lips but she stopped and took the moment to think about her words. "Maybe?" She looked down and gave a small shrug, "I feel like I messed up and don't quite know how to face him even though he says that it's fine since we're still friends and all." She paused, "He's a great guy.. With all the good qualities but I just.." She shook her head, "I don't think I feel the same way he does about me?"

IZZY

If anyone could understand what Col was likely feeling right now, it was her. But, as of recent events, she could also understand the position that Ayden was in. It hurt to see her friend genuinely feel guilty over something she ultimately had no control over.

Sliding down in the bed a bit so their shoulders were touching, Izzy offered a sympathetic smile. "Hey, look, the fact you were planning on using the kids as an excuse not to face your big-girl problems aside," she began, "There isn't a person alive that can honestly claim to have full control over their heart." She reached out a hand to push brown locks from Ayden's face, using the same hand gently guide her friend's face to look at her. "All you can do is be honest with yourself, and with him, and rest will sort itself out."

AYDEN

"Well, not totally using the kids as an excuse.. It's not like he doesn't know where I could be. It's either here with everyone, or at the shop - I'm really rarely anywhere else." She let Izzy ease her face up so their eyes could meet. "And I do want to be around the kids. Wouldn't want to make them cry." She joked at the end. With a heavy sigh, she leaned against the hand, "... We're breaking both brothers' hearts. I feel.. really bad for them." She said with a weak chuckle. "Have I told you how happy I am that you're back in town *permanently*?"

IZZY

"As lovely as it is to know that you're known for being equally likely to be at the shop or with the kids, please know that if at any point you do feel like you need to step away for _whatever_ reason, you're more than welcome to just say so," Izzy reassured. There was no point in beating a dead horse, so instead she'd just make it clear that watching the kids shouldn't stop her from going to talk to Col. If that was she wanted. Izzy could be a supportive friend...

"Oh, you joke, but you know very well that Sean is not above starting the waterworks for no reason, and the littles are bound to follow her lead. Tomi would likely just make your next visit hell by purposely being a pain in the ass, because she's a special kind of girl," she noted. Her smile faltered a bit at Ayden's rather intimate response to having her face held, but that was quickly overshadowed by the shifter's words. "Not to sound callous, but as a top-tier mechanic you should know that broken things are rarely beyond repair. Besides, it's not like either of us intentionally set out to hurt them...that's, that's just how things played out." The next comment had Izzy pulling her hand back, and covering it with a cheery smile as she said, "Well no, but I really don't think you should tell me again, because it's the last thing my ego needs." Or her already confused heart...

AYDEN

"I know." She smiled, "But for now, I'm just going to enjoy the kiddies a bit more - who knows when they'll grow back again. Look, as much as I miss their adult selves, I really do enjoy spending time with them as babies - they're as cute as I remember." She was definitely not doing this just to avoid a certain mutual friend of theirs. No, she is not.

"Hmm.. I wonder who they take after." She teased, knowing she'd be weak herself against either of those kids if they did their usual antics. There was little she wouldn't do for any of them. "You're right..." She laid down against the pillow, "Doesn't stop me from feeling bad about it." At the comment about her ego, Ayden rolled her eyes and turned so she could face her friend, "As if you'd ever get that egotistic. Anyways, it's true, and I'll suffer a bit of you gloating about it because I'll say it again." It wasn't often to see the shifter be so childish but being around her best friends again just brought it out of her.

IZZY

"They _are_ adorable aren't they," Izzy said with wistful look. "Fine, as long as you're genuinely not using my children as living shields to your personal issues, I suppose I can make the sacrifice of tolerating having you around," she added dramatically.

"No idea. I'll have to look into it a bit," Izzy replied, knowing exactly what the implication was. The whole nurture versus nature debate would have one hell of a case study with her kids. Izzy dropped down on her pillow, and visibly deflated at Ayden's words. "Yeah, it's definitely not a nice feeling. Ultimately, though, in my case Brax is still Tomi's father and I have to ensure that whatever issues he and I have, they don't trickle down during his visits. Those kids are perceptive as hell. I guess in a sense, you lucked out that Aves didn't shrink too," she noted. Rolling her own eyes she just said, "Go to sleep Vogel, you're getting delirious."

AYDEN

"I'm so honoured that you like me enough to *tolerate* my presence." She rolled her eyes at her friend's dramatics. "You said so, the kids might cry if I'm not around sooo I simply have no choice."

Sometimes, it was still hard to wrap her mind around the fact that Brax is actually owning up to being Tomi's dad - well, sort of. The man's currently sulking away because his daughter would rather crawl to Izzy or herself so.. it was obviously going to take some time. "I think *Aves* wished she shrank too, maybe it would be less awkward that way. The girl was just hovering around Ren and Kieran because they had the kid in their arms the whole time." Hopefully all will be fine once the babies revert back. Grabbing the covers, Ayden pulled it over Izzy's head. "Oh shush, I'm not delirious." She snorted, "You act as if I'm lying whenever I say it."

IZZY

"As you should be." There was zero hesitation in the response, because Izzy was nothing if not a master of keeping banter going. She did, however, let the second comment go because honestly there was no telling what might trigger tears these days.

"I think Aves is just overthinking things. Erin and Evan seemed to have been handling things fairly well. Their girlfriends were babies, but they treated them as cute babies. Nothing weird about it because they didn't make it weird...I think Avery may just be stuck between being scared that Kieran will have her arrested or Ren will set her on fire...the latter being far more likely." Avery was nothing if not a sum total of both her brothers, and not all the qualities passed down were the good ones. Izzy let out a rather uncharacteristic yelp when the covers landed on her face, though it was quickly followed by grunt. "Ayden Mila Vogel, you have five seconds to revert your actions. I'm only tolerant of my head beneath the sheets when I voluntarily place it there!" She stopped realizing what she'd said, but not really wanting to draw more attention it by taking it back.

AYDEN

"Aves has no chance if she messed up. Those two are quite the forces to be reckoned with." Ayden chuckled, understanding that the witch's reputation would scare the wolf a bit. "I wouldn't want to mess with her either." For all the years they've known each other, Ayden was quite sure that Ren was the sibling she least interacted with. "I also think she's scared she might *drop* Maite." This really be the kid she helped raised but Ayden loved her all the same.

She blanked as she processed what Izzy just said and decided to lift the covers enough to peer her head in, decreasing their distance significantly. "...What was that? You what?" She chuckled, "I don't think that sounded how you thought it would in your head."

IZZY

Izzy immediately screwed her eyes shut the second she felt Ayden start pulling at the covers. Yes, it was what she'd requested. No, that did not mean she was prepared to actually face her friend after what she'd just said. It was an accurate statement, and under any other circumstances she'd immediately stand by it, but not right now. Her plan was to take a play from the kids' current book: if I do not see you, you do not see me.

Of course, the warmth of Ayden's breath as she spoke completely threw that plan out the window. The fact she was being teased was entirely replaces solely by the consuming thought of the fact that there was very little -if any really- distance between them right now. Her actions were impulsive, and driven by nothing but instinct. The contact couldn't have lasted more than a few seconds, and Izzy was proactive in pulling away as she grumbled, "I said what I said" before turning to face the wall and mumbling out a 'goodnight'.

AYDEN

When Izzy didn't respond, Her playful demeanor was about to shift to a more concerned one. However, she didn't get the chance to even ask if something was wrong when she felt Izzy completely close the distance ... and then pull away to face the other side of the bed.

Her brain barely processed what happened but the sight of Izzy grumbling away was too cute. "Izzy, hey.. turn back.." She tried coaxing her friend to face her again. Ayden was already being awkward with one friend, she didn't want that to happen with Izzy either. Never Izzy. "Iz, look at me. Please?"

IZZY

Izzy was nothing if not in survival mode. That being said, her priority would always be to salvage her relationship with Ayden, so steeling herself, she schooled her features into a jovial grin and turned back around to face her friend. "Weren't you so tired that you were practically falling asleep at the wheel, of a vehicle you weren't even in, like less than fifteen minutes ago? I've heard a few nerds say that kisses were 'electrifying' but 'energizing'? I don't think a simple goodnight kiss could manage that," she joked. "Besides, it's not like it's the first time," she added, and thought _or the farthest we've gone_. "Goodnight, Best _Gal Pal_."

AYDEN

Ayden knew what her friend was doing and frankly, the emphasis on 'best gal pal' stung a bit. Still, she had to smile at the rambling - a nervous habit that she was familiar with over the years. "Hey..." She reached out and placed her hand gently on the younger woman's cheek, getting to focus solely on her.

There was a growing sense of guilt - one similar yet also different from how she felt towards Colston. The fear of messing up her relationships with people was literally doing exactly that. "I guess I do deserve that." She sighed. "It's my fault for.. being.. I guess in denial and turning a blind eye towards how *two* of my friends felt about me." She admitted while her thumb brushed lightly against the cheek, perhaps as a means to soothe the other. ".. And I do think that it wasn't *just* a simple goodnight kiss."

IZZY

She reluctantly allowed her face to be turned back once more, only to raise an eyebrow and narrow her eyes as she asked, "Wow, are you like, _actively_ trying to make this worse? Because I think you'd dig yourself deeper far faster with an actual shovel." Her words came out far less angry and more snarky than she'd have liked. Granted, it was always rather hard to be truly _mad_ at Ayden...especially when the woman still had a hold on her face.

Izzy let out what felt like the tenth sigh in less than two minutes -which may be due to her current heart rate, and her body trying not to hyperventilate instead- and did her best to focus on her words and not the light touch of a thumb brushing against her skin. "Okay, fair. It was a _deluxe_ goodnight kiss...with a medium fry. It's late, Ayd. Either cut to the chase -regardless of whether you're still blind or got lasik- or let's go to sleep. The last thing I want is to have to deal with the kids having woken up while I'm still thinking it's the day before."

AYDEN

She had the decency to actually look sheepish because it was somewhat expected that Iz wouldn't be happy to hear that she may or may not have had an inkling. "No. I swear I'm not trying to make it worse.. I *am* sorry. Seeing my parents who went from best friends to .. well, you know, I was deadset on *not* changing anything about any friendships I had with people. It didn't work.. as recent times have shown." It was her turn to ramble; whether or not they helped her case was unknown.

"What I'm trying to say is.. or what I think I'm trying to say.. is that.. You mean more to me than being *just* my best friend." Her soft spot for Izzy, or weakspot depending who you asked.

IZZY

Izzy desperately wanted to focus solely on how cute it was that the normally self-assured, 'I don't need no one', 'Miss Independent was written about me', Ayden Vogel was legitimately rambling right now. But as much as she wanted to live this moment through the lens of her teenage self, her grown-ass woman self wasn't having it. "Ayden, I just want you to know before I proceed, that I am genuinely doing my best here. _But_, it's honestly verging on kind of insulting that you feel the need to explain your childhood trauma to me, when I was _there_."

Letting out yet another sigh, Izzy closed her eyes and gave herself a silent count to five. "Ayden, I swear to whoever the fuck is listening right now, if you're dragging this conversation out into the wee hours of the morning _just_ to culminate in you telling me you consider me a _sister_, I will be leaving this town without it's best mechanic."

AYDEN

Figuring it was not the time to be teasing Izzy, she just nodded and mumbled a quiet, 'Right' before moving on. However, when it came to *event*, Ayden honestly wouldn't know what to do if it weren't for her friends, for Izzy for being there for her - focusing on fixing cars also helped a lot too but that was besides the point.

At her words, Ayden could not stop herself from letting out a chuckle despite seeing how annoyed and tired Izzy was - understandably. "*No*. No. I'm not considering you as a sister. That was not the direction I was going." Without another word, she leaned in once more and pressed her lips against the other's.

IZZY

The chuckle earned Ayden a growl in response. It was sad excuse of a growl from a grown wolf, but it was a growl regardless. "Ayden. I'm exhausted. I'm sleepy. _And_ I feel the shame of all of my unrequited ancestors combined," she proclaimed, hoping to get things moving to whatever conclusion.

Of course, said conclusion was _not_ the one she'd expected. After all, Ayden had just pulled the 'divorce trauma' card on her _after_ making it abundantly clear she felt bad for Col...and thoughts were on hold.

AYDEN

Once they broke apart - mainly for *air*, her anxiety grew because she didn't know how Izzy was going to react. Coupled with exhaustion from dealing with the babies and it was already quite late at night, this really was a poor time to be discussing about this. Normally, Ayden was better at controlling herself yet everything she had done so far since they put the kids to sleep was without a plan.

"... Definitely not as a sister." She repeated just to fill in the silence.

IZZY

One of things that came with being healthy werewolf, was that feeling like oxygen was an issue never really came up. Or at least, it _hadn't_ come up for Izzy before tonight. As she tried to catch her breath, it dawned on her that this was the third time Ayden had managed to affect her breathing in less than an hour. If anything, she may now be able to blame whatever action she took on the lack of proper oxygenation of the brain.

She laughed lowly, and when she spoke her voice held a rasp that she wasn't all that sure anyone would've heard before. "Well, I'm not entirely ruling out that Lyra _wouldn't_, but she and you _are_ very different people..." As she trailed off, her eyes locked onto Ayden's, a clear look of awe reflected in them as she reached out once more to brush the woman's hair back. "But then again, I don't believe there's _anyone_ who would ever compare to you." The soft look on her face gave way to a clearly condescending smirk as she then added, "Not that I don't appreciate what's just happened, _but_ you really don't have a good grasp on the actual definition of the phrase 'cut to the chase' do you?" She stopped short of saying 'use your big-girl words'.

AYDEN

She rolled her eyes when Lyra came up. No one really could ever compare to the youngest Calvetti sister; she really did whatever she wanted no matter the consequences. "Shouldn't it be that there's no one who would compare to *Lyra*?" She pressed her face into her pillow, smiling because of course Izzy wasn't going to let it go. So many of her traits were passed down to Tomi. The shifter was fidgeting around as she was basically prompted to use words to explain. "You've always been special to me, I think deep down I already knew." She sighed, "This talk we're having.. and also with what happened between Col and I, and I guess what happened between you and Brax had me thinking a lot.."

Ayden had no idea if her words were going to dig that hole deeper or not but she was going to say all the thoughts that came to mind, "If I keep going into denial and playing it off, that makes me as bad as Braxton - which I'm not saying that I'm only doing this because of that, but I just didn't want to hurt you - God, I was so angry with how Braxton treated you and it really slapped me in the face that I've been doing almost the exact same thing as him. And honestly I'm still terrified about what might happen - I still have to talk it out with Colston, this time giving him a more proper answer - And I'm sure that my actions and all have been very contradicting but I feel like I'd regret if I didn't let you know that I.. I might have loved you all this time." She was almost hesitant to look up into her friend's eyes.

IZZY

Izzy let the other woman speak her piece. The beginning and middle had her wondering if the shifter was just trying to prove Izzy's point about not knowing what 'spit it out' meant, but her words were far more serious and were filled with a determination Ayden hadn't used before. At least not when the subject was them, as in _them_.

Izzy found herself guiding Ayden's gaze back to herself again, using the brief silence to gather her own thoughts. She leaned over and placed a much softer, more reassuring kiss to the woman's lips before pulling away and smiling in understanding. "The last thing I would want is for you to feel rushed in anyway in regards to jumping head first into a relationship. I understand you'll have to talk with Col, and I know that, much like with any other relationship, nothing is guaranteed. I already told you, _I'm not going anywhere_." She gave Ayden one last quick peck before adding, "For the record, all you really had to say was the last part, and I'm going to let the fact you are acknowledging you may have felt this way _the entire time_ go...for now."

AYDEN

Ayden could physically feel herself melting like goo when she realized that Izzy wasn't upset with her, and she was sure anyone could tell if they could see the small smile on her face. Her hand had somehow found its way around Izzy's waist but there was no plans on pulling it back. "Thank you." Her smile growing wider at the second kiss. "It wouldn't be fair to Col if I didn't." She rolled over to her back as she let out a sigh, dreading the talk since the day.

LUKE

It had definitely taken them quite a bit to get the babies to simmer down enough to even consider _starting_ their bedtime routines after the copious amounts of sugar they'd all had. But eventually, exhaustion won out and each set of parents was able to scoop up their respective gremlins to take back to their suites and get ready for bed.

Luke wasn't entirely certain, but she was pretty sure that most of the others probably didn't have as much trouble getting their kids to finally knock out as she and Keagan had with the twins. As she closed their bedroom door behind them, she let out a breath and whispered, "I don't think the others had to wait until nearly three a.m. to have some grown-up time."

KEAGAN

*Enough to keep them up till midnight*, they said. The twins proved that oh-so-wrong. "Was it because they got very excited with your gift on top of the cake they ate? Excited with good reason, of course." Keagan dropped herself on top of the bed. "By grown-up time, do you mean *sleep*?" She snorted, "We.. should get cleaned up ourselves and get some rest. God knows when the girls will wake up again." Honestly, she was tempted to just.. not. "Sky and Miles Holstein-Calvetti. They have a nice ring to them." She chuckled as she flipped over in order to look at the other.

LUKE

They were pretty sure that the stupid grin that immediately came over their face at the reminder of how well the girls reacted to their new names made her look borderline deranged, but she couldn't be bothered to care. The idea of having her own little family, and the knowledge that the girls had already been treated well -and would continue to do so- was something that Luke that only ever allowed themselves to remotely think about when they had been exceedingly young. The fact it was happening was mind-blowing. "I meant more like 'being able to breathe without running the risk of a hand being shoved in our mouths', because I don't really know if sleep is something that's been in my vocabulary for a while," she chuckled out in response.

At the mention of how well the new names sounded, her hand almost instinctively went to her jean's pocket. "Yeah," she agreed with a light chuckle, mentally debating if she should or shouldn't go forth, but ultimately deciding to commit and let the chips fall where they may.

"I admittedly had planned for that gift to be given to them a bit earlier in the night, so that there wouldn't be all this attention brought to it, but with everything that happened, plans went out the window," Luke began, hand still fidgeting in her pocket. "I did also plan for us to have been able to get a way from everything, even for a little bit, much earlier than now. Mainly because I know that you're not too keen on having your all of your personal business out there, _but_ I do feel that it's only fair that if the girls have new names, that- well, uh...well, that their mom get the option to _match_..." Luke trailed off as she pulled out what she'd been fidgeting with in her pocket. "I know that we've got things to sort out, but I also know that I'd rather spend the rest of my life doing that with you than giving up on what we've just gotten the chance to actually enjoy." Opening up the small cloth in her hand, she held it out to Keagan.

KEAGAN

Keagan chuckled, "It's mostly Sky I'm more wary of - she flails around way more than Miles does. Like, it's a hazard I'm sure to the point that I'm very thankful that we gave Erin, Tomi and her a really large bed. It'd be a sad day for Sky if she had to sleep separately." Maybe having her be extra enthusiastic today was a good thing? Would she too tired now to flail?

Not entirely sure where Luke was going with the way she was sort of rambling, Keagan sat up from the bed with her arms supporting her from behind. At first, she thought it was still about the girls, but then Luke mentioned something about *her* getting the to match.. the new names. Her brows scrunched together momentarily as she thought about the implications behind it but her questions was quickly answered right after that.

Her eyes grew widened the sight of the ring. That had her sitting upright. "Luke.." She whispered, "Is- Are you proposing?" While the topic of marriage did come up earlier today, she definitely didn't expect this. Her hand reached out and took the ring carefully.

LUKE

The question immediately prompted Luke to drop to her own knees so that she and Keagan were closer to eye level. The fact the mama wolf reached out to take the ring was somewhat reassuring, but if there was anything she'd learned in life, it was that there were surprises at every turn. "I know the last time you tried your hand at the whole marriage thing, it didn't quite go so well, and though I can't promise to be the perfect spouse, I can give you my word that I will always be _aiming to be_. Because, I don't know if anyone's told you before, but you deserve that and so much more and, if you'll allow me, I'd like the opportunity to be the one to give that to you."

Sitting back on her own legs so that she was looking up at the older woman, Luke gave a half smile as she said, "So, yeah. I guess to answer your question, I am asking _will you marry me_?"

KEAGAN

Her last marriage not going well was such an understatement that Keagan could help but give a light snort at that though she didn't say anything else as Luke continued. If anything, her eyes just softened once again as Luke promises to her. She would argue that Luke was already as perfect as they come but she had a feeling that her words won't be convincing enough for the other. Not the one who liked to cry in public but the Paladin's words and this situation altogether was just so overwhelming. In the best way.

Of all the things she ever hesitated about, this wouldn't be one of them. "Yeah..*Yes*." A chuckle caught in her throat from all the emotions before Keagan threw herself forward to wrap her arms around the neck of the taller woman. "I'll marry you."

LUKE

As paradoxic as it seemed, Luke had spent her time leading up to this preparing for what she would do in the event of 'no'. Even though it was the lesser likely of the two answers, it was still a possibility and, with the girls now involved as both of their children, it just made sense for her to think of what options would be available in the event of things going not great...That being said, it did mean that an answer of 'yes' completely left her brain going 'brrrp' as she attempted to process it.

Luke found herself unable to respond until she had Keagan already wrapped around her. "Sorry," she chuckled as wrapped her own arms around Keagan's middle, "I'm not used to things actually playing out in my favor twice in a row. But I can't say I have any complaints."

KEAGAN

She wondered what the twins' reactions will be once they find out about this. Hopefully they will be as ecstatic about this as they were finding out about the name change. Shifting enough to allow her hand to come in between them, Keagan head up the ring. "Will you put this on me?" She looked down at the ring, "It's a beautiful ring by the way. Did you choose that by yourself?" Now she was wondering if anyone knew about the proposal. "This also means that you'll have Calvetti in your name too. Would you look at that?"

LUKE

"My hope from the moment I learned that you were pregnant, has always been to provide the tiny new life coming into this world an entirely different, and much better experience than I myself ever had. It pained me to see the twins have to endure the only family they'd ever known, torn apart but, I can only hope that this will help to provide something tangible for them to see their family is healing and becoming what it has always been meant to be," she whispered, safe in the knowledge that, between Keagan's hearing and their close proximity, this would be enough to be heard.

Taking the ring gingerly from Keagan, Luke smiled and said, "I'm glad you think so. Considering I did in fact choose it myself, it would be a shot to my ego if you found it gaudy or too simple." She chuckled at the remark. "Yes, and it only took us from the day Lyra dragged a six year-old weird kid to her house, until now," placing the ring on Keagan's left ring finger, "Would you look at that, indeed."

KEAGAN

"Well.. It was my fault for putting the twins in that situation in the first place - just wished I had fixed my mistake sooner if I weren't such a coward." She shrugged, "I'm so glad that the girls have you in their lives. Anyone can tell just how much they look up to you... And now they get to officially call you *mom*." She smiled, agreeing that this really was becoming how it had meant to be. "Fated, is that what this would be?" She teased.

"I love it. Why green? Out of curiosity." It did come as a surprise. Perhaps she was used to seeing the regular diamonds as engagement rings. As 'simple' as Luke might have thought, Keagan did love it - most of it was because it was Luke's choice and knowing her, there would be a lot of thought put into it. "It might've been the only good thing Lyra did all these years."

LUKE

"If _fated_ is what this is, then there's not much good in kicking ourselves for what's been done because in the end, they were all necessary stepping stones right up to this very moment," Luke replied, her tone a touch more serious as she aimed to reassure the older woman that past was prologue. "We have an entire future to look forward too now, and hopefully, one where we can find something other than mom for the girls to call me, because I can already foresee that getting _very_ confusing," she laughed lightly.

"Emerald is the twins' birthstone, and considering how they came to be, I couldn't think of anything -as corny as this is going to sound- that would symbolize my love for you more than that," Luke shared, looking a little sheepish as she explained. "The four diamonds that surround the emerald represent our family, one for each of us." There was a small chortle of laughter at Keagan's comment, "I can't say I can find many other things to add to the list, except maybe having introduced me to her siblings..."

KEAGAN

She shifted her weight so that she could sit next to Luke with her legs draped over the other's. "Okay, okay.. I'll stop." She chuckled, leaning up to kiss Luke again - this time on the cheek. "Maybe they'll call you mommy but you also never hear the end of it from Lyra." She was also curious to what the twins would come up with to call Luke. "...OR they just want us to simply guess from context all the time. That sounds like something they might do."

As if her heart just couldn't melt more than it already had. "Oh Luke, I love this so much." How lucky was she to have Luke in her life? She looked down at the ring, sniffling just a little with how touched she was. "God, I don't know what you mean but you're already pretty perfect." She muttered before wrapping both her arms around Luke's neck again so she could hide her face into the taller woman's neck. "Don't tell her that. She'll believe she was the matchmaker."

LUKE

As Keagan shifted her position, Luke automatically adjusted her hold. It wasn't really a conscious thought, so much as just another thing on the list of reasons they worked so well. Even before Luke's Paladin powers allowed her to sense Keagan's emotions, the two of them just _worked_. "I think as long as _you_ don't call me mommy, Lyra may eventually let it go...maybe...actually, no, you're right. They should pick something else." She raised an eyebrow as she listened to the alternative. "Miles might do it on purpose, but I'm sure Sky will just do it because she forgot there's two of us now," she laughed.

In that moment, Luke was just grateful that Keagan didn't have a clear look at her face, because based on how warm it was, Luke could only assume it was as red as her hair. "No such thing as perfect," she said lowly, "But I think we're both lucky enough to have found someone whose perfect _for us_. Two puzzle pieces may not have a single smooth edge, and yet still fit perfectly with one another. I'd like to think that's us." At the mention of Lyra thinking herself a matchmaker, Luke just scoffed. "Bold of you to assume she's not going to immediately claim the title regardless."

KEAGAN

"If it's one thing we've learned over the years of knowing my sister... is that there is very little that can stop her from doing anything she wants." A small sigh before admitting the next statement, "I guess it does run in the family though." Oh, the differences between her daughters just made them ever so endearing. It was fascinating just how different the two of them were - as if all the braincells went to one of them.

"See, this is why you're the song writer and I'm not. Always have a way with words that I can never imagine." She leaned back enough to kiss along the jawline before resting against Luke's shoulder. "We should tell the twins in the morning." One, she didn't want her daughters to learn it from someone else, and two, Sky's going to sulk if she didn't know before everyone else.

LUKE

Luke nodded lazily in agreement, thinking back to not a few hours back when Liv was saying the same thing. She stopped mid-nod though at the following admission, an impish smirk forming on her face as she said, "Well...I know the girls have always known what they wanted and have put in the effort to now have it, are you saying they got that from _you_?" The question was bait, because admitting to that would also be admitting that she shared her own sister's traits, if to a lesser degree.

The paladin appreciated the kiss for the show of affection, but also because it meant that Keagan was too busy to notice how her face was once again flush in embarrassment at the compliment given. "Well, I would say that I'm the song writer because it's always been easier to express the right words, when I know they'll be wrapped up in a blanket of melodies and rhythms. If anything, I think the fact that I can manage the right words in conversation with you, speaks more to the sense incredible sense of security that you've always been able to provide. It's not exactly something I got much of anywhere else before meeting you, and it's one of the many things that I will always be grateful to you for," Luke said in a soft tone before placing a soft kiss to the top of Keagan's head as it rested on her good shoulder.

She laughed lightly and said, "It's not like they're not likely to notice the ring as soon as we go in to change them when they wake up. If at any point we doubted they kept their grown brains, they've made it very clear by now the only thing infantilized about them is their body."

KEAGAN

"I'm sure that they got it from the *both* of us." The Calvettis were not the only ones known to be impulsive - one could argue that Luke was just as impulsive as they are even if they haven't seen it from Rikke yet. "A lot of influence came from Lyra directly because we couldn't stop her from playing with the twins." She was sure that even when Keagan was out of town, nobody allowed Lyra to be alone with the twins. Ever. Lyra was enough being the infamous hurrnado.

She closed her eyes as she relaxed against her *fiancee*. Was sleep finally getting to her? It was very late (or early depending who you ask). "You flatter me." She smiled, "Two puzzle pieces that fit nicely together, as you say. Perhaps it really was meant to be - regardless if the trigger was Lyra or not." In some universe, perhaps Keagan did not interact with her sister's friends. Despite being part of the supernatural world, the wolf was not that superstitious when it came to things such as whether or not the stars aligned.

"Miles would notice.. I bet you that Sky would be too groggy to notice unless Miles tells her.. or until she has her breakfast.. or when one of her girlfriends is nearby. That kid concerns me sometimes."

LUKE

Luke could only laugh, because of course that would be the response. "I'm sure they get different aspects from each of us, that tends to be how the whole nurture and nature thing works." She'd leave at that though, no need to poke the sleeping wolf by going into detail about _what_ traits they got from _which_ parent... "Lucky for us, the twins gotten to a point where they keep their distance from Lyra all on their own...or well, as much as they can. We do all live in the same house now. Which, I would never admit this directly to Lyra's face either, is honestly something I'd never get the joy of and I'm glad the girls have a house full of loved ones to call home."

Luke smiled and said, "I speak only the truth, and call it as I see it. If you consider it flattery, maybe it's because I should say thank you more often." The idea that their meeting was meant to be, would've been something for Luke to laugh at years before, but somehow now seemed like an undeniable truth. "There's been so mean reasons and points in our lives that would have made it very easy for us to never be together, and yet here we are. We managed to make two wonderful little humans as well. I just can't bring myself to think that they weren't meant to exist in some way, so regardless of Lyra, we'd have met. I feel it in my bones."

Luke hummed in response and just said, "You're forgetting that rings are shiny, and likely to catch her attention for that reason alone. I'd be far more concerned for her if she didn't have so many people constantly looking out for her."

KEAGAN

Keagan chuckled, knowing that the kids were already quite a good mix of the two of them as if people hadn't already been pointing them out. "To think that even Nix came to live with us now. We used to only see her every few summers when her family visited. Too bad JJ is still allergic to this pace." Not that she could blame him. This town had as many cons as there were pros. "Not to mention we've got Tomi, Erin and Callie too now." There was never a dull moment in this household.

Everytime she thought about the reason behind why the twins even existed in the first place just brought a smile to her face. What stronger proof of how they felt about one another than the miracle babies? "I don't even want to imagine a world without you or the twins in it. That sounds awfully depressing." She sighed "Can't imagine a world where none of you even existed either.. " She shook her head as she opened her eyes. "But either way.. be prepared to have Lyra bring it up for the next... couple of years. That girl holds these sort of things way longer than one would an actual grudge."

Keagan loved the idea that their family was growing in all sorts of ways. "I'm glad that both twins have the support system they have... and that Sky's girlfriends have the patience that they have because let's be honest.. Sky really took a lot of Lyra's traits whether we want to admit it or not."

LUKE

"I'm not gonna lie, I've been tempted to ask Nix what it was about this last visit that's managed to keep her around, but I get the sense that if I did, her response might just be to pack up and take the first flight out that same day," Luke mused aloud. The witch struck her as someone, who much like Keagan, preferred to keep things to herself...maybe that's why both cousins worked for the same place. "JJ's been wanting to leave this place since Steven...I think everything that happened after was just the extra push he needed to do it and not look back." Luke herself had considered leaving this place after high school but, well, things happened.

"You know, I haven't heard anyone making fun of the cabin-mcmansion recently, so I guess my forethought of having a place for people to stay has been seen for the genius it is." Sighing at the mere thought of the world Keagan described, Luke let out a small groan. "A world where you and the twins don't exist just isn't one of my multi-verses. It's impossible. If you don't exist, the girls don't either, and considering the three of you are the only reason I'm around now? Nope, not even with all the magic in the known _and_ unknown universe could that be created." There was nothing but a tone of resolution to her voice as she spoke, certain that this was an undeniable truth. Like gravity.

"The one that does not like it the most, is Sky herself," Luke pointed out. "But I'm glad that Callie came to stay with us as well. That kid has taken to understanding and adjusting to Miles like very few others have before. I even think I saw Miles smile at her in dormouse form."

KEAGAN

"I... think it'd be a wise choice not to ask. I would like to think it's for everything that happened, and now the twins being babies. But who knows..." She shrugged, not wanting to say aloud that Rikke may have a hand in the decision. "We could say the same about Lyra, but I think she just wants to know everyone's business before leaving - everyone as in the whole town." Keagan understood the need to leave this place too, but at the same time, this was still home to her.. and all her friends she grew up with were still here. It made sense to come back here eventually.

"Those who make fun of it aren't the ones living in it. I'm pretty sure Brax still calls this a mansion. Maybe he's jealous... and lonely? He's literally alone there with Col, who's probably at the hospital more often than not. Keagan didn't want to think about a world that didn't have any of them either - the thought alone was just too depressing to keep on this topic. Her eyes landed on the ring again, which only brought another smile to her face. ".... I can't believe we're engaged." She certainly didn't feel like this during her first engagement.

"Callie. She's a good kid. When do you think Miles will realize that Callie has a crush on her? Thankfully she's nothing like her cousin - To think Aleja and Blake are now in charge of her."

LUKE

"Fair. I know how to mind my own business...some might say too well, but it's worked out so far," Luke replied. Some might say she's oblivious, but if that meant she was involved in as little drama as possible, she'd take it. "A lot could be said about Lyra...but yes, her need to be well-informed seems to be keeping her attention in town, and honestly, I think you're mom is enjoying the nice long break. Can't blame her," she teased.

Luke sighed at the idea of Brax being lonely in his own home. "It's disheartening to think about, but we can't really say he hasn't been the architect of his own situation. If you decide to live your life as if you never plan to be a one-person person, then..." Luke trailed off, figuring her point was made. At Keagan's remark, Luke couldn't help but quip back, "We almost weren't, at least not as of yet."

LEO

It had really been a no-brainer to go ahead home the other parents and their babies all in one location. The fact it took Braxton, of all people, to point out the obvious fact that the hotel was the best place to do that, was a bit of sore spot for Leo, but she'd get over it...eventually. To her credit, it took less than twenty-four hours from the idea reaching her, to having the entire top floor re-fitted to have fully functional suites for each family, with everyone having access to the common area that was the ballroom at the center of it all for, what she was pretty sure, were turning out to be the best play-dates these babies could manage to have.

Of course tonight the ballroom had been placed 'off limits' for the majority of the day as staff got busy setting up decorations, activities, food, wine, and the biggest Christmas tree the town had likely ever seen smack in the middle. Perfectly wrapped gifts were set perfectly beneath, more than enough to fill the space between the high trunk and the floor of course. And as she watched the colony of tiny penguins all milling about and babbling happily with each other, she could laugh and muse aloud, "Who'd have thought the penguin onesie idea would be such a hit with babies themselves?"

KEAGAN

The absolute joy she felt from seeing the children all dressed up in the little penguin outfits. It really couldn't be any cute than this and even Keagan couldn't help herself from taking a lot of pictures. Looking up when she heard Leo speak, she gave a smile towards the crowd. "It honestly was the best idea. They probably think they look cute too - Look at Sky, she definitely knows she's adorable." She'd roll her eyes if it weren't for her daughter just flapping her arms, acting like a penguin.

Moving her attention away from the babies for a second, she took another look around the place. "To think you've pulled all this together in such short notice, pretty impressive." She supposed the hotel owner did have to host events at times so to have a whole floor suitable to house all the families and have areas for the babies too. Truly a feat.

LEO

Leo chuckled and said, "I think after having spent so much time all living under one roof, I can safely assume your opinion on how good the idea is might just be a little _biased_ based on whose idea it was." Though nothing had been directly stated or anything, it was obvious once they were all sharing a space that the new Chief Deputy was not being made to walk the road of a single mother of two... "I also wouldn't have pegged you to be such a photog, but I have to admit seeing you're little ginger nugget absolutely making the best of it would likely have me doing the same." Granted, she had Thyra who seemed more than willing to just take all the pictures and then share them with Leo and Julia.

The hotelier allowed herself to preen a bit at the compliment. "Well, there is a certain level of experience that comes with being the owner of the hotel, and of course, the entire staff at my disposal, _but_ it really did make the most logical sense of us to have a central location for the Paladins to be able to keep an eye on things. Though I'm sure Lucas would've likely been more than willing to add _another_ floor to that so called 'cabin'," she chuckled.

KEAGAN

"Oh, it's not like there's that many cons about this idea anyways." Getting to see all the babies together every day seemed like a cute idea - even at the cost of no one getting any sleep at times. "At the very least, Skylar won't whine about not getting to see her girlfriends anymore." She shook her head, "I'm usually not, but the twins have their moments that I just want to capture. Like Sky trying to get Miles to join her in being a literal penguin." She snorted as she saw Sky tugging on her sister's arm.

"...She really would've. Thankfully you took care of it before she could start on *that* project." She won't call it a mansion, but the cabin had enough rooms for now. "The security here is top notch too, so none of us have anything to worry about." Given the space and the number of people involved, the hotel was the best choice to keep everyone safe while providing all the necessities. "Well, other than that kid over there." There was a penguin that was separated from the rest of the babies. While she didn't hear all the details, Keagan only knew that none of her kids like that kid. "I honestly didn't think Blake would be here with a kid."

COL

He'd heavily considered _not_ coming to the gathering, knowing that Ayden would likely be around helping Izzy with the kids...even though Brax was also helping with the kids...Nope. Did not need to get stuck in _that_ thought cycle right now. _But_, he could never say no to Avery, and honestly he couldn't genuinely pass up the opportunity to spend one more Christmas with most the kids as the teeny-tiny humans he was used to dealing with.

That being said, that didn't mean the pack Alpha didn't prefer to take to wandering around, which is how he found himself coming up to the tale end of the conversation between their hostess and who would likely replace him one day... "I don't think it was actually Blake's decision. The girl and her cousin needed to be in the same place as the other babies, and since Luke wasn't keen on the girl, Aleja had to step in as Faerie elder." He took a sip form his cup and then turned to face Keagan. "Or at least that's what I've learned from Avery."

KEAGAN

There was definitely a story there - one that she will probably learn one day from the kids. For now, she'll just keep an eye out. The last thing she wanted was to have the younger twin be uncomfortable... and for the older one to start biting. Her eyes glanced over to Avery hovering over a penguin who was holding onto her finger with a death grip from the looks of it. "And how's your sister faring? It looks like she still doesn't want to carry her girlfriend and that clearly isn't going to fly." She chuckled before her eyes drew back to her friend.

"Are you also going to stay here with all of us?" She didn't ask to kick him out, merely asking out of curiosity since he didn't quite have a designated kid to look after. Maybe to look out for Avery and Brax like he normally did.

LYRA

Col barely managed to open his mouth before Lyra stepped in and provided the much needed information her dear sister wanted. "Avery is still internally losing her shit over the fact she's technically dating a baby -because like, she can't _really_ break up with her because Steve would remember when she gets back- and hasn't come closer because she's not sure if you'll arrest her or not, but she still wants to be there for Steve because she sees how Evan and Erin are managing and figures there must some trick to it," she rambled, only stopping to take a sip of her own drink before taking in a deep breath and immediately delving into the most important piece of information. "Dear Aves _also_ spilled the deets on why the little bitch baby is on the outs with the rest of the crew and I hope you left service weapon back in the suite because listen to this sis: back during Embry's first time staying in Fallcrest, that girl over there started dating her and _then_ while _still_ dating Embry she managed to get lil Nuggy all feely-willy too and then when she got found out, not only did it absolutely wreck Miles and almost had Sky catching a case, but the bitch had the gall to out Embry to her foster family and got her sent away." Lyra took another sip. "Wild, right?!"

She let out a snort of laughter and cut in for her alpha. "Oh he can't _possibly_ stay here for the long haul, Keg. It would be super-mega awkward, but I'm sure he'll stick around tonight for at least the rest of the party because the kids love Uncle Col!"

KEAGAN

She should've known better than to think that the people involved would actually have a chance to tell her before she found out from a third source - namely her own baby sister. Lyra went on a ramble, explaining everything that even Keg couldn't find an opening to cut in. While Avery's behaviour was very 'on brand' to her usual self, Keagan was surprised about what the 'bitch baby' did. "Is that so?" Her voice remained calm while her eyes honed onto the only baby with Aleja at the moment. "She's pretty brave to come back into town after all that." It was in her nature to be protective over her twins, especially over Miles so her opinion of the kid dropped significantly - though she wasn't crazy enough to go after a baby who is also Aleja's charge right now. She looked over to Leo, "Someone messed with *both* our daughters."

Her eyebrow rose in question when Lyra mentioned that it would be super-mega awkward. That definitely sounded like drama waiting to happen. "If only you could use your skills for finding information elsewhere." She sighed without pushing the topic further.

LEO

Leo need only hear that the baby in question was bound to revert back to the young woman that caused Embry to be ripped from her friends to being with, and her phone was already out and her fingers were tapping away. She was level-headed enough to understand that clearly there was little to nothing that could be done against an infant, _and_ the Guild had also agreed to house all the babies so kicking them out was also not an option. But she did have one of the best security teams on the planet, and a quick text was all it took to have Andy coordinate them -surveillance included. "No need to worry. This may not be the ideal situation, but I've set things in motion to allow some peace of mind for the time being."

Though Keagan had demonstrated a large capability with self-restraint when it came to indulging in the gossip that her younger sister often had at the ready, Leo was definitely not above it. She would say it was the dire need to always know as much about what was happening under the same roof as her babies as possible, but there was also a tinge of just plain curiosity. "Calvetti Junior," she called over, "Why don't you do me a solid and go figure out what's happening over there with your Tiny Dancer cousin, and the Terminator EMT." As the woman immediately dashed off she said, "That ought to keep her entertained for a bit."

KEAGAN

It was reassuring to have Leo arrange the security detail. At the very least, they wouldn't have to worry about bitchy baby approaching either of their daughters. However, it was going to be a different matter if the kid happened to run into the Chief Deputy personally once the baby spell has been lifted. "That and we should give a *little* benefit of the doubt, Aleja is in charge of her after all. And there's Blake to keep an eye on her. I must say, I'm glad Callie's nothing like her cousin."

Her eyes playfully narrowed at her friend, "Although this would've happened without your prompt, we were really trying to get Lyra to not pry into that." She said as she watched her sister already trying to cause her usual mischief. "As much as I don't want Lyra to tease them too much, Luke might actually get mad if it goes south, you know that, right?" Her attention was then drawn towards the difference between her set of twins. "...You really don't need to guess to know which one of those penguins is Miles and which one is Sky..." She muttered under her breath with pure amusement.

COL

He let the two mama bears hash out their piece, but even through Keagan's words he could not hide the absolute relief he felt when Lyra up and went to go meddle in someone else's business. "Oh Luke would never actually hold it against her," he said indicating Leo with the bottle in his hand. "She's far to nice to blame what would ultimately just be Lyra being Lyra on anyone else that isn't familiar with her...heck, I don't even know if Luke would have it in her to hold against Lyra herself." He paused briefly, taking in a deep breath and glancing over at the woman who was once considered the 'token human' of his pack.

"Granted, I do understand that there's a _lot_ that has changed here in the last few weeks, so I could completely off base and you may need to ramp up your personal security, Avraham." Col still hadn't been able to bring himself to ask _what_ his friend had turned out to be...Grateful for the distraction, he turned his attention over to said penguins and let out a genuine snort of laughter. "Yeah, Skylar's the one trying to re-enact a scene from Happy Feet even though she can barely stand yet, and Miles is the one wishing the earth would open up and swallow her whole."

AVERY

Avery skipped over once her girlfriend finally let her hand go. What a grip she had for a witch. Not that she didn't want to spend time with Steve, but it really was tripping her out - she was dating a literal baby. How on earth did Erin and Evan handle it? Was it because their age gap was less than Steve and her's? Regardless, the wolf now skipped over to her eldest brother and caught the last bit of their conversation.

"Sky definitely knows she's adorable and is just milking it as per usual." She laughed when she saw a flipper smack someone's face by accident but that did not deter the kid at all as she continued to flap away in a slightly different direction. While she was tempted to mess with the twins, she wasn't willing to do it when they're just babies... and when she was in arm's length with their mother. "We should really just dressed them in matching onesies all the time."

LEO

Leo wasn't stupid, though she did enjoy acting like it more often than not because it just made life fun, so it didn't take much for her to glean that Colston had not been entirely looped in on what was going on with the tall redhead. Maybe she'd catch him later on, and they could swap the bits and pieces of information they both had to make a whole picture...purely for reconnaissance.

Leo laughed at the observation the youngest Rendall made. "Well, we _are_ talking about the girl who has gone on to make a career out of getting attention so, I suppose if she can't take a stage, this will do," she laughed. Glancing over at the rest of the faces, the demon gave her a skeptical look. "I don't know. Levi is loving it, but Embry and Callie seem to be having a very heated 'discussion' over the outfits and Miles looks like she's on the brink of breaking out into hives."

KEAGAN

Keagan couldn't help but smile as they spoke about her daughters - although she was constantly keeping an eye because it really did look like Sky's about to get retribution for flailing her flipper around. Her eyes immediately sought out for the twins' other mother, silently asking if she could either split the twins apart.. or keep Sky from hitting everyone.

"I think Miles might be.. because of Sky." She snorted before quickly excusing herself to walk over as well because she didn't want the twins to fight over Sky's enthusiasm. "Baby. Let's tame those arms of yours a bit before you get hurt.. or hurt someone."

LUKE

On the other side of the room, never more than maybe a foot away from the gaggle of babies, Luke had taken to putting some of her first lessons from Jack, Rikke, and Hanu into play. _Not every single emotion from your charge is worthy of intervention._ It made sense enough, because if the roles were reversed, Luke would be struck by a sense of stifling. It's true that she probably could've done with _some_ level of intervention from her parents and brother, but all in all, getting to live through her own emotions and actions is what really made her the person she was. Last thing she wanted would be to rob the twins of that or to take it away from Keagan.

So she managed to keep the girls' emotions as a faint echo in the back of her mind until a sharp sense of frustration, bordering on slight panicked exasperation, cut through. She didn't need Callie's tiny 'flippers' smacking her leg to know where it was coming from. Scooping up the blonde baby, she whispered a thank you and walked over to Miles, setting Callie down beside her before taking a seat on the floor herself so they could as close to eye-level as possible. "It's going to be okay, Nuggey. I'm sorry, I didn't take into account the fact the flippers restrict your current only means of communication or factor in the fact that your brain is still eighteen -because admittedly that's not a common occurrence- but we're actively remedying that right now, and you'll be free -oh look, mom's coming over. She'll handle Tendey so you don't have to." The entire time she spoke she'd been working to remove the 'flipper' sleeves from the girl's onsie so her little hands and fingers were free. "See, all better, yes?" Turning to Keagan as the woman scooped up the spastic ginger bean, she smiled and said, "That's such a Lyra move."

KEAGAN

"Are you feeling better, baby?" She asked the younger twin when she spotted that her little hands weren't restrained in the flipper anymore. Also taking a seat on the floor herself, she readjusted Skylar so she could free a hand to reach out to Miles and gently brush her cheek. "Skylar got a little bit overexcited, didn't she?" She chuckled before looking at the red-headed twin, "And you little missy, you need to be mindful of your arms. No cuteness is going to save you from your sister coming after you." She leaned down for a quick kiss to the baby's temple. "I think this kid spent too much time with Lyra that she picked up too many of her tendencies." She said this knowing that this was probably inevitable.

LUKE

Luke could only grin when Miles' response came in the form of a flurry of tiny chubby fingers and mass amounts of clearly 'angry' babbling. The younger twin only stopped once her sister reached out to touch her so she could give the older girl a glare. Luke snorted, as she failed to keep her laughter in altogether, given the glare looked less menacing and more adorable. This, of course, earned her a glare of her own. "My bad, yo. Contrary to popular belief, I am _not_ entirely immune to cute," she said, before looking at Skylar. "That being said, everyone has limits, Tendey. There is a line where 'cute' becomes annoying and doing things for the sake of showing-off to your girlfriends -who are already wrapped around your flipper- are clearly toeing that line...or in Miles' case, blurring right past it." Her gaze finally met Keagan's. "_Your_ children are such a handful. Twins _and_ Lyra?! How ever do you manage?"

AYDEN

When Luke brought Callie with her, the elder brought the fellow shapeshifter into her lap while they both watched the scene unfold. At least they prevented the twins from actually fighting. "Sky seems to have forgotten the other kids in the room." She commented when Sky turned and buried her face into Keg after being told that she crossed the line and realized her sister was upset with her. "Even Callie got worried Sky was going to get killed today." She chuckled when said baby made a noise to back her up. "I think the only people who ever *managed* Lyra is her mom and Teg. I've never seen Lyra listen to a word Keg says anyways - However if you're talking about the twins only, it seems she's got you."

IZZY

It didn't take much for her to follow Ayden's lead and go scoop up her own 'piece' of the puzzle. There was a small whimper of complaint that she could almost be sure came from the ginger baby whose face was buried in her best friend at the fact Tomi was now sitting slightly further away, but it seemed for the best. "Oh don't be like that Skylar Anne, she's still here and you seem to need a minute to chill." Turning to smile and give a small nod of understanding to the blonde penguin in Ayden's lap, she then glanced up at her other best friend and said, "Let's just be glad they don't have their actual baby brains because the anxiety of it might've caused Callie to shift...and if a dormouse is already small..." she trailed off knowing everyone listening would know where she was going.

When the topic to turned to Lyra, she rolled her eyes and said, "Teagan has has the patience of a saint. I'd have quit ages ago and just step aside to avoid the hurnado." At Ayden's mention of Keagan having Luke to help with the twins, Izzy immediately looked over at the Chief Deputy with a glint in her eye and a smirk on her face. No one had asked anything, but everyone was dying to know the tea. "It must be nice to have a _sister-in-law_ that still helps out so much even after there's an 'ex' in front of the title," she teased.

KEAGAN

Her daughter was being dramatic as always - they weren't even that far from Tomi and she was already whining. "This is still better than a time-out, isn't it?" Was it a threat? Mayhaps. "We've got some safety measures in case she does... shift but I think it really is best if you don't for the time being - or at least unless we're all aware when you do. Iz is right, you're tiny." They really had to keep a closer eye on Callie because it was going to be very dangerous to lose her. "Honestly, just who does this kid take after." She muttered when her daughter decided to wiggle a bit more to nuzzle deeper into her neck.

No one will ever have more patience than Teagan when it came to handling Lyra. Bless him for coming into their lives. Her eyes narrowed at the familiar mischievous look from the other and braced for whatever it was she was going to say. Of course, her friends wanted to know what was up. "*Very* nice." She reached out and gave Izzy a light shove.

IZZY

Izzy watched as her tough-as-nails, kick-anyone’s-ass best friend was reduced to little more than a giant mom-shaped cuddle-bear for the ‘upset’ baby. The sight only made the shared look between her, Ayden, and Luke all the more hilarious when the woman had the gall to ask who the baby took after. “Clearly it’s not the Benson side of the family,” she began, “The only one I ever saw even remotely consider a hug was Luke and she’s adopted.”

No sooner had she began teasing Keagan, than Luke was on her feet and off chasing Lyra -who was apparently pestering the twins’ paladin- and Izzy herself was left to just groan as Keagan remained tight-lipped. “You’re such a pain, Calvetti. We’re your _best friends_ ! At this rate I wouldn’t be surprised if you told us you married some D.C. yuppie or something.”

KEAGAN

When Luke made her hasty exit, Keagan's eyes followed while the other chased her sister. A subtle smile as she simply watched that happen without any intentions to prevent Lyra from being unalive. She was warned plenty of times not to mess with Rikke and Nix after all. The thought of Luke leaving so abrupty once Keg replied to Izzy did make her heart drop a bit and perhaps she should've corrected her friend instead of being so secretive. That habit of hers was a problem when it came to her personal life.

And so, with a sigh, her shoulders relaxed a bit before her attention went back to Sky and mulled over what her next words would be. "As if I would think about marrying someone else when I've got Luke. Made that mistake once already."

IZZY

Izzy was about to remark on the answer, when sound of clear discontent came from both Skylar and Mila simultaneously, the latter of which's tiny hands became a flurry of motions that the older wolf could only assume was the infant's attempt at signing properly to her mother. Attempt was the word Izzy settled on because the tiny hands could only do so much, which was evident even to someone who had very basic knowledge of what was happening.

Turning to her friend again she said, "Uh, I think you said something that upset them...and something tells me it was definitely _not_ the implication that your first marriage was a mistake..."

KEAGAN

Her eyes widened in surprise when her twins started acting up. Genuine confusion washed over her because she had no idea what upsetted them so much that Mila's little fingers couldn't seem to catch up to how much she wanted to say. "Hey, hey girls.. What are you so angry about?" She asked softly as she reached out to bring Mila into her arms so she could carry both twins. "That I wouldn't want to marry anyone else if it's not Luke?" Keagan didn't think they'd hate the thought so much - the twins hadn't said anything otherwise about them dating or was she mistaken?

RIKKE

Rikke had just managed to get Lyra into a bear hug -which was hardly something the wolf was averse to, but it definitely worked wonders as a means to keep her quiet- when Luke reached them, and simply offered a trade: she'd take Lyra-duty if Rikke went to help out Keagan because the twins were upset and confused, and obviously, currently babies that couldn't speak proper English.

The paladin orbed over -very much aware she would be leaving Lyra to unceremoniously fall on her backside- and came to coalesce on the floor across from the struggling mother wolf and her upset pups. Using a few orbs to distract the babies as different designs swirled in the air, she spoke to Keagan. "They were upset, but the confusion at your last question leads me to believe that the answer is 'no', that was not the reason they were upset. I think it's pretty easy to forget that these aren't your average babies," she continued, the lights still clearly mesmerizing the kids, "Regardless of how much they may act like them, they still have a mostly young-adult brain, so maybe having grown-up conversations around them may not be the best idea, given they're all bound to want to chime in and obviously not many can."

AYDEN

Ayden surely didn't expect *this* conversation, at least not sprung up so suddenly like this. Unlike Izzy, she didn't say anything and just watched this all go down. Just what was happening? She didn't know if she was more surprised that Keagan said anything, or that she was engaged in a *serious* conversation with the twins about it. "Perhaps.. this is a conversation would be better to take place where you're also not surrounded by several people who have a good sense of hearing.." Not that *all* of their friends are nosy but there was a selective few who had their ears perked no matter how distracted they're meant to be.

When Callie let out a quiet whine, Ayden naturally started comforting her while keeping her eyes between Keg and her babies. "Keg really has no middle ground. It's either not being able to get a peep from her, or she creates chaos with a single sentence."

RIKKE

Rikke glanced over at the shifter when the blonde baby on her lap began to complain. "That's her 'I need a new nappy' whine," she provided, hands still working with the lights for the twins. "You spend long enough around a kid, you don't really need to sense their emotions to understand them. Granted, I'm sure those in the unique situation of being parents to babies _again_ hardly need me to tell them that," she chuckled. Ayden's statement about Keagan was almost enough to make her laugh out loud, but the look of 'pot-meet-kettle' that Izzy seemed to toss the shifter's way had the paladin completely rethinking that choice.

Instead she turned back to facing Keagan directly and said, "Lucky for us, though, these two have _not_ triggered their paladin or, uh, _paladin-like_ abilities yet, which means that a few more seconds of this lovely light show and they probably won't remember anything past Skylar having been trying her best to act like a loose chicken in a penguin outfit...so you might want to tighten your hold on Miles there just a bit in case her anger comes back full-on."

KEAGAN

Honestly, it would've been a lot easier to have Paladins around the first time to help them know just what exactly the babies were feeling, but Rikke was right, the second time around wasn't as hard. "Yes, all the fuss sure let me know my kids are upset with me about something - I suppose this conversation will have to wait until they're grown again.... We don't even know how long that's going to be." Not that she was complaining, baby twins were always welcomed.

Izzy's look didn't slip by her but considering how Ayden didn't quite react to it, Keagan also let the comment slide. After al, Luke had called her out the few times she dropped a bomb without warning. "Sky just need to turn it down a bit. No one likes to get constantly hit with your flipper no matter how cute you think you are, you know?" She aimed the question at the older twin, who miraculously found enough shame to give her sister an apologetic babble. "We also don't want to stress Callie out that she actually shifts...A second fight might just trigger it."

IZZY

Izzy managed to school her features before Ayden even bothered to glance at her, and given that the twins seemed to have reached some sort of -admittedly adorable- babbled truce, she set Tomi back down and said, "Alright, I vote that now the girl's _aren't_ fighting, we go ahead and continue this conversation elsewhere. Because yes, it _is_ being continued and I'm almost sure that the suites all have a soundproof charm or ward over them because otherwise there's no way this entire floor wouldn't be causing Leo and Thyra headaches with all the noise complaints from a gaggle of supernatural babies and their parents."

She received the expect initial rounds of complaints from both secretive women, but after Rikke not only volunteered, but managed to take Callie and orb off for the needed diaper change, she just stood up and pulled both of the women up by the wrist. "Come on then, girl-chat. Not like any of you can say you wouldn't trust any of the other adults around with keeping an eye on your respective penguins."

AYDEN

The shapeshifting elder exchanged looks with the Chief Deputy as they were being dragged to their feet once they were freed from the babies. Though the two of them were infamous for being private, there were little they could do against the youngest of them - or at least Ayden couldn't. As per usual, she let Izzy lead the way towards one of their rooms.

"It's been a long time since we did this - just us in a room together, talking without anyone else interrupting." She hummed as she reminisced a little. When was the last time they even had a girl-talk/night? Surely it had been before the kids came into the picture. Once she was in the room, she took a seat and waited for either of the women to start talking.

IZZY

Izzy was more than happy to have had so little resistance from either party. She was sure the fact they were in public helped, and felt a little bad about that, but honestly how was she supposed to pass up an opportunity like this? They were all in the same place, the kiddos were all safe and looked after, none of them had a shift at work to worry about.

“Exactly! This is perfect timing, and honestly the fact I know we’ve all had at least a little champagne or wine already makes it even better.” Alcohol worked great to loosen lips. “Now, Keagan, the floor is yours if you’d like to elaborate and provide clarification. Otherwise we -and whatever poor soul had the misfortune to listen in- will forever be wondering if you hate the institute of marriage, want to be single with a friend’s help, or actually _do_ want to marry Luke…Personally the way you were ready to kill Col at the hospital my personal guess is the latter but, you’re a hard one to read.”

KEAGAN

It certainly seems that she had a soft spot for a lot of people upon her return as she was now sitting in front of her best friends who gave her *all* the attention to clarify what she meant earlier. "Whoa, wait. Was that what it sounded like?" She frowned, only realizing now why her twins were so upset. "I don't hate the institute of marriage - I simply regret marrying Richard."

She quieted down as she thought about her next words, "And about marrying Luke.. " She gave a small shrug, "I would love to.. but I don't know.. we've only just started so.. it seems pretty early to be talking about marriage."

IZZY

She was almost certain that both she and Ayden resembled a pair of bobbleheads as they nodded to clarify that it had, in fact, sounded like never wanted to be a Mrs....anything, ever again. "In all fairness to us, it didn't really help the confusion that you never told us you _started_ at all with Luke or corrected the whole 'ex sister-in-law' bit," Izzy was quick to point followed by a swift, "Oh, honey...._we all_ regret you marrying Richard."

Her face dropped a bit as she realized the next topic was a bit more on the serious side. "Speaking of which, we never got around to really talking about what happened that night with Dicky and Luke. I mean, how did the twins even take to the news that their own father was responsible for their aunt being in the hospital?"

KEAGAN

She almost snorted at the site of her friends nodding away. "A lot happened since Luke and I talked about it, it took a while before we even said anything to our family. Lyra was *very* upset that she had been the last to know." Moreover, she had been so comfortable at the cabin, she may have forgotten about notifying the rest of their friends. Her eyes rolled at their opinion of Richard. "Mm.. Yes, we all know that was a fiasco, no need to emphasize that."

At the reminder of what happened that night, her eyes flashed a hint of gold. "They already have a *very* low opinion of him, so you can imagine how well they took it... Sky probably feels like it had been her fault they encountered each other in the first place." She paused again, as there was still more to say. "So.. about that.. He's not their biological father." Her nose crinkled a bit because what she was going to reveal next really defied science and logic. "Uh, *Luke* is..."

IZZY

The wolf barely registered that Ayden had taken a breath in -likely to speak- and immediately let out a very to the point, "What?!" She had definitely followed with everything that was said beforehand, and completely understood why they were just now being told that Keagan had finally opted to give that steadfast ginger a chance, but it had all been entirely overridden by her admission that Richard Benson was _not_ the biological father of her children. "Keagan Anna Calvetti are you saying that you totally had _entanglement_ and didn't even confide in your bes-"

Izzy's reproach died as Keagan followed up with yet another piece to the puzzle. Granted how the hell this particular piece was supposed to fucking fit into the picture had her exchanging very confused looks with Ayden before glancing back at Keagan...like three times. "I'm sorry...Luke is _what_??"

KEAGAN

"I said what I said." She chuckled softly, knowing just how nonsensical it was. "It turns out that Luke's a born-Paladin due to her being related to Rikke. And so.. in conclusion, it's because of that the twins happened, well, that and a few requirements for it to even take place. Anyways, yes, Luke's basically the twins' mother. Not a single drop of Benson blood whatsoever."

The wolf gave a shrug as if that concluded her explanation, "Wouldn't that explain how Luke and the twins have so much similarities?" Keagan was sure that question had been floating around all these years. "In case you two are wondering, no, we're not giving it a chance just because she's their mother."

IZZY

There was a brief moment of silence as the information provided was processed. “Well,” she began, glancing over at Ayden who seemed to be on the same page as her, “You learn something new everyday huh…magic is fucking terrifying and wonderful all at once. Congrats on not having gestated Dicky’s spawns after all, by the way.” She simply nodded as Keagan was right, the only explanation for why the twins took after Luke so much would be that they _were_ actually related after all…that the relation was Luke being their mother was not on the list but hey.

Izzy scoffed out a laugh at the last comment. “Please. The twins _obviously_ came from _some_ kind of connection to begin with. It would be too dumb even for me to assume you didn’t at least kind of like the kid you’ve only been allowing to pine after you since like ever.”

AYDEN

What a roller coaster that was. Hearing that *Luke* was the mother of the twins was definitely not what she expected to hear that day.. Or ever, for that matter. Who knew that it was even possible? However, it did answer the question that had been on everyone's mind for so many years. The twins were definitely a mix of the two women, and if not for science, they would have guessed right away. "I think we say for everyone that it is a relief that they have nothing to do with him. I'm sure the girls were ecstatic."

The shifter chuckled at the comment, "The famous Christmas Miracle in July story exists for a reason. As much as Lyra exaggerate things, there is some truth there. And almost killing Col just made it concrete." She joked.

IZZY

She laughed along with Ayden, finding it incredibly ironic that for someone who was always so private about _everything_, Keagan’s soft-spot for Luke was obvious to anyone with eyes. “We all figured Luke was your preferred Benson, but I’ll admit that even I wouldn’t have guessed just _how deep_ that preference ran, ya know,” she said with a smirk and suggestive waggle of her brows.

“I do feel bad for Lyra and every other person in Fallcrest that still held out hope that now that the twins were going to be off to college and what-not, they might finally get a chance with -what I have no qualms admitting, because it’s just fact- the _absolute specimen_ that is Lucas Benson. And now there’s the whole -what did you call it? Born-Paladin aspect! Like what is that?”

KEAGAN

"Shut up." She rolled her eyes, "I don't think Dick was *anyone's* preferred Benson anyways." Even if it were true that everyone had a soft spot for the red-head, Keg had a feeling that she'd be teased more about it. "As if that'd actually stop Lyra from flirting - however, I think she moved onto bothering Rikke more."

"Born Paladin.. Exactly what it sounds like.. Rikke happens to be her ancestor. We don't know what powers she inherited though, so far, it seems like she's got everything a Paladin has." Yes, she was not going to explain how the Paladin aspect played into the twins being born, but she was sure that her friends had an inkling.

+Cut to: Outside in the Ballroom

HENDRIX

hendrix: It had been simple enough to track Keagan down to her current residence at the Radcliffe. Gaining access to the top floor…had required a little more finesse, but there was very little that a Homeland Security badge couldn’t fix, and it helped that he stated he had ‘work’ matters to address with is fellow agent. It seemed that a lot of people were still rather jumpy after the last time something happened in town and weren’t willing to risk interfering in matters that may lead to another disaster. He should certainly feel some kind of bad about using that sentiment in the daily residents of the town to manipulate and mansplain his way into possible malewife status, but he couldn’t be bothered right now.

All Hendrix could think about was the one thing that had not left his mind since he happened across the information as he did his daily follow-ups on Keagan: Richard Benson was _not_ her children’s biological father. If his math was right -which in a less giddy mindset he’d openly admit it hardly ever was- then the only other option, barring some stranger on her honeymoon, was _himself_. And with that idea in mind, as soon as the elevator doors opened, he made a beeline for the gaggle of babies.

He _was_ stopped about two steps in but a rather imposing woman with a badge of her own, and though it was definitely harder to convince her, she relented to let him stay within the ballroom while she went to inform Keagan of his arrival. Of course no sooner was she out of sight and he was off to the children. He immediately scooped up the first ginger he spotted only to realize this one as a boy ginger, and set him back. Then scooping up the other ginger in sight. She immediately let out a wail, and he began to coo at her to calm her down, “No, it’s okay. It’s okay, don’t cry baby. It’s me! It’s dada! It’s you’re real dada!” Her reluctance to seemingly accept him immediately was a blow he wasn’t expecting and the tears just came.

PHOENIX

Ever since Keagan stepped out of the room, the whole family had been taking turns watching the kids - maybe except Lyra, she seemed to be focusing on gossip. The cousin could feel the chills running down her back and *knew* Lyra was walking towards them and lo and behold, she kept making comments about Rikke and her. Thankfully Luke came and chased her off for the time being.

The day had been going well so far despite that, the twins hadn't killed each other .. yet even though Miles was pretty close to taking her sister out with how.. 'endearing' she had been.

However, that had gone out the window when she heard a more panicked wail from the babies. Whipping her attention over to mini crowd, her eyes widened at the unwelcomed guest who was currently being shoved in the face by the baby he was holding. While she wasn't as fast as the other, she rushed over herself. "I don't recall you being welcomed back here. In fact, I believe you were specifically told not to come near Keagan and her kids." It hadn't even been that long since Blake and she escorted him out of Fallcrest.

LUKE

Luke was in the midst of chasing Lyra off _and_ still practicing her ability to keep her 'charge's' emotions in the background when she felt a pull back to the twins. If asked, she would fully admit to not even registering the baby's physical cry -or in Miles' case, growl- because it was all an instinctive and innate response. Her girls needed her and she was orbing out from behind Lyra to towering behind Goodwin. The paladin was only briefly distracted by the twins being addressed as 'Keagan's kids', but there was no time for hangups now.

She placed a warning hand on the man's shoulder. His hold on Sky immediately slackened, and the baby went immediately to Rikke who'd orbed in just after Nix approached. Whether the hold on the baby was due to the warning or the squeeze Luke gave, she didn't care at the moment. "I'm going to ask you politely, _once_, to please vacate the premises."

HENDRIX

In his line of work, it was detrimental if he jolted everytime someone grabbed him by the shoulder but having 2 towers show up in front of you while you're holding someone they cared about? It was a bit intense. Why are these people so damn tall? And why was there *two* of them??

However, not *completely* deterred by the setback, he switched his focus over to the other with a confident grin. "Why hello again." He greeted. "I get that we got off the wrong foot last time, but I swear I've got a reason to be back today. I'm here to spend time with my *family*! It's the holiday season and what better than to be with *my kids*."

His eyebrows wiggled after announcing that, "Word was that Benson wasn't the father and from process of elimination, there's a simple answer to that. The kid cried because she doesn't know I'm her daddy."

LUKE

If there was one thing Luke prided herself in, it was in her rather high -insanely immensely high, as some would point out- threshold for calm and level-headedness. Lyra often told her there was being slow to anger and then there was being a pushover. But if Luke had learned one thing from her teenage years, it was that she was a far better person for being a pushover when needed because her anger was nobody's friend.

That being said, there _was_ still a limit and to absolutely nobody's surprise -except maybe Douchewin himself- this dude had not only managed to reach it, but absolutely blow past it the second he even _thought_ to lay a hand on her daughter. The fact he was loudly airing out all of Keagan's personal business was just adding fuel to the inferno, and the redhead simply proceeded to lift him up by the fabric currently in her hand. "I do believe I made it clear my petition would be polite _once_," she growled before dragging him off away from the children.

Once out of sight of baby eyes, she let him drop for only a fraction of a second, only to pick him back up roughly from by the neck as she pinned him to the wall. "You have **no** ties to Keagan or the girls, and I'm sure if you have the current job you do it's because there's enough of a braincell in there to know that. I'm going to ensure you not only leave them be, but leave this building **now** and I will not hesitate to use _any_ means necessary, so your pride being left in pieces will be the least of your concern if you continue to fight me." The saying 'seeing red' was such an understatement, she'd completely managed to ignore the rivulets of blood starting to spill down her fingers, much less the fact her own nails had grown sharp enough to dig into the man's face and cause the bleeding. If her speech was affected by her canines changing, she attributed the change in sound to her anger.

HARTLEY

The room was tense ever since her brother decided to show his face. Thankfully she didn't need to breathe because she would have passed out for how long she was holding her breath. However, to say she was confused would be a huge understatement. She only knew they had a thing, but to suddenly declare he was the twins' father was.. weird to say the least. Like how did he even come to that conclusion?? *Also*. Richard Benson not being the twins' father? There were a few eye exchanges throughout the room at the news. One shouldn't really trust Hendrix's word for it, but he wouldn't say that without reason.

Thankfully, Luke dragged him away almost immediately before anyone else could make a sound. Everyone then focused on the babies once those two were out of the room. However, it was shortly after when a scent reached her nose. Her entire body froze at the smell, a hand shooting out to grip Blake by the arm. "...Blake.." She mumbled at a very low volume. "..I smell blood.."

Without another word, she darted out towards the smell and halted at the scene. "....Luke?" The sight was.. expected; Hendrix was an asshole after all, but to think Luke could draw blood just like that? Her head tilted when she heard Luke speak. Something.. was different about her. Hartley cautiously approach the two.. until she spotted the teeth. "Luke. Your- Hey." Her hand reached out onto the taller woman's shoulder. She was focusing all her attention on Luke so she would be distracted from the blood. Her control had been better but let's not take risks. "I'll deal with him.." She offered.

BLAKE

To say that what happened was a 'scene' would be quite the understatement. That being said, Blake was already pulling out her phone to report the incident -at least the necessary parts- to SAIC Cabot. There was little chance that this could be ignored any longer as Hendrix was clearly becoming a major detriment to the department. However, she was barely able to unlock her phone before Hartley's voice was in her ear and then her friend was off in the blink of an eye as well. The witch was barely able to keep track of the blur that the young vampire became as she made her way to where she had apparently smelled blood, and considering how the _last time_ such a thing occurred had gone down...Blake barely managed a word to Aleja about going after the blonde before taking off herself.

By the time she caught up with the trio, there was very little sense to make of what was going on but one thing was certain: "I don't think that's the best idea," Blake stated in response to Hartley's offer. She knew her friend's heart was in right place, but with the babies around it was best not to risk anything if they didn't have to. "Barring Keagan's direct intervention, he's _my_ responsibility and I can escort him out of the building and back to D.C." If the growl she heard was any indication, maybe bringing up Keagan's name was _not_ the best of ideas at the current moment.

Blake wasn't certain how much control either of the women currently standing around Hendrix had. If she didn't act soon, Luke could do more damage and that in turn would probably cause more bloodlust from Hartley. So she opted to use her telekinesis to ease Luke's grip on Drix while also keeping his face from bleeding anymore. "Alright, let's all take a breath...even if you don't one."

HENDRIX

"Hey! Hey..." Did he foresee people being upset with him? For sure! Did he foresee Lucas Benson lifting him by the shirt? Sure, she's done it before, nothing would stop her from doing it again unless Keagan intervened. Did he foresee her lifting him up *by the neck*? And drawing blood while she was at it? Definitely not. Something was different about her and he saw it clear as day when he saw those teeth changed.

"W-What the.." He croaked. While he was still grappling onto Luke's arms and hands to get her to drop him, the woman didn't budge at all. "...Y-You're.. I .. I thought you were human?!" Because the person in front of him was anything but. His eyes shifted to his sister who seemed on edge, and then over to the other friend... who was a godsend because when she came, he found his breathing again. "Shit..." he coughed as he looked between all three of them. "Did she always have this strongass grip?" Another fit of coughs followed.

"I'm clearly not the danger here!" He tried to reason, "I just want to bond with my kids, nothing wrong with that. You guys are keeping a father away from his kids - a father who isn't an asshole like Ricky boy, by the way." He was still trying to appeal his case to let him back inside despite the dangerous situation he was in. He was literally risking it all right now.

LUKE

Hartley’s presence had helped to ground her enough to realize that something wasn’t quite right. Blake’s intervention and actually providing distance between her and Hendrix had given her enough pause to take in the very sudden changes to herself and how they’d done far more damage than she would have ever intended, regardless of what she’d said.

The paladin -or whatever the fuck she was- had just begun to actually start feeling guilty for letting her anger take over and causing the man harm and his sister concern…but then he started talking again. And without even realizing it, her hand was back at his throat, his feet clean off the ground as she brought him to eye-level. “Do _not_ speak of me as if I’m not standing right _fucking_ here, Goodwin.”

The words seemed to come from deep within her chest, and as he tried to speak once more, her grip tightened as she spoke deliberately. “The only person in any form of danger right now is _you_. Especially if you keep insisting on claiming _my_ family as your own, when you’ve managed to do even less than my brother ever did. You upset my girls tonight, and that is something I do _not_ take lightly too.”

HARTLEY

Why couldn't her stupid brother just keep her moth shut? It shouldn't be that hard, yet here he was, saying idiotic things one after another as if his life wasn't on thin ice being hoisted up in the air like that. Especially now that Luke could possibly just snap his neck. "Will you just shut up for once, Hendrix." She scowled. "You're really not helping the situation right now." Not trusting herself for the most part, she backed up enough to stand next to Blake. When Luke denied him of being the father, the young vampire could see that even then, the idiot was trying to refute it.

"Not only are you upsetting the girls, and Luke - and Keagan when she hears about this - you're just making things up!" There was no evidence known that the twins weren't Richards and even if they weren't, they sure weren't Hendrix. The twins looked nothing like *him* either. God, what even happened to him that he became *this* delusional?

"Luke.. as much as we want him out of our lives, don't kill him." She tried to reason, "He's not worth it. Like I want to too, but really, he's not worth it.." The younger Goodwin confessed when she wasn't one to condone violence. "I saw Rikke trying to comfort Sky right now but I'm sure she wants to cuddle with you."

LUKE

Though she kept her eyes trained on Hendrix, she addressed the blonde almost immediately at her last comment. "While I genuinely appreciate that you're attempting to deescalate the situation, and I know that there is no ill-intent from you because that's not who you are," she began before finally glancing over at Hartley, "Please, _never_ use either of the girls as a means of persuasion....Cuddling Skylar would ultimately only provide a temporary relief to an ongoing problem, and I'm one to believe that if you want to rid garden of a weed, you have to attack the root."

Returning her gaze directly at said 'root', Luke spoke out to Blake. "Blake, I think it's best that Hartley not be here right now. I can hear the quick and shallow breathes she's taking, which if she actually still needed them would've led her to pass out already. An anxious young vampire helps no one." She wanted to reassure her friend and tell her that she would never actually hurt her brother...but Luke never did like making promises she wasn't certain she could keep. When it was clear that neither party was budging, she let out a growled 'Fine' and simply orbed herself and Hendrix out of the hotel altogether.

HARTLEY

Hartley looked guilty the moment she was called out for using the twins to persuade the other to let go of her brother. "I'm sorry." That was a low-blow for her because Luke was right, it might diffuse the situation temporarily but Hendrix was still going to be a problem. Normally, she'd add more words to her apology but it really was taking all the she had to *not* focus on her brother's blood i her clenched jaws were giving any indication of that.

When the other two disappeared before their eyes, her own widened with panic as she whipped her head towards Blake, "Oh no, where did they go??" Wasn't this situation somewhat similar to the last incident? Again, Luke disappeared with an ex of Keagan's because they messed with the ginger haired baby - however, Luke was more aware of her supernatural powers this time around. "Keg... is going to be mad."

BLAKE

Blake was a little more than taken off guard when Luke was able to move freely even while she’d still had a hold on her. Granted, once she factored in the heaping amount of garbage that came out of Drix’s mouth, well…anger could make a person do some amazing things. Not all _good_ though, and it seemed that Hart had accidentally added to the likelihood of this not ending well.

The witch was also aware of how Hartley was just barely hanging onto her control, and honestly she’d bet money it was mostly to avoid having her own brother’s blood in her mouth because- Her train of thought completely derailed as the other pair vanished. “Shit,” she managed before taking in Hart’s last comment, “That is one hell of an understatement if there I heard one.” She ran a hand through her hair and said, “I have no clue where they went, it I’m sure Rikke can help out in tracking Luke….I should get Nix to tell Keagan.”

HARTLEY

The worry that gripped her increased even more when Blake looked just as ..'stuck' as she was. "I... You go do that.." She nodded towards the door, "I don't think I can go back inside just yet.." Hartley started to back away further. After encoutering the blood, she was still on edge and honestly shouldn't be around a room filled with kids. "I might just.. head back home for the night because.. I just.. can't be here right now."

She paused before looking at the spot where her brother and the Paladin just were. "Maybe I should go make a lap around town to see if I can find them." Something to distract her with, at the very least. "I really hope Luke doesn't kill him by accident.. or intentionally even if he deserved it. He really, really deserves it."

BLAKE

"No. No laps, no searching them out on your own. I am _exceedingly_ proud of the fact you were doing as well as you were with the kids around, let's not mar that due to some accidental snap. _Especially_ if it comes about because of your stupidass brother." The tone she spoke with wasn't harsh, but it still left no room for Hartley to try and argue with her. It was already bad enough that the younger woman was all worked up over some scratches, who knew what she could encounter if she set off to seek the pair out. "Home, Hartley," she tossed over her shoulder one last time before heading in to find Phoenix.

Once she approached the shorter woman, she pulled her off to the side to whisper the news to her as best she could in a room full of supernaturals. "I would suggest taking Miles with you to inform Keagan about things, but that may just piss her off more as she figures you might be using the kid as a human shield," she said, before glancing over at said baby, "Then again I it also seems like you wouldn't be able to tear her away from the death grip Sky has on her right now. Glad Rikke managed to calm her down a bit though....best of luck."

PHOENIX

She had been by Rikke's side trying to soothe the kid the best they can, but it seemed that her true source of comfort was latching onto her sister. As endearing as it was, it did hurt to see the kid so spooked like that. "Sky, I'm not telling you to let go but your sister's hand is going to go blue if you keep gripping it that hard." She cooed, chuckling softly at the whine of protest.

When she got pulled away, she was hoping for good news but instead, she was getting a report that details an event similar to the night when Ricky decided to endanger the town. With a half hearted nod and smile, Nix went back in and grabbed both the twins and Rikke with her. Reinforcements were always good. While it didn't take long to get to the room Keagan was in, Nix's hand paused right before it was about to knock. ".....When I tell the news, you got to shove the twins right into her arms, okay?" Was she joking? Possibly. 50% maybe.

RIKKE

Everything just seemed to happening so fast, there was barely a moment of stabilization between incidents. She’d managed to keep Skylar from blowing out a lung, Mila’s mouth was free of any denim from her attempts to help her sister, both twins were now in their own little bubble but now they were all being ushered over to Keagan, and Rikke was being told to shove the babies at the mother wolf upon ‘the news’…

“I’m sorry, _what?!_” she whispered pointedly, confusion on her face. Not about the ‘news’ since the fact she could no longer feel Luke’s anger close by was big hint. “You really think you want to share ‘the news’ without putting some magical earplugs on these two?”

PHOENIX

"Well, I mean, the idea was that she'd see Miles and Sky upset and remember to not raise her voice buuuut you've got a fair point." With that, she waved her hand in the air while muttering a quick spell under her breath. "There. Safety precautions done. That should do the trick. Keagan can't really yell at us since we don't necessarily know all the information.. And I haven't seen her yell at you yet - I don't think she's ever going to yell at you." She snorted before turning back towards the door and gave it a knock.

"Heyyyyyyyy." She greeted the one who opened the door. "Mind if we -" She moved enough to show the Paladin with the babies, "come inside for a sec. We've got some news to share." She kept it vague but already, she could see Keagan's eyes narrow. Although it wasn't rare to see someone else in the family hold the kids, Nix wondered if it was suspicious that they were coming with both her kids to find Keagan.

"So........Look. I only got this from Blake so I don't really know what really went down, buuuut long story short - Goodwin, the asshole one, defied orders and came back to town.. Shit happened and now... Luke disappeared somewhere with him." She quickly nudged Rikke for her to pass the kids over.

RIKKE

Rikke nodded along as Nix explained her train of thought and waited until the kids were clearly unable to listen in -something made obvious by the look of disappointment that replaced Skylar’s look of upset- and then simply said, “You’re plan fucking sucks, Calvetti. Glad you’re not in the field because you may never have made it to us even meeting.” She added a grin -that wasn’t unlike the one Luke often tossed at Keagan after ‘proving a point- and then turned to face the door.

The Paladin felt like her specific job was just to be part of the diffusion ‘formula’ whose main components were the twins. As Keagan’s eyes began to glow, however, she was quick to close the distance so the babies were closer -and Nix behind her- and she said, “I can track Luke down, I just need to get with Jack and Hanu so we can use the ‘hivemind’ as the easiest means. Barring that, we can also get the witches together to scry if you’d rather that route, but mine is faster…also, you may want to remember not to do anything that might startle the babies even morenotthatIwouldevertellyouhowtomother.”

Not wanting to risk too much ire, she orbed one twin over to Nix and then held out the other to Keagan, “Kiss”

KEAGAN

Her blood froze the moment she heard Douchewin was back in town because she could already *feel* the bad news. It didn't help one bit at all to learn that Luke was also missing but before she could even say anything, her babies appeared in sight and she had to quickly quell her anger down a little. Automatically reaching out towards the baby, she felt the rest of anger simmer away... a bit more. "Hey baby.." She greeted and quickly gave a peck to her cheek before turning her attention to the one holding her.

"...Could you please find Luke?" She was really trying to not let her imagination take over especially with what happened last time. Besides, Luke had ... more powers than before. Something about that still didn't ease her worries.

RIKKE

There was a slight urge to take a step back when Keagan moved forward, but she held it at bay and even managed to relax as the woman’s attention was immediately turned to the baby. She shot Nix a look over her shoulder that screamed ‘I can’t believe that actually worked’ before turning back and nodding at the request before orbing out.

It didn’t take her long to find both Hanuel and Jack, who were more than ready to help. Luckily with all three paladins working together, it didn’t take long for Rikke to orb back. “The good news is we definitely know where they are,” she started, internally already grimacing at what she was about to add, “_Other_ news, is that they’re in the forest bordering the Benson property near the stream…”

KEAGAN

Not wanting to upset the twins at all, Keagan was mentally cursing - whether she was cursing at the situation, or at the born-Paladin for disappearing without a sound *again*, that was up for debate. "What is she doing?" She muttered to herself once Rikke reported back about Luke's whereabouts. Her head leaned back as she clenched her eyes, taking a moment to herself. Nix definitely knew what she was doing when she brought Rikke and the twins over. Without wasting another second, she gave Miles another kiss before turning around and handing her over to her best friends.

She then got up to give her attention the older twin who had started voicing her complaints. "Baby, you and your sister needs to stay here while I and Rikke go find out what Lucas is up to." With that, she showered Sky with kisses she'd giggle. "Okay, Rikke, bring me over there please if you don't mind." This really reminded her of their last trip; she could only hope that this time was less.. stressful.

RIKKE

Rikke had the briefest of moments where she considered letting Keagan know that the babies were safe from hearing anything that wasn't meant for them to, but a simple glance at Nix killed that thought immediately. Now was not the time to speak unless directly spoken too. The point was more than proven when Keagan slipped back into the same agent-mode she had the last time Lucas had seemed to vanish. It more than likely didn't help that the woman had gone to the same remote area that she'd instinctively wound up in the last time she dealt with one of Keagan's....uh, former....lovers...?

"Of course," was all she said in response. She tossed up a small 'light-show' for the twins once more, that should make it to where they would be left at ease once they were taken back out to the rest of the babies. Linking her arm with with wolf, Rikke made quick work of getting them to the general area of where the other two should be, and immediately she picked up on something off. "Luke's cloaked herself from being sensed, _granted_ I can't speak to whether it was done on purpose or out of pure instinct. She _is_ still technically new to all of her powers....and well, all of her powers are still a bit of mystery to us as to what they all actually are. You should still be able to pick up a scent though."

KEAGAN

Luckily, Rikke was swift with getting them to their destination. However, the fact that they didn't see anyone when they got there was already ominous enough. Although her worry and anger was battling it out, the Chief Deputy knew she had to keep calm if she wanted to get this situation sorted as soon as possible, and preferably without any casualties. Since Rikke wasn't able to pick up where she was exactly, Keagan used her own senses like she did last time.

Her eyes narrowed as she looked out in the distance, using both her hearing and smell to narrow down the location. It didn't take long since she took off immediately in the direction. *I swear to god, Luke..* She thought to herself as she used her speed to her advantage, only praying that Luke wasn't again lying somewhere in her own blood. Hendrix? He could choke on his own blood for all she cared right now.

When she got near the scent, she slowed down and cautiously made her way over. She doubt either of them spooked easily but she had no idea what the situation was.

HENDRIX

Of all the things he was prepared for in having kept tabs on Keagan, the fact that her entitled ex-sister-in-law could sprout claws now was _not_ one of them. And even though he experienced it the last time he tried to 'visit', being randomly teleported from one place to another in less than the blink of an eye was still physically and mentally disconcerting as fuck. It certainly didn't help to have gone from being held up by the throat in the brightly lit hall of the hotel's ballroom to being tossed to the hard ice and snow covered ground under the darkness of the open forest at night.

Wait...the moon...there wasn't one. As he crawled back up to his feet, Hendrix's confidence in his survival began to return to normal as he figured that without a full moon, whatever the hell was going on with the giant bitch it couldn't really be all that bad....right? She may have powers, but he was a trained operative. The more he thought about it, the more it seemed this had turned into a blessing in disguise. That nuisance probably had no idea how to control her powers and with no one around to play witness, Hendrix was not above using _any_ means necessary to get rid of the problem...

A growl not too far in the distance was enough for him to draw out his service weapon, but he was quick to hide it at his side when made approaching footsteps. "Keagan! Thank god you're here! You're psychotic former sister-in-law couldn't handle me bonding with our girls and she attacked me!" He made a show of pointing out his face. "She can't stand the idea that as the rightful parents of the twins we'll eventually have to be a proper family without her. I'm _certain_ she brought me out here to kill me."

KEAGAN

When she noticed the distance between the two, Keagan picked up her speed again as she made her way towards Luke. In all honesty, she was going to leave Hendrix alone to focus on the Paladin only but he just wouldn't shut up even when his life depended on it. And so, while on her way, she slugged him right in the nose with *some* of her anger - otherwise he would just die from all her supernatural strength. Besides, her priority was to make sure Luke was okay. So with that, she ran up to the taller woman.

While the world knew she had a soft spot for Luke, one wouldn't be able to tell by the shove and then the grabbing of her shirt to draw her close. "Lucas." She was really trying to keep her voice low. "Just because you can sense all of us, doesn't mean you can just disappear without a word! What if you were lying in your own blood again?" Her voice just gradually going faster as she ranted, "We're both protective of our kids, I get that but you can't just orb like that!? I don't want to see the person I love in the hospital bed again and I surely doubt the twins want to see their moms laying there on thin ice between life and death again." At the end of that, she pulled her close for a tight hug.

LUKE

It had been the sound of stream that tipped her off and she'd dropped Hendrix immediately as she retreated further towards the trees, placing distance between herself and the water. Clearly her conscious dominion over her powers was still iffy at best, and as it dawned on her why Blake and Hartley had been looking at her so warily, it seemed there would be a new set of surprises to deal with. Luckily -or unluckily?- she didn't manage to get enough time to spiral because she picked up on Hendrix moving and then she was hyperaware of the new company. The mans words were completely drowned out by the pure _rage_ that she was feeling from Keagan.

As the woman approached, she could also sense the underlying fear that was driving all of her reactions at this time, and as she was pushed and pulled and yelled at, Luke made no move to defend herself. Keagan was right and she should've known far better than to let her own anger get the best of her. Luke wanted nothing more than to melt into the embrace and stay there forever, but a very familiar 'click' had her immediately shoving Keagan away as she instinctively orbed her over towards Rikke. Everything that followed was so fast, yet her senses had her perceiving it as if it were all in slow-motion. The bright flash of the muzzle of Hendrix's gun blinded her enough that she didn't have time to fully move out of the way, and as the silver projectile lodged itself in her left shoulder, Luke could only let out a guttural growl at the sensation of it setting the entire area on fire.

Of course, that didn't stop her from orbing over right in front of the man and ripping the gun out of his hand. Using it to pistol-whip him hard enough to finally get him to drop still, whether he was breathing or not wasn't even an after-thought as she made her way over to Keagan and Rikke. "Are you okay?" she asked, running a hand through the shorter woman's hair.

KEAGAN

Apparently they were really testing just how *livid* Keagan could get because just when she was finished ranting about how Luke *shouldn't* put herself in danger like that, the wolf found herself orbed away to someone else... Just in time to see Luke be *shot* at. Keagan could not even begin to describe how she felt... and so she didn't. Instead her eyes glowed bright, emphasized by the darkness that surrounded them.

Though she was asked a question, her eyes only focused on the wound which she did note the reaction the silver was causing the other. Her own anger drowned out everything else aside from Luke's heartbeat - or maybe it was her own. With her voice even lower than it was before, Keagan turned her head towards Rikke while her eyes remained still, "Rikke.. Could I ask you to orb Lucas to get this looked at? And while you're there.. mention to Mick and Blake that I'll be at the station." It really was taking all she had to keep her voice even.

When she finally broke contact with the mixture of silver and blood, Keagan stormed over to Hendrix. "I'll deal with him." She muttered as she took out her cuffs and latched them onto her former partner's wrists. She should've dealt with him the first time he decided to show himself at the Cabin - how stupid of her to give him the benefit of the doubt, and the fact that he was still Hartley's brother. That courtesy was out the window.

LUKE

A supernatural connection wasn’t needed for Luke to know exactly how much Keagan was being fueled by pure, unadulterated rage. The connection built over _years_ of knowing each other was more than enough on that front. Which is why she felt confident in the fact that though surely the older woman would be disappointed -if not full out angry- with her for _not_ leaving with Rikke, it would also hardly be a surprise to her.

“This absolute asshat just proved he was willing to fire his weapon even if it meant you were caught in the crossfire. You’re mental if you think I’m leaving you alone with him…even if he’s not likely to regain consciousness any time soon,” Luke stated, voice still deeper and rougher than usual. “Come on, I’ll get us to the station faster and Rikke can meet us there with Blake and Mick.” Her shoulder was still making itself hard to ignore, but it’s not like there was much that anyone at the hotel could do that she couldn’t do herself at the station with a first-aid kit.

Bringing Keagan in for an embrace with her right arm, she placed a boot in the middle of Hendrix’s back for contact and orbed them out.

+Cut to: Inside the Ballroom

HANEUL

Haneul was sitting in the corner of the ballroom ever since he made the impromptu visit. It all started from Rikke's help to locate the youngest Paladin but he couldn't concentrate at first so he decided to solve *that* problem first hence why he was here. With all the moping his charge did, Haneul felt it all. And so, without warning or introduction whatsoever, he orbed his charge here before walking off to the real reason why he was here. And ever since finding Luke's position, he had been lurking from this corner ever since.

"...There is a lot of babies." He muttered once again for god knows how many times. It was babies everywhere. Babies at every corner. "Were there always this many kids in this group?" The old man was just grumbling to himself now. "Oh, you're back." He stated when he saw a familiar glow, but only noticed that she came back alone. "Surely you didn't go from losing one person to losing two?"

RIKKE

“Technically, I may have gone from losing one to losing _three_,” Rikke replied without missing a beat. “Long story, but I need to grab some folks and get them to the station asap. You’re more than welcome to come along,” she added over her shoulder as she began to make her way out to the gathered people.

Rikke wasted no time in getting to Blake, having her follow to getting Mick, and then she went ahead and approached Nix. “I’m taking these two over to the station to meet up with Keagan, and Luke may be in need of your witchy know how,” she said.

PHOENIX

She wasn't worried at all about Hendrix at all - she was worried about Luke and Keagan - her cousin looked pissed enough already, who knows what was going to happen once she got to the scene. She distracted herself with the babies until Rikke returned and walked up to her.

At the request, she nodded and got up right away. "Luke just.. keeps surprising us every day." Phoenix had heard what happened from Blake, and honestly, she didn't blame Luke. Hendrix deserved the shit he got, or about to get now that Keagan was with them too. "Let's go... before ... yeah, let's just go."

FERNANDA

The mermaid had been quick to head over to the remaining group of babies to ensure that everyone was still calm. It helped to ease the littles when the twins were brought back out by Nix and Izzy. It helped to keep her mind of the fact that Dylan had just suddenly been orbed into the party by one of the paladins. Whatever was going on _there_ was decidedly none of her business...until it was.

Her attention was off the kids for a few seconds as Nix took off, but that was all it took for Julian to manage to make his way over from the group to the half-demon. Getting up to her feet as quickly as she could, she rushed over, but wasn't quite able to reach him before he'd managed to tug at the woman's pant-leg. Scooping him up, she simply said, "Sorry."

DYLAN

Kidnapping surely wasn't new to her, but was this even considered as that when she ended up in the middle of what looked like a floor of the Radcliffe, surrounded by babies and their respective guardians? The question was how did she even get here? Her eyes looked back over to the man who brought her but who was *he*? And the glowing thing, Nox would have a field day with that if their shimmer produced such a bright light. But before she could just walk right back to him to ask, she felt a tug at her feet.

"Oh." Her eyes followed as Fernanda stood back up with the kid. "...It's fine." Unconsciously, she reached out to poke the kid's cheek with a soft smile. "...So, what is all this? Didn't think the hotel of all places such an exclusive daycare center." Her words didn't have the usual playfulness in them. Although the man seemed harmless, being teleported out of the blue did not sit well with her. "Do you know who that is?" She nodded her chin towards him, "I think everyone seemed more surprised about me being here than with him appearing out of thin air. Although honestly, I'm just as confused as to why he brought me here."

FERNANDA

It wasn't like she could be too mad at the woman for continuing her shows of affection for Julian, given that he himself was absolutely over the moon by the simple poke. Definitely a far cry from how he'd been periodically sitting by the suite's big window staring off expectantly... "It's Hanuel. He's one of the Paladins that was assigned to a charge in town by _your_ lovely breaking of he seal on the Nexus..." Fer trailed off before finally actually looking over at Dylan, a dubious look on her face as she asked, "You _do_ know what a Paladin is, right? I mean, with your _vastly_ superior existence to everybody else, surely that includes your knowledge of the supernatural world you belong to, right?"

It was a rhetorical question. "Well, you're hardly the first non-witch to be assigned to a paladin, so my guess would be that most people are just surprised that he felt the need to orb you here. The reason behind _that_ bold choice is one only he could answer for you."

HANEUL

It didn't take sensing his charge to know that she was curious about him; he could *feel* the stares coming from her direction. After Rikke disappeared off again, he decided to humour the half-demon and approached the three. "It's because you kept moping so much that it was getting annoying so I brought you here to stop that." He didn't know what happened exactly, but it needed to stop today.

He grumbled on about how ridiculous it was getting before stopping himself to look at the two merfolks before him. "...And I figured she wasn't *entirely* unwelcomed here." His eyes fell onto Julian, "Whatever it is, please solve it because I cannot go for another day of ...Whatever she's doing." He motioned towards Dylan as a whole with clear annoyance in his face, even clicked his tongue.

FERNANDA

The mermaid was used to keeping her features schooled. It wouldn't bode well if any of the other board members even remotely thought they'd gotten under her skin -especially the ones she was related to- so the look on her face remained the same even as the man pointed out that Dylan wasn't entirely unwelcome. Julian missed his friend. Simple enough. As he clicked his tongue, she just turned the same unaffected look towards Dylan and said, "You heard the man. Sort yourself out." She herself had three _literal_ babies to prioritize.

DYLAN

The look of offence she had on when accused of moping around - and also, *how* did he possibly know that? Just because Paladins could sense their charges, does not mea- *oh*. This was definitely news to her. Dylan had her finger still on Julian's cheek while she stilled to process this tidbit. Why would she have a Paladin? Were there even requirements to be assigned one?

Also not one to give away too much in the presences of others, Dylan turned her attention back to the cousins. When told to sort herself out, she actually paused to think about it for once. "...If you'd tell me how to get back in your good graces, perhaps."

FERNANDA

The mermaid could practically see the thoughts as they processed through the woman's mind, and she'd have found it comical were she not still so upset with Dylan's behavior. To Fer's credit, she made no move to pull Julian away from the woman, instead moving in closer so he could reach out and hold her hand. Despite her own conflicting emotions, the smile on the little blonde's face made it all worth it.

Fernanda wasn't surprised by the admission, knowing full well what level of maturity Dylan was actually capable of. But that very same knowledge is what made it to where the mermaid was not about to spoon-feed the half-demon the steps to making things right. "You already know what you did wrong, surely you're clever enough to know what to do to make things right."

DYLAN

Apologizing was not something she did often and especially not to strangers whom she could care less about. However, it was obvious that she had to do at least that to the bakery owner because god forbid, she bought out the whole store.

"Is she even here?" She muttered as she wiggled her finger that was in the kid's grasp. While she didn't know if apologizing is all she needed to do to remedy this, but she wasn't dim enough to not know that this was at least *a* step towards the right direction.

FERNANDA

The smile that graced her features at the question was small and smug as fuck, but it was still a smile. She handed Julian over to Dylan -since he was already practically launching himself over anyway- and simply said, "She's downstairs in the kitchen working on dessert for the kids. I'll walk you down." Fer then tossed Aundt Dee a look, and when she got a nod back, she began to lead them to the kitchen on their floor.

DYLAN

She naturally adjusted her grip on Julian when he was being passed over, fixing his outfit along the way. Unknowingly, it did bring aa little smile to her face. Though she was following Fernanda to the kitchen, her pace was a bit slower as if she was trying to stall - not that the distance was that great in the first place. It didn't take long before she spotted the blond in the kitchen.

Slowly approaching the other, her eyes fleeted from the baker to the mermaid and back. She needed to keep her snark at bay because as much as she enjoyed chaos, adding oil to the fire where Fernanda was involved was a bad idea. "I.. am here to apologize for my last visit." She cleared her throat. "Just because I could buy out your shop doesn't necessarily mean that I should."

HUNTER

Hunter was honestly far too invested in the mini-Christmas tree cakes she was finishing up for the babies to notice she had visitors. She also wasn’t exactly the best at holding grudges or even recalling when she’d been slighted, so the apology was kind of a non-issue…it also didn’t help that said apology wasn’t actually an apology.

“So you’re not entirely clear on what you’re apologizing for but you’re apologizing? I suppose it’s better than what most people get. For the record, I personally took little offense to your actions, but someone else may very well require you to give a genuine apology so you may want to work on that.” And with that, she went right back to the cakes.

SAGE

Sage, who happened to be there to accompany Hunter in the kitchen, turned towards the visitors when she heard the non-apology with an arched brow. Though her sister did say she took little offence, it did make the chef curious to the situation. She walked up to the conversation and folded her arms while leaning against the counter, "Is something the matter?" Her sister may be forgiving, but Sage was not - depending on the situation, of course.

Then she recognized the women next to Fernanda, "Ah.. You were the one accompanying Fernanda that day." They didn't exchange words since the woman was sulking and it wasn't long after until the mermaid stood up and left with the babies. She had no idea it also involved her step-sister though.

HUNTER

Nothing snapped Hunter's attention to the source faster than Sage's voice. Be it habit or pure survival instinct, who knew. But it was effective, so even as she continued onto the next tiny cake -which she already knew was eventually just going to be a smash cake anyway- she glanced up and said, "Yes. She's also the one, who even though they'd never even so much as set foot outside the shop door, had made up their mind that my products were sub-par and not even worth, what she implied to consider, small change that she would be spending to purchase all of the inventory we'd had in stock at the time."

Hunter may not hold a grudge or take offense easily, but that didn't mean she was quick to completely forget nor that she hadn't understood when offense had been intended.

DYLAN

The way her eyes snapped immediately towards Fernanda would be comical if she wasn't the one in trouble. Clearing her throat when she actually felt a blip of shame, Dylan moved Julian to her other side and gave her full attention to the chef and baker. "Yes, that was poor judgment on my part." She wondered if it was a good idea to say that she should have at least tried it before thinking so, but she held her tongue at that. Glancing between all three of them, Dylan started fidgeting with Julian's tiny fingers. "I.. apologize for my words." She hummed as she thought of what to say next, "Is there perhaps anything I can do to make up for it..?"

HUNTER

The baker knew this apology was the best she was getting, and honestly the fact it was genuine went far further in her book than it being super specific or whatever. She was ready to just smile and shrug it off but then the woman left herself wide-open with that last question.

Hunter glanced up with a grin, and tossed her a clean apron. “Now that you mention it, we have some cookies ready to be handed out to the littles and the not-so littles. That should help you keep your nice outfit _mostly_ intact if they get excited.” The implication that Dylan should grab the cookie tray was made more obvious by Sage shifting slightly to let her grab it.

DYLAN

She looked at the apron, which thankfully was as plain as one could get with aprons, and let out a very defeated sigh. It didn't a genius to know that she wouldn't be one to go around and hand out treats for kids but she did ask.. so.. this was on her even if it weren't meant for an apology. "...Right." She wasn't even going to bitch about it, at least not right now. Passing Julian back over to Fernanda, she reluctantly took the apron from Hunter and slowly put it on.

"Kids and their sweets.." She hummed, and put on a smile that was similar to the one she wore at work. This was also not the kind of socializing she was used to; it's like a different kind of battle once she return to the main area. It was like ripping off a band-aid. Instead of trying to find some excuse to go in, she just went and held the tray in front of them. "...Enjoy."

FERNANDA

The fact Dylan was willingly handing over Julian and putting on the apron already set off her inner-alarm bells. There wasn't so much as a single sigh or huff of disdain as the woman grabbed the tray, and Fer could just feel it in her bones that if she didn't follow her out something was going to go very wrong.

And she wasn't entirely off base. Setting Julian down next to Cat, she was able to swiftly place herself between the approaching Dee and Dylan, while taking the tray and standing back up. "Oh, how _thoughful_ of you to want to let the kids pick their own cookie," she said with a smile towards the brunette that was clearly more about baring teeth as it didn't reach her blazing eyes. "_But_, each one has a baby's name because some of them have dietary restrictions that range from harmless issues with texture to _life-threatening_ allergies." Once she'd managed to convince Dee that she would keep an eye on the woman around the kids, she turned back to Dylan and handed back the tray. "Think of this as one of the best opportunities to show Julian and myself that you know who our friends are..." she whispered as a smirk crossed her face.

DYLAN

"...Wouldn't they still know how to read?" Dylan mumbled before looking down at the names labelled out. Not wanting to see Fernanda and Julian be disappointed in her too much *again*, she looked around at all the babies to see if she could pin the kid to the names. It would definitely be easier if they were their original age, but Dylan could see similarities.

"Let's see here.." She started passing out the cookies carefully to each kid. Luckily, the personalities of each kid made it much easier - at least enough from what she was often told. A lot of it was due to the process of elimination, ie. who was the most snuggly to the least. "Will that do?" Her eyes quickly gave everyone another once-over as if she was double checking her 'work'.

FERNANDA

"Hmm...and here I thought you'd learned your lesson about making assumptions," the mermaid whispered back. She may not be one of the supers in this gathering that had above average hearing, but she was _still_ standing like right there. Watching the woman make an honest attempt to place all the cookies with the right baby, she followed behind just in case and only had to swap Sean and Sky's cookies. Granted those were less allergy related and more the fact that they had different tastes in cookies.

When all was said and done, she could only smirk once more as Dylan provided a question that was laced with far more sarcasm than someone in her position should be allowed to use right now. "It's a _start_. I'm sure Hunter and Sage could would greatly appreciate another set of hands in the kitchen, even if it's just for dish washing."

DYLAN

She looked back at Fernanda as if she just grew a second head. "Dish washing?" It'd be a lie to say that she never done it before, but the times when she did, she had been at the barn. "..I-" She looked back at the kitchen where the two women were still busy doing.. whatever.

However, her complaints didn't follow - at least not vocally. With a sigh, she got up with the now empty tray and stared at the kitchen before looking back at Fernanda, almost hoping she'd suggest something else. With that pause, her lips pursed into a wry smile before finally walking over, "... Very well." It wasn't as if she was doing this for fun anyways; she was meant to be apologizing after all. "Cookies delivered." She announced once she was nearer as she set down the tray onto the kitchen counter. "Anything else on the list?"

HUNTER

As Dylan walked in, Sage made her way to the back of the kitchen to check on dinner. "Well, there are quite few items on the general to-do list, but let's be honest, there's not a lot on that list that Sage would consider it wise for you to be trusted with," Hunter pointed out, "She was cool with the cookies because we both figured even if you managed to royally mess that one up, Fer would be able to step in and make the fix."

Glancing up from her current cake and surveying the counter, she smiled and said, "The drinks for the parents are ready though, so you can always lend a hand by helping us get those out to them while the dinner table gets set up."

DYLAN

Dylan was literally dreading every task that came her way more and more. Dealing with adults? Nothing new. Dealing with *this* crowd of adults. Entirely different. Biting her tongue from commenting about serving drinks to everyone herself, Dylan just looked at Fernanda, contemplating of asking her outright if she was still upset with her. Somehow that seemed like a really *bad* idea so she refrained from doing that. There wasn't a need to further upset the mermaid while she was trying to get back in her good graces.

"...Will you be joining me with this too?" She asked said mermaid, with a smile as she nudged the other with her hip. "For one, I can't guarantee that Ms Fire Ablazing will like me approaching her."

FERNANDA

Fer had to admit that despite the look Dylan’s face, it was actually really nice to see her proving she was more than capable to be civil -if not downright nice- outside of the confines of the farmhouse. If the glint Julian’s blue eyes, and the giggles coming from the babies was anything to go by, they too were enjoying the sight.

When she approached, the mermaid just shook her head. “Nope. You’re entirely on your own, as you certainly didn’t need anyone’s help in pissing other people off,” she quipped. “Besides, Haneul -the guy that brought you here- is a firefighter so, you should be good.”

DYLAN

Dylan didn't know what she was more surprised about.. The fact that she was about to go serve drinks to everyone, including that fire witch, or the fact that she wanted to go *home* right now. And since Fernanda wasn't going to go with her, that demotivated her even more. "I'm hurt, not even a shred of concern." She sighed ever so dramatically.

With that, she begrudgingly walked over to the drinks before moving onto the main area. As if she was ripping off the bandage, the half-demon went right up to the couple who least likely want her around in the first place. "Care for a drink, K-bear?" Her eyes went to Ren and it took everything in her being to avoid ~~provoking ~~teasing the other. "I promise they're not poisoned."

KIERAN

Kieran considered herself to be at the party mostly as moral support for Ren and Steve. At least she did all the way leading up to actually arriving, and realizing she was far more involved with everyone than she originally thought. It helped that apparently the other 'babies' were far more endeared to her than she originally thought. Despite the small skirmish that had occurred earlier -which she was certain Keagan would more than handle- things were going great.

Until they weren't. That stupid nickname was the fastest way to flip the switch on her mood, but she wasn't about to make any kind of scene here when Steve and the other babies were in plain sight. "No, thank you....though if you could grab me a water when you head back to the kitchen, that'd be great."

FLORENCIA

This party was nice. Everyone was around to help with the kids and it really was easier to have all the babies in one place especially since they were missing each other anyways. Ren didn't know what to say about Avery... who seemed to be having a *really* hard time adapting to the situation.

Speaking of adapting to the situation.... Of all the people in this town to be here with a baby, Dylan was not one of them. And she was *actually* trying to be civil. Florencia did not believe her eyes even if she's been seeing how the demon had been acting around the mermaid. Was she actually trying to get in her good graces? Hell really did freeze over.

Her mood immediately soured as well when said demon decided to saunter over and be her usual annoying self. Since Steve was with them, the demon was safe from being set on fire as she had wished to do since the first time they met. "Do you really trust anything she brings to you? I wouldn't." She scoffed.

KIERAN

"Yes, actually," she replied, before adding, "Water bottles are pretty tamper evident and they've been brought in by Leo's people, and handled by Hunter and Sage. This one here doesn't have anywhere near the magical knowledge to mess it in a sense that I wouldn't be able to tell in less than two seconds...why do you think _I_ was kept around for so long? Someone had to do magic that didn't involve immediately making everyone in the room hate them."

DYLAN

Her chin rose in the air when Kieran decided that it was the time to gloat. And she was right, there had been several reasons why she kept the witch by her side but to hear it said aloud was something else. "Well, we all know how smart K-Bear was. We did achieve many things together." Her eyes flickered over to Ren and back. As much as she wanted to continually tease Ren, she was not here to start another fight. "I suppose I can get you that water bottle after I get these passed out." Since neither witch seemed interested in the drinks, she figured it was time to move on.

FERNANDA

It was a testament, at least in Fer's eyes, that the woman was not only willing to go through with passing out the drinks, but went ahead and directly approached the person most would've avoided the most in her shoes. As the half-demon made her way back towards the kitchen, the mermaid simply took advantage of the fact the kids were entertained to go off and fall in step beside her.

As they reached one of the archways in the hall, Fernanda gently pulled Dylan to a stop and without much preamble, placed a gently kiss to her lips. Pulling back after a second -or two, who's counting?- she simply smiled and then glanced up as she said, "Mistletoe." She began to walk back to the main room but looked back over her shoulder and smirked, "Don't forget the water."

DYLAN

A kiss was the last thing Dylan expected when heading back to the kitchen and it was definitely not something she'd complain about. It did take her a moment to process what had happened. She didn't even bother looking up if there was actually a mistletoe or not. She was more concerned that Fernanda was already walking away from her. "Wait."

She blurted out as she quickened her pace to catch up to the other. she reached out to grab her. "That was a bit too quick of a kiss, isn't it?" Her mood improved at lightning speed though her smile did dropped to a less mischievous looking one. "I take it I'm back in your good graces?"

FERNANDA

The blonde had already eased to a stop by the time Dylan reached out to grab her. She met the mischievous smile with a smirk of her own and said, "We have all the Paladins in town here, so if you think complaining about the length of the kiss is going to do anything, rest assured all it would do is cause me to ask one of them to make sure you don't remember the kiss at all."

Fer hummed at the question and said, "You're certainly heading in the right direction. Especially when you consider that that the mistletoe was certainly not there the first time we came back here and," she paused glancing back up at the item, "I'm almost certain that one's been handmade out of modeling chocolate. Seems a certain baker has taken pity on you. Now, I have babies to get back to and you have some more helping to do."

DYLAN

"That'd be just too cruel." She had her own smile to match, "Giving me a kiss and simply taking it away from me? Too cruel, darling. Even I wouldn't do something like that." She chuckled before looking up at the mistletoe as well. "...Should I just hanging mistletoes all over the place?" She joked. Maybe.

With a sigh, she looked back towards the the kitchen where she was sure there were other things for her to do, aside from bringing her ex her water. "How about another kiss before I face the crowd again.... and that fire witch." Perhaps she could just quickly drop off the water and *go* without too much hassle.

FERNANDA

"You'd never even know you lost anything, so for all intents and purposes it would actually be far less cruel than some other alternatives I can think," she pointed out, a warning tone tinging her voice. Fernanda snorted in laughter, unable to keep it in at the question, even if she knew the woman was being facetious. "You're not the type to lug around a ladder or exert the energy needed to such a thing, so I think I'm safe."

The mermaid shook her head, smirk still in place. "Nope. I'm not rewarding you for fixing what you broke to begin with. Besides, I don't trade in kisses as a business commodity. They are freely given, _when_ I so choose. Now seriously, I'm going back to the kids before Aunty D decides to make herself an even bigger problem for you than being set on fire."

DYLAN

The half demon let out an overexaggerated sigh of disappointment once she was certain she wasn't going to receive another kiss even after her persuasion. "Very well..." One shouldn't annoy Aunty Dee, no matter who you were. And besides, Dylan was in a much better mood that she didn't care about facing Kieran and her pet again despite the words the latter might throw her way.

While she could probably sneak in a kiss to the cheek, Dylan wasn't going to risk it... considering Fernanda did emphasize she'd kiss 'when *she* chose*. "I'll behave." She mumbled as she headed straight for the kitchen again. "Drinks delivered.. though someone would rather a bottle of water. Also, I believe I've been assigned as your helper for the rest of the day.. or days for all I know until you're sick of me."

HUNTER

As entertaining as it was to see just how whipped the woman really was beneath her rather uh... _sour_ disposition, Hunter and Sage were barely used to sharing a kitchen space with each other and the few people they employed. As the woman came back in, in a much better mood, Hunter immediately handed her a bottle of water and coincided with Sage as they both said, "We're sick of you."

DYLAN

As if that was the best news she's heard all day - other than Fernanda not being upset with her anymore - Dylan had on the brightest smile that was the most genuine someone outside her circle would've saw. "Excellent!" Not quite the reaction to hearing that someone was sick of her, but surely, no one was surprised.

Dylan took off towards Kieran and dangled the bottle in front of the other, "Special delivery to K-Bear." She said in a very sing-songy tone. "Though this might be my last of the day - or ever for the unforeseen future. I got booted out of the kitchen."

KIERAN

Kieran took the proffered bottle, and simply rolled her eyes. "Well, it's not like it would be the first time that's happened, and considering how useless you are in a kitchen, I'm sure it won't be the last." She watched Dylan head off and was about to turn back to Ren, when she felt her phone buzz.

Checking the notification on her watch, she said, "Looks like an unprompted text from Mick. Could either be nothing or we could be about to evacuate the entire town into the high school gym..._again_. Really is no in-between." She fished out her phone to better read the text. "_Keagan wants a pic update of how the girls are and I don't have anyone else's number memorized_ Wha- why would it matter, she has a contact li- _Had to swap the sim card to a burner phone because mine broke_ Oh, well I guess that answers that...but also now begs far more questions...like why didn't Keagan just message someone dire- you know what forget it, I'm just gonna, yeah..." Kieran trailed off as she snapped a quick pic of the twins happily seemingly to giggle and gossip with the other babies as they watched Dylan, of all people.

FLORENCIA

: While Kieran was explaining the text, Ren could not keep her eyes off of both the babies and *Dylan*. "Where did they go again? It sounds like everything's fine if they've got time to ask about the girls." She asked without taking her eyes off of the group. "Is it just me or do the kids seems *very* interested in that bi- *Dylan*... Dylan." She repeated as if she didn't slip-up just now. Her sister may have physically reverted, but she was still not going to swear in her presence. "I'm pretty sure that-" she pointed to Julian, "-kid actually likes her. Wasn't she holding him earlier? Hell must've frozen over. Dylan Waldorf getting along with babies."

KIERAN

"The station," she replied before scoffing and adding, "Oh all hell could be breaking loose, and you can bet your ass Keagan Calvetti is still going to find the time to ask about her kids. If anything, the fact that she had gone so long without contacting them prior to her arrival back in town was a reason for concern." Kieran could only chuckle as she reached out and wrapped an arm around Ren's shoulders, bringing her in for a side-hug. "I'm almost certain they're gossiping about the fact Dylan is behaving the way she is. Who knows? Maybe he's been a good influence on her. His elder cousin certainly seems to have had an effect."

FLORENCIA

"I did not expect that." She chuckled, "Honestly, I'm just glad that she was not Chief Deputy yet for all those times I've been dragged to the station." She mumbled, "Did you guys ever find out why she went MIA?" With the arm around her, she naturally rested her head against her girlfriend's shoulder. Whatever irritation she felt from Dylan before was gone. "Do *you* think she could actually change for the better?" She scoffed, "I'm surprised Auntie Dee hadn't kicked her out yet - not that I'm super biased or anything." Her eyes rolled before leaning up to kiss Kieran on the cheek.

"Anyways.. back to Kieran and them.. Do you think they're doing alright? They've been gone for a while now and I don't know how long before that one twin is going to start crying about it."

KIERAN

"If she _had_ been, you wouldn't have been dragged to the station more than the one time. Either because you learned your lesson or because she'd make sure you didn't get back out," Kieran noted. There was no point in even attempting to cover up the fact that Ren got so many free passes because of her own involvement. "Nope. With a government job like hers, answers aren't really forthcoming and it's usually just best not to ask." Green eyes glanced back over at Dylan for a moment before looking down at Ren. "It's complicated. Humans can be capable of some of the most heinous things, and I've met full-blooded demons that are kindest of souls. She has the potential to change if she finds something or some_one_ worth changing for. That bitch is nothing if not stubborn," she chuckled.

Kieran immediately locked in on Sky, not needing to be told which twin Ren meant. "Uh, well, she seems pretty entertained at the moment between her sister and her girlfriends -which kudos to Erin, she's not making it as weird as Avery- but, I'm just going to guess things are at least manageable...? The available members of the 'Fallcrest MENSA Chapter' haven't been called in to help yet so..." Kieran shrugged.

AMARAJA

Amaraja leaned over to the two witches, intrigued with their conversation about those who left to deal with.. whatever it was. Was it simply because she was ~~nosy ~~ curious about her descendants or she just wanted to know the demise of the man who oh-so-boldly held one of the twins. "I must say.. The man has quite the confidence to storm right up to this floor and mess with the kids without a hint of fear of potential consequence." She'd applaud the man if she weren't just as protective over Arit as Keagan and Luke were over their twins - and others.

"It makes me want to head over to the station myself to see if they .. what's the word, 'un-alived' him for the sheer gall alone." She chuckled before wrapping her arm around her own wife. "What do you say, eṉ aṉpē?"

RAQUEL

It was inevitable that her wife would find her way into the midst of things once they were thrown into the mix by the _literal_ infantilization of their daughter, but Raquel had to admit she was surprised to find how easily the normally distant -'My job requires me to keep distance'- therapist found it to engage with almost everyone. "Yes, well, you've also been a long-standing proponent of the belief that confidence and ignorance are often interchangeable," she remarked, her main focus on Arit currently engaging in a seemingly profound babbled conversation with the ginger twin.

Closing her eyes before rolling them, she opened them and glanced over at her wife with a look that screamed 'smooth'. "I say, go on ahead. I'm sure no one here would mind, but it seems rather unfair to leave Arit in their care just to sate curiosity. And no, we can't just take her with us."

AMARAJA

She simply smiled at her wife, expecting the answer way before she even asked - though it did make her chuckle when it was made known that Arit would not be going with them. "Alas, I'll have to be satisfied with never knowing then." She leaned over to lightly kiss her temples. "Can never win against your arguments."

Turning towards the baby in question, Amaraja's heart just melt with the sight of her bonding with the twin. It'd be insane to think that she'd leave that kid behind in the first place. Unable to help herself, the town's therapist got up from her sit to go pick her kid up just to smother her with kisses. "Eṉ maka. Just what are the two of you up to?" Business at the station already forgotten.

EVAN

The redhead glanced up at the woman's words and said, "Knowing those two? They were probably comparing baby grip strength or something equally intense that requires less than a full brain-cell to debate...respectfully." Glancing back over at the woman's wife smiling fondly at the sight of Amaraja holding their baby, she added, "After all the years of sitting on the couch across from you in therapy, I have no idea what I expected when you brought up having a wive. But you two are sickeningly cute." The irony of her words being followed by her promptly focusing her attention on the blonde baby in her lap and getting a dumbstruck look on her face, was completely lost.

After a beat or two, she turned back to Amaraja and said, "I told Rip we should ease up on our attempts to narrow down what kind of supernatural you are. It was starting to feel like trying to out someone who wasn't ready to be out and I didn't like it. No guarantees her stubborn ass actually let it go though."

AMARAJA

Freeing a hand, she scooped up the ginger twin as well, not wanting to interrupt whatever the two of them were up to for too long. "Oh? And have we come to a conclusion?" Amaraja played along as she decreased the distance between the babies a bit more. How would she desribe the feeling she got from simply seeing the two get along so well? At the topic of her wife, she looked over her shoulder and motioned for the other to join them. "Well, a lot of people were just as surprised as you. I have no clue why that is though." The therapist speaking as if she hadn't 'unintentionally' kept it a secret.

The Timeless merely hummed, "Oh.. I am very sure that Ripley will not drop this. I'm surprised that you're easing off quite frankly." The two of them were two very curious people and Amaraja wouldn't fault them for that. "I don't know what my wife would say about Ripley constantly having little ol'me on her mind all the time though."

RAQUEL

Catching the last bit of the conversation as she approached the group, Raquel simply looked gave a smug smirk and said, "I'd say that having you constantly on her mind is what she has to settle for because that's the only place she's going to have you." It wasn't lost on Rikki just how many beautiful people were in this one little town, and given that context the fact that her fellow Guild member was near the top of the list was undeniable. But she knew her wife well enough.

"As for everyone's surprise at my existence, and honestly Arit's by extent, I think we can just chalk it up to the fact that therapists have this uncanny ability to always shift the focus of a conversation to the _other person_...and yes, she does also do the same at home."

AMARAJA

"Oh, have I ever told you how attractive it is to see you being a little jealous?" Her smile definitely showed just how delighted she was to hear her wife say that. "Don't worry, eṉ aṉpē, you're the only one for me." She reassured though she was sure her wife trusted her as much as she did the other. One would be blind if the town didn't also think Raquel was just as attractive.

"When I do it to others, it's because they pay me to talk about *them*. I was simply driving them back on course." Her eyes rolled playfully, "Or maybe I just don't believe I'm all that interesting to talk about. I like listening about others after all. I will say, you did try really hard to figure me out when we first met."

RAQUEL

There was the beginning of another smug look at her wife's words, but the look on their daughter's face that somehow still managed to scream 'right in front of my salad?' had her settling on a soft smile instead. "You can tell me all about it later, corazón. No need to embarrass Air in front of her friends." Or themselves by being far to comfortable with their banter in public, but she would hope that last bit was understood.

"You _do_ rather enjoy listening to everyone else," she said, just barely managing to keep in the 'because you're nosy as fuck' to herself. "Correction, querida, I _succeeded_ very well in figuring you out. It's how we've managed to stay together for so long, after all."

+Cut to: Inside the Station

KEAGAN

While she wanted to get Luke treated before anything, she did not trust leaving Hendrix, albeit unconscious and cuffed, out in the open. And so, keeping her rage as contained as she could at the moment, she grabbed the man and literally throws him into one of the cells without giving a damn about his well-being at the moment. Who cared if his back (maybe his head too) might have slammed against on wall on the other side of the cell a little bit too hard? Surely not her. Once he was locked up, the wolf *stormed* her way straight back to Lucas.

"*Sit *down." She growled as she inspected the wound before grabbing what she needed to clean it out. Up until Mick and Blake's arrival, she had been focusing on getting the younger woman patched up without another peep. "He's locked up." She told the other two before tossing out the trash covered in blood. "I cannot *believe* you orbed me away just to take the hit yourself."

LUKE

The mother wolf's footsteps resounded in her -still relatively newly sensitive- ears long before her words did, but the redhead couldn't quite bring herself to give the woman's very clear anger the attention it deserved -or much of any really- because her eyes were currently keenly focused on her hands. She knew they were hers because they were attached to the end of her arms, but their current appearance made them feel foreign.

Luke's focus wasn't drawn back to Keagan until one of her attempts at cleaning the wound moved the bullet in such a way that it sent a shock of pain shooting through every nerve in her body. A deep growl formed in the pit of her chest and she could feel her lips pulling back in a grimace, sliding over far larger canines than should have been there. "Not that this will make things any better, but there really wasn't much _conscious thought_ that went into it," she managed. "Lizard brain took over and it was all 'get Cal out of harm's way' and there wasn't much brainpower left to consider 'oh, and maybe self too?'-" her rant was cut short by a hiss at another wave of pain shot through her. Glancing down at the wound she said, "That doesn't look healthy."

PHOENIX

Her eyes widened at the sight of *Luke*. "Shit.. Don't tell me he actually tried to kill you?" The witch wasn't sure what she expected but she definitely didn't expect to see her covered in blood, while her own cousin looked fine - hella angry, but fine. Considering that Paladins can't heal other Paladins with their magic, they'll have to do it the mundane way. As Keagan was finishing up with the clean, Nix also noticed the irregular symptons.

"...Wait. That's -" Her eyes looked over to her cousin who seemed to be just as surprised as she was. "But that's a silver bullet.." She was already reaching out to pull her cousin away from said bullet. "It shouldn't affect Luke though..?" The conclusion already came to mind and although she was still very confused by the whole situation, she still needed to get said bullet out now even though she was now a little bit more cautious now. "...We're going to have to get that out so."

RIKKE

The Paladin was overwhelmed by Luke's sense of confusion as soon as they materialized at the station, but her focus was quickly drawn over to the blur of a body being hurled into a cell. As Nix headed off towards the other two, she made her way over to the man and quick work of his wounds. It was a kindness he might not deserve, but she was bound by her paladin nature and morals not to just let him die from blunt-force trauma either. Finally heading over to the others herself, the paramedic stopped in her tracks.

"Hellige lort." The curse tumbled past her lips without conscious thought before she broke out in a fit of laughter, much to the confusion of the others she was sure. "I'm sorry," she said when she finally managed to stop, though a huge grin was still on her face, "I just, didn't think I'd ever get to see another Holstein wolf after my family was killed..." Snapping back to the moment though, she orbed out and back in few seconds with her bag in tow. "Right, not gonna be much of anything if we don't get that bullet out and some...uh..." she glanced back over at the rest as was already working her forceps into the opening, "I forget the name, but it's the potion that acts like Benadryl for silver."

PHOENIX

*Oh* Luke was a wolf now too? That was new. Born-Paladin *and* wolf? They'd definitely would have to keep an eye on her especially during the full-moon because for all they knew, Luke might be the strongest one out of them all. Phoenix blanched at the sudden thought.

"...It's not a full moon tonight, is it?" Really, with a family full of wolves, one would think the witch had that schedule memorized. "Wait, no, that was - everyone's still around so no, I suppose not." She muttered before getting closer to take a better look at the wound. "...With that kind of bullet, Luke's going to need *very* strong painkillers... Do you need help? I think any longer that bullet's in there and Keg's going to kill us instead." She asked though she wasn't sure what she could do besides restraining the other with magic - anything less and she might be the next person to hit the wall.

RIKKE

She didn't the growl from Luke to know she'd moved the forceps in the wrong direction, but the fact that there was no full moon out tonight being highlighted hit Rikke like a ton of bricks. The realizations -and by extension questions- just kept piling up. No full moon, no full transformation, not fully given in to 'wolf brain', and tolerating the silver well...relatively... "What the fuck...?" Came out as a mere whisper, but everyone probably heard it.

Feeling the forceps grip sturdily onto the metal, she replied with a very quick "Keep her still" before immediately pulling as hard as she could to remove the bullet. Looking back at the wound she made a face and said, "Well, it won't look pretty and it won't be super fast but it _does_ look like it'll heal in the magical way. I can clean it further and patch it up just so there isn't a shrinking hole in your shoulder the rest of the night, but it's already stopped bleeding."

PHOENIX

While she would love to solve the mystery that is Luke, it wasn't the time to focus on that. Thankfully, Rikke also had the same thought as she already moved onto removing bullet before Phoenix could even register what she said and quickly snapping her wrist to cast a spell to hold said wolf-Paladin down.

She grimaced at the sight of it. "Uhm.. Yeah, let's go make that potion for you... Keg probably wants you to have it just in case." She looked over to Mick, "I.. don't suppose you have supplies to make one here, do you? If not, I'll need to make a quick shopping trip."

MICK

The Sheriff had been too caught up in helping Blake start the process of making the needed calls to get Hendrix back out of Fallcrest, still in cuffs though. She understood the agency's desire to hang on to its existing agents first-hand, after all balancing the ignorant mundanes with the knowledgable supers in her own station was a task and a half. Still, this guy wasn't worth the trouble.

At the less-angry Calvetti's question, it took her a second to process it but, after blinking dumbly a few times -and a growl she couldn't tell if it came from Luke or her deputy- Mick said, "The morgue. Kyle keeps a full stock of ingredients for emergencies...that kid is weird..."

KEAGAN

She gave a nod to her cousin before the other set off for the morgue. The Chief Deputy grabbed the nearest chair and sat next to Luke with her eyes not leaving the grotesque wound. Though it stopped bleeding and Luke's life wasn't actually in danger, it was needless to say that Keagan still hadn't relaxed in the slightest bit. "How are you feeling?" Her hand reached out and gently rubbed up and down on the Paladin's arm on the uninjured side.

Now that she's taking a closer look at the other, she also came to the same realizations that the oldest Paladin did. "...You seem to be doing rather well for someone who *just* triggered their wolf." Her eyes glanced back at the ancestor, "...Does this have something to do with the whole Paladin thing?"

RIKKE

She'd gone off to help with finding the ingredients for the potion, but had doubled-back as soon as they were all gathered. Partially to keep from making things as awkward as the last time she'd tried to help Nix make a potion...but there was also the fact that she was _technically_ the only medical professional onsite at the moment and Luke still had a gaping wound even if it wasn't actively unaliving her at the moment.

The blonde made it back in time to hear Luke reassure Keagan that she was fine -even though the question had been 'how are you _feeling_?' which the redhead seemed to be a master at somehow circumventing- and when the next question was directed at her, Rikke simply shook her head. "Can't be. The process of becoming a Paladin completely negates any and all previous powers. Even if I _had_ managed to pass down my wolf-gene to my son, the process of having the Timeless Child's blood replace my own would've also negated their powers in-utero...I _think_?"

KEAGAN

Giving the injured a short glare for the answer that clearly stated that they were definitely going to discuss this later, Keagan gave her attention to Rikke who answered her latter question. "One would think so.. but as we've learned quite quickly with Luke here.. that the impossible is very much plausible when it comes to her." She sighed as her hand now moved to the crook of Luke's neck. "I don't think that this.. is just a result of her simply *tolerating* pain." They all knew how silver affects a wolf so this was a sure sign that something was out of the ordinary.

"What else could it be though? The only thing we know so far is that there's Paladin blood in her - maybe being born with it is what's causing this to be different?" At this rate, *unicorn* was really the most accurate adjective they could give the woman.

RIKKE

"Yeah, that's the part that's giving cause for concern." Even as she spoke the words she could feel Luke's stomach dropping, but Rikke could handle Luke being a little upset with her if it meant being honest and doing what was best to keep her safe. "Just like we had no way of knowing the _benefit_ of her healing, if a bit botched, from a silver wound, we also had no way of knowing silver would even do anything to her in the first place. And, as much as it sucks to admit, it also means that we don't know if there won't be any complications later. I mean, that thing's healing now but it could also just randomly decide to stop or whatever else." Rikke threw her hands in the air, emphasizing the exasperation that had built as she spoke.

"I'm sorry. I'm just not used to _not_ knowing this much about something, and it's even worse because this is my own _family_."

PHOENIX

Since she was creating the potion, she decided to do enough for a couple more vials for emergency purposes. "Hey, I've got the potions ready." She came back with an organized little box that was graciously provided by Nikki. "I made a few more just for safe keeping. Rikke can have some too as part of the emergency kit." She held the box out once she was closer to everyone.

Having caught bits of the conversation, the witch let out a shrug, "So.. we're *all* going to need to keep an eye on Luke in case anything happens." She gave Luke an apologetic smile as she spoke. "Do you want to take it now?" She took a small vial.

LUKE

"Sure," Luke acquiesced lamely and reached out to take the offered potion once Rikke was passing by with the ones to go in her emergency kit. It's not that she didn't understand the reason everyone was concerned -she was really fucking confused herself, after all- but she'd rather be the focus be on getting Hendrix _away_ from her girls. Permanently...whatever form that took. Glancing at her hand as she lowered the potion from her lips, Luke noted it had mostly reverted back. "Looks like I won't have to wear out six razors after all," she joked, even chuckling at her own stupid joke for a bit before a look at Keagan made it clear that wasn't as funny as she thought.

"Sorry. I just- I'd rather focus on lame jokes than the fact someone that actually made me feel like wanting to strangle them is less than ten feet away." Her voice began to drop again as her anger rose, and this time she didn't have to look at her hands to realize the change. There wasn't much time to say anything in response as a familiar, and thoroughly unwanted voice rang out, "You can't let such a volatile and clearly unstable woman near our children, Keggy. You don't even know what she _is_, other than psychotic and obsessed with you!" Luke wasn't consciously aware of having decided to move until she was back in the man's face growling out an, "Someone got mighty confident thinking a few bars would keep him safe."

KEAGAN

Just when they had a moment of peace and quiet while they try and sort things out with Luke, *someone* thought it was a good idea to regain consciousness and start speaking the first chance he got. While everything about him and what he said grated on her nerves, the first to react was Luke. What was surprising was the growl and *fangs* that appeared. Keagan used her speed to stand next to Luke, in case she killed the guy no matter how tempting it was.

"Shut up, Goodwin. As if you weren't shooting with the intent to *kill* me fucking earlier. " She too growled with her eyes glowing amber once more. The words he spoke described himself more than anyone else in the room but she was not going to entertain him right now. Instead, she focused on the woman. "*Lucas*. Stand down. Don't even listen to him." She was sure parts of her anger was the side-effects of being a wolf.

LUKE

At the reminder that instead of a nuisance to herself, that silver bullet almost became a death sentence for Keagan, her anger rose even more and she felt her grip tighten around the man's throat as she hoisted off his feet again. His desperate claims that the intended target had been Luke all along but it was dark, were not nearly as beneficial to himself as he might've thought. "I mean-" wheeze "silver or not-" wheeze "humans aren't-" wheeze "bullet-proof...but-" wheeze "who knows-" wheeze "what the fuck-" wheeze "this _thing_ is." Luke knew deep-down that she could never bring herself to kill anyone in front of Keagan -which had been one of the main reasons to leave the hotel- and it was clear by his taunting that Goodwin was banking on that.

At the sound of her name, she dropped the man. "You're not worth being kept away from _my_ girls any more than you've already managed to keep me away tonight. Whatever your endgame was, I can save you a lot of future trouble by letting you know that trying to get Keagan back on the field won't do you any good because you no longer have a government job, whatever obsession you have with Keagan in general will be _all_ you ever have left of Keagan going forward, and whatever you claim regarding the twins is pointless as we already know who the other parent is and _I'm._ _Right._ _Here._"

KEAGAN

As nice as it was to see Luke being all protective over their daughters, this was not the time to appreciate. Keagan pulled Lucas away from Goodwin with all her strength and still found some difficulties doing so. "No." She held a hand in front of Hendrix before he got the chance to start blabbering againg. "She may not have the authority but nothing she's said is a lie." She sighed as she stepped in between the cell and the Paladin who seemed keen on getting inside to attack the man. "Okay, we are separating the two of you."

She gave a look over to her boss and co-workers. As much as she'd like to stay here to finish the job, she figured they would have a better chance of getting the woman to budge if Keagan went with her. With that, she dragged the taller woman to her office, motioning for Nix to put a sound-proof barrier so that they won't hear whatever else Hendrix had to say. "Sit. I need you to take a breath and *calm down*. Okay? Focus on me and *breathe*."

LUKE

The growl at being told she didn't 'have the authority' was very much involuntary, but the grumbled out, "I only lack authority for _one_ of those," was very much a conscious choice. It was a petty one, but she'd allow herself that right now.

There was, however, no struggle as Keagan led her away to the Chief Deputy's office, and the retort she had for being _ordered_ to sit managed to stay in her head as she simply leaned on the desk instead. Luke _did_ follow instructions as she closed her eyes and focused her senses on the shorter woman; the very present and strong heartbeat already doing wonders to help slow down her own. After a few moments, Luke said, "If you tell me to move into downward dog next, I'm leaving."

KEAGAN

If her glare was anything to come by, Keagan was not in the mood for jokes. She stood there with her arms on her hip as she waited for the other to calm down, or at least be as calm as she possibly could despite circumstances.

Reaching out, she carefully held Luke's face in her hands. Was she looking for wolfish features? Mayhaps but at least the fangs seems to have withdrawn back in for now. "Feeling better?" She asked. "You've got that wolf anger down to a T."

LUKE

The look she was met with made quick work of the grin on her face. Sighing she said, "I'm sorry. It got really quiet and the longer it went on the more it dawned on me that maybe focusing all of my attention -and by default _senses_ - on you wasn't necessarily the best of ideas when impulse control is an issue....so I had to say something to just break the silence." If the rambled explanation -that wasn't asked for- was anything to go by, Luke was probably easing back to her usual self.

When she saw Keagan's hands moving in the direction of her face, she flinched. It was the slightest of movements and once said hands were cradling her face she immediately looked apologetically at their owner. "I don't like it. I don't like letting my anger get the best of me. It's not who I am," she said petulantly.

KEAGAN

Her eyes soften when the other started to ramble, which was a good start because it would be more concerning otherwise. "Hmm." She nodded, understanding how it felt. "Yeah, we know that.." She said softly, "Having it amplified due to our wolfish nature really is a bitch but it's something that every one of us had to work through, and now it's your turn." She chuckled. "Hey.. at least you've got all of us around to help you through it."

She didn't really want to say her next thoughts but she had to say it. "... We'll have to be careful around the girls." Keagan knew Luke would never harm the girls in any way or form, unintentionally or not, but one really shouldn't take any chances when it's being amplified.

LUKE

Luke listened and nodded, knowing that Keagan had a point. If there was one thing she knew for sure, it was the fact that the Fallcrest pack may be unconventional when it came to memberships, but they always had each others backs. "This is just, like, the opposite of what I'd have wanted. Like, why can't Lyra be the one with all this power and 'chosen ones' vibe? She loves attention!"

At the mention of being careful around the girls, the word vomit cane up before she could stop it. "You know I'd never hurt them right? They're my kids and regardless of what they've done I'd never lose my cool with _any_ of the kids! I mean I had all sorts of reasons to loose my cool on you just know and and even then that wasn't the issue I was facing with impulse control and spontaneous meditation." There was a pause while her own words sank in. "...Okay, I realize that wasn't the nicest thing to say, but that unfortunately doesn't negate it _and_ your main take away should be that I find you incredibly intoxicating in the best of ways."

KEAGAN

It might be disastrous if Lyra turned out to be the unicorn of the group. It was hard enough to keep her in one place, how the hell would they manage if her sister could *orb*. Despite the complaint, Keagan thanked whatever deity out there for not picking Lyra.

Her smile did falter at the sudden revelation. It had been an underlying concern that they had to address eventually but for it to be blurted out like that did take her by surprise. "Okay.. We'll definitely need a talk about *that*... But I wasn't implying that you'd hurt the girls .. or any of the babies for that matter. Wolf anger is.. something else, you know that. But I'm forever grateful that your protective instinct overtakes that ... that doesn't mean we can't be a little cautious about it."

LUKE

Luke chuckled wryly as she said, "It's starting to feel like the answer to anything we discuss is just going to be _eventually_. But I suppose it's always better than a 'no' and we should be concerned with getting back to the girls. Sky can be distracted far longer than Miles."

It wasn't the best feeling to be told you had to be 'cautious' around your own kids, but she did understand Keagan's point and she gave a relenting nod. "We can be cautious. All in the name of the girls' best interest. _Always_." She felt the need for reassurance, whether for Keagan or herself? She didn't know for sure.

KEAGAN

"We've got things to sort out so that talk will need to happen - and honestly, it's been one thing after another that we barely have time to even breath. Luke, you were literally out of the hospital not that long ago and you've already been shot at." She sighed. "I swear I'm not trying to avoid the talk."

Her eyes dropped to down to the lips, very tempted to just lift up to see if the fangs were still there. "Got to say, never thought I'd see you have fangs. With the ways are going, I wouldn't be surprised if your Paladin side gives you better control over them.."

LUKE

"Geez, you end up with brain surgery _once_ and you never hear the end of it," she grumbled, mostly joking. The bit about how both incidents Keagan was complaining about were directly caused by Keagan's exes just as much as Luke's own impulsiveness? Was kept to herself.

"Flattery will get you....surprisingly far these days depending on you flatter," she quipped, before a sense of dubiousness seeped in. Recognizing it as coming from Keagan, she grimaced to show her teeth. "All gone, and personally, I'd rather not test your theory _just_ yet."

KEAGAN

"I admit.. Both have been caused by the questionable choices I've made in life - I suppose I indirectly put you in the hospital?" She grimaced at the reality of it. There were unfortunately many similarities between the motives of Dicky and Douchwin.. the common denominator being mainly Keagan herself.

When the woman showed her teeth, Keagan playful moved her hands to hold the grimace. "Mmm. Look at you, being a constant mystery." She chuckled before giving Luke a weird look, "I'm very curious to know if you can actually make them appear and disappear on command. That's already better what our wolf natures allows us." She removed her hands and took half a step back to give Luke room while her eyes drew back to the semi-healed wound. All it did was remind her of her anger and the fact that the problem was still outside of the room. "I'm going to kill him." She muttered under her breath.

LUKE

Luke only made a face and pursed her lips a bit before just giving a weak one-shoulder shrug. "I mean, kind of? But also the fact these questionable life choices of your past decided to come near _my_ kids so." Was she maybe pushing her luck? Perhaps.

"Wehh ahh no ahhout-" She started before just waiting for her face to be set free again. "Sorry, I just didn't think 'professional' you would appreciate a puddle of my drool on your floor come morning. Anyway, as I was garbling, I don't know about 'on command' but clearly a full moon is not required. Seems like I am a constant mystery and also a constant _pain in the ass_." At the muttered threat she just whined, "No! Not fair! If I don't get to kill him neither do you. If anything, it would be _your_ turn to play the single-mom."

KEAGAN

It wasn't the first time that Luke had emphasized that they were *her* kids and her brow did raise this time. "They're more insane than I thought they were." Who would've thought that both of them would end up getting arrested for very similar reasons? "Look, I do regret those choices, and I wished I could've..." She tried to find the words for her thoughts. "Dealt with them better before it escalated to this - or not start at all, honestly, but what's done is done."

She gently shoved Luke in her uninjured side, "I *get* it." It was clear that she was not going to hear the end of it anytime soon about everything she's done in the past. While she didn't think Luke would leave the girls behind for her to even experience it, Keagan did plan on picking up the slack. There were many years she had to make up for after all. "Let's head back." She stole a quick kiss before leaning back again, "People are waiting."

LUKE

Luke couldn't help but grin lightly before replying with a simple, "That's all I needed to hear you know." Reaching out with her good arm, she took the shorter woman's hands in her own -a less-than-smooth move to try and do with only one hand- and as she ran her thumb over Keagan's knuckles reassuringly, she added, "I mean, like not verbatim, obviously, that'd be weird. _But_, just the acknowledgement that these things happened. For better or worse, both of these dudes are a part of your past and I'd very much rather address things directly than waste time trying to pretend we do not see it."

The shove was her queue to ease up, though it wasn't like she had much more to highlight. "What can I say? I'm a hypocrite. Only one of us can be a constant mystery at a time." The kiss caught her off guard, having expected Keagan to be too miffed -in general- for such things, but when her brain did catch up her arm shot out to wrap around Keagan's waist as she mumbled, "I waited years. They can wait a little longer."

KEAGAN

Keagan didn't fight against it when she felt Luke pull her back in. Really, they should head back outside to deal with the aftermath of her mistakes, but she didn't feel like breaking this moment just yet either. "Thankfully Lyra isn't out there right now because she'd find a way to break into this office even if we had all the witches in town put a barrier." Her chuckles were lowly before meeting her lips again.

One arm thrown over the shoulder, the other seeking the desk behind Luke just to keep her balance while she leaned forward. Maybe it was also there to prevent from clutching at Luke's shirt at the same time.

RIKKE

The paladin knew well why, even though Hendrix was clamoring for attention, the eyes of the remaining ladies involved in the present matter were all trained on her. Between two witches and a guild hunter, that left Rikke as the only one who had a chance to hear into the Chief Deputy's office from where they themselves were currently standing.

"No calls for help so far, so looks like all clear on that front," she reported, hoping that her point would get across. Granted the first one to speak up was Hendrix, but Rikke was so busy focusing on 'minding her own business' that she completely ignored him.

PHOENIX

Once Rikke announced that there wasn't anything for *alarm*, Nix backed off immediately. While she was curious, she wasn't *Lyra*. However, it was nice to know that Keagan didn't commit murder in her own office - although it was a bit hard to guess that she'd succeed even if she tried. Not just because Luke knew how to handle wolves, but she also had the strength of both a Paladin and a wolf?

"Did they say how long they were going to take to get here?" She asked, wanting to change topics.

RIKKE

She knew Nix meant well, but asking her a question that meant she herself had to once again revisit what _did_ hear... "Nope. Though I think both of them are concerned with who gets or doesn't get to kill the waste of space of over there. I don't think they'll take too long though, the girls are still waiting for them back at the hotel and Luke really, _really_, just wants this guy somewhere he'll never even be able to reach Keagan and the girls with his thoughts." Whether she approved of her 'niece's' consideration of death as a viable was left up for interpretation.

BLAKE

Blake was still curious what the hell was taking them so long, but she figured that if talking Luke down -on the rare instances she'd witnessed growing up- was pretty difficult on a _good day_, it can't be made any easier by...whatever the hell was going on inside that kid right now. And as Hendrix opened his mouth to once again remind everyone he was somehow still alive, Blake figured he wasn't being much help. Flicking her hand quickly, Hendrix appeared to jerk his head back into the wall he was sitting against before slumping over.

"Well," she voiced glancing at her watch, "Our boss has decided that she will be addressing this matter personally this time. She's just waiting for one of the agents capable of teleportation to be free to make the trip, because if she waits for mundane travel we might be here well into next week, and no one wants to spend Christmas with this asshat."

PHOENIX

"I don't think it's a secret that nobody likes him." She toss a quick glance to said culprit. "I didn't grow up in Fallcrest but I did hear he's an asshole so *consistency* I guess." She sighed before turning to Blake, "Thank god Hart is nothing like him. I can't even *imagine* it, that girl does not have a mean bone in her body."

Her ears did perk a little when told that a certain someone was going to personally handle it. "Au- Agent Cabot-McIntyre's coming? That is the best news." Hopefully with this, Goodwin was gone from everyone's life. "...Do we need to inform Hart...?"

BLAKE

"I think _he_ got all the awful bones, but obviously I wouldn't be the agent to speak to that entirely..." Even as she trailed off, she knew she'd be getting at least a couple of eye-rolls. "I'm sorry, I had to get in at least one shot while I don't run the immediate risk of being strangled myself," Blake snorted before calming down Phoenix's last question.

With much more humorless look on her face, Blake nodded and said, "I've been keeping her updated via text. I think her biggest concern -barring the fact that brother not be dead- is how their parents might take everything."

PHOENIX

She had never been so thankful that she didn't have to manage an agent like Goodwin. If he already stressed everyone out for being part the team... How she felt for Aunt Liv. "Maybe just do it like how Keg reveal things. Rip it off like a band-aid style." She snorted. "Sorry, I just.. I don't know how one could easily break the news that their son is a criminal, and delusional, and psychotic."

Hendrix's complaints were being ignored by the whole group as it continued on without a moment to acknowledge him. "... Maybe Hartley should break the news to them. Her puppy eyes might give a softer blow."

BLAKE

"That doesn't always play out well for everyone who tries it. I mean, with Keagan I'm almost certain that ninety to ninety-nine percent of the time, people she's speaking too are just too intimidated to say anything untoward. I certainly didn't say say what I was clearly thinking when we learned she'd bumped uglies with Douchwin, and _that's because I know she can kick my ass_."

There were some more unimportant sounds from Hendrix's cage, but Blake just continued on as if nothing was said at all. "I think getting the information to her parents is one thing, and honestly I or even your Aunt- er, the _Boss_ could take care of that one. For Hartley it's the knowledge that after they get the news they'll want to speak with her and she's...not ready for what their reaction will be now that she's one of us....ya know?"

PHOENIX

"....I mean, it's not just Douchwin we were all in disbelief for." She muttered even though it's not a secret either that no one was pleased with the fact that the Bensons other than Luke was part of their family. "Lyra simply doesn't care.. and she *sorta* has 'baby sister' privileges? I can't really tell, but Keg hadn't kicked her out of town yet sooo that's telling."

The realization set in as the witch bit her lip. "Do they at least know about uh.. this world?" This was quite the bomb to drop on them even though both their kids are involved in some aspect. "That... is rough.." Thankfully Nix never had to go through that. "I hope she gets to tell them herself." It *sucked *to have things be revealed without your consent.

OLIVIA

The last thing she wanted to be doing on her Christmas Eve was working but, she wanted her family having to deal with a mess she should've taken care off better sooner, even less. As Olivia and another one of her agents shimmered into the Chief Deputy's office, she immediately thanked the other and sent them on their way before simply looking down at her boots as she told the other pair to follow her out.

The trio walked up to others in time for Liv to chime in, "Lyra has way too _many_ privileges and gets away with too much in general." She walked up to Goodwin and handed him a stack of papers, "You're terminated. All reasons are listed in the paperwork here-in, along with the reasons that you're also now formally under arrest. Take a moment to read through and let the adults talk." As she turned back around she gestured for Blake to put the guy in 'bubble': he couldn't hear them and they couldn't hear him. Why he wasn't in one already was...well not important. "Okay, someone start talking."

KEAGAN

The way she scrambled back when she felt someone else in the room that she nearly knocked over the nearby chair. She knew someone was coming, but she didn't know they'd be teleporting straight to *her* office. However, part of her should've expected it since it was Aunt Liv after all.

"She does." She agreed, following her aunt outside. Keagan stood there quietly while her boss spoke to the former agent....and of course, she would then come back to ask straight up for the report. "I'm not sure when he got back in town, but he somehow managed to slip into the hotel where we all were - I'm sure everyone here was witness to that - I happened to be with Iz and Ayd so I didn't see it happen..." She sighed, "He fired his gun at me. Well, it was supposed to be me, but someone decided to orb herself into my place. Anyways, I don't actually know the reasoning behind that."

OLIVIA

An eye-roll was half-way done before she just closed her eyes shut and pinched the bridge of her nose. "The Radcliffe? He entered the Radcliffe under false pretense- great, now I have to reach out to Katherine Wren and make sure _that_ little stunt isn't going to be used as grounds to want to dissolve the alliance between the Guild and us."

Something between a sigh and growl was let out before she opened her eyes once again and asked, "Was anybody hurt on the hotel grounds?"

PHOENIX

Not missing a beat, she also contributed to the report, "Thankfully no one was physically harmed..." Her sentence lingered for a moment before continuing, "He went straight for Sky, claiming that he was their dad after hearing that Richard Benson wasn't their bio dad." her eyes flickered between her boss and Keagan. Needless to say, the kid cried like no tomorrow until she got passed back. Next thing we know, Luke left with him."

OLIVIA

"Okay, that's good. Not that he actually made it to the girls or upset Skylar, but that no one was hurt...." Liv trailed off as the sight of the redhead's odd looking injury reminded her of the rest of the events of the night. "...well, at least on Guild soil. Obviously being Leora's guests that means you're under protection of the Guild and had he harmed anyone under their protection, on their turf- International incidents are _nothing_ compared to how things can get when supernatural and mundane relations are involved."

Walking up to her niece, she wrapped her up in a tight hug and finally said, "I'm sorry, honey. I should've been far more involved with this from the _first_ time he randomly appeared to harass you, but I- I'm just glad things didn't go past this point." As she pulled back and took a look around the room she added, "The Sheriff and I will be transferring him over to the detention facility, the rest of you can go ahead and head back to the hotel. I'll speak with Leo myself later on."

KEAGAN

While her girls weren't hurt, her anger rose yet again at the audacity Hendrix had to go up to her girls and self-designating as the father. However that anger calmed when her aunt walked up to her. Leaning into the hug, she gave a wry smile before giving a light shrug, "It's not your fault." If anything, it was hers. "We're doing something about it now so that's all it matters."

She reached out and took Luke's hand, "That sounds good.. I want to see how the girls are doing.." They're most likely fine with their friends and family around, but that wasn't enough to ease her. "Thanks Aunt Liv, Mick." When they made it back, the first thing she did was pick up her girls and gave them the tightest hug. "Sorry Miles.. I just.. really needed to hug the both of you."

LUKE

Luke opted to remain quiet during the bulk of the exchange with Liv, namely because the mere sight of Hendrix -even in his quiet bubble- made it to where she really had nothing useful -and certainly not _nice_- to say. As soon as they made it back to the hotel, while Keagan went off to the girls, Luke went ahead and made a quick trip to their suite to clean up and change. There was no need to alarm any of the kiddos with what had to be something that looked far worse than it was.

She walked up to her little gaggle of girls as Miles just shot her a look that clearly screamed 'help me' as her mother and her sister both decided to sandwich her in their little family hug. "Okay, if you want her to continue to let you hug her in the future, you have to let her breathe now," she teased, easing the younger twin out of their other mother's hold. Their was still some pain in her shoulder, but she did her best to ignore it.

AYDEN

One could only guess that things were moreorless sorted out, seeing that both Keagan and Luke, along with a few others, returned to the hotel. And also considering that no one spoke of it, Ayden figured one shouldn't ask unless those involved actually said something about it. At the sight of Miles' face, she let out a laugh as it wasn't the first time she had seen that face.

"Mmm you say that, but that didn't stop her sister every time." She commented, "If Sky could wrap her arms *all* the way around her sister, she would." She got up from the ground where she was sitting next to the babies and patted the dust of her pants before looking at her friends. "Sky did just try that out before you guys came back and obviously didn't succeed."

RIPLEY

"Oh there's hardly anything that tends to stop one of my favorite gingers from getting to her sister," she called out as she made her way over from the elevator. "Granted, I'm sure the sight is far more endearing with them both being as tiny as they are now." It wasn't lost on Ripley how the redheaded baby in question had ducked her head into the crook of her mother's neck. "Now, now young Miss Benson, I'm going to develop a complex if you try to avoid eye contact with me even as an infant," she teased.

Glancing up at the adults she finally offered them a reason for her sudden arrival. "Apologies for crashing, my grandmother is just rather anal about certain things and she wanted me to speak with Guild members present for earlier events...but honestly I could just _say_ I did and Arit might be the only one to sell me out- oh wait, you're a baby. Seems all is good, just need to speak with Cabot-McIntyre."

KEAGAN

It was endearing to see how shy Sky was acting all because her professor was right there. Thankfully, her wives was understanding enough. With a kiss to the top of the baby's head, Keagan leaned to the other side far enough to look at her kid. "Kiddo, you've got two girlfriends right here with you." She reminded. The baby did not budge from her spot, if anything, she turned her face further away from the professor.

Keagan chuckled and turned her attention back to Ripley. "She'll be here soon after she's done. Personally seeing to it to make sure it doesn't happen again." She sighed, "Sorry." She apologized both for giving extra work for the Guild, and the fiasco that is Hendrix.

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RIPLEY

The half-demon smiled and opted to make her way over to Luke and Miles before Skylar's little face suddenly matched her roots. "I'll give you a chance to breathe, love. I know you're bound to be left breathless at the sight of your loves and the last thing we need is a baby passing out."

As she closed the distance to drape herself over Luke's shoulder so she could coo at Miles, the unmistakable scent of singed flesh hit her nose. "Well, it seems like all's well that ends well." The apology made her scoff a bit as she said, "I got to see some of favorite people and a roomful of cute babies, _I_ am hardly the one you need to apologize to."

KEAGAN

Keagan could help but hug Sky a little bit tighter when she heard the little whine. "Ohh, baby." As endearing as this was, she wasn't going to tease Sky anymore than Ripley already had. She relocated herself so that she was closer to Tomi and Erin, hoping that both girlfriend's presences would sooth her.

"I'm not going to jinx it." She snorted because really, anything could happen in this town that Keagan wasn't very optimistic about things lately even if there were a few good surprises along the way. "Fallcrest keeps throwing curveballs that I don't think peace was ever an option." Whether it was life-threatening situations or simply the folks in town being the chaotic selves they were, there was no such thing as peace and quiet in this town.

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HUNTER

Leaving the kitchen for the first time all evening, the blonde pushed a cart with small individual holiday cakes into the main room. As she came to a stop, she glanced around and said, "I'm getting the distinct vibe that I missed something pretty important...should I like, come back with these?"

PHOENIX

Figured since no one was really talking about it directly, Phoenix shook her head to the baker's question. "No, no, we can have the cakes now - the kids are looking forw- look at Sky." She pinched the kid's cheek, the one who was just hiding from her professor is acting like she didn't done anything of the sort. Her little hands opening and clenching towards the cart. "Here, let me give you a hand."

HUNTER

Hunter figured whatever had happened was probably not something her human brain was prepared to deal with anyway, especially if it involved Keagan latching onto Sky like the kid was her only lifeline and completely overlooking Ripley draped over Luke...actually, especially that bit. Shrugging she simply said, "Okay" and locked the cart so they could begin to hand out the cakes.

As she approached Sky with her cake, Hunter was sure to catch her eyes before setting it down in front of her, "Everyone gets _one_. It's late and the last thing the parents need is babies who can't sleep. So, just enough sugar to get you guys your midnight prezzies."

KEAGAN

The look of horror her older twin made when learning that she could only have *one* cake made her snort. Why was she like this? Even if they did like to eat as wolves, no one matched the level of Sky. Keagan shifted the cake closer to her, also looking over to see the cake that the other got. "Hunter, these cakes look amazing!" She complimented, "They're really adorable. Look at this!" She pointed at Santa's ass sticking out of the chimney.

LUKE

Having made her way down with Miles, she watched with endearment how both girls went about 'attacking' their treats in vastly different ways. "Have you ever seen a baby sort out their skittles by color?" she asked Keagan. "This is close enough," she added as Miles began to use her tiny hands to sort out the tiny 'presents' by color on the side of the plate. "This should be more than enough to keep them busy until midnight."

AYDEN

Ayden was helping Tomi with her cake, making sure that it doesn't fall off the table. "The cakes are the size of their heads." She pointed out, "Hopefully they exhaust out of their zoomies in time for bedtime." It could be a gamble with the extra dose of sugar for all they know. "Oh wait, Cal-" She reached out and 'rescued' the deer that rolled off the top of the cake. "Here.. Let's get Rudolph off of there for you."

ANDY

It had been a real test to be constantly around a gaggle of brightly glowing babies, but now that their little vascular systems were working overtime with both excitement and sugar rushes, Andy felt a break might be okay. "I'll go ahead and gather some items for cleanup once they're all done and I believe Leo got every baby some holiday PJs to wait for Santa in," she announced. Glancing over at Thyra she asked, "Wanna stay or help?"

THYRA

Without hesitation, Thyra stuck by Andy. "I'll help. I want to see these PJs" The amount of excitement the shifter had during this entire time; it wasn't going to end until the kids revert back to their original selves. "Are they matching? Because if they're anything like the penguin outfits, I might just die from all the cuteness." She squealed as she pulled Andy away from the crowd now. "Is there one for everyone, or did she get a bunch and everyone gets to choose their own - because the latter is going to take a while." Fashion show part 2? Mayhaps.

ANDY

Andy did her best not to trip over her own feet as Thyra's excitement seemed to make her the faster of the two. "I...don't recall off the top of my head," she said. "She ordered everything online and I was just tasked with bringing the box up to her suite when it arrived. My guess would be matching...different sizes though, of course." Once they were in the proper suite, Andy made quick work of gathering plenty of baby wipes and fresh diapers, before coming back with a box and holding it out to Thyra. "Wanna take a peek?"

THYRA

Thyra honestly would've been excited whether or not the outfits matched in theme or exactly duplicates just in various sizes. "This party has been amazing for so many different reasons." She took the box and actually took a moment to calm herself before lifting the lid barely to take a peek. "Oooh." The excitement was already growing again. "Oh my god." She lifted the lid entirely, "They're so cute!!!!! They have names on their butts!! Look, Andy. I can already imagine Emmy and Levi being in these. If only the furbabies get to wear them too, can you imagineeee?"

ANDY

After all their time apart, it was still just as warm and endearing to see Thyra getting so genuinely happy over some of the simplest things. There was the loaded question that remained unasked -about whether Thyra was hoping for a baby of her own- but that would be an issue for future!Andy to deal with. Right now there was a sport's team's worth of babies to keep Thyra's attention. "I'm almost certain that the only thing that kept Leo from getting the pets matching outfits as well was Julia's common sense. Almost all folks are already going to be dealing with cleaning up and changing multiple babies, not need to add chasing and clothing pets to that list."

THYRA

She lifted out one of the outfits and just admired it in the air. God, it was so cute and she couldn't wait to get these to the kids. Her phone was already filled with baby pictures; these onesies were going to add a lot more to that gallery. The shifter then folded the onesie and put it back in its original place. "Some of them would likely put them on without trouble. Obie, for one." She hooked her arm around Andy's while carrying the box under her other arm. "Did you grab everything?" She looked over at the baby supplies, "I really think Leo emptied out all the stores of anything that's involved with raising babies.."

ANDY

"Yes, well. They do say that most pets are a mirror of their owners, so given that Embry and Levi don't put up a struggle to be changed, Obie likely wouldn't either. I can't speak for the others..._much_, but I know a few that are a handful on their own so the pets would likely be the same." Andy was glad to let herself be guided back out, nodding at the question. "Yeah, I've got everything. I think Leo just didn't want to have to leave her kids' side for any reason, and figured the other parents would feel the same....also, I'm sure it helped that she had her own personal delivery system that works far faster than Amazon Prime."

THYRA

"Maybe we should just get a few for Obie even after this.. I'm sure Levi and Emmy would love it." She was already looking forward to another round of shopping just for the dog this time. This whole ordeal was unlocking some sort of shopaholic tendency for the manager. "I'm sure not even Luke and Keg wanted to leave, but the situation..." She shrugged. It was priority to get that man away from all the babies - as far as they could possibly get, or at least she would think so.

When they returned back, Thyra was more than ready to pass around the outfits so that they could all get their babies ready. "We *must* get group pictures of them." Will she get them all printed out? Yes she will, multiple copies to give to every family too.

ANDY

"Oh? Should we now?" Andy asked flatly, feigning a deep disinterest in the idea of shopping for a dog. With any luck and maybe her special 'midnight gift' for Thyra would remain a surprise...hopefully a _welcome_ one. "I think those two kids are going to have a newly found attachment to you once they get back to their usual selves. Maybe Levi will even decide you make a better sing-along partner." If there was a tinge of hope in the last statement, it was because as much as Andy adored the kid, she could do with less princess karaoke. "I'm sure it's all been taken care of. There's no way that Keagan would've returned if not. My other boss is nothing if not uh...steadfast."

Taking note of the fact most the cakes were gone, she rolled her eyes playfully at the shifter and gestured for her to begin taking pictures of the cute mess and hand out the outfits. "Just try not to max out your storage again."

AMARAJA

She was completely enamoured by her daughter, taking in all the details and antics she still had even as a baby. The excitement she felt when she was handed a baby onesie; it really was the simplest of things in life. "Let's get you changed, eṉ maka. I know you'll look simply adorable in this." She cooed with a tap to the baby's nose before holding out the onesie so that they both could take a better look at it. "Oh look, it even says your name!" She turned it around and back, "This was an excellent idea."

RAQUEL

The look on Arit's face at the sight of the onesie said it at all but, just in case it wasn't clear enough, the kid actually tried to stand on wobbly legs to take off in the opposite direction. She didn't even manage to stand before Raquel was scooping her up and holding her so Raj could get her in the outfit. "Oh, stop fighting it munchkin. You know am'mā isn't going to ease up on this, and honestly at the very least it's not a puffy dress." Turning her attention back to her wife she added, "As much as I'm enjoying getting to see what she was like before I met her, I'm still keenly aware that her brain is still set to feral teenager and I personally don't feel like testing the limits of someone who is technically trained to kill..."

AMARAJA

Her grin only grew when her wife caught the little gremlin, "Exactly! It's a onesie, a very comfortable one at that too." She looked up at her wife, "Perhaps *we* should get ourselves some matching onesies." She hummed at the point her wife brought up as she started to get the kid into her outfit. "It's not everyday that we get to see our daughter be dressed in these sorts of pajamas?" She chuckled, "Arit, can't you wear this just for a night? For me?" She asked as she buttoned up the last button before taking her from Raquel and already trying to cuddle her.

RAQUEL

"Nope. Be happy I'm helping you get this little ninja into hers, don't push your luck," she said before handing the baby over. She couldn't help but laugh a little as her wife's pleas immediately made Arit stop moving altogether. "Aww, you're so compliant when you want to be. Hopefully you'll find it in your heart in to forgive us...if not, I'm sure your gifts this year will make up for it."

AVERY

"...Evan's right, you guys are just disgustingly cute." She blurted out before her attention was cut off by Maite tugging at her finger, probably telling the wolf to shut up. Aves' eyes looked down at Arit who was actually letting the therapist cuddle her. "I've never seen her so still, seriously, look at her."

EVAN

"As happy as I usually am to hear the phrase 'Evan's right', now is not one of those times," Evan grumbled before smacking Avery's shin with the toe of her shoe. She'd have done something worse, but Emmy and Levi were currently on her lap babbling away something that she could only guess at. Evan would normally rely on her lip-reading skills to help fill in the blanks where her hearing aid no longer helped, but...babies had very uncoordinated lips. "Arit is so going to remember the fact you called her out for being still, and will seek retaliation at the least expected moment. Have fun sleeping with one eye open you putz."

AYDEN

"This kid." She reached out and engulfed the kid she helped raised into a playful semi-head choke. "Avery, please remember than there's a few of us that would very much appreciate that you stay alive for as long as you possibly can." She joked. "Let's keep the teasing to a minimum." Even though she was positive that Avery wasn't even thinking about teasing the other, just blurting out her first thought. "Help your in-laws with your girlfriend." She nudged her in the direction of the witches. "Thankfully.. not *all *of them oppose to wearing the onesies."

LUKE

"Yes! They're tagless Nuggy!" The exclamation may have seemed out of place for a few, but it made perfect sense to the baby in her own lap and that was all that mattered right now. As she began to change said baby, Luke glanced up and offered some insight, "Miles isn't too keen on tags or certain fabrics, but luckily Leo did her research so we didn't end up with a group of matching babies and one naked baby. The butt-flap is also going to come in handy for diaper changes." Sparing a glance to Keagan and Sky, she did her best to bite back a grin as she said, "Uh, would you like some more wipes? Miles managed to get her cake _in_ her and not _on_ her..."

KEAGAN

"This is why we don't inhale the cake, baby." She did needed more wipes and at this rate, she was almost certain that Sky didn't actually eat the cake and simply pushed it against her mouth because they could probably recreate the cake from the mess alone. "Thank god we got plenty of bibs because you, my little wolf, are very, very messy." Getting Sky dressed in the onesie was not an issue since the kid seemed to even welcome the idea. Once she got a new bib on her, Keagan turned to Miles. "How are you liking the outfit, baby?"

MILA

Miles had been okay with the change of outfits, because honestly that penguin getup was not comfortable. That being said, as soon as her new outfit was on she had moved on to activities that were much more enjoyable. After all, as much as she cared for everyone in this room, she also very much liked to not have to deal with them all at once. Of course, she couldn't exactly get very far, so she made due. A garbled attempt at a 'yes' was the only response to her mother's question.

AMARAJA

Figuring she had 'tortured' her daughter enough, Amaraja set her down as well, "Thank you for obliging." She smiled, gently tugging on the girl's cheek before sitting back again. Her eyes drew towards her descendants, seeing that one of them also didn't want to take part in any cuddling either. "It looks like neither of our children enjoy cuddling with us." She sighed albeit dramatically, "Felt."

IZZY

Setting Tomi down herself -and feeling only mildly betrayed as the kid made a crawling beeline to Ayden- Izzy quipped, "It would seem that their teenage brains are still very much intact after all. I think Sean and Sky may be the only exceptions but those two have always been little cuddle monsters."

DEVIN

"Peyton takes after her father." She looked over to the mentioned duo where Octavius and Peyton were so close to each other that Devin wondered if their cheeks were glued together. "Ryllie is surprisingly attached." Her words filled with fondness as she looked down at the baby who had her tiny little hand clutching on her shirt, looking at the rest of the babies like they were crazy. "I asked if she wanted me to put her down with the rest, she said no."

LEO

"Mine ditched me for their shared girlfriend the second she showed up, which to be fair isn't any different than when they're older. I will say though, it's a nice change of pace to see Amaryllis so openly attached to someone. I saw Sean hug her in the lobby once after her shift and told Jules I was surprised she didn't claw his eyes out."

JULIA

"She missed Evan." She nudged Leo, "Let her be." The nurse said this while still carrying baby Levi. Julia then looked over to Devin and Amaryllis, "I was surprised - but I figured that after all that time together, she got used to it?" A babble from the brunette baby. "Besides, who could deny Sean a hug?"

LUKE

"Miles. She denies him regularly, but will allow one three-second hug before and after a show _or_ a ten-second hug if he's upset. Fifteen seconds if the one that upset him was Skylar," Luke replied without missing a beat. If there was one thing she knew it was her kids. The whole gaggle of them.

KEAGAN

She looked down at the cuddliest one of them all, "What did you do?" She asked as a tease which Sky only huffed at before watching those eyes round even further. Keagan immediately put a hand over those eyes, "I hope you genuinely apologized to Sean and didn't just bat those round puppy eyes at him, thinking he'd forgive you because he's a nice boy."

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IZZY

She was about to answer her bestie when the boy himself finally pulled himself away from her and made his way over to his fellow redhead. As he managed to get up on his knees and hug Skylar -with about as much grace as expected- Izzy could only 'awww' and say, "I think he's trying to tell you all is forgiven."

LYRA

Taking the opportunity that Keg was taking pictures of the two redheads hugging it out, Lyra decided it was a good time to make her presence known. "Wasn't Sean also the first person to forgive Sky when she returned back in town?" How did she get these information? She would never reveal her methods. "I'm pretty sure Sky gave him the puppy eyes because she gives *everyone* the puppy eyes."

LUKE

"I've been told it's genetic," Luke piped up, sitting cross-legged. The irony of having Miles now sitting right beside her in the almost exact same manner was completely lost on her as she continued. "I'm not allowed to say what my theory is on _where_ that genetic trait came from though."

AYDEN

She looked up at that and looked from the twins to their parents. "Either way, those puppy eyes are dangerous." She chuckled when she spotted Sky trying to push her mom's hand away from her eyes, holding said hand to prevent it from covering her again. "I can't say I've ever seen *Keagan* give someone the puppy eyes though." She pointed out.

LYRA

"Oh, that's because you haven't _lived_ with her. Trust me, you get to see all sorts of different sides to my big sis when you're around her all day, every day. Honestly, the way you guys sometimes describe her makes me think of my mom more than anything...though I guess mom also had a soft spot for JJ, myself, and- Ow!" The exclamation came as she felt two tiny sharp teeth bite into her knee, of all places. Glancing down, she spotted the retreating form of a certain brunette unicorn -who was possibly glaring at her?- and it took everything in her to remember they were physically an infant. "You better be glad I'm above fighting babies, Miles! But I'm _not_ above fighting my own niece and eventually you'll go back to your tall, lanky self."

KEAGAN

She didn't expect Miles to *bite* Lyra in the knee, but honestly, her sister deserved it for constantly blurting things out without thinking. "Thank you Miles." She reached out and gently shoved her sister. "Do not fight my daughter regardless of her size. " She warned while also ignoring the fact that she may or may not have given Sky her puppy eyes. "Also, Luke might take you down before you even lift a finger."

LYRA

The shove made the younger wolf tip over far more than it should have, given that A.) it was a slight shove and B.) Lyra was a _wolf_. Of course, her brain often forgot this and by extent so did the rest of her body. She let out an exaggerated yelp and was gearing up to complain when Keagan's observation made her immediately shift gears. "That's so not fair! Titania over there has been able to one-up me since she was shorter than me..._and_ a human! Seriously, what the fuu- uh, -udge?!" She recalled exactly what the consequences of cursing in front of these babies had been the first time around.

PHOENIX

"Maybe don't fight the kids?" She rolled her eyes at her cousin's dramatic. "Luke won't have a reason to mess with you if you don't mess with the girls. I think that's a simple solution, Lyr." She patted the woman on the shoulder, "Besides, I'm pretty sure it's because you're messing with her mom that Miles bit you in the first place. Isn't the saying like, fudge around and find out."

LYRA

"I will obviously not win an argument here, as everyone present seems to be clearly biased in favor of the cute looks of these tiny hellspawns and somehow immune to the cute looks of _me_..." Lyra began her protest, "_But_ I still think that it should be noted that a fight between me and regular Miles would be more than fair. Besides, it's not like we ourselves didn't get into a scuffle or two with our elders when we were teenagers...right? Also, the saying is _fuck_ around and find out...shit-"

KEAGAN

They were doing so well - sort of - until now. "Lyra." A very tired sigh came from the mother wolf, "We talked about this." Since she was still within her reach, Keagan placed her hand on the back of her sister's neck and *pinched*. "No swearing around any of the babies even if they still have their adult brains. If you're not going to listen, go outside."

LYRA

"Ow! Okay, not fair! Technically I did listen, I just forgot!" The complaint came out so fast in response her sister's hold on her neck, that it may as well be an autonomic reflex. "I'll keep my comments to myself...mostly. Look, you know I can't make such promises but I also don't wanna miss out on a bunch of babies opening their first Christmas presents at midnight because hellspawn or not that shizzle is cute!"

PHOENIX

"Did you just call your nieces hellspawn in front of Keg?" She laughed, "I don't know if you're actively trying to get yourself kicked out or now. Anyways, how long do we have till midnight? I think if we don't get to it soon, *Lyra* is going to combust, not the kids.. Wait, where *is* my phone?" She started looking left and right for it now that she asked about time.

RIKKE

They'd remained quiet since returning back. Honestly, much like at the cabin, sometimes it was just enjoyable to sit back and get to watch the chaos that tended to come about. It wasn't often that she got the chance to do it though, as Lyra always seemed to find the way to drag _everyone_ into the chaos.

At the question of Phoenix's phone, she just held it out to her and said, "You dropped it back at the station, then I got distracted by all the babies playing with cake and forgot to hand it over." A sheepish smile later and she added, "Oh and it's been midnight for like three minutes already."

KEAGAN

The speed her daughter jolted in her arms when Rikke let them know it was already midnight. "Oh g- Sky." Thankfully she had enough reflex to adapt because Sky would have fallen out because she was.. either too excited it was midnight, or shocked that they didn't know it was midnight and could've been going through the presents. "Is everyone here? We can go open up some presents - clearly some kids have been waiting all night for this."

RIKKE

Glancing around, Rikke said, "Seems all babies are accounted for here. We can go ahead and bring the presents to you guys." With that she motioned for Jack and Haneul to help her in orbing the presents to each of the respective family groups. "I think we got them, if we missed any it's because they weren't under the tree."

AMARAJA

"Presents!" As her wife stated earlier, hopefully their gift would make up for having her be dressed up in the onesie, and cuddling her to the max. The therapist herself was just as excited to give Arit her gift as she was seeing the gift herself again. "You'll love your present - hopefully." She paused and whispered to her wife, "...Are we letting her play with it now?"

RAQUEL

Her wife's question made her stop and think for the briefest of seconds, before simply stating, "Amor, if she can manage to _lift_ it as she is now, I think she'll more than have earned the right to _wield_ it." Her emphasis left it clear that, at least as far as she herself was concerned, 'playing' isn't necessarily what she expected their daughter to do with her gift...granted that didn't mean that it wasn't exactly what the kid would have in mind. Arit was her mothers' daughter after all. "Here you go baby! Oh, I think she's figured out what it is," Rikki noted as Arit immediately went in to rip the wrapping. After enjoying the display of watching an infant who can't properly walk yet trying to lift their gift, Rikki reached out to lift it for them. "Here, take a look."

AMARAJA

She was absolutely entralled by the way their daughter was trying to get to her gift - already using all her might to lift it despite the size and weight difference. "Did you know, eṉ maka?" She pointed at the sword, "I had one very similar to that. The guard design was slightly different though.. Still, isn't it nice, we've got matching swords now." She kissed the baby on the back of the head. "Oh, how I can't wait until we get to spar."

LYRA

"Wow, I never thought I'd see a family that held weirder means of bonding than mine, but you guys come exceedingly close," she noted, already twisting her body to avoid Keagan's hand to reach out to reprimand her again. "Like, I for a good chunk of time I thought that the whole 'sparring' thing was like Luke trying to spend time with the girls while not having to let them actively touch her more than necessary," she continued, now actively crawling out of her sister's reach, "_Which_, by the way, I never really held against her, because like, yes, they are my nieces, but like, I also know how Luke grew up and why would I expect her to like human touch when she never got it right?"

KEAGAN

"Lyra Venus Calvetti!" She sternly called out when her sister did not stop even after escaping from her reach *twice*. Her eyes just glaring at the woman, silently telling her to quit it. Though they were surrounded by people they grew up with, there were also those who hadn't which was the reason why she was still seated in her spot. If only her sister could just think before she spoke, that'd be a true miracle. Though it wasn't a secret that the Bensons were assholes, Lyra did not need to have said any of that. Reaching out instead to take Luke's hands in her, Keagan didn't know if it was to comfort the younger woman or to keep herself in place. "Lyra, I'm serious.. if you don't think before you speak...."

LYRA

Contrary to popular belief, Lyra did understand that people had limits...it didn't often make much of difference to her though. It was very similar to having the knowledge that black holes exist: it's a fact, but it doesn't directly impact her life. That being said, she meant what she said regarding getting to watch the gift opening, so she took a seat opposite her sister and said, "Okay, I'm done. I was just surprised, but I'll be quiet now!"

PHOENIX

"Ohhhkay.. Let's get to the other presents." Phoenix wanting to change the topic so that everyone will stop focusing on what just happened. "Sky, Miles, let's open up what you guys got." She scooted closer to them now that Lyra had decided to squeeze in on the other side of her. "...Everyone's gifts are just bigger than them, aren't they?" She chuckled now. "Do you need help there, Sky- Oh.. nope, you got it." She stared at it and then let out a snort of disbelief. "A pizza oven, Keg? This girl literally won't come out of the basement now."

LUKE

Lyra's comment had honestly only slightly registered, as her mind had been pretty much consumed with anxiety over what she'd been planning for days now. As the girls finished up with the bigger items left beneath the tree, Luke reached into her back pocket and pulled out to small holiday envelopes. Placing one in front of each girl, she said, "So these were kind of last minute. I was originally told it would take far linger to get them, but it seems it certainly helps to have family in both the federal government and the municipal one as well. Thank you, Blake." She glanced over at her friend with a genuine smile of gratitude before turning back to the babies. "Now, much like with just about every other present, the idea is that you'd be your older selves when I gave you these and would be able to accept or decline with more ease, but I think it's been made clear your opinions are still the same and you'll find any way to make them known so, well, I hope you like them but if not it's all one hundred percent okay."

With that last reassurance, she went ahead and took the lid off each box. Inside was a small laminated card, and as tiny hands began to reach for them to pull them closer, Luke explained, "I put in to have my name legally changed from Lucas Jolene Benson to Lucas Shiloh _Holstein_ a bit back, and I figured you girls would appreciate nothing more than to _also_ be rid of the name Benson. So, these are your new legal names: Skylar Anne and Mila Isabelle Holstein _Calvetti_. Because I think your mother's been neglected in your names for long enough already."

KEAGAN

She was glad that her kids enjoyed their presents but she was also curious to know what Luke gave them since the other wouldn't tell her even when she asked. So when the Paladin took out two small envelopes, she was very intrigued. Her eyes went through a few emotions, from widening with surprise to softening as Lucas continued to further explain the gift.

To think that she thought of changing their girls' name as well was heartwarming. What she didn't expect was that the Calvetti name was also included. "Lucas.." She whispered before looking at the cards with the girls, fingers tracing over the name before the tiny hands grabbed her hands. "Do you guys like your names?" Holstein-Calvetti. Keagan smiled at the sounds of that.

LUKE

There was a calming effect brought on by Keagan's response to the name change. Not that Luke thought she would ever really be opposed or greatly upset by the change, but it was still reassuring to know that Keagan approved and not just accepted it. Her small smile broadened even more as the tiny hands fumbled with the cards as each girl made an attempt to show it to the other and then wave it to show it off to their friends. Excited squeals and babbles had her laughing as she tried to blink away tears. "I think that's a sign of approval," she remarked.

DYLAN

The half-demon who had been *stuck* by the merfolks (and fairie) the entire time was just watching this unfold... and she couldn't help but notice the confusion on some of the people around the family. Leaning in closer to Fernanda's ear, she mumbled, "...Why does it seem like I'm not the only one out of the loop?" She nodded towards the gym rat specifically who seemed to be having the hardest time connecting the dots. If it were her alone, she wouldn't be curious since Dylan could care less about the townsfolk, but she had heard that many of them grew up together so why did it look like some were aware of what's happening while the other half did not? "Were those two not married this whole time?"

FERNANDA

It took everything in her not to just elbow Dylan right then and there. "Not our business, _dear_." She hissed before mouthing, 'not here'. The last thing Fer wanted was for _any_ of the many folks with super hearing to think she was gossiping about the other pair _right in front of their salad_. That was something best left to Lyra...and based on the looks of it, maybe Braxton.

BRAXTON

The amount of time spent looking between all the members of the cabin and all the other families around them, Braxton was... confused to say the least. He understood that Luke had been the one raising the girls all these years and *everyone* hated Ricky too much to want to keep his name, but the girls using the sole name 'Calvetti' would've made more sense? "Uh..." He voiced out, ".... did you uh.. Did you just adopt Keg's kids?" It also looked like Keg was surprised so that definitely added more to his confusion.

LUKE

In all honesty, Luke's thought process on this had not gone further than just making sure that her girls were okay with everything. The fact they were clearly _happy_ about it, was an exceptional bonus. Braxton's question completely caused her brain to just stop working entirely for a solid five seconds, as she proceeded to just look at him with a blank expression. Blinking once, all she could do was answer honestly. "Yes." And then proceed to turn back to the babies.

DYLAN

Dylan, who had been watching this like a soap, laughed aloud at the dumb look on the Beta wolf's face from the curt answer before having the decency to hide behind Fer and turned it into a weak-ass cough. "Mm.. I must be right then." She glanced over to the babies who was too hyped about showing everyone their new names that even the moms didn't care enough to let anyone know their business. "Anyways, I must say, the choice of presents are quite interesting." A sword, and now this. It almost had Dylan anticipating on whatever gets opened next.

ANDY

Taking the opportunity of everyone being caught up in having two tiny babies shoving cards in their faces like a drunk teenager trying to show off a fake ID, Andy went ahead and retrieved her own present for Thyra. The real challenge became pulling her away from the babies long enough for her to see there _was_ a gift. "Trust me," she said as she gently pulled the other behind her towards the box left near the tree, "It'll be worth it...Or, well, I think it'll be worth it." Once close enough to the box, she let go of Thyra's hand and said, "So, I would like it noted that your gift started out _in_ the box, but but it seems they've opted to open themselves..."

THYRA

She was sure that everyone's phone, including hers, was just filled with pictures tonight, from the outfits to opening the gifts and whatnot. When she followed Andy, she kept glancing back even though nothing had changed within the few seconds. However, her attention was successfully diverted when Andy brought her to the tree. "Oh my- it's a puppy!" Thyra knelt in front of the little furball and extended a finger in front of it. "Hey there, god, you're so tiny!" She looked up with a big smile, "You got me a puppy? Do they have a name- is it a boy or a girl?" She scooped up the puppy to take a peek.

ANDY

The smile was all it took to rid Andy of the last vestiges of anxiety she may have held. It was clear that Thyra not only was okay with her 'gift', she loved it already. "No name just yet. I figured it would be kind of rude for me to name your first puppy and rob you of the opportunity to flex that creative muscle of yours," she grinned. "They are a little lady. When I went to the shelter I had no idea what I was going to get, to be honest, but when I saw this baby running the risk of being trampled by the older boys, I knew she was the one. Kennedy has already given her a clean bill of health, and she's just waiting for the name to get her file updated."

THYRA

She got up with the new pup and shifted her into one arm so she could pull her girlfriend in for a kiss. "Thank you, I love her so much already." The shifter was already bopping back and forth, cradling their new addition to the family. "*Our* puppy." She corrected, "Hmmm.. I might need to think about this.. I can't think of it right on the spot." She was brought the puppy up in between them. "Andy, she's so cute. Just look at her." She cooed, "Awwwwww, was she the smallest one? Oh babyyyyy."

ANDY

"Oh, I'm terribly sorry ma'am," she said with a chuckle, "_Our_ puppy, who you're still naming because I couldn't even manage to name our dolls when I was younger. My naming examples were pretentious and terrible." There was a reason she preferred her nickname..."The second cutest thing I've ever seen," Andy replied, before grinning again. "Yes, she was the smallest one, but being small seems to not mean much anymore."

THYRA

"We'll have to brainstorm a bit when we get home, right, pup-pup?" Thyra was already excited to find out what the pup's personality was going to be like. "..We'll also have to ease her into my animal form.. Might give her a heart attack if a leopard just appears before her eyes." She looked over at Andy when she clarified the dog being the second cutest. "Second cutest? What could've beat these little face?" Her finger hovered before the puppy who was already trying to swat at it or bite it. "I can't wait to shop for you - you're going to have so many toys and clothes." She squealed, "Andy, matching onesies!!"

ANDY

Pointing at the puppy's tail and how it immediately sped up at Thyra's words, Andy said, "Hey, maybe she's saying Pup-pup is fine by her." Granted, she wasn't entirely serious, but the idea of _not_ pointing out how happy the puppy was at Thyra's cooing seemed like a waste. "Oh she's plenty young enough to where I think as long as you don't spontaneously shift on her, she should be fine." Of course, Andy had never had a pet dog herself either so...could be entirely wrong on that matter. "Well you do forget that I got to see _your_ little face as a baby leopard. Very hard to beat that," she pointed out before letting out a sigh at the notion of matching onesies. "I really should've expected that when you mentioned it earlier for the babies and _their_ pets..."

THYRA

+Cut To - Next day

BRAXTON

In the early morning, Braxton looked like he was getting ready for battle, making sure that anywhere they were going to will be well-equipped with baby stuff. He even rented a SUV in order to fit 4 baby seats and already had a stroller that could also carry them all at once coming its way.

But for now, Braxton was walking into the gym with a baby strapped to his chest, and another strapped to his back while he pushed a stroller containing two even younger babies. Thank God there was Nix to cover because he had a feeling that Aleja was going to kill him if he left her on the floor alone. However, now that he was at the gym with four sets of eyes staring back at him, he couldn't help but wonder, "... How do I strap 4 babies onto me... ?"

RIKKE

It had taken a bit longer to get out the door this morning, mostly because she wasn't quite used to sharing a living space with so many people. She wasn't complaining though. It had been rather reminiscent of being back home to have such activity at the top of the day. Regardless, she and several of the others had been convinced that they should just go about their regular day, and honestly it made the most sense.

The only person that was up as early as herself, had been Luke -which to be honest, she couldn't be entirely sure the woman hadn't just remained awake- and as they'd had a chat, she'd given a suggestion that _now_, as Braxton walked into the gym, made sense. She eased the weights back down and reached into her duffel before walking over. "Luke said you'd be likely walk in today while trying to juggle all four infants." She glanced down. "I'm glad she was only partially right, as carriers and strollers often work better." She then reached out to hand him a garment. "To answer your question though, this might help. We keep them at the station in case we need to move multiple babies at once."

BRAXTON

His eyes lit up when Rikke offered him the garment. "Oh You're a lifesaver! Luke too! I can totally wear that yess." He already predicted that he won't be moving as much as he normally would but all he cared right now was to carry all four babies with him. "God y'all know me so well." Without hesitation, he put it on and got his babies all set up onto him. "Now we're talking. I'm going to wear this everyday now. Do.. you have a spare? You know, in case something happens?"

He slowly twirled around, making sure he was all set. "Yess, kiddos, time for work." He looked up at the Paladin, "Honestly, no one is going to listen to a word I say today because I bet you their attention is all on these four. Oh, since you're here, did Nix come in with you? She's helping out while Luke's still banned from coming back to work."

RIKKE

It never ceased to surprise Rikke how well Luke knew her 'siblings'. It seemed that in the end, it wasn't blood or even a shared name that made a family, but just the caring of one another. "Oh don't worry, we've got plenty. Our superiors seem to think that we face far more emergencies that require us to carry up to six babies at once than we actually do. Which, personally, I think is a _good_ thing, but I suppose that's not shared by all," she joked.

The Paladin had half a mind to inform him that most folks at the gym didn't pay him all that much attention anyway, unless he was leading a class, but she didn't think it would be kind to his current happy mood. She briefly began to consider what to say instead, but her face was overcome by a look of confusion at his next words. Phoenix _was_ here already, but the way he seemed to equate that with the fact she herself was here... "Yup, she's in the studio. By the way, you'll want to keep an extra keen eye on your little bundle there," she said, deflecting to Tomi. "She is feeling _mighty_ upset with you, and though I don't sense hostility towards the other kids, she does still have her powers so any bites to any one and we're all in trouble."

BRAXTON

"Yess, much appreciated - Truly. Like whoever invented these, genius." He grinned as he continued to carefully sway so it was almost like rocking the babies even if he was only doing it for fun at the moment. "I'm definitely not going to be doing any exercising in these but my god, this is sort of fun to wear."

His eyes immediately fell onto his daughter, seeing the small pout on her face. "Ahhh... Kiddo...." He cooed as he lifted her into the air, "I know! I know, I did promise first thing today! We'll go, we'll definitely go. Look, we can go like right now, and see if Erin's still home. It's still early." He looked over at Rikke, "...Is she still home?"

RIKKE

Watching him muck about, she took note of his statement of not doing any exercising with the vest on. "I don't know, I think squats would be a very practical thing to do with that...actually, I would probably _insist_ that you try and get some squats done in that thing," she teased...mostly.

Being able to sense a charge's emotions was both a benefit and curse. "Oh my," Rikke said as she shook her head to regain her own bearings. "They are still very much capable of their big-people emotions but it does not do well in their tiny-people bodies. Yes, Erin is still at the cabin, but so is Lyra...so there's that."

BRAXTON

Now he had to figure out whether he wanted to go to Keagan or Lyra. Keagan scared him, and he wanted to give Tomi time with her girlfriends... Lyra wasn't going to leave them alone - he could almost guarantee it. Instead of making a decision, he lifted his kid so that they were eye to eye. "Sky first or Erin first? Well, Sky and Miles together, or Erin and possibly Lyra."

"Something tells me that you're going to be very upset with me if I don't let you stay with them..." Braxton admitted though he was a bit sad about it since he wanted to spend time with his kid too, but whatever will make Tomi happy, he was all for it. "Um.. do you know who she picked?"

RIKKE

The Paladin had already gone back to the nearest machine, figuring her work there was done until she heard him ask her a question. She looked at him skeptically and said, "I can sense their emotions, I'm not a telepath. She was less angry when both names were mentioned, so there's no real decision to be made there. If it helps, Luke should also be at the cabin. She promised Keagan that she would do her best to work on gauging what emotions required intervention and which were just base level for any Calvetti....no guarantee Luke stuck to that though."

PHOENIX

Since she arrived at the gym, the witch had been making sure everything was ready to go for both her classes as well as the few she was subbing in for Luke while the other was still on leave. It wasn't until she doublechecked for the tenth time did she re-emerged from the rooms.. only to find Rikke and Brax (and the kids) all standing there.

She smiled at the sight, seeing Tomi being lifted up into the air - despite the small frown on the kid's face. "While Luke might help keep Lyra away from the kids, we all know that it's pretty hard to actually keep her from anything." She gave her 2 cents, "I know I've already failed at it more than enough times since the tour." From the pattern, Nix would say that Tomi will get upset either way if he tried to take her home again but she refrained from actually voicing that.

RIKKE

Rikke turned at the sound of the familiar voice, having honestly lost track of the witch once they'd managed to actually arrive at the gym. Nodding in agreement, she said, "Far be it from me to really think my input matters all that much, what with being the one with the least 'Lyra Experience', but I think if manage to get Erin and Tomi down to the basement, you and Teagan should be able to at least keep her corralled upstairs. Especially since she's constantly forgetting Teagan is human and she's a _wolf_." The paladin was still hesitant to allude to being part of the family as she wasn't sure who all knew what or even how the family would feel.

BRAXTON

He grinned at the sounds of that. "As long as Teg is there, I think we have a better chance. So off to the cabin we go!" He slid Tomi back into her spot. "I'll be right back." He looked over to Nix and then around to see if Aleja was also here. "If anything comes up, you can call me - I'll speed back." He nodded as he slipped back into his office to get the kids back into their respective seats. "Okay, I swear I'll be back as soon as I can - I honestly think that if I run into Keg, she'll never let me take Sky so Tomi might.. have... to stay with her for a bit..." He would rather if Tomi stayed with him, but he just wanted her to be happy especially since he hadn't really been there for her the first time around.

Since leaving home earlier, he was almost impressed with how fluent his actions were of getting the babies in and out of the car and then into the stroller. "Okay.. Let's hope that Lyra's not the one opening the door - she may be the only one who can hear us right now.. Well, and Luke can probably sense T, ain't that right?" He poked the babies all in the tummies.

TEAGAN

Teagan had most definitely not been expecting to just see a mass of light disappearing before his eyes when he walked back into the living room. “I legit I just left for less than a minute to grab a drink,” he groaned. He may be on ‘Lyra Duty’ for the most part, but he was also on ‘Spooky Duty’ per the Calvetti Agents.

His attention was refocused the second he saw Lyra pull the most quintessential wolf move and perk up her head to signal someone approaching. “_I’ll_ get the door, Erin I know you said you’d rather not, but feel free to use magic if you have to,” he said referring to Lyra being kept at bay. Opening the door just as the first few knocks came, he beamed and said, “Hey! Come in, come in. Let’s warm the kiddos up.”

BRAXTON

"Teggggg, my man - am I glad to see you." He grinned as he rolled the stroller in. "Let me tell you, the babies were hype to get out - I don't know if they were just hype to see someone else other than me, or just in general." He laughed before getting the babies all out of their seats. "I even got this thing from Rikke earlier and it's a lifesaver, like you wouldn't believeeee. Helps me carry all the babies. Where's Erin?" He was already looking around because one more second of not seeing the girlfriend, one more second of Tomi being upset."

TEAGAN

He wasn’t surprised in the least when Brax replied and then just kept the verbal train going. Teagan focused on helping him get the strollers inside without incident instead, honestly happy, after the last week, to see that some things really _did_ stay the same after all.

Not even the last question was enough to faze him, given that Keagan had had _a_ time trying to get Skylar out the door this morning without too many tears. “Oh, living room. It’s also where we’ve got seemingly the entirety of the Target baby section, so we can get the other three sorted out too,” he said with a wink as he led them over.

BRAXTON

"Erinnnn!" He called out as he made his way towards the living room. The way his eyes lit up at the sight of the witch - and definitely for different reasons than Tomi, "There you are." He grinned as he held the kid towards the kid, "She missed you - and Sky - a lot, but I haven't stopped by the station yet.. so here we are!" He rambled on even after handing over his daughter.

He then went over to see what Luke (Because it's most likely Luke) got for the babies, and indeed, it really did look like he was at Target right now with the amount of things in this room. "Oh wow, Okay. Let's.. get the kids settled first." The beta wolf started getting each baby out of their strollers. "Look guys, look at allll the toys we have here - and clothes - How much stuff did you guys get??"

ERIN

As a familiar voice rang out, calling out her name, the witch wasn’t quite as surprised as she would’ve been by the same action two days ago. Getting to her feet she smiled and headed in the man’s direction, meeting him part-way, her own arms outstretched and ready to scoop up her brunette tiny. “Oh love,” she cooed as the girl immediately nuzzled into her neck, “I’ve missed you too. Sky’s only been kept pacified by the fact she has her two-“ Erin caught herself, and pivoted her statement, “-uh, _aunts_ from out of town and her uncle to keep her busy.”

She smiled once more and took Tomi to sit on the couch with her. After a few minutes of focusing her attention on one of her two best girls, she glanced up and laughed lightly at the question. “Luke wound up at Target unsupervised so…not entirely sure.”

BRAXTON

"I guess Tomi is going to stay here until Sky comes home.." On that note, he wasn't even sure if he could bring Tomi back to his place again. Braxton took out a stuffed animal that caught his eyes and held it up against one of the babies. "Look, this is literally bigger than all of you." He chuckled, holding it in place so that it doesn't accidentally fall on the mini twins.

"Well, you guys are for sure bound to have everything then. Definitely don't need to worry about missing something." He laughed, ""I'll have to go back to the gym eventually.. but I don't know if Tomi even wants to leave with me." He pointed out considering just how much Tomi was nuzzling into Erin - opposite of how she was with him last night.

LYRA

Lyra had been compliant for the majority of this visit, so far. She'd had plenty of opportunity to start making remarks the second she heard the familiar truck making its way up the drive. but she had refrained. Even managed to remain tightlipped when the Tomi practically lounged at Erin like her own father was on fire...but there was only so much restraint she could muster, even _if_ she was currently distracted by playing with the other babies. "I mean, it's not like the girl was living with you _before_ she was a bab- eeee!"

The wolf rubbed at the spot where Teagan had elbowed her. "What? I'm just stating facts. Besides, we've established that they've managed to retain at least some form of their usual memories. Clearly their likes, dislikes, and wants etcetera are all still there. On the other hand, she _is_ still a baby so technically can't put up much of a physical fight if you wish to take her with you." It was almost laughable to see the baby in Erin's arms whip their little head around and give her a proper glare.

BRAXTON

Despite all the shenanigans Lyra was always up to, she had a point most of the time - surprisingly enough. This time was one of those times. Brax kept his eyes on the babies who were tugging on the stuffed animal in his hands. "I can't believe I'm saying this but Lyra's right.." He looked up to give Teg a smile for his effort to shut her up. "T's home is here with Erin and Sky after all, and it's real shitty of me to take her with me just because she's a baby now." At the glare, Brax pointed towards the kid, "See - she definitely doesn't want to go back with me so really, the only choice is to let her stay here?"

He groaned as he scooted back a bit so that his back could hit the couch, "Honestly, I don't know what would be the right thing to do. Because they're still babies so technically that sounds very irresponsible of me to just leave her here despite.. all the preparation that Luke did to literally house everyone's kid at this point."

TEAGAN

Teagan swiftly placed a hand over Lyra's mouth before she could continue to provide her input. "It's not something that comes with any kind of instruction man. There's no real precedent for young folks reverting to babies, much less for them to still retain their knowledge of being older. I think that as long as each one of them is safe and well-cared for, there's no real right or wrong answer. Even if that kid's glare would have you thinking otherwise," he joked. "Ultimately, she's your daughter, and your move is rooted in her best interest, so even if she's upset it won't last forever." At least he hoped.

LYRA

Lyra only wiggled out of Teagan’s grip after he assured the beta wolf that he’d be forgiven eventually. “Buddy, even though I haven’t personally been here to be eye witness to all of this but I’m pretty sure that it’s not the first time Tomi slept somewhere else *away* from Sky - maybe a first from Erin since they’ve started dating but ya know, I’m sure they’ll understand since they’re just babies so really, there’s nothing to be moping over about. Maybe.” She chuckled as she gone over to the other babies and picked one up. “Escape from Braxie!” She almost squealed as she took a few steps back away from said man. “Oh these little nuggies! Knowing how tall the Bean gets, I’m going to enjoy the time I have now when you’re all smaller than most of us.”

ERIN

The witch couldn't help but feel guilty about this in some way. Here was Brax, getting a second chance to be with his daughter as a baby and she herself was in some way, even if completely unintentionally, preventing him from getting that same pure joy out of it that Keagan was clearly getting. "I think it's just a matter of me having a wee talk with this one like I did with Sky this morning. So much has happened in the last week alone that I'm sure the idea of being out of each others' sight for too long can be a source of anxiety, and with them being tiny babies, they can't right process it all. But much like when they were teenagers, Tomi was able to manage her time between being with me or sky and being with her siblings, it's no different now." She glanced down at the baby to make sure her point got across.

Glancing over at Lyra at the antics she said, "Sky's always said that Miles outgrew you early on, so it might not last long."

BRAXTON

He gave the young witch a small nod, not going to hold high hopes because Braxton already half expected Tomi would rather stay at the ~~Mansion~~ Cabin. With the remaining twins, he dangled toys above them to attract their attention. "It didn't take any of them - except Sky - to outgrow you, Lyr. Your only hope was and still is Sky. Enjoy it while it lasts." He snorted. "Where is Luke?" It was odd not seeing her around to greet the kids at least. And him. Mostly the kids though.

TEAGAN

It took speed he didn't know he possessed but he managed to get to Lyra before she made a move to attack Braxton with on of the many stuffed animals in arm's reach. "I would think that as the Beta of a whole wolf-pack you'd have a bit more tactical knowledge about launching attacks on the enemy's home turf," he managed before setting Lyra back down on the couch. "Luke was here but then suddenly orbed out somewhere. My best guess is that she's either with Keagan and the girls or with Rikke and the paladins somewhere."

BRAXTON

"I'm just speaking the truth." He raised his hands in defense, "Did you forget their growth spurts? Like sky rocketed - it's like one year they were all beans, and the next they were... not." He chuckled at the memory when all the adults noticed that the gap in height was getting more noticeable by the year. "Oh.. Just now? I literally was with Rikke before I came here. See, I really would've stopped by the station but I also like.. 4 kids, and Keg has 2 so that'd be.. 6 kids at the station - that's a lot of kids."

LYRA

She managed to wrestle herself free from Teagan, and made her way to sit properly on the couch. It was to give the impression that she understood and would behave, but really it was just so she could get some space and head start in case she had to run at some point. All for the sake of providing some honesty to these people. She should be sanctified for her work, really. Glancing down at Braxton she simply stated, "That was one very longwinded way of saying you're scared of my sister."

BRAXTON

"Yes. I am scared of your sister. She has been kicking my ass since I was born." Brax admitted without missing a bit. It wasn't news at all. Who doesn't Keagan scare?? He has been SO glad that Luke's been around to act as a buffer for the most part - he prayed for his brother when said buffer was out of commission. "I also don't want to interrupt their time together! The fact that she took them to work when the cabin still had so many people says it all."

LYRA

"EXCUSE ME! Are you implying that a house that isn't even _yours_ is crowded?? Like, have you seriously just demonstrated the gall to have the _nerve_ to even suggest that my presence is a detriment to my sister's ability to bond with her babies and her baby-daddy?!" It took a full ten seconds of silence and a look at the faces Teagan and Erin were sending her way for Lyra to realize something within her little rant may have been TMI...but she couldn't really be bothered to figure out what just now. She was far too offended by Braxton's words.

BRAXTON

He held his hand up in defense while Lyra went off on him. And then silence followed.. Which then Brax had to rewind back a little to process what the younger Calvetti said. "I didn't say you were a detriment to Keg bonding with her babies and he... " He paused, looking *very* confused, "... But doesn't Keg hate Dick's guts? There's no way she'd want to *bond* with him especially when his bum is all the way in ja-" His eyes narrowed as he looked over to the other people in the room. "Am.. I missing something?" After a short pause, his eyes slowly widened almost as comically as Joey Tribbiani did in Friends. "............Who's the baby daddy?"

TEAGAN

There wasn't a real way around this, and it sucked that even though it wasn't something to be ashamed of, it was unique enough that it still had to be somewhat of a secret. _Especially_ given the fact that by telling Brax who the 'baby daddy' was, they'd be -by extension- providing him with a lot more of Keagan's private information than he believed the woman would ever be okay with him knowing from someone that wasn't directly her. As Erin excused herself to give the babies diaper changes -magic worked wonders in carrying four babies- he turned to glare at Lyra with narrow eyes before simply stating, "We're going to say me for now, and you can either take it at face value or venture to ask Keagan face-to-face as that's really more _her_ business to share than ours."

BRAXTON

"....O....kay..." He didn't really know what was going on but if Teg said don't pry, it's best that he didn't - especially when *Keagan* was involved. it was obvious that Teagan was *not* the father but he did not want to give her another reason to beat his ass when she scared him enough already. And as curious as he ever was, his survival instinct was enough to stop him. "No mentioning in front of Keg.. got it.." He made the action of zipping his lips. "Uh.. Babies. Do you think Erin needs help?"

LYRA

"The way she managed to easily slip her way out of this conversation leads me to believe she's fine," Lyra piped up, not looking the least bit affected by the fact _she_ was technically the cause of the conversation taking an awkward turn. "Besides, she's well practiced in the art handling multiple things with only two hands." If the grin now on her face was anything to go by, she was actually _glad_ to have managed to make the conversation even more awkward.

BRAXTON

Although he had known Lyra for most his life, the woman had quite the talent to make someone go speechless. "I don't... Teg.. You have such a skill." He turned over to his buddy with new appreciation all over again because he was literally the only person who could handle little Calvetti. "I.. don't really have much of a plan for today other than going to work - which I don't think is the case anymore.... so you guys don't mind if we uh.. chill here until maybe Izzy comes home?"

RIKKE

There had been little reason for her to stick around the gym after her usual workout was completed and, with her shift at the station not set to start until late in the evening, it seemed like the most logical choice to just orb back to the cabin. The paladin hadn't really bothered to think too much about what she may or may not come back to, but the sight of the Beta on their floor while Teagan acted as a human shield between him and Lyra was...about as expected as one could get in this place.

"I can only speak as a guest, but I don't see Lucas having an issue if you decide to hang out here. If anything, I think she might prefer it so she can bring Skylar back and keep her from wanting to try and fight people due to lack of Tomi."

BRAXTON

"I guess we'll stick around until they come back" He pulled out his phone to shoot Izzy a message about their whereabouts. The throuple were literal magnets, can't and shouldn't be pulled apart for any reason and he was making the effort to *not* add onto the list of asshole-y things he had already done - whether it was intentional or not. Shooting out the text quickly, he took a proper seat on the couch once he was partially sure that little Calvetti wasn't going to destroy his ankles. "...I should tell Aleja that I'm not heading back in for the day.."

RIKKE

"Oh I think she figured that one out on her own already," Rikke shot at him as she took a seat on the floor and begin to do some light post-workout stretches. "I was exiting the showers on my way here when I saw her talking with your sister, and it seemed they were discussing how they would address the two classes you had left today. I'm not really big on the whole eavesdropping thing, by the way, your sister is just really, _really_, loud."

BRAXTON

"Oh. I-Okay.." It wasn't his intention to leave everything without even a warning, but it seemed that they expected as much when he walked out of there with all four kids. The faerie and those who covered his shift needed a raise for putting up with him. "Right..so I guess they're not really expecting me back - I should really figure out my own schedule. I did not anticipate coming over this early."

RIKKE

"I am far from one to have much experience in childcare, but as a Paladin I _do_ have experience with magic being temperamental and doing all sorts of things," she began, "So in all honesty, I have zero idea as to why you all chose to try and go back to any semblance of your normal routines _one_ day after your teenage and young-adult offspring reverted back to infancy. We ourselves," she said meaning the Paladins, "haven't fully disconnected from the 'hive-mind' -as Lyra calls it- since it began, in the hopes of finding everything we can. I mean, no offense, but how dangerous would it be for you to be in the midst of crossing traffic with four babies hanging off you, only to suddenly have them become four _almost full adults_ instead?"

BRAXTON

Brax didn't know if it was meant to be a rhetorical question or not but he opted not to answer it. Everyone was apparently a workaholic, including him, but also didn't want to leave the kids alone. However, Braxton did feel a bit embarrassed when Rikke pointed out the situation. "I guess we were a bit too excited to experience things that we've never done nor were we capable of the first time around.. so our priorities are a little.. out of order." And given their positions now compared to back then, Braxton didn't know if it was harder or not to stay away for too long - they didn't even know how long the kids were going to stay like this. "I'm starting to think I'll need to make daily visits..." A daily dose of Sky and Erin for Tomi. Braxton must admit that he was incredibly glad that the Dawsons were staying over at their place because Sean got to see Ryllie majority of the time.

RIKKE

The man's words led to a sad smile, that she of course proceeded to try and hide with the help of her stretching. She had spent so much time prioritizing being a Paladin above everything else, that now that her own true memories were back, it was easier to fall back into that role than to try and view and process the world through the lens of the woman that she had been before... Even now, upon hearing him, it was certainly true that if given the chance herself, she'd have opted to spend every waking second with her son. "It's understandable to want to take advantage of the time, but we would prefer that it be done safely. In all honesty we're all trying to figure out if maybe there's a centralized location where we can have all affected families stay so we can keep a collective eye on all the affected kids at once, but that's still something we're working through." Rikke figured such a plan would also help with the groups of kids that wanted to be together at all times...even now.

BRAXTON

+Cut To - Next day

KEAGAN

It didn't seem reasonable to bring the babies to the station when there was suitable babysitters literally at home right now. However Keagan could not bring herself to leave them behind once again even if they did keep both Luke and her away all night. So she just waltz straight into her office with them without batting an eye towards all the stares she was most likely receiving from the rest of the crew.

With her babies set up next to her, Keagan quickly got to work to catch up on everything she had missed - vacation be damned. With her attention alternating between her babies and her work, she didn't even look up at the door when she heard the knock. "Are you here for me or the babies?"

ANDY

It was odd to walk into the station and see a flurry of activity that was less 'crisis' and more 'gossip'. It was even more odd to walk towards her temporary office and note that the door was already open, but as she made her way up to the doorway both of her unvoiced questions were answered at once. Mick _had_ warned her that Keagan was likely to not go a single week without at least one visit to the office, so that part was almost expected.

The babies to her side though? Not quite as much. Even _if_ Leo had opted to take hers in for a staff meeting the very next day after they reverted, she would've expected more...uh..._maturity?_ from the actual Chief Deputy. Or maybe she was just unaccustomed to parents caring that much for their kids... "Uh, technically neither. But since you're here, I suppose we can talk shop and what not."

KEAGAN

Recognizing it as Andy's voice, Keagan looked up and motioned to the chair across from her, "Sure, have a seat. I know, I'm not supposed to be here yet." But taking a month off just mean there was a lot ot catch up on in the first day back - that was not ideal for her. "I'm sure you have everything handled." And Mick hadn't called her or anything so it was safe to say that .. all was well, for now.

A squeal came from her side and Keagan turned over to see Sky latching herself onto her sister like a koala. "Baby.." She chuckled softly, "Loosen your grip a little. Your sister is right here, no need for that death grip." Keagan uncharacteristically pulled out her phone and took a picture of it before sending it to Luke. "Okay, we can start. What have I missed?"

ANDY

It was one thing to ignore the scent of an infant. After all, as Quin and Ripley had come to help her figure out, it turns out scent may be how regular vampires hunted but, it was far from how _bezerkers_ did. They relied far more on the sense of sight, being able to rely on it to lead them directly to a bloodsource like a laser. Or, well, more like a shining beacon.

As such, Andy felt confident in being able to maintain her composure as long as she maintained eye-contact on her boss...?... but all it took was the squeal to have her snapping her head in the direction of the babies and the brightness with which they shone had a dull ache starting up in the pit of her stomach. Losing quite a bit of her confidence, she opted to just smile and say, "It's fine, there's not a lot of sensitive information to discuss and if you're setting up shop for the day, I'll probably be heading back to the hotel soon." She did her best to keep her tone light, but she already knew eyes were bound to have betrayed her.

KEAGAN

While she knew Andy wouldn't do anything to harm her babies, her maternal instinct to protect flared - with her own eyes glowing as well. She managed to hold back her growl but still moved to put her body in the line of sight.

"I think it'd be in our best interest that we can hold this converstion off for another day - Or I could read it off a report unless there's something that requires my attention right now but I'm sure you probably had everything handled and I'm just.. unintentionally micro-managing." She admitted.

ANDY

"I may not be someone who grew up in this town with the rest of you guys, but I think it's still fair to say that there's very _little_ that you ever do without _intention_." The observation was less on the micro-managing, and more about how the woman eased her way between her and the babies. Not that Andy could blame her. She often still wondered how Leo could trust her as much as she did...

"I can definitely have a report to you by no later than COB today," she added, being suddenly very happy for the sound of an incoming visitor -well, visitor_s_ but Andy was sure the other person was being brought down to the office against their own wishes. "I'll see you _next week_," she said cheekily before heading off and simply nodding a greeting at the giddy lab technician dragging a confused -and unamused- medical examiner.

NIKITA

When she heard from others that Chief Deputy brought her baby twins to work, Nikita was bound to visit as soon as she could. Not wanting to get scolded by her however, she quickly worked on a good portion of her wok for this morning.

Without question, she dragged Kyle along with her the first chance she got. Using the moment Andy walked out to slip into Keg's room, she was literally shaking with excitement that if she weren't careful, her ears would pop out. "Oh my gosh, look at them!!"

KYLE

Kyle considered herself very lucky. The morgue had it's own entrance out the back of the station, that was mostly meant to afford her the ability to meet the delivery of any bodies to the loading ramp and into her 'office', but that she had been using to avoid the vast majority of her co-workers since....ever. As such, she didn't have a way of knowing that Nikki would be bounding into her office and then immediately dragging her off in the pure midst of some rolling waves of murmuring.

"I could have been elbow deep in someone's chest cavity." The words were barely above a whisper and honestly said to no one in particular as she knew well Nikki would _not_ be paying attention. When they got the Chief Deputy's office and she heard faint gurgles and babbles, Kyle peeked in to see what Nikki was so excited over. "Oh...those aren't cats."

NIKITA

"Nope, n-no cats. But l-look! Babies! Twins. Oh my god, they're so cute." She was vibrating on the spot with excitement. The only reason why she hadn't already gone up to play with the twins was because Keagan hadn't said anything yet and she didn't want to scare the babies - although she was told that they did retain their memories.

"K-Kyle.." She whispered, "They're so tiny..." The moment Keagan told her that she could approach only if she got her work done, Nikita already got in close. "Their hands.. oh my gosh, I .. i think they're smaller than my panda hands..." She was so tempted to shift right then and there.

KYLE

"Infants feel rather out of place in midst of a sheriff's station," she stated. Granted, it was she herself who felt out of place around infants. Or really children in general. She'd never really dealt with them, even when she was one herself.

Unlike Nikki, who immediately made her way over to the babies, Kyle opted to just watch them from afar. Not only would she not really know what she was meant to do with them if she engaged, but what if she did something wrong? They were her superior's children. Granted she didn't get much time to ponder this when a bright light filled the room and a woman materialized out of it. "Glistening..." she whispered, a look of deep curiosity already on her face. "_What_ is that?" she asked Deputy Benson with no preamble or concern for the fact the other woman was clearly still very much right there.

KEAGAN

She watched as Nikki get giddy over her children, and honestly, she understood because she was the same - in a less outwardly enthusiastic way. "Lucas." She greeted with a smile, having a feeling that she knew why the other orbed into the office. "That is Lucas."

She turned to the other, "Is it because I uh.. got a little angry? The babies are fine. There was just a little incident - sorted now though.... Wait, did you leave Lyra alone?" No matter how old her sister was, Keagan (and the rest of the family) still believed she needed supervision.

LUKE

She had honestly tried as hard as she could to ignore the sudden ‘flare up’ she’d sensed from Keagan, but when she received no word after two whole minutes, Luke just opted to pay a little visit. “Hi. I’m a Lucas…that’s about the only _certain_ ‘what’ I can answer right now,” she introduced.

She was in the process of nodding to answer Keagan’s first question, before then shaking it at the second. “Teagan and Erin are at there. Erin’s in charge, so what was the incident?”

KEAGAN

"I think this will be a common occurrence for the foreseeable future. Hopefully, you won't accidentally orb in front of someone who has no idea about supes." She lifted their twins into her arms and walked over to Luke.

"I got a little overprotective, when I don't think I needed to be." Her eyes ventured over to the other two in the room. "Nikki, I know you'd want to play with the babies, but they might bite and we don't want to take any risks until we figure this out."

LUKE

“I…need to start working more with, what your boss has dubbed, the Fallcrest MENSA chapter. Need to figure out what I am before I can begin to work on control. Though for the record, I think for as many times as entire brain was scrambled about, the universe can allow me to wipe a few minutes from Mundy…_kidding_!”

Luke wanted to look somewhat repented, but having her girls back to being so close to her made that impossible. She could feel their giddiness at being at work with their mom after having work be the thing that kept her away for so long, it was hard not to keep a grin on her face even as she glanced back at Nikki. “Keg- uh, Deputy Benson is right,” she began, correcting herself as it clicked that folks outside the cabin-sphere weren’t quite up to date on…anything about their family. “You make too cute of a red panda to risk a werepup bite changing that.”

KEAGAN

"Mm, if there was anything to take from what Old Man Grey did, is that one should *not* mess with the memories." She sighed before her attention was also drawn over to the babies. "I'll be sure to let you know when the babies are asleep - but even then, I'd advise you to not get your fingers anywhere near Sky.. the kid uh.. tends to sleep-eat?" She chuckled at her own kid's antics. "You might be safer watching over Miles."

Keagan gave Sky a look because she could almost sense how affronted the baby was from her stare alone even if she didn't have a Paladin's power. "Yes, I'm talking about you, baby. You almost ate your sister's cheek, remember?"

KYLE

Though Nikki had managed a few words between pouting, the hunter hadn’t been able to look away from the tall redhead that had seemingly just appeared before them. Granted, at the mention of the babies having their powers and one being a biter, she did instinctively reach out to usher the shifter behind her.

“I thought the Nexus had only activated _three_ Paladins with charges in town?” Came the question without preamble. “Also, the last time we met you were one of the pack’s token _humans_…Wait, you mentioned Old Man Grey, does this have anything to do with Evan shimmering into the morgue the night of the invasion?”

KEAGAN

Her eyes looked over to Luke, wondering who should answer the question. "A lot had happened." Was the short answer. Keagan lifted both the twins up into her arms. How was she really going to work today when she was constantly distracted by her children.

"But as you can see, Lucas here can umm.. well, orb. A little too well in my opinion." The latter was meant to be a joke, seeing how she was only upset for a brief moment and she came over.

LUKE

Maybe it was the accent or lack of obviously discernible emotion in the woman’s voice, but being hit with rapid fire questions like that made Luke wince a little. It was rather authoritative and, the fact she had also just been full-named three times had her feeling like she was in trouble.

“Uh, I wasn’t personally at the meeting that led to Evan shimmering over -kind of got caught up _elsewhere_- but from what I know that had to do with something _mostly_ unrelated to me. When I have specifics about-“ she gestured to herself by running a hand up and down, “-_this_, I’ll be sure to fill ya in.”

NIKITA

Though Kyle had stepped in between her and the babies, Nikita still poked out from behind to watch the babies interact with their mom. She only heard off hand from others about how Keagan were often away when the twins were growing up so watching this interaction just had her absolutely beaming.

She could watch them all day but then, the conversation brought her attention back to reality, "...I..It sounds like a lot happened.. More.. More than we know of." From what they just saw, Luke obviously gained some supernatural powers even though a Paladin would have been their last guess. "... But it's nice to s-see you're walking around again."

LUKE

Luke, for reasons she didn’t wish to analyze at this very moment, had been expecting for Kyle to either argue with her over the matter or call her a liar or anything, really, _except_ that the young woman would just give her a nod and let it go. Taking her word at face value, apparently.

She turned her attention to the other woman currently peeking out from behind her protector, and managed a smile. “Thank you,” Luke replied, earnest appreciation clear. “I know it wasn’t exactly all on me, but I do feel pretty bad for having given folks a bit of a scare. I’m just glad the girls are safe and that Keagan won’t be scaring anyone else in town. At least on my behalf.”

KEAGAN

On her part, Keagan drew her attention away from her daughter once more to give Luke a small glare - one that easily implied that she wasn't offended by it. However, it was short-lived as she already turned to the other two in the room, "Kyle, could you please make sure Nikita gets her reports done? I do understand that the twins are adorable, but *work*, Nikki." She chuckled at the pout coming from the shifter, but Keagan already expected them to come by again later in the day again - maybe even a few times.

In a semi-sitting position, the Chief Deputy leaned back onto her desk. "It's been quite the morning, isn't that right, Miles?" She cooed before giving her a light peck to the forehead - which did earn a little whine from Sky.

LUKE

Luke just grinned in response to the glare she received, turning to look in the direction of the odd pair as they both agreed to Keagan’s requests and made their way out…for now. “Still can’t get over the fact those two are basically besties for the resties. I suppose there must be some truth to the whole ‘opposites attract’ thing,” she chuckled.

At the sight of Keagan interacting with the girls, Sky being contented when she got her own kiss, Luke smiled. Though it was short-lived as the older woman’s comment prompted her to ask, “So what actually constitutes this ‘incident’ that seems to have made your morning so long?”

KEAGAN

"I wouldn't say it was a long morning... Just unexpected?" She shrugged, "I must admit, it may have been my fault - I'm not supposed to come in since I'm still on leave. But Andy came in today." She was already wincing internally just remembering how she reacted. "Her eyes glowed at the sight of the twins, and I did not react well despite knowing she wouldn't do anything to harm them."

"I should go apologize to her when I see her later." She sighed, "Nothing really happened other than that - Do you think I overreacted? She didn't do anything and I believed that she wouldn't have done anything."

LUKE

Luke didn't even bother disputing the semantics of her statement, knowing that it would really do nothing at all except give Keagan's obvious attempt at stalling more fuel. She was proven right as Keagan found herself having to continue speaking and eventually wound up providing Luke with the details she needed. She let out a sigh of her own, before stating, "Well, first lesson here -which I'm sure will be completely ignored- is how we don't always need to be in places where we aren't _expected_." It was Luke's way of pointing out that if Keagan hadn't been micromanaging, this could've been avoided. "That one goes for me too, and learning to manage this orbing thing," she was quick to add.

Luke offered a sympathetic smile. "Do I think it was an overreaction? Yes, if you plan on sticking to the whole 'truly believing she wouldn't do anything' bit. But I think _any_ parent would've felt protective in that situation, and I'm sure Andy understands. Regardless, I conversation without babies around may be beneficial."

KEAGAN

"I'll .. try not to come in after today unless Mick calls me in. I just.. it's weird *not* to be working." She conceded eventually. This really had been her fault since she shouldn't have been here in the first place. "I'll find her afterwards - can't exactly call her back, now that she went to the hotel." She shifted Miles so that the baby was leaning into her complete as she gave the kid a hug. God, she did not ever want to let them go to the point that she was almost amazed that she managed to go back to her job all those years ago.

"Miles, I'm sorry but you're going to be trapped in a hug for the next little while." She spoke softly to the baby as she rocked slowly from side to side. "I can't get enough of this."

LUKE

"I'm no expert, but I think the fact that you legit can't help yourself from being at work...is in itself a sign that you have an unhealthy relationship with work." Luke knew full well the line of conversation she was following made her a giant hypocrite, but they'd have to work on one parent at time. "You spent so much of your time hiding in your work -as have I, I won't deny it- that it's become a personality trait. In your case, I think it might high time you take a step back and maybe consider what such a lifestyle has cost you and if the price is something worth continuing to pay."

Skylar was never one to be left behind in the cuddle department, so Luke had to do very little as the tiny ginger practically maneuvered herself to be held like her sister was. "I think after eighteen years with Sky as a sister, Miles is more than used to being trapped in a cuddle."

KEAGAN

"Hmm, yes.. I agree, I should take this time to.. be less of a workaholic." She had another chance with the twins, Keagan really shouldn't let this slip again. ".. but I'll have to at least stay here for today since I did just.. make Andy leave." She sighed as she thought about her actions again. "It wouldn't be fair for her to make her go back and forth. With her speed, I'm sure she's already at the hotel." She looked around her office before turning to her twins, "I'm definitely not willing to lose more time with my family.. I've been away for far too long. I know that.."

Keagan let out a soft sigh as she continued to nuzzle the baby. "They've been really good all morning, though I think it was because there were so many things capturing their attention. But, I think I can get wrapped up early so that you're not all stuck here with me."

LUKE

Luke listened as she spoke, but didn't make to actively provide much more input. "I don't think anything that comes out of my own mouth on the subject could truly be considered _objective_, but suffice it to say that I think Andy will appreciate you at least giving notice if you're going to be coming in on your days off," she quipped. Luke had always been careful not to overstep with regards to Keagan's career and her choice thereof, especially because she knew her input would always be biased and tinged by her own desire to have the woman close. She wasn't really one to take the fact they were now even closer as a family than they knew as an excuse to change that. Keagan would always be her own person.

"If memory serves me right, as long as they're together and they have something to keep them occupied, they'll be fine. Trouble will come if and when one of Miles' sensitivities is triggered, which will then upset Sky on her behalf, which leads to crying from Sky that is in itself a sensitivity for Miles, and it's a vicious cycle."

KEAGAN

"That.. is fair." She chuckled, "I'll keep that in mind for the next time, but the goal is for me *not* to come in altogether, wasn't it? Or at least that's what I *should* be doing.. especially since we've been given a second chance at this... " She watched as Sky cuddled with her other mother and it just brought a smile to her face. How she stayed away for so long was really a mystery because right now, there was barely anything that could pry her away from all her girls - she literally brought them to work with her, and would probably continue to do so if she didn't have vacation days either.

"I think they were very distracted by everything in my office for a little while because I wouldn't think paperwork is what appealed to them, and then Nikki came in with Kyle." She smiled, very amused to how Luke was so accustomed to their routine even years later.

LUKE

Luke walked over and wrapped her free arm around Keagan's shoulders, bringing her two other girls to form one big family cuddle. Partly because she knew the girls would enjoy it -especially Sky- but also somewhat selfishly for herself, because the last one had been while Luke was in a hospital bed. "I can't say that getting to enjoy such small luxuries as getting to hug all my girls at once is much more appealing in your office than it was in a hospital room, but it _is_ a step up," she remarked, before placing a gently kiss atop the brunette's head. "Habits are hard to break, but if you want something bad enough, I know for a fact that you will always find a way to get it."

Luke chuckled lightly and said, "As long as you remembered to bring the bag I packed you should be alright. It's all about finding the right balance with these two. Under or over stimulation is the enemy. Also, if they've retained a good chunk of their memories as teens, then they'll probably have tools of their own to not completely freak out on you. _And_ don't read too much into if if Sky babbles away and Miles doesn't even manage a 'mama'. It's not personal."

KEAGAN

As expected, once Luke engulfed them into one big family hug, Keagan saw Sky's little hand reach out to Miles. It was endearing to see those little digits trying to grip on the her sister's arm... Or hand, she couldn't really tell. "We'll just have to make sure the next time is at home, or just somewhere suitable." She turned to reciprocate the kiss, this time one for the lips. "This would be a good direction to go with."

"You've really mastered the balance of keeping *both* kids occupied at the same time thing. I must take a page out of that guide book." Really though, she was thankful the twins had Luke by their sides. All the times she lost for being away from family, she was going make up for them now. "When is Sky not babbling away?"

LUKE

Luke took note of the wriggling and shift the baby so it was easier for her to coordinate her tiny hand with its target. "Home is always an option, though depending on who else is home at the time, it may be less of a family hug and more of a family _pile up_," she noted. There would be zero way that Lyra would see them and not join in, at the very least. She smiled into the brief kiss and agreed. "Well the girls certainly seem to be taking to it well, all things considered. I'll be the first to admit I wasn't entirely sure how receptive they would be to the idea of us a family unit. I knew they loved me as their _aunt_, that was a given, but nothing is ever guaranteed and all that jazz."

Luke could only laugh lightly at the comment. "This is _technically_ my second go around. At least this time I know that to avoid hours of fussiness and crying, I should make sure clothes have no tags, and Sky is always within arm's reach of her sister." The way Keagan's comment made the babbling redhead stop dead, was enough to make Luke laugh as she gave the kid a squeeze and kissed her head. "It's okay, Chicken Strip, you just have opinions."

KEAGAN

"Home is a good option - even better if Teg is there to hold Lyra back. Bless him for being the only one who can keep Lyra from.. most things." Keagan used her free hand to take sky's other hand, absolutely melting at how small that hand was compared to hers. "Luke, I'm pretty sure you're literally their favourite person. Isn't that right, girls?" She pointed the question towards the twins, giving both another kiss. Keagan was already holding back herself from giving both the babies an onslaught of kisses. Maybe later.

"Sky needs to be in arm's reach of at least *someone*. When is she ever alone?" She laughed at the stare the baby was giving her. "Yeah, I'm talking about you." She continued to tease before giving her little cheek a gentle squeeze." Her smile never dropped as Luke assured her that there was nothing wrong with her babbling away. It was almost comical how abruptly Sky stopped talking, "I'm kidding, you know I love hearing what you think. Babble away, Sky."

LUKE

“Teagan has quite a way with her. Whether Lyra ever comes around to realizing that it’s probably for a reason well…I mean it did take _you_ a while to figure out why for the Christmas Miracle in October,” she teased. Her smirk eased into a timid smile as Keagan mentioned being the twins’ favorite person, anxiety spiking a bit when she actually asked the kids directly. “I think I could live with them implying I’m not their favorite if it meant their actual favorite person is their mother,” she began before slightly furrowing her brow, “Well, their original mother, you know _you_….I’m going to stop talking.”t? It was a small price to pay.

KEAGAN

"Well.. Unlike us, they *did* date at some point." She rolled her eyes at the mention of the Christmas Miracle in October, the incident that everyone was now *very* certain as to why it happened in the first place. Her brows only went up higher in amusement as Luke tried to explain that she was fine if Keg was the kids' favourite, but failing to actually say so. "It's not a competition, Luke, besides I'm not their only mom as you pointed out."

Keagan's eyes rolled again - this time less playfully than the last, "That hadn't changed over the years. No one wants to be around him. For good reasons." However, with the sight of her babies, nothing could faze her right now. The sight of the two of them together, especially with Sky trying her best to latch onto her sister just kept the smile on her face. "I should really wrap up here so we can spend the rest of the day together, how does that sound, girls? Hm?" She said this yet she did not budge from her spot. "Just who do you two take over, hm? Being so cute."

LUKE

"Yeah, and it was _Lyra_ who called it quits and hasn't really gotten around to giving it another go," Luke replied. Teagan could take care of himself and had never been one to need anyone to fight his battles, but every once in a while, Luke felt the protective sister streak. Now wasn't the time to delve too much into it, but she knew first-hand what it was like to be the one waiting and she'd hate that to be her brother. "Isn't _everything_ a competition for a Calvetti?" she said cheekily.

"Luckily he was hardly ever the one holding them anyhow, so it's not like it was a common occurrence. These little bits spent most of their time with Aunt Ook," she provided, with a small smile, hoping to ease some of the worry she knew would rear itself at the mention of Richard. Turning Sky around in her arms just enough to allow her to actually manage to latch onto her sister, she simply laughed. "I think as long as they're together and have at least one of us around, they could care less about the venue," she pointed out. The latter question made her snort as she said, "Well, you keep saying that _you_ are so _not_ cute, so...I suppose that just leaves one other option," Luke glanced down at the girls and said, "They get it form their _daddy_." The eruption of giggles was more than enough confirmation that they were indeed in on the joke.

KEAGAN

"Are you going to try and knock some sense into her then? Lyra also has the same Calvetti stubbornness but surely she's aware that Teg's the only one she listens to... sort of. She listens to him way better than to any of us at least." The whole 'Lyra forgetting she's a wolf especially when Teg's involved' was always amusing to her. "*Some* things don't have to be a competition. This is one of them."

Keagan could not express enough just how thankful she was about Luke being in her life, in the twins' lives. "He was probably trying to impress someone." Because that felt like something he'd do. Bonding with the kids? As if. Instead of focusing on the asshole, she just watched as Sky interacted with Miles. "Well, nothing changed over the years. Now she's even got 2 girlfriends stuck to her side." She gently nudged the taller woman with a groan, "Don't ever say that around Lyra." She snorted, "But yes, I thought we already confirmed that. Mini-Me's and all."

LUKE

Luke paused for a moment before answering. "I suppose not. I mean, it's not like it's something that's out of my reach or anything, but it's not really any of my business. They're both still my best friends and neither has broached the subject with me, so it would be overstepping to do so," she admitted, albeit reluctantly. "Which, incidentally, is what I had to remind myself of this morning when I saw Nix and Rikke heading off to the gym together..."

She groaned at the memory. "Usually he was just trying to get under my skin by reminding me he was the actual parent and I was just a quote "glorified nanny" for the girls." Saying these things out loud to someone else really did highlight just how not right her family's actions towards her were...yikes. Luke could only chuckle at the thought of Skylar having wound up with two girlfriends, "Sometimes there's too much love for just one person." At the mention of saying this around Lyra, her face fell slightly. "This is why we can't have nice things," she grumbled. "They're mini-_us_. The sum of the best of both of us...and some of the not so best too," she laughed.

KEAGAN

"Maybe dad will do it without us prompting it, and *maybe* by then, he'll stop trying to push *you* to her." Keagan snorted, remembering all the times Jarrett kept bringing the topic up. Her brows went up with curiosity. "As long as you weren't going to tease Nix, the girl has enough of that from Lyra. I wouldn't be surprise if Rikke's opinion of my sister is getting lower and lower by each encounter."

Her eyes flashed briefly at the reminder of how much of an asshole that man was. The audacity of him doing all the things he had done will always make her blood boil. But this is not the time for that. She was surrounded by her favourite people in the world, and that really was all she should be focusing on. "Enough about him. I'll say it again and a gain, I'm glad you were there for our girls because there's no question where all that love comes from. It's a good thing she's found people to share all that love with." She chuckled, "They're literally a good blend of us, aren't they?" That thought was always on her mind as she watched the girls grow up, it was very entertaining to see what traits they took from which parent.

LUKE

"I think he really just wanted me in the family," she remarked, a smirk firmly in place. "I'm almost certain that considering how much of her life has been spent in stasis, Lyra is proving to just be a really fascinating specimen for Rikke. Though I do wish Lyra would lay off a bit. Nix is like the only friend she's managed to make on her own and honestly she really cares about her, so if Lyra keeps making it awkward and Rikke loses that, I'm gonna be like, totally not happy with her."

A sheepish look crossed her features as she glanced down at the pair, a dopey grin on her face as she admitted, "This one night, like a week after you found out you were pregnant, I came home and found you sleeping on the sofa. My sole intention in even walking over to you was just to put the blanket off the back of the couch over you but," she paused realizing she was rambling, "Anyway, basically I ended up crouching and just staring at where your belly was for I don't even know how long, and I promised that if whoever was making their way to this world via you made it all the way, safe and sound, _I_ would make sure that they remained safe and sound out here."

KEAGAN

Keagan almost snorted at that understatement. The whole family wanted Luke in the family the moment they *met* her, even Lyra literally adopted her the first day. "She'll lay off at some point - especially if she knows Nix is genuinely upset over it. She may be a pain in the ass, but she would not want to make Nix mad.. or cry."

Keagan smiled, "That's very sweet of you. And I can't thank you enough for keeping to it especially when I wasn't around. These two got to grow up, becoming the amazing women they are today. I do regret that I missed out on so much, but hey.. something good came from the seals breaking for once.. gave everyone a second chance.." She raised Miles higher so she could press her cheeks against the tinnnny little baby cheek. "I don't know what I was thinking back then, I can barely let go of them right now. Coming into work was a bad idea - I don't even know what i'm going to do if the twins aren't back by the time I officially have to go back to the office."

LUKE

Luke nodded, but her face remained concerned. "I know that Lyra would never do anything to actually cause someone she cares about to be upset, _on purpose_. The problem is that Lyra very often doesn't realize she's gone too far until it's already happened." Just off the top of her head, Luke could already recall some disaster blind-dates that wound up causing the girls to be more upset than Luke herself.

Luke tightened her hold on the shorter woman and once again rested her head atop the others. "We were all legitimately different people back then. Our choices were made based on the experiences we'd had up until that point. The old saying does go 'hindsight is twenty-twenty' for a reason," she chuckled. "Besides, the girls turned out to be the amazing young women they are because of _you_ as well. Your time with them while growing up, may have been limited and not as consistent as one would've liked, but it was impactful. A true example of quality over quantity." Luke laughed at Keagan's antics, and how Miles' face practically screamed 'great. my mother's an older version of my sister'. "I'm sure that _if_ that becomes an issue, we'll find a way to make it work. Nikki seems rather keen on helping you with childcare."

KEAGAN

"Yes.. I do know that very well. I can only say that I can try to make sure she doesn't tease Nix too much - and hopefully Teg can reel her in enough to give the two their peace. Sending her back to mom isn't really a threat anymore so we'll need to figure something else out."

What Luke was saying held a lot of truth, and nothing could be done now that everything's in the past. "It's not as if I'd change anything if it meant the girls turning out being who they are now." She sighed, "Whatever we did, it turned out for the good." She chuckled before turning to give her kid another kiss to the cheek before quickly giving Sky one too so that the older twin didn't feel left out. "Okay, do you want me to hand you over to Luke, Miles? Your eyes are *screaming* for help." She laughed when she spotted the face the baby was pulling. "As long as the babies are not in the lab.. or the morgue, I suppose that could work out. And thankfully, we got rid of that pain the peach so we won't be exposing all his negativity to the kids."

LUKE

"Fingers-crossed," was all she could manage. There was no stopping a Hurnado, one just had to hope it decided to change directions. "Speaking of your mom, has anyone told her about the babies?"

Luke managed a small shrug and said, "I think even if we did change certain things, people will always find a way to be who they're meant to be no matter what. These girls would have been amazing with or without my involvement because they're just naturally amazing little people with good hearts. And a good heart will always get you very far in life." She chuckled at the hint of a frown on Skylar's face in the brief moment she believed she would not be getting a kiss like her sister. "Well, you may feel like this is a second chance for you to get to see them as babies, but clearly this is also a second chance for _them_ to get to enjoy having you around and wrapped around their tiny little fingers." She glanced at Miles and said, "I think she's just getting used to the idea of twice the physical contact. If she's not crying, she's not upset."

At the mention of the places Keagan didn't want the babies to go, Luke just said, "I actually think Miles would love to go to both of those." The mirth drained from her tone, however, at the mention of negative people around the kids. "They already had to deal with negativity the first time around as babies, I don't want _anyone_ even remotely distressing around them now."

KEAGAN

"....I'm sure Lyra already told mom and dad first chance she got - probably sent them several pictures. Who knows, maybe that will get them to take a flight back." She had no idea if her parents were actually going to visit but Keg would not be surprised if they show up at the door again. "...Or maybe she hadn't yet because mom hadn't texted me....I'll do it when we get home."

"Yeah.. they're good kids.. so good." She chuckled when Luke said that she was being wrapped around their little fingers. "Oh? And what is it that you girls think you're going to get away with? Hm?" She said this as if she hadn't been spoiling them already all these years. "Miles, I hope you get used to it soon because I don't think I will stop hugging you anytime soon." She smiled when she heard Sky let out a giggle. "Your sister thinks it's funny." She'd 'threaten' her other kid with hugs too but that might not be as much of an issue with this little one. If anything, Sky would probably welcome it.

"No babies in the morgue or labs." She repeated. "We'll deal with them before they get the chance to even step within proximity." Keagan pulled away and walked back around her desk to her chair. "Since I did unintentionally kick Andy out for the day.. I should at least wrap up this much." Nothing was going to stop her from hugging her child while she worked.

LUKE

"See, you're proving my concerns are valid even when the topic is different. You're first instinct was to think that surely Lyra had already told half the planet, because that's what Lyra does: She talks." Taking a moment to take a breath before she agitated Miles unintentionally, she then added, "Your mom's going to go off on you about the fact she and Jarrett were an 'afterthought' since they weren't told until a day after."

"What? Allowing them unrestrained access to the Chief Deputy's office isn't enough, you want them to test their luck and try something else? Because trust me, _they will_. Especially given that they're little brains are still technically working with some knowledge of their teenage ways," Luke warned. She would know firsthand just what this duo was capable of. "If you want Miles to give into the cuddles, you'll have to allow her at least one visit to the aforementioned morgue and labs. It's practically written already all over her face....Sky would very much _not_ like to join in on that part of the field trip."

It was at times like these, when she saw just what lengths Keagan was willing to go to in order to keep hold of Miles as she continued to work, that she wondered just _what_ was it about her assignments before that made it so seemingly easy for her to leave? But that would be a question for another day. "Would you like me to leave? I know you've no shortage help if you need it."

KEAGAN

"Okay, I get your point.." Perhaps the family had let Lyra get away with too much that the girl was a Hurrnado through and through. With that thought in mind, she decided that it may be a good idea to notify her mother even if Lyra already leaked the news. Using a photo she took of the four of them, she quickly sent it to Ianthe. "Let's try and quell one issue first.."

Keagan sighed, already feeling weak at the argument. It was expected that Miles would literally do the opposite of what they're told. "As long as they don't touch anything, I'm sure Nikki would love to give Miles a tour. Sky can stay with me if she doesn't want to go. Just.. don't touch anything, don't let Miles touch anything." She gave Miles a little bounce with her leg, "Okay? Don't grab anything in sight like your sister and we're good."

The Chief Deputy looked up from her file and actually hesitated. "I feel bad if I make you stay at my office of all places, but unless.. you want to help keep an eye on the babies?"

LUKE

Luke gave the older woman an unimpressed look. "Please, as if there has ever been a point in time in which I wouldn't want to help with these two," she said, already walking over to make the swap so Sky could stay with her while she and Miles went off to find Nikki and do some 'minor' exploring. "I told you I'd always have your back where the girls were concerned even before they were born, and I don't intend on waiting until finding out I'm _also_ responsible for them being here to go back on that. Even in the slightest." She dropped a quick peck to the woman's lips as she hoisted Miles back up with her. "Gotta keep it PG for the kids. Last thing I need is to have them go back to normal and then be surprised with some random song they co-wrote about parental trauma via PDA."

KEAGAN

The happy squeal Sky did when she was passed off to Keagan just had her chuckling softly. "Hey baby girl." Almost immediately, she showered her kiddo with kisses, which only resulted in more squeals. She then leaned up naturally for the kiss, slightly disappointed that it was so short. Sky let out yet another squeal from seeing her parents kiss. "I... think a song will be written regardless though." She sighed, knowing all the random songs that they've done.. that weren't released.. *yet*. "Are you visiting the lab? I'm less worried because Miles is less.. handsy but make sure she doesn't ..touch anything in there." While she was concerned about what the two might get into, Sky was distracting her so much when the baby started cuddling into her.

LUKE

"Seems someone was jumping at the bit to take advantage of her what her sister was clearly just tolerating. Man, I wonder who she gets that soft, cuddly personality from?" Luke would normally watch the teasing in public -much less Keagan's _work_ - but the children being between them made her a bit braver. "As long as they're nothing like _mine_....I uh, I think it'll be fine...it _should_ be fine..." She and Miles hadn't even moved a step away and the two shorter members of the crew already seemed to be in their own little cuddle bubble. The taller pair both turned to face each other at the same time, with only a shared nod as they began to head out. "Okay then, well we'll leave you guys to your _hard work_ and we'll go ahead and goexploreandtoucheverythingwelayeyesonkaybye." She was already half-way out the door when a sharp babble made her double back briefly.. "Binky," she gave of explanation.

NIKITA

Once Kyle and she were 'dismissed' from the Chief Deputy's office, much to her dismay, she had to return to her lab to finish up the reports she was working on. All this so that she could go visit the babies again once they wake up - hopefully. "T-they were just so cute.." She gushed again as she looked up from her microscope. "I just want to hold both of them, o-one on each side and just give.. give them the biggest hugs.. But.. I.. I don't think Miles would like that..." She chuckled softly before returning to the microscope, only to jot a couple of words before looking up again and the sound of the door opening. "Ooooooh b-baaaaby!"

LUKE

It wasn't terribly hard to find where she was meant to be going. The building itself wasn't huge -not like the police stations she'd been in while in Philly or Jersey city anyway- and everything was pretty clearly labeled. A bright smile took hold at Nikki's response to seeing Miles. It would always warm her heart to see how so many people genuinely cared for and wanted to have the girls around. Knowing the twins would always have a network of people to rely on had made the idea of moving back to Fallcrest an easy one in the end. _And_, it was also the driving force behind wanting to keep BH productions homed in town even as their popularity grew.

"We got a little restless, and while Sky is more than happy to just cling onto her mom like a ginger koala, Miles and I would very much appreciate a more educational look at things."

NIKITA

Nikita wasn't surprised at all about how a certain twin was glued to her mom. When was that girl *not* snuggling against someone? The shifter was confident enough to say that that kid was never left alone at any point in time since she never *seen* Sky alone, which was an amazing feat of its own. "E-Educational look? " Going back to the topic at hand, Nikki looked around her lab, wondering what she could or could not show. "I... Well.. Um.." She chuckled, "I.. I don't know if it's all that interesting.. Most of my time is waiting for test results." She motioned over to a small machine that was spinning a few test tubes in a circle.

KYLE

Kyle wasn't entirely sure if a civilian was really meant to be anywhere near this lab -let alone an infant- but, no one had bothered to question why most of her own time was spent in a lab that wasn't her own -once her work was done, of course- so she was not about to cause any ripple effects by bringing that up right now. Besides, as Nikki proceeded to guide the pair around the lab, she caught sight of the baby using some gestures she recognized as American Sign Language. "Huh... my mum taught me British Sign Language when I was a baby because she noticed I was still pretty nonverbal when I should be at least trying to speak." It was spoken as an observation, with her inflection not really giving much of anything away on her thought process behind said observation...as usual.

NIKITA

Nikita was pretty sure that if Luke made it all the way to the lab meant that Keagan gave permission - more or less. Surely Keagan knew they were here.. right? The specialist focused on explaining what she could about things in her lab before Kyle's comment got her attention. Honestly, the sight of Miles signing to her was incredibly adorable because her hands were *tiny*. The more she watched the kids do any sort of activity, the cuter she thought they were. However, understanding that Miles was not like Sky, she was not about to go crowd the kid. "Did you w-want to see a close-up on one of these samples?" She walked over to one of her screens and swiveled the monitor nearby towards them. "This...This is the s-sort of things I look at everyday."

LUKE

It took a one-time explanation from Nikki for Luke to be able to make heads _and_ tails of the reports that were currently out in the open, and the newly triggered Paladin found herself looking immediately away. They were almost certain the reason Keagan found their wandering around relatively harmless was because they weren't meant to actually _understand_ any of the confidential case material...A quick exchange of knowing glances between herself and the tiny in her arms let her know that Miles may be a baby, but the kid had the same thought.

Kyle's comment came as a welcome 'out' -of sorts- as Luke glanced over with a small smile and said, "Yeah, that was actually kind of similar to why I decided to learn ASL along with the girls back when they were this size the first time around. I myself was actually prone to selective mutism and didn't really start to develop proper speech until I got sent to the school's speech pathologist in school. Figured this would give the girls a leg up just in case, and it actually turned out really well....though I think Sky only uses it with Miles now to discuss 'secrets' and whatnot." Turning back to face the other two, she almost burst out in laughter at how focused Miles was on the screen and every little word Nikki mentioned as she described each aspect on the screen.

NIKITA

"That's .. that's really cute." She could imagine the twins just interacting with each other through sign - and was almost giddy all over again because now the twins had little baby fingers. Looking down at the baby, she chuckled softly at how much Miles was concentrating on her screen. Honestly, she always welcomed those who were fascinated with her research. To most, one rarely knew what they were supposed to be looking at. They just wanted results so it was always refreshing to explain in detail - well, enough details that wouldn't give away integral information. Her bosses would have her head if they found out. "W-What else did you want to see?" She asked the baby.

LUKE

The immediate sign from Miles after Nikki asked after what she wanted to see next, had Luke shaking her head and shifting her to sit properly on her hip. "Nope," she said, signing back for emphasis more than anything as Miles' hearing was hardly an issue being a wolf...or at least part wolf...? "She signed 'body'" Luke heard coming from Kyle, to which she could only nod and then turn back to Nikki. "And that is our queue to wrap-up this lovely field trip. There are many things I know Keagan would forgive me, but having let Miles actually witness a dead body that is likely an open case...probably not at the top of that list." There was a sound of contempt that came from the youngest person in the room, but all it did was pull a chuckle from the elders. "You can grumble all you want, Stip. If we're going to take a trip to Kyle's neck of the woods, you'll need better motor skills." Luke looked up to glance between the two others and said, "Thanks guys. She's been itching to scope out this place since she was originally this size, so I'm sure even if she didn't everything she wanted, she'll be more than happy to infodump on whoever she manages to get."

KEAGAN

Leo

It had been a hectic morning to say the least. Not only had they babies not slept solidly through the night, but they also did not wish to go back to sleep once Julia and Leo’s alarms went off for work. Between the two, they did manage to get them changed, dressed, fed and settled along with a quick breakfast in for themselves, before Jules had to head for the hospital.

Now, it was nearing lunch time, and Leo was wrapping up a full staff meeting with Emmy in a carrier at her back, and Levi in one resting on her front. The tiny boy was sound asleep, but she could feel Emmy doing _something_ with her hair. Honestly, as long as she was content, Leo didn’t much care. Turning to the room she asked for questions before dismissing the meeting. Of course, not everyone left. “Yes?”

Thyra

During the meeting, she had a feeling that her boss wasn't in the best moods however, Thyra could not help but focus on the two babies she was carrying with her. "Your- Um." She pointed to the hair but gave up on that and walked right up to Leo to at least try to dry the hair a bit from.. Embry chewing on it. "Maybe we should get Emmy something to bite on." She suggested before letting the kid grab her hand.

"They are so cute." It was natural instinct to just coo at the babies. "I just want to pinch her cheeks but I also don't want to make Embry cry - or bite me." She joked before playing a little tug-o-war with the kid with her finger. "I've got most things handled, so if you want to just hide in the penthouse with them, no one will question it."

Andy

Andy had managed to walk in as everyone else was filing out of the meeting room. It had been made pretty clear that her services wouldn't be required all that much down at the station pretty much as soon as she walked in, but she'd hung around a bit just in case. As she made her way over to the remaining duo and the tinies, she grabbed one of the straws on the long table, and unwrapped it before offering it to the kid as a trade-off for Thyra's finger.

"Yeah, no. Made hybrid supernaturals aren't the best of ideas in my experience," she said in response to the idea of a fully-powered baby werewolf biting the shifter. "Oh, I'm sure Leo appreciates your offer so very much, but she likes micro-managing just a little more."

Thyra

Thyra's face lit up even more when a certain someone walked into the room. "Andy!" She greeted, waiting for her finger to be freed before immediately giving the Head of Security a tight hug. "If Leo's going to be micro-managing with two babies on her, I don't know how much work is going to get done. Surely everyone's going to be distracted by them." She, for one, was going to be.

Her attention returned to Andy, "I thought you were going to be at the station today? Not that I'm complaining because I do appreciate you being here instead very, very much." One could easily tell by just the fact that their boss still was there with them in the room but Thyra did not let go of the other.

Leo

"Well then I would hope everyone is also going to be too distracted by them to realize the gap in the salaries," Leo shot back smoothly. "I hire only the best and babies is all it takes to derail my well-oiled machine then I'm not going to compensate anyone for that, now am I." Obviously, it would take quite a rather _severe_ lack in work output for her to actually dock anyone's pay, but it never hurt to remind people she was aware of the power she could wield -even if the one that forgot more often than not was herself.

"My guess is that I'm not the only one who took her babies to work with her," Leo noted, before making a face and saying, "Thyra, honesty? Right in front of my babies??"

Thyra

She looked up with almost an understanding look, "Ah, I would have thought Luke would have them since she can't go into work." One would also point out that Keagan's on vacation but Thyra knew by now that not much could keep the Chief Deputy from working. "Leo, we're just hugging." She chuckled, "It's not like we've never done so before."

Easing back a little without actually letting go, "Well, I suppose we-.. I should go before our boss here docks my paycheck." Thyra teased before quickly leaning back up to kiss her girlfriend on the lips. "Will... you walk out with me?" She asked Andy, sneaking a peek over at Leo and back.

Andy

"If my brief encounter with the Chief Deputy is anything to go by, I'd say that much like our boss here, it'll take quite the feat to keep her away from her babies," Andy noted, eyes managing to avoid said boss. Or rather, her current companions. She'd managed to hand Embry the straw without looking directly at her, but even that was enough to show how bright she'd appear.

From the corner of her eye she managed to catch as Leo waved them off, and gladly took the offered respite as she walked Thyra back to her office. "Thank you," she said as soon as the door to the manager's office closed behind them.

Thyra

When she made her way in, she spun around and waited until the door closed before wrapping her arms around Andy again. "Hmm? For what? For wanting you all to myself?" She joked before rested her cheek against the taller woman without saying anything more. The shifter could tell that Andy had been avoiding the babies - which was most likely why she returned to the hotel sooner than expected. After all, she knew the security could easily find herself something to do at the station even if Keg was there.

Andy

As soon as Thyra’s arms were wrapped back around her, and the shorter woman’s head rested neatly against her chest, Andy closed her eyes. She shut out her main sense and as she nuzzled into Thyra’s hair, she let the others take over. The strong and steady sound of the woman’s heartbeat humming in her ears like a song, and the scent that was uniquely the shifter engulfing her sense of smell. In that moment there was only Thyra. “Thank you for knowing what I need if that’s changed drastically since the time you were duty bound to do so.”

Thyra

Leo probably had a feeling this was going to happen the moment Thyra left with Andy but still, the shifter made no movements to break this embrace. "We may have met because of our duty, but it's not because of it that I care about you." She smiled, "Do you think Leo's going to actually dock my paycheck if we stay like this for the rest of the day? Because I really want to."

Andy

Thyra’s words resonated not just physically as they were spoken somewhat against her chest, but emotionally as well. Her parents made it clear when they opted to let her ‘die’ rather than continue to claim her as their child that their love _had_ conditions. “Why?”

The question was out before she could stop it but, now that it was Andy felt there was no point in taking it back. “As cliche as it sounds, I’m quite _literally_ not the same person you knew before. And to that point, I was absolutely _awful_ to you when I first got here. You’ve witnessed first hand what I’ve become- Why do you still care?”

Thyra

Thyra must admit, she did not expect that question at all. She listened as Andy list out the reasons. "You're still my Andy."

She squeezed her arms tighter as her eyes looked up into the other's. "I love you because you're you." She hummed as she swayed from side to side as she pondered her next words. Sure, physically, the witch was no more, and Andy had gone through so much too. "but.. honestly, there is nothing in the world that would ever make me stop *caring* about you." She chuckled, "I won't lie, our reunion was a bit rocky, but that was to be expected."

Andy

It was the possessive nature of Thyra’s remark that made the difference. Because Andy knew, without having to ask, that it wasn’t a means for her to claim ownership -like her father and grandfather might do- but a means to emphasize how she understood there were layers and facets to Andy as a person but they all still made up a person Thyra _wanted_ to care for. A person the blonde wanted to _love_.

When the shifter hugged her tighter, she reciprocated. Letting out a soft sigh Andy finally spoke again as she almost whispered into Thyra’s hair, “Oh to be loved by the likes of someone as beautiful as you, inside and out, is surely one of the universe’s greatest rewards…and worth every trial it’s taken me to get here.”

Thyra

Thyra blushed at the flattery words, "When were you such a romantic?" She smiled, wanting to stay in this position forever. Would Leo actually fire her? Perhaps. Pulling away enough to look up at the taller woman, the manager let out a sigh, "When is your shift today? I personally don't want to budge from this spot, but alas, I would like to keep my job. One day, Leo's gotta schedule us for the same shift.."

She then remembered, "Do you think you'll ever need to look after Levi and Emmy when they're still babies? It's probably a verrrrrrry small chance with how much everyone's been attached to their kids, but you never know when they need a babysitter... Should they call for Kala instead?"

Andy

The brunette could only smile half-heartedly at the question, wondering how romantic her words actually were versus how much Thyra herself was romanticizing them, given that the blonde was truly the romantic of the two. "Uh, I don't actually have a shift at the Radcliffe today. I was meant to be at the station. So...I won't tell if you won't...?"

The thought had already crossed Andy's mind many times over in the time between her first meeting with the babies and now. "I'm sure they'll do their best _not_ to need anyone to watch them, but Leo and Julia are still full-time working moms so...it may come down to it. I would _prefer_ that they keep Kala as their default stand-by, but I do understand that it's actually part of _my_ job description."

Thyra

"Would it be selfish of me to ask if you want to keep me company?" She chuckled but eventually released Andy from being captive in her hug. "I'm kidding - You basically have a day off. I'm not going to ask you to purposely stay at the hotel - where we are majority of our time already."

"Well, if Leo does call you instead, you could still get Kala to help or me.. but yeah, I think they'll probably want to spend all the time with the kiddos as much as possible - maybe we don't have to think about it altogether. I also have a feeling that the babies are all going to get together at some point...so there is that."

Andy

"I personally would have zero complaints," she replied, but didn't push to keep the shorter woman wrapped around her. Andy may have the day off, but Thyra certainly didn't. "It's not like I have anything else on my 'to-do' list. I mean, I there is a reason why I happily agree to three full-time jobs..." Keeping busy was her best coping mechanism as of yet.

Almost as if on queue, Leo barged into the office as she held Levi out at arm's length. It didn't take heightened senses to know what the issue was. "Oh my- wow. Uh- both? At once?" Her boss nodded, and Andy busied herself clearing some space on Thyra's coffee table. "Brings a whole new meaning to 'in the middle of some shit' ya know."

Thyra

Her eyes snapped to the door to see her boss walk straight towards the coffee table. Thyra guessed that it was because her office was the closest but she did not expect it turning into a change room right off the bat. Once Andy cleared off her stuff, she grabbed the essentials and the changing pad and set up the work station.

"Are we missing anything? I feel like we've got everything." Thyra's office was one of the few locations they made sure had a few of baby things in case of emergencies."

Leo

She was aware that it may have come across as panic, which Leo was completely fine with, but the entire chaos she created was more out of the desire to _not_ have to be the one to change the diapers in the first place _while_ simultaneously ensuring that the Manager's office didn't become the scene of some workplace sex because honestly, not cool. "Yeah, I think the only thing missing is the desire to actually open the 'packages'. I mean if they smell this bad _through_ the diaper.... Hey Andromeda, any chance that the smell will overwrite your desire to eat them long enough to do the honors?"

Thyra

"Won't you eventually have to change the diapers yourself?" She asked Leo, "Unless Julia's the one always on diaper duty " Her nose cringed at the stank seeping from the baby and immediately, she stepped closer to Andy. "I think we should.. hurry up, Levi looks like he's about to cry." She pointed at the kid on her coffee table. "Literally, this might be where your speed skill is going to shine." She smilled as she wrapped her arm around the taller woman's waist again - because she can't seem to keep to herself.

Andy

Andy wasn't sure when things went from 'keep the vamp away from infants at all times' to 'vamp is designated diaper changer', but she had to admit that seeing Levi on the brink of tears was enough to make her put her own issues aside and take to handling the 'business'. She went ahead and retrieved Emmy from Leo's back, and laying both babies side-by-side, she made quick work of getting them cleaned up and back to comfortable in no time. How she managed to do it all with Thyra latched onto her like a koala, that was a mystery for another day. "Okay, I think they're much happier now...can't say the same for the person who has to deal with the aftermath in their bin."

Thyra

"I'll have cleaning come by to pick up the trash, and maybe invest in one of those trash cans where it allows you to put a filter for the smell." If it meant that the kids were going to be in her office a lot more often, Thyra would get herself a designated bin for the diapers if she had to. With her arms wrapped around Andy, there were less chances of her being accidentally bitten by the kids as much as she wanted to play with them. At least until Emmy and Levi were a little older again. "Look at them, now that they've got clean bums." She chuckled at the smiles the babies were giving them. "I want to pinch their cheeks but I don't think they'll let me." Already, Embry made a noise that she guessed was a 'no.'

Leo

Leo was nothing if not happy to see smiles back on her babies' faces, but had little time to savor the moment as her phone pinged with a reminder. "Oh, I have a lunch meeting with one of the board members I need to get to," she said, before glancing down at the babies and then up at the pair. "Considering that I'm almost ninety percent sure that not much clerical work was going to be done here today, I'll be leaving these two very special packages with you for the next hour or so. Andy, please don't eat my children and Thyra, please don't smother them. I trust you can strike a balance between the two of you." She quickly bent down to give kisses and say goodbyes to each baby before standing back up and saying, "Good luck" as she made her exit.

Thyra

Thyra almost beamed at the idea of being left with the children for the next hour or two. She did give a small pout when warned not to smother them - which she was not doing. She was simply showering the kids with *love*. "We'll make sure your babies will be fine when you pick them up later." The moment their boss walked out the door, Thyra give the two bundles a group hug. "Ughhhhh, you two are so cute." Though she was still hugging the babies, she turned her head enough to look up at Andy. "How are you doing?"

Andy

Andy was less amused by the surprise babysitting gig, but she _had_ just mentioned such duties were still part of her job, so it wasn’t like there was much point in complaining. She did however manage a small glare at the warning not to eat the children.

It was all worth it though to see Thyra so immediately happy being snuggled up with the two littles. “I’m alright. Focusing on the overpowering scent emanating from your trash can as a distraction.”

Thyra

“…Does that mean we won’t be cleaning out the bin until the end of the week in all the places where the babies might be?” She teased before her nose wrinkling at the scent. “We should invest in those bins with the filters - or an incredible amount of Febreze.” With that, she actually went to grab the spray bottle she had around and sprayed in the direction of the trash. Unable to help herself, she picked up both kids - one at a time - and started slightly bobbing up and down with them. “You two cannot get any cuter, I swear.” She whispered.

Andy

"It's definitely an option, but I think _my_ tolerance for it might not become the biggest issue..." Almost as if to prove her point, Thyra immediately followed up with suggestions on how _not_ to have the smell linger. Rolling her eyes at the display of spraying the trash can, she just shrugged as she watched the blonde proceed to then pick up the babies. "I suppose it'll just be an intensive form of exposure therapy. I mean, I managed to grow to be pretty alright around Levi at his usual age within a couple of weeks, surely I can handle some babies for- uh...we have no idea how long this is going to last, do we?"

Thyra

"Not that I know of - if someone does know, word hadn't gotten to us about it. Would it be bad if I hope this gets to stick for a little while, not long because I'm sure the kiddos want to go back to their actual ages, maybe. If they get stuck like this, then it's like what responsibilities? What adulting? But they also need to be supervised the whole time." She chuckled at the sound Emmy made, "Oh? Are you agreeing with me? Or are you complaining that your babysitters literally became babysitters?" She gently tickled the baby's side as she spoke.

Andy

"I mean that makes sense, we don't really have a horse in this race," she reasoned. There was a small shrug, though she made zero move to close the distance between her and the three babies in the room even a fraction of an inch. "I suppose most parents would hope for the same. They're looking at the opportunity to take on parenthood from a young age, but this time with the knowledge and experience they've gained along the way. For others it's a second chance at seeing their kids in a way they never may have thought they would. Like, look at Leo alone. She loves Emmy and Levi with all her being, but it had to be at least a little bit of a bummer that she missed out on things like first steps and such."

At the noise coming from the older baby, Andy couldn't help but smirk as she said, "I think she's more upset that her girlfriend is still the same age and hasn't been around as often since Leo scared her off."

Thyra

Gently caressing the baby's cheek, she smiled at those blue eyes looking back up at her. "I'm glad you kids didn't lose your memory when you regressed. Hopefully you get to remember the time you've spent with your parents this time around." She spoke softly as she wondered what it was like to experience childhood all over again - except you aren't. "Leo is definitely loving this whole situation." She was very happy for her boss and Julia for that very reason.

"Where is Evan? I haven't seen her around in a while." She saw those little blue hues glow up at the mention of her girlfriend, followed by a sound that Thyra could only assume that it was to prompt Andy for an answer.

Andy

Andy opened her mouth to answer the question, only to close it as she was immediately interrupted by the slightly bigger tiny human in Thyra's arms. Making a face at the girl she said, "You are _way_ more bossy as a baby than you've ever been as a teenager." After another noise of complaint she held her hands up in surrender and said, "I'm getting there, I'm getting there. Evan's been working with the rest of the FC MENSA chapter to do both follow-ups on those that had to be provided with the serum and to continue informing people that were listed in Old Man Grey's ledger that they were likely the victim of _something_. She's also been working with Jack and the Paladins to try and get as much information as they can on the whole baby-gate thing. Sorry Tiny, but you picked a girl with a pretty nifty brain, so you have to share."

Thyra

The shifter could spend the day just watching Andy interact with the baby. It was true that Emmy was a lot more vocal as a baby but she couldn't help but find it adorable, although the explanation did earn a pout. "Yeah.. Your girlfriend is very smart so we need to borrow her brains to get everything settled. Hopefully she will get some time to spend with you." That is.. if Leo was going to allow that. She had a feeling that the parents were also part of the reasons why she hadn't been around. "In the meantime, you're stuck with us for the next little while. Your brother...." She looked over to the younger baby, "...is drifting off to sleep." She chuckled as she reached over to brush his little cheek with her thumb. "You guys are so tiny.. Look at Levi, his head is the size of my hand."

Andy

"That can either mean you just have small hands or he has a massive head," she stated flatly, earning another round of accusatory babbling from the older baby. "They're just facts, Tiny. Though I take you're decision to defend your brother's honor as a sign that _you_ are going to be fighting nap time as well as me." It wasn't until she was reaching for the pacifier clipped to the girl's onesie that Andy realized how close she'd allowed herself to get. There was a stutter to her movements as realization caused hesitation, but she pushed trough and picked up the pacifier to gently place it in the baby's mouth. Though the girl continued to make some noises, she did take the binky and seemed to begin nodding off too. "Well, we'll see how long this peace lasts."

Thyra

She visibly melted at the sight of Emmy's eyes drooping - and that Andy was giving the kid the pacifier herself. The baby made it more amusing when it was clear that she was trying fight against the sleep, and obviously losing. "Oh baby..." She chuckled softly as she gently stroke the kid's head, urging her to fall sleeping. When she believed they finally did, Thyra stood back up and went back to Andy to resume her cuddles. "It wasn't so bad, was it?" She asked, "I don't want to jinx it so I'm not going to say anything."

Andy

Andy wasted no time in using the opportunity of Thyra stepping in to ease Emmy to sleep to take at least five steps back. There were at least ten different thoughts all trying to take center stage in her mind, the one that won out was how _happy_ Thyra looked with the babies. How easily the woman took to them, and how her own humor seemed to make it to where they easily took to her as well. This of course led to the obvious thought of: what if Thyra wants children?

Luckily the blonder herself was back in her arms before _that_ can of worms could pop open. Wrapping her own arms around the smaller woman she hummed in response. "I don't believe there's really such a thing as 'jinxing' things where babies are concerned. Kids just unpredictable little humans by nature. I'm sure once they've recharged they'll be ready to keep us on our toes until their mom comes back."

Thyra

"Then we should take advantage of the peace and quiet we have right now before they wake up again." The good idea would be to do what she's actually supposed to do, however the shifter liked her current position very much. "On the other hand, I sorta want to move the kids back to the suite.. because we bought them so many outfits - we literally could have a fashion show. Like that overall! I want to see one of them wear it. It'd be so cute. Of course, they'd have to be awake for it and I don't want to interrupt their nap."

Andy

The vamp listened, arching a curious eyebrow at the suggestion they take advantage of the reprieve, and then arching it even higher at the fact they weren’t going to use it to change sleeping babies. “Okay, so we can get back to the suite with little to no trouble if I speed us there, but if we’re not doing a fashion show and we’re clearly _not_ going to be doing any daily work…how _exactly_ are we ‘taking advantage’ of this time?”

Thyra

"...I'm taking great advantage right now." Her arms tightened as she said that, "I'm getting very good quality Andy time and what better way to spend the peace and quiet we have now?" Her eyes playfully narrowed, "Did you actually want to do something more.. uh.. productive? You know what? One thing at a time, let's get the babies to their cribs."

Andy

Andy was glad to not have to actually answer that rather pointed question, as it was rather open-ended and honestly quite suggestive for what Thyra normally sent her way. Instead she smiled, and with great care vamped both babies and their newest 'nanny' into the proper elevator to access their suite. As the doors opened, she eased back into average walking and gently led them all into the nursery. "I'll settle Emmy, if you take Levi," she offered.

Thyra

"Okay.." Not wanting to wake Levi up, she whispered as softly as she could as she walked towards his crib. The height of the crib was too high for her, however, she managed to get Levi down without waking him up.. and without falling in herself afterwards. "Aww look at him!" She whispered with giddiness. The sight of the babies getting settled comfortably was too cute, her hand just unconsciously brushing over his little cheeks. "I don't think these two can be any cuter." She eventually pulled away to go back to Andy.

Andy

No sooner had the words left her own mouth than regret immediately begin to spread through every fiber of her being. Regardless, she didn't want Thyra to be distracted from her enjoyment of all of this, so she went ahead and did as she had stated. With great care -and a lot of self-restraint- she carefully picked up the baby girl in her own hands for the first time, and did her best to focus her eyes on the crib itself instead of the almost blinding glow being emitted from every single line the baby's vascular system right now.

With some effort, but nothing too jostling, she was able to get Emmy settled down and without waking her. Stepping away with purpose, but not with haste so as to not draw attention to her obvious retreat, Andy watched as Thyra continued to look at little Levi with nothing but adoration and awe. "I'm sure once you get them into a few of those outfits you picked you out for them, you'll be proving yourself wrong."

Thyra

When Andy mentioned about getting the kids into the outfits, she twirled around to meet Andy's eyes - feeling excitement all over again. Oh the anticipation to get the kids all dressed up in the little outfits they got them. Leaving the kid alone to sleeping, she slid back to Andy to take her hand and leading her out the room. "They're going to be so grumpy when I do so.. Let's hope they get plenty of rest before then." She's hoping they'd be in a good mood enough to let her change them that many times.

"SO." Her arms slinked around the taller woman's waist again, "How are you holding up?" Thyra felt that she may have asked Andy one too many times whenever she was around the kids, but she truly was worried if her girlfriend was feeling uncomfortable because of the kids.

Andy

"I don't think you'll have too much trouble from Levi, if any really. Dress-up is his favorite game to play and Julian is bestie for a reason. Emmy, on the other hand...you should hope that Evan happens to drop in at some point before they wake up," Andy stated. She could practically feel the question coming as soon as Thyra's arms wrapped around her. Andy was sure the fact she was physically tense didn't help matters. "I'm fine," she reassured, though who she was reassuring was up in the air. "These are just growing pains for whatever the hell I am now, just like we both had all sorts of other growing pains as a witch and shifter growing up. All shall pass...eventually."

Thyra

"Hmm, then it's very likely we're going to get a slightly grumpy Emmy. I haven't seen her in a *long* time - I think Leo is actually happy about that." She chuckled before nuzzling into her girlfriend, a very satisfied smile on her face. "Mm.. Eventually." Though she wasn't completely convinced, she trusted Andy and let the topic drop. Pulling away, her hands reached out for the others and guided her straight to the couch. Cuddling while half-sitting/half-lying down was better. "Should we watch a movie?"

Evan

Evan had managed to keep herself busy enough at the library during the day, and in the ‘Meeting of the Minds’ -as Quinn took to calling it- the rest of the time. She’d hardly had time to sleep and eat, let alone pay the hotel a visit. But, with the weather keeping the library slow, she managed to slip back downstairs so she could shimmer to the Avraham suite.

As she solidified behind the couch in the living room, she simply took in the cuddle-fest as the women both pretended to pay attention to the movie on the screen. “Ugh, you guys are disgusting. Get a room,” she grumbled before heading into the nursery, where she could already hear little babbles.

Thyra

+Cut To - The very next day

Fernanda

Dee had, thankfully, been rather quiet on the fact that she’d come home find her and Dylan asleep on the couch. Well, really just the fact that she’d found Dylan still here at all, honestly. Instead, her priority had been for her the mermaid to give the babies a diaper change, feed, settle them back down, and work out a plan for how they would work together until this thing blew over.

As it happened, Fernanda would watch them herself during the day on Dee’s dayshifts and would watch them overnight on Dee’s night shifts and vice-versa. And the be best way to get this done was to work from home. So as she got the trio settled into their large playpen, she went to answer the door, already having a feeling who it would be. Swinging it open all she said was, “We could’ve had this meeting via zoom or even just a phone call.”

Dylan

Dylan only smiled when the door opened, revealing the mermaid. Her mood had been an all time high even when she left the barn house to get herself presentable - one could not be seen wearing the same things twice, especially within the same week. Although it wasn't a surprise, it did not sit well with her to know that their meeting was going to be via zoom.

"We could." She said as she walked in, only to be met by a gaggle of babies. "But I would rather have it in person." Omitting that this one of the very, very few meetings she looked forward to in the day. "Are you trying to get rid of me, Salazar?"

Fernanda

The mermaid had to admit that it was nice to be met with a _genuine_ smile from Dylan -as opposed to her overly saccharine 'I'd kill you if I could get away with it' one- even if the admission was made only to herself. In silence...for now. Instead she returned the smile and stepped aside as the woman made her way and -Fer could've sworn- almost immediately in the direction of the babies.

As she closed the door, the mermaid rolled her eyes. Turning to face Dylan as she flatly stated, "Yes. That is exactly my master plan. I am aiming to get rid of you, hence why I opened the door to my home and then stepped aside to let you in. You have now walked right into my yeeting trap."

Dylan

When she got near Julian, she pulled out a Burberry baby blanket and laid it on top of the kid - not exactly tucking him in with it. It was unfathomable to not have *something* luxurious just because they were babies. "Then there's no problem with having our meeting in person." She grinned now that it was verbally confirmed that she wouldn't be kicked out.

She walked over to the take a seat herself. Even if they didn't talk about work, that was fine with Dylan. The half demon simply enjoyed the peace and quiet they have, and not have people badgering her about contracts and all.

Fernanda

It seemed like her eyes were going to get their workout in today, as she once again felt them roll of their own accord at the sight of the blanket. "Honestly, it's nothing short of a waste of money. The girls are already making their way over to see what the fuss is, and Julian's still too kind to not share his new 'toy'. If you wanted to burn the bibs for a little drool, I'd hate to see what you'll try to do with this blanket after it becomes a chew toy for three babies and three pets."

The mermaid took her own seat on the living room floor, her laptop setup within arm's reach of the playpen. Glancing up, she brought out her tablet as well and asked, "What topic were you looking to start off with?" If the half-demon was looking to use their meeting as an excuse, Fer certainly wasn't...that she'd easily admit.

Dylan

"Darling, it was just something I picked up while shopping." She waved her hands as she watched the two girls making their way over. "It's his, so he can do whatever he wants with it." She said nonchalantly, though she now wondered if she should have picked up 3 of them so that all of them had one. "It's clearly of good taste and choice that they all would want it."

Her eyes fell to the mermaid on the floor, wondering if she was serious about discussing work - "I suppose we could go over the agenda." She sighed as she also took a seat on the floor, leaning on her elbow on the coffee table. However, unlike the other, she didn't bother with her laptop. "It'd be more fun if we don't talk about work though."

Fernanda

"All three were also fighting over one of the dog's chew toys not five minutes before you knocked, so make of _that_ what you will," the mermaid pointed out. She could already tell that it would be rather pointless to try and reason with Dylan that babies were simply that, _babies_. Taste was a literal thing to them, and associated with whatever they managed to get into their mouths.

Dropping her eyes to her tablet, she pulled up the agenda and without bothering to look up asked, "So am I to understand that Dylan Waldorf went out of her way to pay me and three babies a visit under the guise of a personal work meeting but, was really just looking to make a _personal_ call?"

Dylan

"So I really should have gotten them one each." She smiled, as if that was the only solution. "Darling, it's just a blanket - maybe it'll survive until they revert back to their actual ages." As an exaggerated gesture, the half-demon even crossed her fingers. "And it's fuzzy." As if that was a good reason to keep it.

Dylan kept her eyes on the mermaid with a smile on her face. "I wouldn't say I'm here for the babies exactly." As if that was ever going to be a thing she'd admit. She didn't want to admit that the kids were even growing on her in their usual forms, much less as *babies*. "Must we talk about work?" She reached out and held onto Fernanda's tablet at the top with just a thumb and index finger.

Fernanda

"Do you know how much work it takes for the farm to produce enough profit to afford _one_ of those blankets? It's not about the item, it's about learning the value of a dollar. If _you_ can't be bothered to care about cost or the fate of the blanket, at least pause to consider what the person who worked to make might make of just handing their work over to children." Even as she finished her statement, Fer was already resigned to the fact that her pleas would fall on deaf ears.

"Well if you're not here for the babies, and you're clearly not here for work, thank I'm left to assume..." she trailed off as her tabled was lowered, before she glanced up at Dylan with a mischievous grin. "...that you're here to help me get the fuzzy boys ready for a walk."

Dylan

Her brow arched as Fernanda went on about the blanket, which did have her stunned a little - and confused. "Darling." She started once she felt the other was done with her piece. "It's a baby blanket, who else would it be for if it's not for literal babies? It's just a blanket - not like I went and beyond and got the duvet option, which frankly, I should've now that we're talking about dexterity."

Her brow dropped back into a frown, "What?" Her eyes lowered to the furries nearby. "They have a whole field to run about, I doubt they actually need to be *walked* - so no, you know I'm definitely not here for *that*." She snorted as she leaned back away from the coffee table and shifted her weight onto her hands on the floor behind her.

Fernanda

Fer just pinched the bridge of her nose. "Just, no more getting things for the babies with a price tag over twenty dollars," she sighed. Getting Dylan to understand what the value of a dollar was would have to wait for another day...or preferably a time when three babies weren't her priority.

The mermaid scoffed, already getting up to gather up the harnesses and leashes, as well as the strollers for the babies. "They still enjoy getting to see the sights beyond that. Besides, the babies are overdue for a stroll of their own, getting some fresh air, and hopefully tiring out enough for a nap."

Dylan

The look of horror that washed over her face at the sounds of getting *anything* less than twenty dollars. However, Dylan wasn't going to comment any further with how tired Fernanda seemed to be getting. Somehow, she still was willing to listen to the other and stop from getting anything for the gremlins. Reasons that she was unwilling to deal with at the moment.

When the mermaid was actually following through with it, Dylan just sat there and watched as the other got ready. "...Seriously?" They literally just sat down too. "If they need fresh air, we can open a window." She muttered but still got up anyways. "Wait, *beyond* that? How far are you going??"

Fernanda

The mermaid busied herself getting the boys ready, then handing charge over to Krylon of the other two while she worked on getting the strollers sorted. Once ready, she went ahead and moved over to the babies, tiny winter jumpsuits for each of them at the ready.

As she began to change them, she glanced up and said, "Yeah, seriously." One baby dressed and seated, she moved on to the next. "You do realize there are _four_ cardinal directions right? We don't have to _through_ the farmlands themselves to reach something else." Second baby down. As she finished with Julian she said, "I thought we'd hit the Queens. If the kids are still awake they might enjoy a treat...from _me_."

Dylan

Dylan watched as Fernanda got the babies dressed one by one. She was not about to say that the kids actually looked cute in their jumpers - she will *not*. On the other hand, when Julian was ready to go, the half-demon did move to lift him up into her arms so she could fix his little hood. Was she being biased? Perhaps - not that it'd be a surprise to anyone.

"I don't know, darling, there's a lot of land around here before we reach anything else." She spoke nonchalantly, focusing her eyes on the baby. "You.. are so tiny." She muttered as she observed Julian a bit more. With that, she walked over to the stroller to strap him in. It seemed that those winter ~~heels ~~ boots were a good investment with the number of times she had to be walking around in this place.

Fernanda

Fernanda managed to keep her remarks at bay when Dylan made a beeline for Julián and even managed to keep quiet when she brought the land around them. _But_, hearing her cooing at her cousin about how tiny he was, that was just too good not to highlight…in their own ‘special’ way of ‘communicating’.

“Awwww, as cute as is it is to see you be amazed by Julie’s current size, tiny is usually the default setting for most babies,” she said with a bright smile. Her tone was overly cheery, but clearly her words were dripping in sarcasm. As Dylan returned the boy to the single stroller she began to push the double out the door, the leashed furry babies leading, and said, “He’s the lightest, so I’ll assume he’s safe with you.”

Dylan

"It's just.. strange when they weren't this size just days ago." Her face may express how much of a tedious task this was - especially to need to walk a distance with these babies, but Dylan still pushed Julian's stroller.

Dylan didn't know if she was thankful that it was no longer summer, but the half-demon wasn't a fan of the cold either. "Honestly, we should invest in treadmills for the animals." She muttered under her breath. "How is this walk even beneficial for the gremlins? They're not even the one's walking."

Fernanda

"It's beneficial to the _babies_ and the pets alike, simply because it keeps me from being stuck in the same place while you make it your life's mission to test my patience." Fernanda took a step, before turning to face her and adding, "Which, incidentally, also makes it beneficial for _you_. Open air, a nice walk, keeps my head clear and makes it far less likely I'll decide you need to disappear." The mermaid, of course, meant more so in the manner of Dylan _leaving_ the farm, but she felt the possible threat of death might be something worth keeping out there. Made things fun.

"Come on, you can't possibly be complaining already though," she noted in a far more serious tone. "Surely your stamina can take a little light walk into town..."

Dylan

"So you're saying that it's only because *you* get to move around that it's beneficial for everyone around you." Dylan couldn't help but laugh at that - until the mermaid decided to ~~threaten~~ warn her that there will be consequences if she continued to press her buttons. "Oh? Disappear how? Will you be using those so-called resources to make me disappear? Such a drastic decision."

That tone of hers had Dylan straighten her back. It was a tease for sure, and Dylan shouldn't give in so easily to it, but the smirk on her face said more than enough. "Wouldn't you like to know what my stamina's like?"

Fernanda

"No. There was never an emphasis on it being 'only' beneficial for one specific reason," she was quick clarify, "And if you know how much a loathe having my words twisted and then an attempt be made to weaponize them against me in the workplace, let me just make it clear that I despise it being done even more so in my personal life." It may have been a means to tease the mermaid, but it was best to make certain things clear and established sooner rather later. "Perhaps." Whether this was in regards to using her contacts or her agreeing it was drastic, was left up to Dylan's interpretation.

"I have no such curiosity," she replied flatly, "But I suppose the question will be answered by the time we reach the bakery regardless."

Dylan

Dylan did know just how much the mermaid loath it which was why she only gave the other a playful shrug, backing off for now. As fun as it was to press someone's button, the day was early..ish. Instead, she took a look around them as they walked. Surely her brother and especially Nox would not believe she was actually walking so far on her free will. With babies, no less.

"With how far this barn is from everything, it's going to take us half a day just to get there, and another half back." Was she being dramatic? Always. But she she was still pushing the stroller. "Perhaps I should have invested in a e-scooter." Surely she could still push a stroller while riding on one. Taking out her phone, she started scrolling to see what she could order from the *Manhattan *since they were visiting the sister bakery.

Fernanda

The mermaid knew better than to expect an actual apology, but it was enough that there was a pleasant silence that followed. The sounds of winter were in full swing and it was honestly a joy to hear as the babies all cooed and gurgled in joy to the sights.

"I'm sure the fact that you manage a way to complain about just about everything has probably proven to be an attractive quality in the past -because otherwise I don't see why you'd have kept it as a habit- _but_ I assure you, that it is not attractive in the least to present company," she pointed out, before taking a quick look at the woman's phone. "You so much as take a sip of alcohol, and you're on your own the rest of the day. I prefer clear minds around the babies when not in the safety of home."

Dylan

Dylan was not so narcissistic that she didn't know when to stop messing with the younger woman. And so, she obliged and stopped complaining - for now. Instead, her eyes rolled and showed the mermaid her screen. "Food, darling. Substantial food." While she could admit that the Queens had a good selection for pastries, the half-demon didn't have much of a sweet tooth. "You act as if I can't live without at least a glass of wine." Returning her attention to the screen, she continued to scroll, "Did you want anything as well? Since we're heading in that direction anyways." She asked as she added a couple things to her cart.

Fernanda

The mermaid simply looked her dead in the eye and replied with a direct, "And can you?" She continued to push the double stroller, happy to have the boys keeping pace on their respective leashes. The question made her smirk as she found she couldn't pass up the opportunity to tease the other back some. "Oh? Is Dylan Waldorf suggesting we have a lunch date now?"

Dylan

"How rude. I can have a little more self-control than that when I choose to be.." An angry mermaid was a scary mermaid. Dylan had definitely come across worse, but she was still finding herself obliging to most of the other's requests. "Would Fernanda Salazar be willing to go on a lunch date with a Waldorf?" She didn't look up from her phone, "Besides, if it were a date, I could do a little better than the Manhattan while being accompanied by animals and toddlers."

Fernanda

“It’s not rude when the question is merited based on the display of past behavior,” she reasoned without missing a beat. “Besides, you clearly just said the self-restraint would be demonstrated at your whim. How am I to know when you’ll be in the mood if it benefits my babies?”

Fernanda gave her a curious look at the question. “I have to admit, based on your behavior up until now, I would’ve expected a more forward response, _but_ I do greatly appreciate that it has been made a request instead. _And_, as such, I would love to join you on a lunch date….but obviously all my kids are included, furry and bald alike.”

Dylan

"And do you see me drink a glass of alcohol every single time? No~" She pointed out before letting the latter question be left unanswered because 1. she was not going to admit that she didn't want to be kicked out of the barnhouse *again* and 2. she was not going to admit that she's been behaving.

Her eyes did leave the screen at that because she did not expect the other to agree to it being a lunch *date* albeit bringing all the kids and animals along. "Would you really?" There was genuine surprise in her voice when she asked again. It wasn't often to see Dylan Waldorf hesitant but the mermaid was constantly surprising her.

Fernanda

"Just because something doesn't happen _every single time_ doesn't negate that it has happened on a _majority_ of occasions," she swiftly pointed out. "Besides, I don't know why you're suddenly so defensive about the matter, you're normally nothing if not a giant braggart about how you can have more alcohol than anyone at the farmhouse and still not be drunk. Has this suddenly not become a cool thing?"

If she had any hesitations, her resolve was immediately worn away by the genuine surprise in the woman's tone as she asked for clarification. "Of course I would! You've been exceptionally less of a pain in my a- _neck_ than usual, and honestly I rather like this new version of you. You should let her out more often."

Dylan

"That seemed to have gone out the window when your go-to drink was that last one you served. You drank that up like it's water. As much as I hate to lose, seems like my tolerance has nothing on *yours*." She said it matter-of-factly.

With how Fernanda was explaining, Dylan didn't quite know what to do with that description of her. New version of her, and also that she was *less* of a pain in the ass, she honestly had no idea what that meant. She figured that there was some sort of difference since she was actually found around toddlers - something she was thankful that her brother and Nox was not around for. However, this was not the time to be sorting all *that* out. Instead, she just gave her phone over to the mermaid. "You'd have to actually choose the meal first if you want to go on that lunch date."

Fernanda

The mermaid made a face at her and said, "Oh excuses. All that tells me is that you've not been allowing variety into your drinking and now you have consequences."

The silence that followed spoke volumes more than Dylan's actual words ever had. And even though she intended to archive every bit of it, there was really no time in this current moment to parse it all and tray to decipher a meaning. Instead she just chuckled when she was finally told to choose a meal. "Oh come on? You technically asked me out. So pick something, and impress me."

Dylan

"I just have a refined taste." She rolled her eyes. "Not everyone needs a shot of that each day."

Retracting her hand, she looked back down at her phone. It wouldn't be the first time she ordered for someone else - although most of those times, it was just because she wanted it as well and could care less if the other person liked it. With Fernanda, it was a different situation even if she had a feeling that she'd be find with whatever she chose. Dylan Waldorf being nervous? One would never have imagined it. "Very well." One should never back down from a challenge and with that, the half-demon started ordering a few things she deemed acceptable. "They should be ready by the time we get there, whenever that may be." Would she ever stop complaining? Never.

Fernanda

"I don't think it can possible be _that_ refined, if you're over at your brother's clubs every other evening," she remarked without missing a beat. The mermaid held zero against the staff of either establishment, but she knew from conversations overheard between her cousins and the other scoobs that, at least according to Dallas, the patrons tending to leave much, _much_, to be desired.

"If you're already going to be complaining before the lunch date even starts, do not for a second think that I am above retracting my acceptance to join you." It was the only warning she'd be offering.

Dylan

"Au contraire, my brother has quite the collection at his bar. however, it is not my fault the people in this town do not appreciate." She quipped back. Dylan wasn't oblivious about the type of people coming and in of her brother's establishment - it's not like she was there to socialize with the guests anyways.

Dylan was not going to push it any further now that they were almost there. (But honestly, that was a lot of walking.) "Would you look at that?" She feigned surprise, "We're *there*!" The overwhelming aroma from the bakery just hit her in the face the moment she opened that door.

Fernanda

"I stand behind my original statement, and I'm sure you'll stand behind yours, so I suppose we'll just have to agree to disagree. Besides, it's not like taste isn't entirely subjective by nature anyway," she pointed out. It was best to highlight how pointless turning this into an argument would be.

"And you survived the entire trek completely unscathed!" The mermaid teased. "Only one tiny hair out of place," she added before reaching up to tuck said hair behind the woman's ear. Smiling at her handiwork she said, "Now, what tasty treat are you looking to completely ruin our appetite for lunch with?"

Nox

They were on their break from having to stalk one Hartley Goodwin. Honestly, they had no idea what their boss saw in that teacher but there was nothing going on at all with her. Hartley did not lead an exciting life at all. If they were keeping an eye on her in case something happen, Nox was pretty damn sure nothing is ever going to happen. The most exciting thing was when her brother visited.

Wanting to cure their boredom with a good treat, Nox made their way onto the bakery when they spotted a very unfamiliar sight. Was that *Dylan* with *babies*?? Feeling rather giddy, Nox made quick work to get to the door in record time. "Why helloooo~" Their eyes went from Dylan to the baby she had with her. "Dylan, you never told me you've got kids. Does Damien know? Oh god, they're cute. *Dylan*."

Oz had gotten the text from her sibling to meet at the bakery not five minutes before, and was luckily not two steps behind them when they decided to approach Dylan and the children. "Nox, it's not polite to approach people's babies without their consent," she grumbled through gritted teeth as she not-so-gently pulled them back further by the arm. "Apologies. They tend to get a little excited when around something that shares about the same braincells as they currently seem to have."

Dylan

If she was smiling at the slightest actions Fernanda did to her, her reaction was the complete opposite when Nox came into the picture. Immediately frowning at their presence, her eyes focused solely on them even when their sister tried to apologize on their behalf. "Oh, I'm well aware.." If only her glares could kill - or at least scare Nox off as much as Damien did. Whether it was conscious or not, Dylan pulled the stroller towards Fernanda and shifted herself so her body was between the siblings and the family. "Nox, if you make a scene or do something more stupid, I'll kill you."

Fernanda

"No you will not," came the very adamant and defiant statement from the mermaid now standing behind three strollers and a demon. "At least in front of the babies, and certainly not within the walls of Hunter's shop. Besides, I'm sure Nox is smart enough to know that his paychecks aren't actually fully funded by two clubs in the middle of nowhere Pennsylvania, and if they don't I know that Oz most certainly does. So, to make a long story short, _everyone_ will be on their best behavior, or I guarantee that I will personally see to it that _death_ be the least of your concerns."

Nox had no idea that Dylan's mood bombed the moment she saw them, so as oblivious as ever, they continued to grin as if nothing's amiss. That and it wasn't the first time she ever threatened them. "Yeah, Dyl, no talks of death in front of the babies!" They gave Fernanda a weird look because of course the clubs weren't Damien's income. If it was even possible, the demon got even giddier. "Dyllie! Are you sulking?" They were going to give the other a poke in the cheek but their hand got smacked by said woman. "Owwww, okay.. okay.. geez. You are definitely hangry, aren't you? We should get you food."

Fernanda

It was the mermaid's turn to take a step forward and stand between Nox and Dylan. This town was small enough that through Kala and Dallas, she knew Oz and understood they were doing their best to contain their sibling. However, said sibling was as oblivious as ever, and was very likely to look a landmine full-on and still choose to sit on it. "Nox. Knock it off. You're welcome to try your luck with Dylan and her patience on your own time, but I will _not_ have you putting my children at risk by continuing to poke the sleeping bear while in the same room. Stick to your business or I'll have to ask Hunter to ask you to leave and honestly I'd rather spare my energy and save that favor for something much more rewarding."

Dylan

Already fed up the second his face showed up, Dylan reached out and gently pulled Fernanda back towards her and the babies, switching her attention to the mermaid. "Darling, let's just go get those treats you were talking about for the gremlins. I'm sure Oz here knows what to do. Besides, I don't want my food to get cold because of their idiocy."

Fernanda

She could feel the tension begin to ease in her posture as soon as Dylan's hands were on her. It had honestly been so long since she'd had anyone that made her feel secure and like they had something sturdy to lean on, that the small gesture of having Dylan pull her in towards herself and the babies, was enough to take her anger down from a raging inferno to a simmering annoyance. "Oz, thank you for attempting to intervene and Nox," she fixed him with a steely gaze, "I would recommend not underestimating me because then your responses just become patronizing and that would damaging to you and your employer _many_ different ways." Of course she knew the clubs were a front. There was very little that _wasn't_ a front where the Waldorfs were concerned. She was just glad, that in this moment, Dylan's concern for her and the babies didn't fall on that list.

Dylan

Seeing that the idiot finally backed off - with the help of their sister dragging him out of the bakery, Dylan leaned in to Fernanda's ear, "It's quite a sight whenever you get all fired up like that." Whether it was towards her or towards another, it always did bring a grin to her. Leaning back, she walked around one of the strollers and pulled Julian into her arms before walking over to the display. "...They all look disgustingly sweet." She spoke as if she was in a conversation with the baby while her eyes glazed over all the colourful pastries, some themed for the season. "This is why I ordered from the Manhattan instead.. Substantial food."

Fernanda

The mermaid felt herself begin to calm down as Oz managed to corral her sibling out the door, which proved beneficial to Dylan because instead of turning her scathing words on the demon, the blonde just wound up rolling her eyes as usual at the woman’s antics.

Opting to not fan _those_ flames, she turned to pick up the girls instead of responding to her comments. Though she did give her a look of offense on Hunter’s behalf at her remarks on the pastries. “Excuse you, Hunter happens to be the only baker in a fifty-mile radius that provides options for all major dietary restrictions, which means if you used your eyes to _read_ the menu and the labels instead of just for _judging_ you’d find something even _you_ like.” Vindication came in the sounds and look of approval Julian sent her way.

Dylan

Dylan turned to Julian and booped his little nose when he started babbling. "I see to have offended the fans of these treats." Her eyes looked back at the displays and gave out a sigh, "Well, we are here for these gremlins - did you decide on what you're getting them? Or shall I just buy out the whole store? Perhaps I shall." She hummed as she slowly turned in a circle to see what all that would entail. "We'll take everything."

Hunter

Hunter was normally the one working the back, coming up with new treats and also complicated ways to make them. If she was ever to give Chocolate Guy a run for his money, she'd need to up her game. That being said, she wasn't a recluse like Sage either. Working the front gave her the chance to flex her people skills, after all. As she had made her way to the front, she smiled at the girls in her friend's arms, and was about to smile at the baby boy when it seemed things took a turn.

Of course, before she could even say anything, Fernanda had come to her defense and now she was faced with the proposition of having the day's inventory bought out. "Uh...Well, I don't think _anything_ in mass quantities would be healthy for a baby. I mean, like, eve if it's carrots. Because seeing as how your opinion on my work is clear, they would be the ones enjoying the bulk. Besides, these are best fresh. No need to stockpile. I'll start the kids off with a complimentary round of fruit puree to get them something nice," she offered.

Dylan

Her eyes rolled when it looked like another person was stopping her from 'buying too much'. That really did seem to be the theme around here - one she was *not* a fan of at all. She turned to Fernanda, considering that she would know what the babies want. If anything, she was here to foot the bill, and to grab the food she ordered earlier. The food will have to wait since Julian still hadn't chosen want he wanted yet. "It'd be more convenient if we deliver everything here home." Anyone could take their time choosing what they want then. Maybe even for her to sneak a treat without anyone noticing. "But considering *that* won't be happening, I suppose we'll have to start with that." She said, giving the usual dramatics.

Fernanda

Her patience had already been worth rather thin by Nox, and at this point she had no idea why after they'd spent most of the day -day_s_ really- doing so well, Dylan was choosing now to revert back to her attitude of 'privilege'. The mermaid knew it was a front, and though she could somewhat understand why it may be useful in a board room full of old white men and, even understood that it was usually a means to tease Fernanda herself, it was honestly downright repellant when being used as underhanded remarks against not just someone in customer service, but a _friend_ of hers at that.

"No, it would _not_ be more convenient to buy out the store's entire stock, it would be _wasteful_. Because once home, and the kids have had their pick of the treats they could possibly manage to eat, the rest would go where, exactly?" It was a rhetorical question, so even if Dylan bothered to take a breath to answer, Fer was not in the mood to allow one. "_However_, if you really feel that flaunting your wealth by buying out the goods is something that is absolutely necessary to your survival, you're more than welcome to do so and donate the remainder to some of charities around town."

Dylan

Her mouth snapped shut when Fernanda interjected, clearly annoyed with how Dylan was behaving. However, instead of commenting on anything to further piss the mermaid off, she opted to just give the one on the other side of the counter a look, "I guess we're setting for the few then." The half-demon was definitely not fond of being scolded in public, and if it had been someone else, she'd handle it differently. However, this was Fernanda Salazar.. and she was also carrying said mermaid's cousin, so she shall behave. Thankfully Nox wasn't around to see this otherwise god knows what stupid comment they would have said.

Deciding to switch her attention elsewhere, the half-demon walked off to a nearby shelf as if to see what else this bakery had.

Hunter

Hunter had remained quiet once she'd said her piece, not wanting to really get into anything remotely resembling conflict with the brunette, and honestly being far too scared to interrupt the blonde. She waited until it seemed they'd worked things out between them before simply looking over at Fernanda and saying, "I'll just go ahead and bring a round of the usual to your table."

Dylan

Dylan was not going to test her luck any further so she just concentrated on looking at the other pastries with Julian until the cashier spoke about bringing things to their table. "I suppose my order should be ready by now." She muttered mostly to herself before moving the stroller back towards the other. "Shall we eat now?"

Fernanda

If it wasn’t blatantly obvious that the mermaid was unhappy with Dylan’s behavior, the fact she kept direct eye-contact with her as the older woman asked about their lunch and _still_ chose to say nothing in response and instead turn to address Hunter with a polite ‘thank you’, and genuine smile as she paid…well, that ought to have done it.

The blonde opted to remain quiet as she proceeded to strap the girls back into their strollers only glancing back at Dylan to ensure she’d done the same with Julian before leading them next door. It wasn’t until they had been seated, she’d had a nice chat with Sage, and they had been left to their meals that she finally acknowledged Dylan again. “Care to let me know what we’ll be consuming or would you like to _pay_ someone to do it for you?”

Dylan

She wasn't so self-centered not to know what the mermaid thought about her behaviour ever since the siblings came and left. It was even more apparent when the other didn't even bother to reply to her question. While she was constantly disappointing her father, somehow this felt.. different .. and possibly worse.

And of course Fernanda wasn't going to make it easy for her since she spent the entire time they were at the table speaking with Sage instead. The half demon also refused to look over to the babies because she was *sure* they were giving her some sort of look. One had never focused on her phone screen until today. "Did the chef not already explain that all to you?" Dylan picked up her eating utensils before returning her attention to the other.

Fernanda

"And we're done," was all she said before she began to stand. Making quick work of putting her coat on and getting the kids ready, she managed to them all settled just as Hunter was making her way in with the bags of treats. Luckily the tall blonde didn't hesitate to smile and agree to help her with the babies back to the farmstead. "Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. Enjoy your meal with a hefty side of passive-aggression, and don't worry about returning to the farmhouse. I'll be sure to email you the rest of the paperwork and save you the arduous trip."

Dylan

Her hands stilled for the briefest moment before setting her utensils down with a sigh. If the other was leaving, then there was no reason for her to stay either so she got up and dropped a few bills on the table. Her eyes caught sight of Julian and naturally reached out and fixed his hat. When she was done, the half demon straightened up and started for the door herself - not without pausing enough to give Hunter a glare.

There were many things about this that was pissing her off, but Dylan would not be able to say what specifically. All she knew right now was that even the presence of the other was irritating her. She was so annoyed that once she was outside the establishment, she didn't even bother calling for a ride or someone to shimmer her away. The youngest Waldorf was willing to *walk* home because she was not in the mood to run into anyone - especially her brother *and* Nox.

JACK

It was an immediate change in sense that had the Paladin immediately orbing over to her youngest charge. Which turned out for the best, because as Steve had been in the kitchen fixing a snack, she managed to arrive just in time to keep a rather sturdy ceramic plate to come crashing down on the- "Oh," she let out just above a whisper. "You're a wee babi..." Setting the plate down on the counter, she bent down to scoop up the little wein and said, "Well, that certainly explains the change in how you 'read'. Let's get ye to your sister- nope, wait. She said not to interrupt her. Let's go wait in the living room."

Which would be where Ren eventually found them when she came back downstairs. Glancing up at her most temperamental charge, from where she lay with the infant on the couch, Jack grinned and said, "Oi, I think I found something that technically belongs to ya."

FLORENCIA

Ren had finally emerged from her room after being cooped up with Kieran ever since they got home. Coming down the stairs, she was just going to slip by but then Jack caught her attention. Her eyes went from the Paladin to the baby in her arms, and letting those words sink in. "You well know that I do not have a kid - wait, did Kieran do so- " Her words were cut off when she took a proper look at the child.

"Steve?" She went up to the Paladin and took the baby into her arms, almost naturally bouncing on the spot. "Kier! Something happened to Steve....?"

KIERAN

After emerging from what had become their little decompression routine after work, Kieran had the intention to head towards the home gym. Not being on the force anymore was not going to be her excuse for not working out. Besides, she found that it certainly helped her in the long run, be it the exertion or the endorphin release. She could faintly hear Ren and Jack already arguing, but that was nothing unusual.

What was unusual was Ren calling out about Steve, which in turn had the seer rushing down taking the stairs two at a time to see what the problem was. She stopped short when she came up to Ren _holding a baby_. "When did that happen?" was the first thing that came out of her mouth.

FLORENCIA

"*How* did this happen?" She carried her sister over to her girlfriend, "She's a baby, Kier. A baby. My eighteen year old sister is a baby." That somehow earned an incoherent sound from said sister. "Oh you think this is funny, don't you?" Another sound. "Do you think we can reverse this somehow...?" She was more panicking because what if it was permanent. However, in the middle of her panic, a scent hit her nose.

"......Are you fu- Are you serious, Stevie?" She groaned as she lifted the baby in the air and immediately recoil with disgust. "Oh.... Jack.. I don't suppose you can orb over a diaper right now, could you?"

JACK

Jack had remained on her spot in the couch, mentally holding a conference with the other Paladins while Ren went through her usual stages of addressing a crisis. The yelling bit was the least productive, and the one Jack had become a pro at working through on her own. The request for a diaper, had her orbing off and coming back with a baby bag of supplies. "Yer mum keeps like three of these in the basement at all times in case she comes across a patient that needs some essentials before heading to a shelter, and I'm going to just stop explaining and hand this over to you. Best of luck."

She turned to the most level-headed of her charges and said, "The other Paladins and I believe that this is likely in relation to the latest seal breaking on the Nexus. The good news, it means that whatever this is, however long it lasts, it will _end_. All kickback magic is temporary. The bad news is, it means the wards around the Nexus failed at some point."

AVERY

The wolf had been in the bathroom when she heard all the commotions outside. Something about a baby.. and her girlfriend. Coming out of there, she went to the living room and spotted said baby. "Uh.. What is this?" She looked at the baby in the witch's arm. ".. Is that.. Maite...?" Her eyes widened so much that one would think they would just pop out. "Is my *girlfriend* a baby?! Oh no, that's going to get me arrested." She joked as she walked over to poke the baby in the cheeks. "Oh my god, those pictures did not do you justice, my baby girl. You look *absolutely* adorable."

She would ask if she could carry her but by the way Ren was holding her, it didn't seem the older witch was allowing *anyone* else to carry her anytime soon. "Uh.. should someone go check that out? That's bad news for sure."

DIEGO

"Jack! Kier! I have a hypothetical question," Diego called out as soon as he walked through the front door. Kicking of his slush covered boots and removing his coat and scarf, he continued talking, "So like if, let's say, by complete accident -_theoretically_- one of the runes around the Nexus was like _smudged_, maybe -just a little- but only for like a second or two and then immediately redrawn proper...would that like, have any _significant_ affect on things?"

As he finally made his way into the living room proper, he realized all eyes were on him and was about to ask why when he noticed the _actual_, living child in his sister's arms. "¡Ó Díos! Kier! Did you really make a test-tube baby?! Like, Ren's been scared you might try it now that you get to play mad scientist, but I never thought you'd actually go through with it....She looks just like Ren too- what?"

FLORENCIA

She had let out a groan almost the moment she heard his voice echo through the house. Somehow she had a feeling that Diego had something to do with it now that he had posed the hypothetical question. "What did you do, Diego?" She frowned as she walked right up to her twin brother and held up their baby sister. "Stop it, you seriously don't recognise Maite?!"

However, with that being said, she looked over to Kieran, "....You didn't make a lab baby for real, did you?" She asked... just to make sure since they were on the topic. Turning back towards her brother, the fire witch held the baby back into a cradle. "*Why* did a rune get smudged to begin with??"

DIEGO

When his sister rocked right up to him and questioned if he recognized the youngest of them or not, Diego actively squealed before clasping a hand over his mouth. "Stevie? How did-" he stopped mid-question as the realization dawned on him and he clasped _both_ hands over his mouth this time. Looking from the baby to his sister, to Kieran, to Jack, and back. All about three times in total.

The only thing that got him to talk again was the look of offense clear on the seer's face when Ren suggested she might actually believe her capable of hiding a build-a-baby workshop from her. "Ohhhhhh-kay. So, in my defense, I was actually out there making sure that the wards were still up and operational. I know with the holidays just around the corner it was getting busy for most other witches and demons to take a look so I wanted to be helpful....but I forgot that water doesn't just make up snow, it also seeps into the ground to make mud, so...when I went to check the last rune I thought it would be the easiest thing to just use my powers to move the water, so the snow, but that also moved the sludge beneath, and distorted the rune, this brining down the ward bubble entirely for like a second....or four...so babies huh?"

FLORENCIA

She motioned with her glare and a swift shake of her head, indicating for him to explain already when he suddenly cut himself. To think her own brother somehow 'wiped' away the rune even if by accident. "You're sure that .. the barrier's back?" Was she doubting her brother? Maybe. Ren had more faith in Kieran's rune drawings than his after all.

"Thank god our parents aren't here...." She bounced their sister in her arms when she saw her tiny little hands raised towards her. Ren smiled softly and held a finger over the kid, who then grabbed it. "You better hope she changes back soon because you're going to explain to mom why Steve's back in diapers. "Do we need to bring in a crib? We are not letting her sleep in *your* bed, Di, you'll crush her." She walked back to the couch and took a seat, laying the kid down on her back. "This is.. so weird."

KIERAN

Her face still very much sported the look offense at the thought that Ren assumed she was capable of hiding a possible test-tube baby from her, but she simply walked over to Jack and said, "Jack and I can go grab my old crib from the manor. I'm almost certain mother isn't using it anyway. On the way there, we can make a pit-stop to verify the barrier is back up and fully functional, though I think if it weren't we'd somehow know already."

Walking over to the sitting witch, she looked down at the baby from over the woman's shoulder. "As adorable as she is, I don't think you want to tempt the fates by letting her go commando much longer," she teased. "We'll be back in a few."

FLORENCIA

Ren gave an apologetic look when she saw that her girlfriend still had the look on her face. While she did believe that Kieran wouldn't keep anything from her - because that's what they promised - Ren really felt that a lab baby was possible with how smart the woman was. "Almost certain?" She looked up almost curiously, "What.. would she using it for..? Or who..?"

She leaned in to give Kieran a quick kiss before rolling her eyes. "Okay.." She sighed as she got out the necessary things and set them out. The fire witch definitely appreciated how much calmer Maite was compared to them because that just made getting her into the diaper far quicker and easier than she thought it would be. "That's a good girl." She whispered softly once she was done.

DIEGO

"Oh! You don't know? Kieran's got a brand new baby sister...of the canine variety," he responded only too giddily. "Adaline was feeling that the manor was a bit too massive with just her by her and the usual staff of fifteen all on their own, so I suggested she get a dog." He shoved his arm, cell phone in hand between the two witches to show off the pics of the Pomeranian. "She set the pupper in Kieran's old room, so it wouldn't surprise me if she also decided to repurpose the crib."

The look of 'murder' on Kieran's face was not lost on him as they orbed away, but Diego knew it wouldn't go past a look, so he just smiled and waved. Turning his attention to his sisters, he snorted and said, "She's a baby not a pet, _Flor_."

FLORENCIA

Of course, that woman got a Pom. "Since when were you such uh.. good friends with Adaline?" She frowned. Never did she think Diego would be exchanging pictures with Kieran's mom. At the same time, it was.. strange. "Of all the rooms she has in that manor of hers, she used Kieran's room?" Surely there were other unused rooms in that place, maybe even a spare guest room.

She gave her brother a scowl before ignoring his comment and continued to coo at her sister. "...Was she always this small?" Perhaps it was because they were also smaller back then that Maite didn't feel like this but now, Ren couldn't help but think she was even more fragile than before.

DIEGO

He shrugged but his brow did furrow as he tried to find the answer to that question himself. "I don't know, actually. It just kind of happened. I felt that it was a little sad that she only really had Kieran now to talk too since mom is still very wary, and you were likely to set her on fire if Kieran wasn't around so...Maite and I, being the coolest people in the fam, have just kind of been checking in on her. She wasn't the best mom, but she's trying now and it's mighty hard to try something when everyone around you is already telling you you can't."

Feeling his answer had turned a bit too serious -and personal- he instead focused on Ren's question about their youngest sibling. "Maite's always been the smallest, though I suppose being full grown adults this time around does put her tiny-ness into a new perspective- is she just going to stand there all night?" He interrupted himself as he gestured to the youngest Rendall peeking from behind the sofa, only her eyes and up visible, said eyes glued to the baby.

AVERY

It was bizarre seeing her girlfriend turn into a baby and it did nothing but highlight the age gap between them. From the group chat, only those who are twenty and below were affected... Yes, that gap was very obvious. Not to mention, there were still a few scoobs who haven't turned but were still younger than she was. "Oh man.." She mumbled to herself as she watched the twins fuss - well, one was fussing, the other not so much - over their youngest sibling.

The wolf flinched when Diego suddenly looked her way. Honestly, she wouldn't even mind if she stayed in this very spot the whole night because Maite was so small.. and so fragile of a baby that Avery didn't know quite what to do. "..... Maybe..?" She actually looked a bit sheepish but still, she emerged from her spot and walked closer towards them. "..I don't know how I feel.. about my girlfriend being a baby.. I mean, she's real cute.. like boop, i want to pinch your cheeks cute."

DIEGO

He glanced back over at Avery, his look far more sympathetic now. “Yeah…I suppose when you put it like that, it’s bound to be far more complicated territory for you than us. We’ve always seen her as an ankle biting gremlin, this is your first glimpse,” he said.

He also figured that Steve and Baby Rendall over there were past the ‘platonic’ stage of their romance by now, and it must be trippy to go from _that_ to a literal baby. “Indulge in the cute, and take it one day at a time,” was the best he could offer. He would toss in a joking warning about keeping her hands to herself, but she already looked like she’d puke if he did.

AVERY

The wolf continued to stare at her itty bitty girlfriend, and that feeling of unease simply grew the longer she stared. "...She *is* really cute though.." She whispered softly though she still hadn't actually approached the baby, or was it because Ren was holding her? "I don't know, Di.. This is waaay trippier than you'd think."

Avery actually let out a shuddering breath, trying to take this all in. Unlike the other three, she was not handling this as well as she could. "She's also.. so.. so small." If she was scared of hurting the witch prior to this, boy, did that amplify by a thousand folds right now. "And most of the gang's like that too.. Oh man, everyone's a baby... My niche! She's a baby too."

DIEGO

"Ey! There's a silver highlight or whatever you call it. You get to interact with your niche as a baby without being a kid yourself. You get like, the genuine aunt experience. You get to be her Luke!...but like, before it turned out Luke was actually Sky's dadperson," he suggested. His own words made a thought occur to him as he then added, "Erin and Evan! You can call them and see how thye're approaching the whole 'my girlfriend is now a literal infant' debacle. Surely they'd have a far more relatable input than either of us," he said indicating himself and his twin. "For sure they'd have better input than Ren, anyway."

AVERY

"Do you think she'll even recognise me? How does this baby thing even work?" She looked over to Steve and finally built enough courage to walk right up to Ren. "...Does Maite recognize me?" She asked softly as she gently poked at the baby's hand. "Or are you going to cry because you don't know who I am." She was almost whispering. "Because that... is a whole new level of rejection I would have ever gotten.......We are so creating a support group for this.."

JACK

After an adventure and a half, the Paladin materialized back in the home just in time to hear the wolf's question. As her charge began the process of sorting the items they'd returned with, she made her way down the stairs as she called out, "There's no reason why she shouldn't remember ya. From what the we've been able to sus out in the Paladin mental-group-chat -or _hive mind_ as some have called it in the past- there's been no adverse reaction from the children to the people they know. So far, it seems that though their brains have obviously biologically reverted back to infant capabilities, their memories are fundamentally the same. I mean let's face it, they'd kind of have to be. Baby Steve would _have_ to recognize Ren as her older sister, otherwise half the facial expressions she makes would have the kid terrified, no?"

FLORENCIA

The witch watched as the wolf walked up to them. She turned her body so that Avery can take a look at her sister a little better. At Jack's explanation, however, Ren had to look up with a glare. "Are you saying that I'd be terrifying to my own baby sister?" If she wasn't holding said baby, she might have actually went up to smack their Paladin in the arm. "I'm going to go up and see how Kieran's doing with the unpacking." She scowled as she headed upstairs with the baby - standing by the door of the room so that she wouldn't actually get in the way.

KIERAN

The witch had immediately taken to sorting everything they’d brought back. She figured she’d have at least enough time to set up her old crib by the time Ren came up with the baby, but seeing as how Jack rushed _downstairs_ …well she wasn’t exactly surprised to see her time was cut short.

Glancing up at the pair, green eyes brightened and she immediately smiled at the sight of how soft Ren was around baby Steve this time around. “Well you two certainly seem to be getting along far better this time,” she teased. “Clearly the same can’t be said about you and Jack..”

FLORENCIA

She looked down at her sister who was alternating her attention on both women. "She's my baby sister, of course we'd get along." She mumbled before readjusting her hold on her sister since Maite started shifting into her. "Jack seems to think that if Maite didn't recognise me, she'd cry." Her eyes rolled in disbelief.

"Anyways, how's the crib? Do you need help?" She looked over at the crib. "You used to be in that?" She asked softly.

KIERAN

"Well, in all fairness to Jack, if she didn't recognize you, that would make you stranger. And most babies don't do well with strangers, so.." She trailed off as she began to bob her head from side to the other, causing Maite to giggle and follow her lead by rocking her upper half to and fro as well. "It is such a welcome change of pace to have the Nexus magic give us something terribly cute instead of something just terrible," she noted.

At the question she turned her attention back to the furniture and said, "I've got the general outside framing done. Still have the bottom slats and the new mattress to put in- Oh! You guys can start digging through the stuff we bough, like the sheets and pillows and things." The softer question had Kieran looking at the crib in a slightly different light. "Yeah...dad actually built himself." Her tone was soft, but the tinge of sadness was still there.

FLORENCIA

The witch scowled slightly. She refused to think that her own sister would be scared of her regardless. But that scowl went away the moment the baby started to giggle, and a smile widened when she saw that Maite was trying to mimic Kieran. "Thank god. I do not want another day being stuck as a halloween costume - or have berzerkers invade town again." She complained.

Her eyes softened when she learned that the crib had such meaning to it. Without saying anything, she leaned in for a soft kiss to the older woman's cheek before giving her hand a light squeeze. "I had no idea he knew carpentry." Though she still wasn't the biggest fan of Kieran's parents, but him building the crib was a nice gesture. Letting go of the other, Ren went over to pick out the sheets and pillow they were going to use. "Should we run everything through the wash first?" She muttered as she took out a set.

KIERAN

She nodded emphatically and said, “I genuinely don’t my blood pressure can take any other major anything for at least the next three months. Also, I think my brain needs a break after everything we had to do to clean up after Old Man Grey.”

Kieran was more than appreciative of the gesture. “That man was full of surprises until the very end, and apparently even after,” she replied. It really did feel she learned something every week. She turned to look over at the items, stretching out a hand that then waved in the general direction of them. “All sanitized. So is the carpet, by the way, if you wanted to give her some room to roam…and no, I will not be doing our actual laundry with magic. You still have to use the washer and dryer.”

FLORENCIA

"I'm.. not going to say anything more because I feel like it might just jinx it." Ren gave a wry smile, "The old man seems to have flipped the whole town upside down and we can't even get him to pay for it." Her eyes rolled. One could think he got off lucky since he was killed before the town found him.

She pouted when Kieran told her she would not be doing the laundry the same way. "Fiiine." She whined as she brought over the sheet, waiting for the crib to be set up before laying out the sheet but since she was holding the kid, she couldn't tuck it in as well as she hoped. "Oh this is cute." She chuckled, not expecting the characters on the sheets.

KIERAN

As she continued moving about placing in the final pieces she said, "Yeah, please don't. Let's just count our blessings and not look a gift horse in the mouth." She let out a low whistle and said, "I don't know about lucky. From what Evan was able to see when she had to to go do her due diligence as the next-of-kin, he may have stepped on the very last nerve of the wrong person."

Taking a step back she could only raise a brow as she watched Ren struggle with the bedsheet. "Yeah, I figured she might like them. Also, just a suggestion, but you may be able to win the wrestling match you've got going with the mattress right now if you use _both_ hands. You know? Maybe let the baby down or hand her over?"

FLORENCIA

She rolled her eyes, "He's lucky because he suffered once and that was it. There are plenty of people who probably wanted a piece of him." While she wasn't an advocate of *torture* methods, Ren still believed there was more to be done since he affected so many lives regardless if he personally had beef with said person or not. "Thank god Evan Jr didn't turn out to be like him."

She looked almost offended by the idea of putting her sister down. "No, I will not." She laughed as she held the sheet up to the other instead. "I wanna keep holding her." Ren was already rocking on her feet as if the kid wasn't already pooped out already.

KIERAN

“I think the sentiment of wanting everyone who was wronged to get their pound of flesh is bordering on something that would ultimately be against the Geneva Convention,” she noted. Ren’s proclivity towards anger may be placing blinders on her current view, but her suggestions were increasingly nearing something that would, in practice, be literal torture. “Yes, we’ll she did have her mother for the most important years.”

Green eyes looked just as offended as the witch was _denied_ the opportunity to carry the baby. She took the sheet nonetheless and made quick work of fitting it in place. “She’s pretty much about to pass out, so you’re going to have to put her down anyway. We’ll discuss the multiple ways you’ve affronted me tonight later.”

FLORENCIA

She grew quiet when she saw Kieran looking at her.. which was then backed up by her words. Ren was in trouble because she didn't think before she spoke. Begrudgingly, she went over to laid her sister into the crib before tucking her in carefully, making sure she's comfortable and won't get cold overnight.

While she could probably say something, something told her that being quiet might be the best way for now - until Kieran addressed her again. Instead of going over to her girlfriend, Ren lingered around the crib, fiddling with the frame as she waited.

KIERAN

Kieran watched as Ren set the baby down, and the little girl almost immediately drifted off. Then she waited for the witch to turn back around....and waited, and waited. When it became painfully obvious that Ren was either avoiding any further conversation or was waiting for Kieran to point out where the metaphorical puzzle piece had to go -again-, the older witch just sighed and went to get ready for bed herself.

For all the progress she felt they'd made recently, it still felt like they were always taking four steps back because Ren still refused to confront anything and would rather be told what the misstep was, which in the end always left Kieran wondering if Ren even understood why it was a misstep to begin with.

FLORENCIA

The slight panic she felt when Kieran got ready for bed instead of starting the conversation. When she saw the older witch was in bed, Ren got in as well. With a small surge of courage, she shuffled in close enough to wrap her arm around the older woman's waist. ".... I'm sorry." She apologized softly as she nuzzled into the back of Kieran's neck.

The fiery witch knew she messed up somewhere - the obvious one was related to Ren hogging her younger sister.

KIERAN

The older witch knew she didn't have it in her to actually _stay_ mad, but that didn't mean she couldn't be upset for a while after. Even as she felt the fire witch slide into bed with her and warp herself around her, Kieran's gaze didn't budge from the spot she'd chosen on the wall across from her. All she did, at the woman's apology, was ask, "About?"

This far along, she needn't elaborate. They'd discussed many times over that apologizing without knowing what it is that you're apologizing for, renders the apology moot.

FLORENCIA

"...For hogging Maite, instead of helping you make the bed.." Ren had meant it jokingly since she didn't want to let go of her sister just to make the bed. With that being said, the fire witch would have happily given Kieran the kid if she knew that the other wanted to hold her right that moment.

She fell silet again because it was mentioned that it was 'multiple' times so the witch ahad to think back again. ".... Was it also because I said that you might have had a lab baby in the works?"

KIERAN

Kieran just let out a deep sigh and said, "At this point, it's honestly more about the fact that when you do something that's upsetting, you're quick to say the words 'I'm sorry' but don't bother to take the time to realize _what_ you're sorry about, which means you go on without knowing or acknowledging what you did wrong or why it was wrong."

She turned around to face the younger and said, "But yes, it's also about the fact you thought I'd keep a lab baby from you."

FLORENCIA

She laid there as she mulled over those words, though it was sidetracked when Kieran brought up the lab baby again. "I mean.. like.. you're obviously smart enough to create one if you wanted to.... and I don't know.. Maybe you were waiting to see some sort of results to actually happen before letting anyone know that this could actually be a reality?" She hummed, "... but then, because it's a baby we're talking about so I suppose you wouldn't *not* bring it up - at least the idea of creating one - especially when it's about making a family... "

The more she spoke, the more she felt like maybe she should just.. *stop*. After all, they had been working to tell each other everything. "....Are you upset .. because we said we won't keep secrets from each other anymore.. and here I am.. saying that you're keeping a secret?"

KIERAN

Kieran looked her in silence for a moment. "So, are we really just going to completely skip over the problem that I, as has become the norm, practically spoon-fed you so that you could -I don't know- at least pretend to address it...?" Another sigh escaped her as she said, "I know sometimes we all get sidetracked, but there's big a difference between 'ooh I saw something shiny' and 'ooh I'm going to actively talk about something else', because Florencia Maria Velazquez you are _not_ oblivious enough to have accidentally focused on the _wrong_ thing, you simply chose to focus on the _easier_ thing."

She turned back around settled into bed proper. "I don't think we're getting anywhere soon and we'll have to be up in a few hours to check on the baby. Might as well get some sleep."

FLORENCIA

"Kieran.." She called out when the other turned back around. It was clear from the voice just how tired Kieran was with her.. bullshit. "No.." She answered quietly, "We.. *I* shouldn't skip over it." She made a face as she remembered Kieran calling her out for taking the easy way out... It seems that she took a lot more than she realized from a certain parent than she'd want to admit. "I might.. not know every time when I put my foot in my mouth, but I know I've done something that upset you and.. I know that I shouldn't do it again." She fell quiet again as she thought back to the events earlier.

KIERAN

She let out a an exhausted sigh, but didn't feel up to turning around just yet. "Look, I genuinely don't think this is conversation that is getting us anywhere, and I would hate to say something I regret later because I spoke out or frustration, but I don't know whether I'm just not being clear or you're not listening to what I'm actually saying here. I'm aware that _you_ are aware that I'm upset. I know that _you_ don't want a repeat. The _problem_ lies in the fact that you never actually know what it is that you do wrong, and you always end up waiting for someone to tell you what it was. Maybe, doing a little work and trying to figure it out on your own once in a while would be a more effective way of helping you with not doing those repeats."

FLORENCIA

She wasn't going to push it if Kieran was adamant that this issue wouldn't be resolved tonight. The only thing she felt she could do at this point was to give Kieran her space, figure out what else she did wrong tonight.. and just think before saying anything in the the future - the latter being a bit hard to do since the witch knew she was pretty impulsive.

Instead of replying, the younger woman fell quiet as she just stared into the back of her girlfriend.

KIERAN

Kieran held out for all of five minutes, before turning around and wrapping an arm lightly around Ren's waist. "Please stop boring holes into my back. It's bordering on creepy and that's an adjective I'd really rather never have to use to describe you," she muttered. "We can come back to the conversation later, but I also don't want us to go to sleep like two strangers forced to share a bed, because I saw that too much with my parents and honestly, disagreements come and go but if they're really big enough to disrupt the status quo? I don't like to think about the outcome that usually leads to."

FLORENCIA

The moment Kieran flipped over, Ren felt relief wash over her. She managed a soft chuckle when she was basically called a semi-creeper just for staring. "That is definitely not a compliment for your girlfriend." Her voice just as soft considering the time of night. "Honestly.. I'm just glad you turned around." She admitted before shuffling in closer enough to put her face against the older witch's chest, wrapping her arms even tighter into a half-hug.

KIERAN

DEVIN

While Devin wasn't the most expressive person in the family, it had been incredible and almost unbelievable that she got to spend some quality time with *both* her daughters. Octavius clearly enjoyed it far more than anyone else in the family, beaming at everyone at always. It was also nice to see how attached Peyton was despite not having her feelings reciprocated to the same extent - but let's be honest, no one can possibly match the level of the Dawsons. Even Devin couldn't.

So when they were over at the ranch, Devin had expected.. a somewhat peaceful time. What she got instead, was 3 babies suddenly taking place of the children. The scene itself just rendered her silence for so many reasons.

One of which was that she literally sees the baby she left behind so many years ago. "This..." She rose from her seat and picked up her eldest daughter the same time as Oct picking up Peyton. "What is this?"

IZZY

It took everything in Izzy not to punch Brax in the arm when be he replied 'That's a baby' because, no shit that was a baby. Instead she just looked at him like he'd grown a second head until she saw the penny literally drop in his mind. Walking over, she scooped up Sean as Octavius scooped up Peyton and she gave her brother a quick once-over. "Well, at least they appear to be relatively healthy and unharmed otherwise..."

She trailed off as a thought suddenly hit her and she quickly handed Sean over to Brax as she exclaimed, "The twins!" and rushed upstairs to the nursery.

BRAXTON

Excusing himself with Sean, he followed Izzy up the stairs to seee how the twins were. It was honestly a good thing Izzy had the brain cells most of the time. "Oh.. they are real tiny." He actually let out a chuckle as he hovered a finger over one of the babies and letting her grab onto it with the wee strength they had. "Ohhhhhhh, do you think this is happening to the other people?"

Almost on cue, his phone pinged. Pulling away from the baby, he quickly checked his phone and spotted the group message. "Oh.. I think all the kids are affected." Then he raised the phone up to his mouth to record a voice message, "Is Tomi a baby too?" He asked.

IZZY

Just as Brax was catching up to her, Izzy had made her way into the nursery and let out a sigh of relief at the sight of her beautiful girls still in their cribs, if only -as Brax put it- very tiny. "Oh, I'm just so relieved to see that they're still _here_. If whatever caused this managed to shrink legal adults back to infants, I was terrified to think what it might do a pair of barely two year-olds."

She listened as Brax read the message and recorded his own, a thought suddenly occurring to her as he hit send. "Brax, honey, this means we're going to probably be dealing with a set of near newborn twins _and_ the Tornado Twins just as they begin to start walking....we're going to need baby-proof this entire place twice over, especially if we can't figure out how long it's going to last."

DEVIN

Octavius and she was just in awe at the pair of babies that were just cuddling against them. Devin did not hesitate to wrap her arms securely around her oldest daughter when she felt her lean against her. While her husband was always beaming, the smile he sent her way did suggest he knew how she was feeling. Not that she wanted to be biased with her children, but to have Amaryllis be in her arms again. That was quite the feeling to process.

Taking them upstairs, she appeared in the doorway. "How are the twins?" She asked since she couldn't quite see with the two adults blocking the view of the crib. However she could smell the younger set of girls and noted the shift in their scent as well. "Oh. They're even tinier." Somehow, she didn't expect that. "I'm assuming that this doesn't happen that often." She had heard stories about Fallcrest, but to experience a magical accidental like this was very different.

IZZY

Izzy couldn't help the bright smile at the sight of Amaryllis looking so clearly comfortable in her mother's arms. After all this time, she'd only ever seen the girl look this relaxed around her brother and knowing the story behind the duo, it had Izzy's already emotional state needing a deep breath to not become a mess. "Yes, sorry. They're okay. They're jammies and diapers are a bit loose now, but at least we have plenty of supplies to tide us over, and to go around of course. We're already risking a lot with three undiapered infants," she laughed, already moving to grab things from the drawers.

As Brax took on the task of trying to wrangle Sean into a diaper as he tried to escape over to Ryllie, she picked up her phone when the group chat dinged. Glancing up at Devin she said, "This specifically? No, but mishaps with magic have kind of become par for the course whenever the Nexus has a seal broken. According to the group chat, the Paladins think that's the most likely root of all this."

BRAXTON

"Babies.. are probably one of the best things that came from a seal being broken." He snorted as he laid back down onto the ground once he got Sean sorted out. Watching him crawl over towards Devin, Braxton only let a chuckle. "I might go pick Tomi up soon..." He was already excited to see his baby girl but he should at least get the current kids in the house sorted out first. "...Do you think Sean is going to cry if they take Ryllie home?"

Braxton rolled over to his back and looked up at the ceiling, thinking about the things he might do after picking Tomi up. "I might also grab more things along the way. Now that we have so many babies, we are going to run out of supplies real fast." He chuckled, "From the looks of things, only the kids got affected. My sister is still fine, but her girlfriend isn't."

IZZY

"We were just talking about post-seal break shenanigans a few days ago," she mused aloud, briefly distracted by Brax's sudden decision to mimic a teenage girl working on homework as he laid on the floor. If he stated kicking his feet she might have to call Col... Her attention, however, was immediately drawn away as she watched her now _baby_ brother make his way over to the other woman. A sad smile crossed her face, but she went over to pick him up before he tried latching onto things.

Seeing as the tiny ginger began to immediately reach out to the girl, Izzy glanced down at Brax and said, "It's probably about as likely as Skylar crying when you go pick Tomi up, so best of luck bargaining with Keagan," she replied as the man rolled over. "But much like anything else with a baby, he'll get over it."

DEVIN

When she spotted the red haired baby crawl towards her, Devin felt sorry for the other considering that she was very tempted to bring Amaryllis home with her. Of course, she wouldn't if the others said no - and she also wasn't sure how upset Ryllie would be despite her current cuddly state.

"If both babies don't want to be separated, then I suppose there won't be other choice than to leave Amaryllis here with you - I hope it won't be too overwhelming since you have 3 - well, 4 from the sounds of things, in one house house." Surely they all understood how exhausting it could get simply with one kid, much less five in total."

IZZY

Izzy glanced up at Devin once again, knowing full well the feeling of having to be separated from your kids. True, Sean and Tomi were quite older when she'd left for Philly, but it had hurt all the same. She couldn't fathom what it would be like for the blonde to see a fresh opportunity with the baby she missed out on only to have to already leave her behind.

"Ideally, I'd love to have Ryllie stay here with us for the first bit, if only for her own comfort of being in a place she knows and is comfortable. That being said, the ranch has plenty of extra rooms and space if you and Octavius would like to stick around here as well? I mean, it's not like it wouldn't be nice to have another two sets of hands to keep track of everyone."

OCTAVIUS

He had followed after his wife whilst holding their younger daughter. At the sight of the sisters together as babies simply warmed his heart and he could not stop beaming all the way up the stairs and into the room. What better time than now for Devin to bond with the daughter she never thought she'd ever see again until now. It was great yet slow porcess so far, and Octavius had to admit that the other being a baby now might be a very good stroke of luck.

"If you don't mind, we would love to stay! Babies all around." He grinned, wider when Devin looked over his way. "It's a good idea. The more hands the better, and Sean would be less likely to cry if Ryllie's around!."

IZZY

"Of course I don't mind," Izzy replied with a smile of her own. "Believe me, if the idea weren't appealing I wouldn't have offered. Besides, I do genuinely think that keeping Amaryllis in a place she's comfortable and has called home for a while now is much more conducive to all three of you being able to bond with her more."

Sparing a glance to the Beta that was still laying on the nursery floor, she looked back up and said, "And it would also ease my mind a lot to know that while I'm at work caring for other babies, mine are being looked after by more than just my new _rug_."

BRAXTON

The man was now on his back raising the kid up and down in the air, swaying side to side. "Yeahhh, you flying kid!" He chuckled. How he missed this - not that he didn't do the same with the younger pair of twins, but having Sean, and hopefully Tomi be petite size again? Surely this was a blessing because everyone was almost getting a second chance to do things right.

Eventually, he set the kid back on his chest and wrapped his arms around him. "Peanut, I forgot how small you were." He grinned before looking up at Iz, "I am more than willing to be the new rug if Sean is going to be down here chilling with me."

IZZY

The giggles that filled the room were nothing short of the sweetest sound she'd heard in a while. There would never be a question about how much she loved and cherished similar giggles from her younger girls, but Sean was basically her first born and there had honestly always been just _something_ about him that made it to where his happiness just radiated.

At the mention of his size, Izzy just looked at the baby endearingly. "Yeah, we're going to have to pick up stuff for him when we shop for the minis. As nicely as their diapers and onesies fit the kittens, he's basically swimming in his," she noted, before rolling her eyes at Brax's antics. "Rugs can't pick up babies from their friends' homes..." Rugs also didn't really _help_ with babies either so, she was wary of that offer.

BRAXTON

"This is why I said the van would've been a good idea because we can fit all the car seats." Not that they would have predicted this situation but at the very least, they would all fit in one car instead of taking two. "Oh man, I forgot Peanut here was smaller than everyone until that growth spurt." He chuckled as he did his best at making Sean's outfit.. less loose-looking.

At the topic of picking up his daughter, Braxton looked up at Izzy. "...Do you think Keagan's not going to let me?" He frowned as he sat up carefully with Sean in his arms and then fully got up from the floor. "I hope I get to spend some time with Tomes..." He looked down at Sean and walked right up to Izzy, "Look at him. Oh my god, his little baby hands are trying to grab onto my shirt."

IZZY

The nurse looked down at him with a furrowed brow. Not only had the topic of vehicles not been brought up but, they’d both had their respective trucks long before being back in the same town…? Izzy opted to just blink and let it go. There was enough to process as is.

“Well, he _is_ known as the ‘runt’ of the pack for a reason,” she said, not that she was ever too keen on that title. Not the least reason being that their own father had given it to him. Shaking her head slightly she chuckled at the man. “I meant more that if you were a literal rug, obviously they don’t drive. I’m sure that Keagan of all people would be more than understanding of you wanting a bit of a second shot at the baby days,” she reassured before practically melting again at the sight of Sean grabbing onto Braxton. “He _has_ always been a Stage 5 clinger…”

BRAXTON

"Peanut of the runt. Well, Bean of the runt. Sky was not happy when both Sean and T outgrew her before they even reached highschool." He grinned, "Ugh, loook at him... Look at *them*. Now I'm real excited to see Tomi and the rest of the babies. They're all going to be tinyyyy.. I should set up a kids area at the gym..."

Braxton smiled at the idea of getting to spend time with Tomi. This time being very different from when Tomi was still a baby.. and not reverted back by magic. "Do you think they'll remember anything? Or would they forget everything once they ..uh.. grow up again."

IZZY

It took one look to get him to drop the ‘runt’. This ma had the unique ability to make her regret speaking in less than ten seconds sometimes…”Ooh we should try to get them all together for at least one picture. Not to be biased but, they were already a group of very good looking young adults. I don’t expect they wouldn’t be equally as cute as babies.”

She furrowed her brow at his sudden desire for a kids’ area. “You already have one? Luke was in charge of it until Sky outgrew it, but it’s still there. Aves is also in charge of the kid drop-off, where people can get the kids watched while they workout…how long has it been since you did your own paperwork?”

The last question made her pause before admitting, “I don’t know. I would err on the side of caution though, and just assume they will.” Izzy reached over and took Sean from him. “Now go on, go get our missing twin.”

BRAXTON

It was clear as day just how giddy Braxton was on his way to the car. Leaving the kids with the Dawsons, he drove them over to the not-mansion cabin. He prayed that he wasn't going to be met by an upset Sky or Tomi. The last thing he wanted was for Tomi to bawl like the world was ending. "Okay.. okay.. Here we go.." He steeled his nerves as he gave the cabin door a knock... Only to be met by.. Not-Keagan which was all he could ask for.

When his eyes laid onto the sight of his baby girl being cradled, he visibly melted. She was exactly how he remembered but now that he was aware that he made this? That was another wave of emotions. The amount of wariness he had when he held her in his arm was far more than he needed to be but the baby was so small that he felt like he could just.. accidentally break her.

Braxton could not keep his eyes off of the baby even when they were on their way back. "Iz.. she's so small!" As if he hadn't already said this a million times at the cabin, and during their trip back to the ranch.

IZZY

Izzy would be lying if she said she wasn’t a little wary of possibly being denied the chance to take Tomi back with them. After all, they themselves had just agreed to host the Dawsons in a bid to avoid splitting up Sean and Amaryllis not fifteen minutes ago.

She had been pleasantly surprised to find her baby girl so well looked after already, and though there was slight noises of complaints when Erin had said her goodbyes, it had worked out well.

As they made their way back inside the house at the ranch, she looked back at him and said, “I was more surprised to see how comfortable she was with Rikke. Tomi’s always been the least fan of ‘new’ people. I guess maybe it’s their Paladin-charge bond? Do you think that will have Rikke orbing in if she’s upset?”

BRAXTON

He looked up for the first time at the question, "Maybe..? As her charge, she might have felt it - like, 'this person is safe' sorta vibe?" He shrugged, "Then we better not upset T too much." He chuckled, "I'm not entirely sure how the whole Paladin bond would feel, but I think Rikke would be able to differentiate the different levels of 'upset', right? If not, then I guess.... we should prace ourselves for a visit..."

Braxton went to the room where Sean was in but then stood by the door. ".....Would it be a good idea... to put them together right now... He might cry." He joked before actually stepping closer to the kid. "Look who we got, it's your sib!" He whispered softly as he showed at an angle, Tomi in his arms.

IZZY

She nodded at his words. He wasn’t the most eloquent, but his point made sense. “I’m sure with as much experience as she has, the woman’s bound to have system right? I mean, I can’t imagine she’d have been in such good spirits with _two_ of her charges being infants if she _didn’t_ know how to tell when a cry could be ignored….but I still think we should arrange to have Erin and Sky visit at some point soon…just in case.” It wasn’t that she didn’t trust Rikke, it was just the idea of someone randomly materializing in her home that was odd.

Being mindful of the baby, Izzy smacked him in the arm at the crack her brother’s expense. “Bold of you to assume he hasn’t already senses she’s here and won’t cry if you _don’t_ bring her in,” she noted. Izzy could only watch as the baby boy immediately zeroed in on his sister and began crawling over.

BRAXTON

"The more the merrier?" He chuckled, "Ooooh, they could have a baby sleepover! Well, maybe we should have more cribs in here, just in case they do come.. all of them? Doesn't make sense to leave out a baby. Baby huddle!!!" He lifted his daughter into the air, up and down a few times before going back to cradling her. "Oh, it looks like someone wants to play with you." He crouched down so he can set Tomi down carefully onto the floor. "Heyyyy here's your sister."

He smiled as he watched the babies interact before taking a seat again on the floor. "I need pictures of you two. More pictures of you too!" He took out his phone and started snapping away - making a few boomerangs, and taking a few short clips. "Ugh. Izzy.. my heart."

IZZY

“Friendly reminder that Erin won’t fit in a crib, so maybe we’ll want to confer with someone who has actual experience in renovating rooms before we make changes…or at least get a second opinion.” As irritating as Brax’s impulsiveness could be, the sight of Tomi and Sean immediately making their way to each other was far too lovely to _not_ take her focus.

Sitting on the floor beside the Beta, she pulled out her own phone and began to snap pics all around. Even the younger girls got in on the fun once they were up. “I always wanted to have a daycare’s worth of kids running around, but I guess crawling will do.”

BRAXTON

"Well.. if we made it... bigger, it might?" He joked, "And the ones we've entrusted to help build most of things are.. well, babies themselves. Kinda hard to ask them for a second opinion." He wiggled his brows, knowing full well there were others they could ask. "We could ask Luke - but she might renovate the place and turn it into Not-Mansion 2.0. I mean.. Although.. There is a space for one.."

He grinned as he showed his phone to Izzy, swiping through the pics he took himself. "And this isn't even the whole pack. Oh man, wait till every babies together in one place."

IZZY

“Okay, _babies_ hardly ever want to be in a crib, I highly doubt a college freshman does…although the way Erin is around Tomi and Skylar…I suppose I wouldn’t be surprised if she decided to pull a _you_ and just share a crib with them…” Izzy listened to his suggestion before saying, “Well, we may need to consult with Luke and Keagan about other things regardless. Tomi is fine now, but she may not be tomorrow, in the bright light of day.”

As she scanned through the pics Brax had taken, Izzy couldn’t help the clear look of utter adoration that crossed her face. “The fact we get to see these kids as littles all over again? And get to do it with no interference from deadbeat dads? I just can’t.”

BRAXTON

"Have you *seen* them be apart? Because I haven't so I think it's best to make some room for erin, and the 'rents in case they all want to stay over. It's going to be a party." He grinned, "I hope Tomi's going to be fine...." it'd break his heart if he can't calm the kid down the next day if she did decide to cry - Hell, maybe he'd cry too.

"Yeah.. To think we've been given this opportunity." He smiled as he already made one of the new pictures his wallpaper. "No deadbeat dads." He agreed as he looked over at the kids, still wrapping his mind over the fact that he and Kimi made that kid. Hopefully he won't mess up either.

IZZY

"Well, for the time being let's worry about how we're going to arrange these kiddos for sleep _tonight_. We can always sort out future sleeping arrangements later," she said, already looking around the nursery. "It's not really the best idea to have babies share a sleeping space before a certain age, but I think we can manage with the older bubs. The kittens can share one crib, the tornado twins the other, and I think I still have the mini-twins' basinets in storage, so they can sleep in those in my room...What was _your_ plan for sleeping?"

It was almost immediate how much happier Sean was this time around. He'd always been a happy baby, and more so when Tomi was around, but this time he had Amaryllis and it really seemed like nothing could turn his smile upside-down. Those four little teeth were on full display, and Tomi was even managing to be patient with Peyton and the minis..."They're just so happy."

BRAXTON

"The Dawsons are staying too right?" He was already excited for getting all the kids together. "...Should we have a divider for T and Bean? Because it's like 50% they'd sleep peacefully, 50% T might kill him." He joked before giving her a shrug. "Well.. It's like what you said, except I wanted to put all the cribs next to each other so they're sort of altogether - Unless you meant me.. I could.. take the couch unless.. you've got.. another suggestion..?"

"They are.." He smiled as he reached out to give one of the siblings a poke to the side. "And the plan is to keep it that way." The beta couldn't help but inch forward so that he could scoop the two pups into his arms. "Heyyyyyyy. I'm feeling left out here."

IZZY

Nodded, and simply stated, “Yes, hence the kitten comment. Because kittens are baby cats…” it was her way of calling him dumb without actually saying it. Looking between the babies she nodded in agreement. “Yeah, I think once they’ve fallen asleep I can manage to find a safe divider. Tomi may not intentionally try to hurt him, but Sean is still small.” She raised a brow as she listened to him explain his master design plan. “Okay, we’ll we can do that, though I did mean where you were planning sleeping _yourself_. The couch is certainly an option, unless you’re up for helping with feedings throughout the night…than I suppose you can share with me and the minis.”

Izzy could only laugh as Tomi immediately ’responded’ to the man’s complaints with a series of babbles that Sean then came in after to back up. “Sounds like they just put you in your place, sir.”

BRAXTON

"I think Tomi has a stronger grip now.. Or is it just me?" Brax wondered since Tomi didn't have her powers bound anymore. "Yeah, we'll definitely need a divider between them... Should we put Bean in .. I don't know.. baby hockey gear." He laughed, "Do they even make them in his current size?" His eyes widened when Izzy suggested he could share with her and the youngest. "..You wouldn't mind?" Those blue hues immediately softened, "Yeah, I'd be down to help with that.."

He looked down at the babies and decided to rub his scruff against the babies. "Are you guys complaining? Hm? Are you?" He laughed at the squeals before giving them a break.

IZZY

“Well I wouldn’t really know, given that you’ve been the only to hold her since Rikke hand her over so…” Was there tinge of jealousy? Hell yes. It wasn’t like _she’d_ denied him holding Sean. Speaking of which, “A divider should be more than fine. Tomi was never an erratic sleeper anyway, and I don’t see that having changed of she’s managing to share uh…_sleeping space_ with two other people.” It was awkward, to say the least, to even think about Tomi’s adult love life while she was currently a baby. Bless Erin….The question brought her back to the moment. “I mean, things have been going well and it would be something we’d ideally be doing at some point. As long as you can behave, I don’t see why we can’t do this one little thing to make traversing this sudden change a little easier.”

When he proceeded to go mess with the kids, Izzy just threw Octavius a look that silently said, “You’re the dad in charge”

DEVIN

As endearing as it was to see Braxton playing with the kids, Devin wondered if Izzy was going to be okay. Perhaps it was a good idea for them to be here with this many kids in the household. "We'll be in here so we can always keep an eye on them." Moreover, it sounded like Brax was more focused on playing with the children more than anything else. Perhaps, it really was a good thing Octavius and she were here.

Carrying over their daughters, she laid her down into the empty crib with her husband doing the same with the other baby. The moment Peyton was on the mattress, she was already reaching out for Amaryllis and Devin could feel her heart ache. That was just too cute. "I'm glad that we took this trip down here."

AYDEN

She didn't know what to expect when she got the messages about the youngest scoobs turned into babies. She could only assume that the parents weren't too upset over it, where as the ones *dating* them, like Avery.. who had sent a message in all caps about it, were conflicted. Knowing that Izzy was with Braxton, Ayden felt concerned to how they were handling it so she decided to head over for a visit - bringing food in case the adults haven't eaten yet.

"Hey." She smiled when the door revealed her best friend and she immediately went in for a hug. "How's everything going? ...Is Brax helping?"

IZZY

As wary as she may have been leaving the babies out of sight with just Brax, it was somewhat alleviated by the fact that Devin and Octavius would also be in the room. Also, she had a feeling she knew who would be on the other side of the door anyway, given that everyone else was pretty much either busy themselves or in this room. Taking the stairs two at a time, she never happier to be proven right as she saw her best friend and reciprocated the hug. "Hey yourself," she said before stepping aside, "Come in, come in. It's freezing out there."

She laughed at the question as she closed the front door. "Depends on how you define 'helping', but he's certainly much more eager to be more involved this time around."

AYDEN

Once she was inside, Ayden took off her jacket and hung it nearby. "It's times like this when I wished I got that innate body warmer you wolves have." She joked. "Mm.. I figured so I thought I might pop by to help out." Braxton always meant well, but Ayden did not trust him enough to know what he was doing. "Is he only playing with the kids?" Because that definitely sounded like something he would do.

Then it hit her that there were other voices in the house. "Oh, you've got extra hands around already." She mused although she had a feeling that they were busy with their own daughters.

IZZY

"It's great when we're out working on the ranch, but it can get a bit stuffy to still have to wear thick jackets to play things off around the town's mundanes," she noted, already walking over to the refrigerator to grab Ayden a drink. "It is very much appreciated, because as much as he claims to _want_ to help out more...I don't think that man can tell the difference between a baby's diaper and a sanitary pad," she deadpanned, before a thought occurred to her. "Speaking of such a mix-up, how is Avery dealing with her girlfriend being a baby? Erin seemed to be holding out well enough when we picked Tomi up but, I think that's because she had Lyra as a distraction?"

AYDEN

"I'm in my garage most of the time and I am so glad to have that HVAC system installed there. *So* glad." She chuckled as she followed Izzy over to the kitchen, grabbing a seat at the counter. "Well, getting him to do it - without help - is probably the best way to get him to learn." After all, Braxton always managed to pull through at times when under pressure... One way or another. "Well, she did send me this?" She pulled out her phone and showed the text message with all caps from the youngest Rendall. "I don't think she's.. dealing all that well, but apparently she sent home after a while since her sister in law brought the baby up to sleep."

IZZY

"And Irwin Co. is _exceedingly_ happy you thought of us to the do the job," she said, teasingly. Everyone knew that Izzy had less than zero to do with the contracting and construction company, although now with both 'heads' being babies...She shook her head. That was a headache for another day. "Yeah, that approach normally works with just about anything...but these are babies. So...I guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Setting the drink down in front of her friend, Izzy lent in to read the message. "Wow, I feel for her, I really do..._but_ I can't bring myself to say I wish this hadn't happened," she admitted with a grin. "I really never thought I'd get to see what my first set of babies would be like around my new ones, and they're getting along so great."

AYDEN

"Who else was I supposed to go to?" She pointed out - as if all the Scoobs hadn't already been getting the Irwins' to be their contractors for most of their renos. "I can always stick around for a while in case anything happens? Like how much do you trust Brax can handle it." She was.. half joking? Maybe. She honestly wasn't sure herself.

She accepted the drink with a small thanks before warming herself up with it. Both her hands pressed against the mug, welcoming the warmth coming from it. "I feel bad for.. everyone whom they're dating but so far, it sounds like all the 'rents are loving it right now. Especially with the amount of shopping that was done - or so I've heard." She could hear that Braxton was still playing with them in the room above and let out a smile at the giggles. "Never thought we'd get to hear those giggles again." It was one thing to hear Kimi and Tilly giggle, it was another to heard Sean and Tomi giggle like that again.

IZZY

Izzy made a face before a look of realization dawned on her. "Sean and Tomi _have_ managed to kind of monopolize the game in town haven't they?" she asked, more rhetorically than anything, but there was no small hint of pride as she said it. "You are a lifesaver, and honestly if we couldn't get you the opportunity of having Avery toddling around after you, I can at least share my brood with you," Izzy said, knowing already that for Ayden it was less about the 'helping' and more about the babies..though not nearly to Brax's level.

She nodded in understanding. "I know it can't be easy for the older members of the various relationships right now, and I do genuinely feel bad for them, _but_ I can't bring myself to wish that it hadn't happened," she admitted. "To get to interact with Sean and Tomi with some actual know-how, for Brax to get to relieve this stage _knowing_ Tomi is his actual daughter, and for Keg- Oh my god, for Keg was gone for so much of the twins' first year?? She must be over the moon!"

AYDEN

"It seems so, they're good at what they do, so I'm not surprised if everyone wants to hire their services - although, it might be a bit tricky to do so at the moment." She pointed out before her eyes gave a hint of sympathy. "I would love to see Avery as a baby again - but that kid is a menace at any age. It's just that she can be responsible for her own actions now that she's an adult." She joked as she thought about the younger years of that girl. "Taking care of 2 kids at a time is already a lot of work, I can't imagine having to take care of four."

Ayden smiled as she thought about their mutual friends getting the chance to relive the bits they missed out and could not feel anything but happiness for them. "It really is a blessing of sorts." She was positive that the parents were all loving this right now. "We should get the babies together soon - one big playdate like how we used to do it."

IZZY

Izzy thought about it for a moment and said, “Well, for the immediate future we can just use the holidays to our advantage, and if by some chance this lasts longer, we can figure something out then. Hopefully just nothing that would require dad coming back to town.” Just the thought of that man around any of the children made her physically shudder. “I used to say the same thing about Tomi, but it turns out no matter how old they get, they always find a way to loop you back in,” she said tossing her friend a knowing wink. If Avery didn’t have a legit criminal record yet, it was due in no small part to Ayden’s involvement.

She let out a dramatic sigh, dropping her head at the mention of _four_ babies, only to snap it back up with a huge grin. “I’m sure it’ll be physically and even mentally taxing, but I am so looking forward to it, Ayde. The matching outfits, the tornadoes and the minis, the kittens??” Izzy let out an uncharacteristic squeal. Well, uncharacteristic to _most_. Ayden, Keagan, Blake, and Kimi had heard it all. “Brax is already planning a massive sleepover upstairs. I didn’t have the heart to tell him Leo or Luke could probably host better.”

AYDEN

"..Let's hope we don't need to come to that." Somehow all the Scoobs had a shit father - although Tomi's bio dad didn't even know he was the dad until recently. However Ayden was not a fan of the rest of them, including Joe. "And it seems worth the effort since all the kids grew up to be who they are now." She may complain, but everyone knew she wouldn't trade Avery for anyone else. She may be a menace, but Aves was her menace.

"Quite the bundle you have here." She was genuinely happy for her friend who looked thrilled that all her babies are literal babies now. "Speaking of upstairs, how about we head up? I haven't seen the kiddies yet.. and I don't know how Brax is faring."

IZZY

"If I know Tomi as well as I do, she has all of the bureaucratic stuff so well-organized that I should be able to take a look over everything and get things sorted. If not, I'll just ask you and Blake for help on memos and invoices and whatever else," she said, the look on her face clearly stating 'I'm a nurse'. She beamed at the mention of the kids being worth the effort. "I wouldn't trade a single day with them for anything."

Without much warning, she reached out to take her friend's hand and effectively pulled her up the stairs. "I really doubt things are too bad. There _are_ two other adults in the room."

AYDEN

It didn't surprise her that Tomi had everything organized. After all, she was also why Braxton can find anything in his life. "Yeah, let me know if you need any help, I'd drop by - My schedule might be a bit more lenient than Blake's so there's that." She chuckled. It was a given that all of the Scoobs were thankful all the kids grew up well, none of them being assholes like certain folks in this town.

Letting her friend lead her up the stairs, Ayden peered into the room to see the Dawsons leaning against a crib where she assumed both their daughters were sleeping in.. and then there was Braxton who seemed to be.. bullied by the four babies - well, Tomi mostly, while the other 3 giggled. "Hey guys..." She greeted, already softening at the sight of them all. "They're as adorable as I remembered."

IZZY

Izzy just grinned up at her, somehow always reverting back to her teenage self around her best friend. "Your schedule is _always_ more lenient than Blake's where I'm concerned," she pointed, making zero effort to hide the smug tone in her voice. The irony of how similar to Brax she could be around Ayden was completely lost to her as she once again let her brain be overtaken by thoughts of her babies.

It took everything in her not to just burst out into laughter at the sight of a tiny girl clearly calling the shots over a grown man, and it was only at the reminder that there were two babies already asleep in the room. Not bothering to drop the shifter's hand, she pulled her in further and brought her down to the floor so they could get in on the baby action. "Oh, whose my tough girl teaching her sisters and brother how to handle this big oaf? Huh?"

AYDEN

The older woman playfully rolled her eyes, not denying nor admitting that she may have a soft spot for Izzy - something that hadn't changed over all the years. Even now, she was being dragged away by the hand without voicing a single complaint.

She gave a quick nod as a greet to the man on the floor and reached out with her free hand to grab the baby girl's attention. "Are we sure her goal isn't to make Brax cry?" She laughed as she poked the baby in the sides. "Glad to know she can still handle her dad regardless of age and size."

IZZY

"Oh, Tomi's goal is always to make Brax cry. It was a lesson she learned from her aunt Avery basically from day one, and if I'm not mistaken, Avery herself learned it from...someone," Izzy said offhandedly, as she made her own way back down to the floor so she could check on the younger girls. Both seemed absolutely more than okay to be left to their own devices of attempting to make Brax cry, but Sean was quick to lose interest in Brax as he crawled over to her lap.

"Aw, I can always count on my baby boy to seek peace...even if he can never seem to keep it around him," she cooed as she scooped him up.

AYDEN

"She must have learned it from you." She easily quipped, "Because I don't think I've ever made him cry." She looked at said man, who seemed to be trying very hard to negotiate with the baby. Wanting to hold one of them, Ayden reached over and carefully picked up one of the younger set of twins - and then the other who followed.

"I think it might be a good idea that I came over, with four of them.. plus the Dawson's two, that's a lot of babies in one place." Again, her eyes went over to the Beta - the one she felt like she should have a bit more faith in.

IZZY

Izzy simply looked over at her friend and stated, "Just because you did not witness the tears, it does not mean they did not exist." As a matter of fact, she was almost sure that if Brax wasn't so caught up being told-off by his own baby, he'd be tearing up at the sight of Ayden right now. Whether because she was on the outs with Col or because she was clearly _not_ on the outs with Izzy...that would be up for debate.

"Yeah, and Brax is already planning on hosting a get together for _all_ the babies, so I say you go ahead and just move in for the foreseeable future."

AYDEN

She met those eyes, looking genuinely confused by that. When did she make Brax cry? Moving her attention back to the beta, she was trying to recall the last time she did anything to him. "I.. don't think I've made him cry before?" She looked back at Izzy curiously.

The shifter started to bop the babies in her lap, which resulted in a series of giggles. "A get together for all the babies is a good idea, but I thought Leo and Luke were going to do that? Also, I can drop by more often, I don't know if you'd want me to be permanently hogging your couch."

IZZY

All Izzy could do was stifle a laugh at the irony as she recalled just how close Brax had come to crying in _public_ over the topic of Ayden....in the middle of their _date_. "I'm only here to spill _specific_ secrets of an unaware man, not all of them," she teased instead.

"I mean technically they haven't said anything, but that may be because Leo and Julia are getting to see one kid as a baby for the first time ever, and Luke has Lyra to deal with. Also, bold of you to assume anything's been done to your designated guest room since I've been away. Seany here has been his usual, kindhearted little self and left all rooms the same," she said snuggling into the tiny ginger and earning a giggle.

AYDEN

"To think you're keeping secrets from me *at all*." She teased back but didn't press on it. Maybe she'll ask Braxton on a later day about it to see. As far as she could remember, she hadn't made the man cry in all the years they've known each other.

"Knowing them, it might happen sooner than later." Not that she thought bad of Braxton, but the two women always had the children's interest at heart with almost everything they do. "Lyra's still in town?" This might be her longest stay since their family stopped living in Fallcrest. "Isn't it just a general guest room?" She chuckled, "You know, for anyone who visits and decides to stay for a *few* days."

IZZY

"A girl has to have some secrets otherwise where's the mystery? Where's the draw? What keeps them coming back for more?" It was all delivered with her best impression of a typical femme fatale...granted, as a wolf, she was a literal fatal woman so ...

"I'm sure the fact that these kids rarely go an entire twenty-four hours without seeing each other will have a lot to do with that," she mentioned. "Yeah, at this point I think she and Nix might as well just admit they've moved in with Luke and Keagan, but as we learned many a year ago, no one tells Lyra what to do," Izzy laughed, before rolling her eyes at her friend. "Gee thanks," she said flatly, "I _know_ what a guest room is and we have a couple of those too."

AYDEN

"Oh, you're trying to be mysterious now? Oh okay. Sure." She laughed, "Fine, don't tell me. I won't ask anymore." Her attention went all to the babies she had in her arms. "Okay, so they are living here now? That's weird because last I checked, Lyra did not want to come back into town - JJ already left, right? I think he was first to get out of here when they all came to visit. Anyways, at least Teg and Nix is in town. There are people to keep an eye on her so that the rest of us can have peace."

Ayden let out a sigh and gave in, "I guess that means I don't have to go back home and back a few things over." She pulled out her phone to send a text to her staff, telling them to watch the garage for the next two or three days.

IZZY

Izzy simply raised a brow as she shot her friend a sly grin in response. At the topic of the Lyra, Izzy’s eyes widened comically at the thought of the wolf. “I think we both know the only thing _actually_ keeping that girl out of this town was the free housing with her parents, and the fact that her family wasn’t here. JJ and Teagan were off in Philly, Luke and the girls were in Seattle, and Keagan was somewhere secret so… But you are right in saying that they’ll be needing all hands on deck with that one.”

At the sight of the phone, Izzy new her win was clinched. Grinning broadly she said, “Yay! We have another proper adult in the house!”

AYDEN

There was probably some joke in there about how Lyra didn't like the rest of them enough to stay, but Ayden knew it wasn't the case. "And now everyone seems to be back in town, at least for the next little while... And we have a bunch of babies." THis was really quite the throwback in a way but also a new experience since they had more friends and family around. Honestly, Ayden was thrilled for everyone for getting to experience this the second time. "

"And who is that?" She asked, switching her hold on the baby so that the kid was sort of standing with Ayden's help. "Col?" He was the first to mind since his brother was also here.

IZZY

"Yeah, I don't see anyone being too eager to leave with the kids being back to babies and the holidays being in full-swing, and there's also the fact that technically the Council and Guild found a way to keep anyone within town lines magically immune to Covid. That last bit seems to have flown under the radar, what with the hunters coming in two weeks ago and all, but I wouldn't be surprised if word got out and _more_ people made their way here or to any of the other sanctioned super-towns around the globe." Izzy paused before adding, "Oh, I only got the inside scoop because of my job."

The wolf didn't quite know what to make of her friend's response, so instead she focused on how to reply herself. "I was _actually_ referring to _you_," she said slowly, "Given that you literally _just_ agreed to stay...I would assume that Col is currently at the Rendall home with Aves, but it's nice to see that you still remember him."

AYDEN

"I'm glad that everyone's getting this chance. I wish I could see Keg's face when she found out her twins are kids again." Speaking of parents who was getting another chance, Ayden looked at the man with his daughter. To her surprise, Braxton was look up at the two of them with an expression she didn't quite understand. "Do you want to switch?" She ended up asking instead because she could not begin to understand what ran though Braxton's mind half the time.

"Hm? Oh. I just thought you meant there was another proper adult coming on top of me staying." She made a face at that last comment, "Is there a reason why I wouldn't?"

IZZY

"Oh, check the group chat. Luke's already posted like four reaction snaps, which in itself should let us know just how focused and engrossed Keagan is with the girls because otherwise she'd have done something about the pics," Izzy chuckled. The question seemed a bit random, but Izzy just figured everyone one wanted some time with everyone else, so she just smiled and took her girl as she eased Sean over -who seemed a little _less_ happy about the arrangement.

She shook her head and briefly contemplated where she was going to go with this, but ultimately just settled on, "Nah, I guess I was just being facetious. It would take more than a week of not seeing someone you normally see almost daily to forget them."

AYDEN

Her brows rose before doing just that - pulling out her phone, she went to the group chat and saw pictures of her friend *beaming* at her twin girls. "I don't think I've ever seen her smile so bright before." She joked before turning to see the somewhat disappointed kid in her own arms. "Oh, Sean doesn't like me I see. Are you upset with me that I pulled you away from Iz?" She laughed at the small pout.

She, on the other hand, was a bit confused with the responses she was getting. "Right..." is what she settled on since she didn't know how else to respond to that. Luckily, her attention was pulled away by a yelp coming from the beta. "Uh.. I think Brax needs help handling Tomi after all."

IZZY

Glancing at the pics over her friend's shoulder she said, "Man, even as babies those girls look nothing like Dicky. Bless their little hearts." It was an open secret that no one in the pack actually cared for Richard, but man had he earned himself a target with his latest stunts. Glancing over, she reached out to take the boy back as her own girl was off and gone to her sister. "Oh, he's just a little shy again...or possibly upset that his girlfriend is now on the opposite side of the room and out of reach."

"We'll have plenty of time to chat later," was all she said, before watching Ayden head over to rescue Brax.

BRAXTON

Braxton had been distracted by his daughter during the whole time - which ended up with Tomi baby-scold him even though he wasn't exactly sure what he did wrong, but he was forever thankful when Ayden swooped Tomi up to save him. Finally getting off the ground, he walked over to Izzy and gave her a back-hug and resting his chin on her shoulder so he could peek over at Sean. "Bean, you'll get to see your girl soon after she's well rested. I think you should focus on surviving the night with your sister - that is the challenge." He joked before reaching out to poke the kid in the belly. "Iz, T has been yelling at me this entire time, I think she's mad that I brought her here from Keg's."

IZZY

Izzy couldn't help but put her suddenly odd mood aside as she watched her best friend literally have to swoop in and play rescue. A small laugh escaped her as it seemed that even though Tomi was more than happy to rest herself against Ayden, she clearly still had a few choice words left for her dad, before she turned her attention to her new 'grown-up' and seemingly began to just fill her in on whatever the issue was.

She'd been so caught up in the sight of Tomi trying to babble her point across to Ayden, that she was almost surprised when Brax came around, this stubble prickling at her neck. "Oh no, you need to shave sir," was her first comment. "No wonder the kids ganged up on you, their skin is very sensitive right now and you are a walking steel-wool pad." Was there a specific reason she was suddenly prioritizing and pointing this out? Izzy was sure there was, but she'd rather not open _that_ pandora's box right now.

Sean seemed to fully understand and though he still looked like the saddest little pup, he did stop fussing and just settled into the crook of Izzy's arm. "Oh buddy, I'm sure you'll feel better once you're also asleep. Something tells me you'll be fine and the only one that needs to worry about your sister is Brax," she turned to face him, "I told you splitting those three up was going to be struggle."

BRAXTON

Had Tomi always been this talkative as a baby? Or was this because they retained some memory of their older selves and the girl had a *lot* to say about him. But that was long forgotten at the sudden complaint about his scruff; his hand automatically going up to it and ran his fingers over his chin. "... Is it that bad?" He asked without actually lifting himself off of her.

"I guess I could shave a bit more often now, but I thought you used to like them, T." He turned, only to see that Tomi was already engaged with a conversation with Ayden, who seemed to just smile and nod at everything that was being babbled to her. "...I'll shave more." He mumbled as he turned back to the Irwins, "I think we should get all the babies together as soon as we can." Is all he could say about it because he didn't want to impose on the cabin because he selfishly wanted to spend more time with his baby daughter.

IZZY

"Four infants attacked you as a result of you scratching them with that scruff," Izzy pointed out with ease. "Yes, it's terrible." Again, why she was suddenly finding fault in something as innocuous as the man's facial hair...was a question for future Izzy to deal with because right now there were other matters at hand that required her full attention.

"You're either misremembering or she's retained her likes and dislikes from now that she's older. I'm no witch, but I'd bet money it's the latter considering she _really_ laid into you earlier," she noted, before smiling at the satisfaction of him agreeing to shave more. "I think we definitely should...hey, do you think that they can still understand _each other_? Like in Rugrats, where no one understood the babies but they had drawn out conversations amongst themselves?"

BRAXTON

He didn't think his scruff was such a big deal that all four kids - and apparently Izzy didn't like, but if they wanted him to shave it, he will. "Yeah, I guess they all retained those - like how the Bean wants to be closer to Ryllie and all. I wonder if they have all their memories intact too? Because basically, we're looking at them being .. like their older selves.. but shrunken down, instead of completely regressing all the way."

He looked over to his daughter, to the other set of twins, to the Bean. "I'm guessing they understand each other - did you not see the full fledge conversation they had just a second ago?"

IZZY

Izzy thought about it for a bit, and then said, "Well, considering that Tomi currently feels like she's having the most in-depth conversation with Ayden, while her aunt is literally just nodding and replying with 'go on', I think they probably regressed at least a little." Glancing down at Sean and how he was suddenly enthralled with her necklace she added, "See, he outgrew his fascination with shiny things when he was seven."

Izzy nodded in agreement with the beta. "Yeah, I suppose it _would_ have taken some form of proper communication in order to coordinate the take down of full-grown Beta."

AYDEN

"Come on, baby girl." It seemed that whatever Brax did, Tomi was still not done complaining about. Although she didn't have a clue to what she was complaining about exactly, Ayden still tried to reason with her, "Your dad said he was going to shave, and we'll make sure that you get to see Sky and Erin soon!" She looked over her shoulder to the other adults, "..I'm sure they won't mind if we drop by?"

She joined in on the conversation about whether the babies understood each other. "She's got a point though. The mini twins seemed like they were following every word Tomi was telling them on how to deal with Braxton."

IZZY

"Wow...I, obviously, can't be certain of what the heck it is you did, but that kid is still going on about it," Izzy noted as she heard Ayden begin to do her best to try and bring the tiny new wolf's rant to a close. But it seemed to only somewhat mellow the kid out when Ayden mentioned Sky and Erin, and when the attention was put back on her and Brax, she simply nodded in agreement. "Yes, all the clean-shaven faces and, Sky and Erin time you could ever want. After one sleep...please."

Izzy's face lit up as she said, "Maybe we can ask the scoobs what the minis are like once they're back....though...I suppose that would require they remember all of this..." She trailed off as the penny dropped. "We should really watch what we say and do around them."

AYDEN

Ayden found it adorable just how quickly Tomi settled down when it was promised - moreorless - that she'll see her girlfriends soon enough. Poor Braxton - it seemed that nothing he did was going to placate her tonight. "Let's get you some sleep first." The shifter walked over to the crib and carefully placed the kid in there before tucking her in. "Come on, baby girl, otherwise you'll fall asleep when we bring you over to their place."

She looked back with a strange look, "...What.. can't we say? Because if you're talking about profanities, it might be a bit late for that?"

IZZY

Although Izzy did find it ironic how Ayden had come in and managed to get Tomi under control and actually in her crib, settled for sleep versus Brax failing to even get her to want to stop baby-assaulting him...she also didn't think now was the time to be pointing such things out. Not only was Brax's ego already bruised by the fact the kid was not having it, but she herself didn't want to unpack what it meant that Ayden was so capable with her most troublesome kiddo.

At Ayden's question, she just waved her off and said, "Oh Lyra made sure they all knew a plethora of those before they were even in pre-school the first time around. That's not the issue I foresee. It's more like when we used to have 'girl talk' around them before, because we were certain they'd not even understand what we were discussing....yeah, I don't think Sean here would appreciate 'girl talk' now."

BRAXTON

He didn't know how to feel when he saw Tomi listening to Ayden way better than to him. Maybe he deserved it since he hadn't actually been acting like a dad up until recently - *very* recently. It was a very mixed feeling watching it all happen before him, and there wasn't anything he could do since Ayden pretty much did the job with ease. However, maybe he'll get better luck with the mini twins.

Turning his attention to the youngest pair, he lifted them with ease in his arms. "Maybe if we put them all to bed, you ladies can have your girl talk." The kids are just about to knock out on their own anyways so it might be good timing to call it a night. "If you want, you can go clean up while I get these kiddos tucked in - The Dawsons are here, like I swear we're going to be fine." He joked since he was aware that Izzy probably didn't completely trust him to be alone.

IZZY

"Yeah, that's not happening." The words left Izzy's mouth before she even processed the sentiment. "I mean, not that I don't trust you all to handle things, but I like to be present for bedtime any chance my schedule with the hospital will let me. Besides, four of the six babies in this room, and every single adult in this house, have _superhearing_. Girl talk's not happening tonight," was the final word as she stood up with an already sleeping Sean in her arms, and began to walk over to Tomi's crib.

AYDEN

At Izzy’s immediate rejection of the idea, Ayden looked up just in time to see Braxton looking rather sheepish on his part. At the same time, it didn’t feel like it’d be a good idea for her to interject either so she kept quiet. However, the beta decided to surprise her even further when he came over to *her* and passed the youngest pair of twins to her before excusing himself to clean up first. Her eyes swept over to Izzy briefly before carefully placing the girls into the crib. “Hey, hey. You girls have your own.” She smiled softly as she made sure they’re properly tucked in with their own blankets. Once she was done with all of that, she glanced around the room. “I should.. go make sure I have everything I need for the night.”

IZZY

She wasn't blind to the fact that Brax had effectively ceded the act of putting the minis to sleep over to Ayden and made a hasty retreat, but she also hadn't been exaggerating when she said bedtime was special and she avoided having to miss out unless absolutely necessary. After making sure that Sean was properly swaddled in so he felt 'hugged' all night and would sleep till morning, she glanced over at her friend.

"Yeah, that sounds good. I should go check in on Braxton anyways," she said, "Make sure Tomi didn't give him a concussion." The joke felt flat even as she said it. After getting the Dawsons sorted out in one of the guest rooms closest to the nursery, she made her way to her own room where she figured Brax would be after cleaning up.

BRAXTON

Since he excused himself from the group, Braxton went straight to Izzy's room and started to get himself cleaned up as he announced earlier. During the entire time, he was thinking about what he did and said because somewhere in that time span, he must have done something wrong. That and Izzy must be feeling tired from the long day they had with four kids to handle. Braxton also made sure that he shaved since that had been the first thing they mentioned.

Even when he was done with his shower, the beta could not stop touching his face because it felt weird after having a scruff for so long. The breeze was just.. hitting his face and it was just so strange. "Oh, are the kids asleep?" He asked when he noticed that he wasn't alone in the room anymore. "Uh, I made sure that the shower and all are clean after I was done, so no random strands of hair anywhere." He grinned as he started folding the clothes he had on earlier.

IZZY

“Okay, gross on the random strands of hair, but thank you for keeping things tidy. With Sean being a baby but his personality being mostly intact, I think he might have an aneurysm at the sight of mess and the inability to fix it,” she mentioned with a slight chuckle.

It was an attempt to keep things light, but Izzy was nothing if not direct. It was the trait that kept her friendship with Keagan, Ayden, and Blake as strong as it was. They were all direct and suffered from massive R.B.F. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I know I probably got a bit weird there for a bit, but I just want to make sure you know it wasn’t because of anything _you_ did. You’ve been as good a help tonight as our little Krav Maga girl has allowed you to. I really do appreciate that you’re more than willing to step up this time, and I’m sure the kids just need some time to settle all of their grown up emotions in their tiny baby bodies.”

BRAXTON

At the apology, Braxton dropped what he was doing to walk over and took her hands gently in his, "Well, while it.. uh.. it's a bit discouraging, but it's sorta obvious that there wasn't much I could do.. so I figured that I should just remove myself from the situation otherwise T wasn't going to sleep if she keeps yelling at me. Can't say I didn't completely expect it. It sorta is because I didn't do my duty as a dad before .. that, and she always did like spending time with Ayden and Aves when they were younger." He sighed, "I'm also an idiot, so while I really hope that I won't screw up, I feel like it's inevitable for me to mess up somewhere even if I do put all my efforts into it. Like, I still can't believe my gym is where it is today too."

IZZY

There was a pang of guilt she felt when he took her hands in his and began speaking. It only grew as he proceeded to state how he felt _he'd_ be the one to mess things up. Izzy still refused to address the 'why' behind it, and instead swapped their hands so now she was holding his instead. "Braxton Walker Rendall, that gym is the biggest testament to the fact that it's not a lack of ability, it's a lack of will that often causes you problems. Yes, Tomi's likely not happy about how you acted when she was younger, but on the flip-side of that coin, if you ask Luke she'd probably rave about what amazing brother you were. The difference was just what role you were _willing_ to take on. And since this time, you're clearly more than willing to be her daddy, she's going to see it soon enough. Just give her some time. She did _magically_ morph from a legal adult back to an infant just a few hours ago."

BRAXTON

The beta only smiled when Izzy reassured him - as she had done numerous times before since they were kids. Of course, there was always logic behind her words and Brax did believe in them, that all of this was going to take time which was something he already expected. However, it still felt discouraging to have your own kid yell at you as a baby and have her mellow out just a bit once she was handed off to someone else. "That's really all I can do right now, give her time." he chuckled before slipping his hands out of hers and set them onto her shoulders, then proceeded to turn her around in the direction of the bathroom. "Meanwhile, I think you could use some Z's, so clean up and stuff."

IZZY

She didn't fight him as he pushed her in the direction of the bathroom. Izzy desperately wanted a long, hot shower -even if she knew that what she needed to scrub clean would not be achieved in the process... "Alright, alright. Who am I to argue against my Beta," she snarked as she finally made it to the shower. Once in there, instead of halcyon she found the opposite, so it was far shorter than she'd planned for. Regardless, she took her time getting making sure her natural hair got everything it would need to survive the tugs to come, and getting into her PJs.

As she came out of the bathroom, she tossed her clothes and towels into the hamper in the corner of the room before picking it up and saying, "I'm going to go ahead and take this down to the laundry room and check in to make sure everyone else is sorted."

BRAXTON

When he was left alone again, he slipped into bed with his laptop. While office work was his least favourite thing to do, he figured that he should get ahead in order to find more time in his schedule to be with the kids. Considering that there were four kids to look after, he also wanted to make sure that he could back up his claim of being there for Izzy and them. The point was to *not* burden Izzy with all the work after all.

He had no idea how long it was but he barely gone through a few emails before she emerged from the bathroom. He looked up, almost expected the other to be coming into bed, but instead found her holding the hamper. "Oh, yeah. No problem. I've got a few things to work on before I sleep anyways."

IZZY

The pang of guilty returned at his reply, but once again she pushed it down and did as she said she would. The task took less than five minutes, but it gave her something to do that felt productive. On her way back from the laundry room, she caught sight of Ayden's truck out front, and so she went ahead and deadbolted the door and set the alarm. As she made it to the second floor, she checked in with the Dawsons to ensure everything was all right. She made a pit-stop in the nursery just to ensure all was still calm. She made it as far as standing in front of Ayden's door with a raised hand to knock, only to drop it by her side and shake her head. Whatever she'd unearthed _there_ could wait. Tonight, Brax was waiting and the least she could do was not keep him up too long.

Crawling into bed, she turned on the baby monitor on her nightstand. "I know we're likely to hear anything in the nursery much clearer just with our wolf hearing, but it's a comfort to know there's a backup. Now go on, put that thing away. We're going to be zombies if the kids don't sleep through the night, no need to add to it."

BRAXTON

Braxton felt that he hadn't focused like that since highschool because he managed to get through a few things in the short time Izzy was away and so, when she returned, he put away his laptop and slid in further into bed. The moment his head hit the pillow, he turned to his side so he could face her. "See I was thinking about this.. What if we ask if one of the witches could sound proof the place - except for the rooms with the babies obviously. So we can hear the babies, but we can't hear anyone in the other rooms? That way we don't have to be worried about uh.. the kids picking up on things they shouldn't listen to."

"But you're right, we can think about all of this tomorrow. Gotta get as much sleep we can." He chuckled before leaning in and give the other a quick peck. "Good night." He whispered with a dumb smile on his face. "...It's so weird now that I shaved..."

IZZY

LUKE

Luke and the girls had all settled on enjoying a nice night in after the chaos of week before and finally getting the cabin back to its more usual number of habitants. As it stood, she, Skylar, and Tomi had taken up shop in the living room catching up on the Liverpool match, while Erin opted to keep Keagan, Lyra, and Nix company as they tried to figure out dinner.

As Luke went into the kitchen for more drinks at the top of the second half, what she saw made her assume they’d be ordering in again. She could not have been gone more than two minutes, but the sight she returned to made her question if she hadn’t managed to travel _back_ in time instead. On the floor where Tomi had been sat with MJ, an infant Tomi now sat basically _on_ MJ. As she turned to the couch she’d left Skylar on, her hands immediately let the drinks fall to the floor as she rushed over in time to dove the ground and catch a familiar redheaded baby as she tumbled over the edge of the seat. As she lay in a heap against the couch, Sky let out a giggle and all Luke could manage was to laugh back. “Think that’s funny do you? We’ll see how funny your mom finds it,” and as if on queue she glanced up to see said mother rushing in from the kitchen. “Look what I caught!”

KEAGAN

At the crash, Keagan immediately rushed into the living room to see what was up and stopping herself at the laughter before her hand instinctively flew to where her holster would have been. But when she processed what she was actually seeing, she could barely believe her eyes. "...What happened?" Because as cute as the babies were, something definitely happened and Keagan's brain just went on high alert because Skylar and Tomi were the only ones affected.

Moving to pick up Tomi off of MJ, it made her relax ever so slightly to see that neither kid seemed harmed in any way. "We should.. make some calls." She walked over to Luke and Skylar and immediately smiled when she saw the kid reaching out towards Tomi. "Looks like they still recognize each other.."

LUKE

Using Sky's very adamant attempts to get over to Tomi, Luke managed to gently set her down on the floor where she was free to crawl over while she herself worked to get out of awkward heap she'd landed in. Once she managed to sit properly upright, she brought a hand to rub at the spot she'd smacked on the couch frame, and used her free hand to grab her phone. "Gonna shoot out a text to group chat. We'll know soon enough who got babified and who's still good."

Feeling a knot begin to form just off to the side of where her stitches had been, she dropped her hand to avoid attention and then shot back up as she said, "Alright, looks like the kiddos don't quite have their feet under them yet, which means they're still on bottle-feeding. Also, those Liverpool jerseys are doing great to cover up their modesty, but they'll need diapers and proper clothing. I'll hit up the shop to get the essentials. If Brax gets in touch, let him know Tomi's fine."

KEAGAN

It was such a blur from when Luke grabbed her hand to when she orbed away as soon as she mentioned about getting everything for the babies. Keagan quickly whipped out her phone in time to see that other kids were also hit by the de-aging magic. "Come on girls.." She slipped the phone away before scooping both girls into her arms and walked back into the kitchen. "...We've.. got a situation." She balanced Skylar on her hip while she settled Tomi onto the kitchen counter - keeping her arm around the baby in case the youngest Rendall decided to be adventurous.

"Luke's off to grab us some stuff for them - decided to orb there." It was clear the other was getting very comfortable with her Paladin powers. Keagan would have thought taking the car would be better since who knows how much Luke was going to bring home. "Turns out most of the kids are now.. like this." She spoke before naturally giving her daughter a kiss to the temple.

RIKKE

The paladin had been in the middle of the locker room, getting ready to swap out her jumpsuit for her civis when she felt it. It was a faint twinge of sorts, as if something had _shifted_, but it wasn't until a few minutes later when she finally caved and focused on the sensation that she realized something was definitely off. Making quick work of tying the sleeves of her jumpsuit around her waist in lieu of a full change-out, she found a safe corner from which to orb over to the cabin.

It didn't take long after materializing in the family kitchen to see what the problem was. "Oh dear," she whispered. Bringing two fingers to her right temple, her eyes shined a brighter blue for a moment before she focused on the Keagan and said, "Jack reports it happened to her youngest charge as well. Best theory we can figure is that it's probably some of the kickback magic the breaking of a Nexus seal can cause, but that would also imply that the wards on the Nexus failed at some point..."

Rikke trailed off as her eyes focused on the youngest of her own clan. It had taken her a little bit to play catch up to all the discussion of genetics and such, but as the very same gaze of her own son stared back at her through her really-great granddaughter, she couldn't help but whisper, "The Holstein is remarkably strong in that one."

LYRA

"Oh my god!!!!!! Is that who I-OOoOoh!" Lyra giddly went from the fridge to the babies in record time. "Hi Nicheee..." Her voice, for once, was soft though filled with much excitement. Lyra already took out her phone and started snapping pics of them. "You little nuggets are so cute! Were you always this cute?" She picked up Tomi and started faux-dancing with her by swaying and swirling her around. "Keg, they're so small I can't even."

Then she stopped when a thought came to mind. Lyra went over to the baby who seemed to be reaching out towards the Paladin and easily distracted her by hovering the kid's girlfriend nearby. Of course it succeeded as Skylar switched her attention and started reaching out towards Tomi. Lyra on the other hand, just leaned in.... then leaned out with the baby, causing Tomi to be *just* out of reach from Skylar. "You want her girl? Oh yes you doooo Ohhhh OH!!! ohhhh."

RIKKE

It was beginning to become a far less startling thing to go from the volume of an average conversation, to Lyra volumes in the blink of an eye. Something to be said about exposure therapy, she was sure. Nonetheless, it did pull Rikke back out from her own head and back to the present. Pulling out her own phone, she checked the new messages in the group chat and relayed them to the group as they all tried not to encourage Lyra too much...though she hardly seemed to need it.

When she started mocking Skylar with Tomi, Rikke was immediately awash with the girl's emotions -which at least let her know that this was still a thing for them- and held out a hand to pause the short woman. "I would not continue to do that if I were you. Otherwise you are going to have not one, but _two_ **very** upset babies on your hands and presumably no real way to calm them back down just yet."

KEAGAN

There was already a whine coming from Sky when Lyra decided it was a bright idea to tease them. "Lyra." She sighed as she started soothing the baby the best she could to prevent the actual crying "Don't tease the babies, I doubt you really want to make them cry - like Rikke said, there's no real way to calm them." If Skylar was easily upset being separated as a young adult, god forbid someone try to do the same when they're just babies.

Looking over to Rikke who had been staring at Sky, Keagan gave a smile. "Would you like to hold her?" It did not surprise her at all that Skylar seemed to have another adult doting on her - that seemed to be a common effect amongst people. The only people unaffected were assholes, which there were many examples of that.

RIKKE

Rikke breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Erin step in and take Tomi from Lyra, and effectively flip the mood of the babies almost immediately. The pure joy that radiated from her great-granddaughter just at the sight of her girls together, in spite of the very odd circumstances, was exceedingly endearing. It also didn't hurt that she could essentially feel the joy as if it were her very own.

It was Keagan's voice that cut through and made her realize she'd been staring at the child. "Who? Me?" she asked, suddenly feeling exceedingly apprehensive. As much as she wanted to cave in and say yes, she also didn't want to make things worse for the group. "I- I couldn't. I mean, it's been literal ages since I've held a child -outside of emergency situations- and you know, I'm still technically a stranger to her I wouldn't- I wouldn't want to upset her."

KEAGAN

She nodded when Rikke asked if she actually meant her. "You'll be fine, and besides, look." She looked down at the baby who had switched gears and was now staring towards the Paladin with a smile, hands reaching out towards her. "I don't think you're going to upset her if she's calling for you. You're her grandmother, and she obviously knows that." She smiled while she carried her baby over to the other.

"Here." She carefully held Sky against Rikke, silently telling her to take her already "See, she's not upset at all." If anything, the baby had already sort of turned towards the taller woman, preparing herself for another cuddle session.

RIKKE

It was admittedly fining it harder to deny the offer with every passing moment. The sight of the child reaching out to her was the biggest thing chipping away at her resolve. The adamancy and ease with which she was denoted as the baby’s relative at all was oddly what put her most at ease. That bit of recognition that she did, in fact, have a right to hold Skylar.

So, as Keagan walked over and began handing her the baby, all Rikke could do was reach out her hands and accept the already cuddly bundle. From such a proximity it was exceedingly hard _not_ to be reminded of the last time she held her own son…but even as she felt the tears silently run down her face, the memory was brought with a smile. “I had to leave your great-grandfather when he just a bit younger than you are now,” she said lowly, “But I know I would do it again in a heartbeat to get the opportunity to hold you now.”

KEAGAN

She watched as Rikke got comfortable with Skylar in her arms, feeling rather smug since the kid already captured another heart without doing anything except look cute. Sky was truly loved by everyone and Keagan could not ask for anything better.

Leaving her with the Paladin, she walked over to Erin and Tomi. "So.. How does it feel to see your girlfriends as babies?" Feeling her phone vibrate, she took a look at her messages and gave a rather wry smile at it. "Brax figured Tomi's a baby too now." She sighed. "If Sky cries, we can pin it on him then."

ERIN

Erin glanced up and grinned at Keagan before replying, "I don't know, how did feel speaking those words in that specific order to ask your currently infant daughter's still very much grown girlfriend that question?" Was it a verbose way to get her point across? Yes. Did she regret it? No. All of this was odd -to say the least- and being made to focus on that aspect -even if unintentionally- was bordering on cruel.

Sighing, she relented and said, "It's weird, but they _are_ just so incredibly cute. I can't bring myself to be fully cross about the situation." At the mention of Braxton and the implication that he may be taking Tomi away, Erin couldn't help but give a pout that would've given grown Skylar a run for her money. Bringing Tomi up so she could press their cheeks together she whined, "Sky won't be the only one crying."

KEAGAN

She snorted at the reply she got from her daughter's girlfriend. This proved that there was some sort of age limit since there were still a few kids from the youngest generation of scoobs who weren't affected by the Nexus. "At least we don't think this is permanent." It was generally good news, but looking at them now, Keagan didn't mind if she got to spend more time with her daughter at this age.

"Again, we'll just pin it on him." She chuckled softly at the sight. "Still, it wouldn't be fair of us to keep the manchild away from his daughter." She looked over her should to see her daughter still gabbling with her grandmother as if they were in a very serious conversation. "That kid's already got Rikke wrapped around her finger."

ERIN

The witch made a face and said, "God I hope you're right." She bounced Tomi a bit as she mulled a thought over in her head, before finally working up the courage to say it out loud. "I hope you don't think it too forward or me to just kind of like bring this up, but if I'm honest, I already feel a bit self-conscious about the _current_ age gap between myself and the girls. I _know_ it's nothing major and that the important part is how our maturity levels are still relevant to each others, and of course there's no crazy disparate power dynamic _but_...every once in a while a comment on a post or video will make me wonder if I'm in the wrong....Of course, I would expect that if that were the case the first ones to say something would the parents of said other girls but...anyway, I just think that if they happen to remain literal babies for far too long, I may just develop a genuine complex....sorry..."

Now feeling more than properly embarrassed at having just hijacked Keagan and word vommitted all over her like she would her own moms, Erin barely even caught the conversation about Brax. She did, however, turn to face and watch as Sky seemed to be doing her hardest to hold a conversation with Rikke, in-between seemingly being overcome with the need to ferociously nuzzle her little self into the woman's chest for cuddles. "Well, she has one mother's commanding presence, and the other's almost effortless charm. Quite the combination."

KEAGAN

When the two became babies, and Erin didn't, Keagan already expected a topic about the very apparent age gap at the moment to come up, but not quite like this. She gave Erin her full attention as the speed the younger woman was going needed all the concentration. "Oh come here." She wrapped her arm around the other in a side hug of sorts without getting Tomi caught up in between them. "I understand what that must feel like." Although it wasn't really much of a secret, it still felt odd to talk about herself. "I was very much in the same position when it came to Luke." Granted, Luke was *underage*. At least Sky and Tomi were both legally adults.

"And from the way things had been going, age gaps.. seem to be a running theme in this family." She couldn't help but ruffle the witch's hair a bit before lifting up Tomi into her arms. "4 years isn't big of a gap especially if you think about it later as all of you grow even older." She paused, "You do know, Luke and I are six years apart, right?"

ERIN

Erin was more than happy to let herself be wrapped up in a hug. Especially considering it was coming from the least 'huggy' of the women in this house. She felt honored, but also mostly just happy to have a moment like this when it had been so long since she'd had one. "Really?" she asked in disbelief...or, well, what she _hoped_ would come across as disbelief. Skylar had after all run immediately to her and Tomi to share all the details of how her mothers had basically been mutually pinning for each other since basically ever. Not to mention that they had very obviously at liked each other a _lot_ once, because Skylar herself was a thing...

The witch could only laugh at having her hair ruffled by someone shorter than her, realizing things like these were going to be norm as a part of the family. Tomi also gladly went to her aunt, and just in time, because when Keagan actually told her the age gap between herself and Luke her jaw dropped so fast, she may have also dropped the baby. "I wouldn't have guessed, to be honest. I mean, I figured maybe two. Three, at most, because obviously you're Lyra's older sister and they're the same age, but you guys just vibe so well...If I didn't know Lyra was your _younger_ sister, I'd have guessed you and Luke were the same age to be honest."

KEAGAN

Her brows rose in amusement when she saw just how surprised Erin was to learn about the age gap. "I think that's just.. Lucas for the most part. She has always been a lot more mature for her age - I think at some point, my dad was a bit weirded out by how mature she was." She shrugged, "But it worked out I guess." She released the witch to catch a small drool coming from Tomi. "So yea, we've got a larger age gap than you and the girls. And I wouldn't worry too much about those comments you see. They don't know you guys after all. Besides, if both Luke and I had something against it, we would have said so a long time ago." She pointed out. If not Luke, Keagan would as she was apparently *very* straightforward but Erin seemed like a good kid.

"Though I don't know if Sky would listen even if we did. She got her stubbornness from me. And from what I've been told, that girl was heads over heals for you since day 1, it'd be hard to convince her out of anything." Would they though? Neither Luke nor Keagan wanted to see Sky upset.. ever, which definitely had a place as to why their daughter was so spoiled. "Tomi, honey.." She laughed, "You keep drooling, we should really get a bib on you as soon as Luke comes back."

LUKE

As soon as she orbed into the trees that bordered the parking lot of the store, Luke already knew it had been a mistake to make the trip on her own. She only proceeded to prove herself right as she entered and immediately deviated from the list of 'essentials' she'd shared in the group chat herself...like literally right before the glass doors had slid open in front of her. What really should've taken her a hand basket and maybe ten minutes -fifteen tops, given it was just an emergency, 'for the time being', kind of run- had her basically traversing the store from one end to the other...and then back again because the self-checkout machines were all at the beginning end and she really didn't want to risk any questions.

So, she wasn't entirely surprised to orb back to her living room and find that the party of folks had moved on over to the kitchen from the sounds of things. Nor was she surprised to sense that Rikke was now among the waiting ladies. "I'm sorry I took longer than expected. I really did go in with every intention of buying only the essentials for tonight but," she called out as she walked her purchases into the kitchen...or rather _rolled_ them, "I neglected to take Keagan with me and it ended up not quite as planned...sorry babe, Target is my weakness and you're like ninety percent of my impulse control in that place."

KEAGAN

The wolf had literally just finished telling her future daughter-in-law that Lucas was mature for her age, and then said Paladin orbed in with a *train* of shopping carts behind her. She was about to say something but instead, closed her mouth and shook her head. The sudden pet name did not slip *anyone's* notice - she could feel her sister's stare on her. "Did you get bibs? We definitely need one over here." She decided to switch topics and walked over with the baby. "...I think Sky might need one too - I guess sleep took over her need to talk." She laughed when she saw her daughter passed out in her grandmother's arms. Cuddles obviously won.

"Let's get the girls dressed.." She looked at the carts, not even daring to guess what Luke had bought. "...And bring an outfit for them - any outfit you might have gotten." She grabbed the one thing that was noticeable from the pile and that she had a hand for - the diapers. "Lyra, can you .. sort everything out in the meantime?" She asked as she started heading upstairs.

LUKE

“Yes,” she replied, immediately going directly to the cart and the specific bag they were in. As she opened the two-pack and handed one to Keagan and walked one over to Rikke, she clarified, “For the record, I _did_ manage to get all of the essentials on the list…I just also got some additional stuff.” As she turned back to Rikke, she was momentarily caught up in the sight of seeing Skylar sleeping so serenely in her grandmother’s arms. It was the past she’d never known holding the future she hadn’t known she had…

Keagan’s commanding voice as she provided directives was enough to refocus her attention. She walked directly over to another one of the carts and pulled out two little onesies, before walking to _another_ cart and managing to pick up two boxes. She followed after the older Paladin who had understood to head upstairs and said, “I’ve got some basic carriers here for them for now. I think I can manage to put together Sky’s crib in time to get her swapped over after her 3am feeding.”

KEAGAN

"I have a feeling that the amount of additional stuff is three times of the essentials." She laughed as she disappeared into the bedroom and setting aside the diapers. Carefully laying the kid down on the bed, she couldn't help but smile at the giggle coming from their youngest wolf. "Ohh.. At least someone's excited. My daughter on the other hand.. is pooped out." She looked over her shoulder to spot the baby. "Do you see her? Yeah.. that's your girlfriend."

With that, Keagan took the necessary stuff from Luke and worked on gently getting Tomi into her diaper - if she would cooperate a bit. It did take a bit of a struggle, maybe she was just rusty but eventually, the task was done. Well, one out of two.

"What outfits did you get for them?"

LUKE

After setting down the carriers, her brow furrowed as she mentally itemized her purchases and categorized them based on her own list of ‘essentials’ and the outliers. Speaking after a few seconds she said, “I’d say it’s more of a five-to-one ratio between essential items and funsies ones.”

It was definitely lost on her that Keagan had probably just been teasing her, but how could Luke be blamed when she was so taken with the sight of the older woman practically beaming with joy right now. She was taking to a simple diaper change with such eagerness, and it was her _daughter-in-law_. She could only imagine how the woman would be once she had more one-on-one time with their own daughter…well, with the kid being conscious.

The question snapped her out of her daze as she held up a onesie in each hand. “I figured go light and simple for sleep. So, [left or right](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRaofxGe89o_S5OEqVFp2ebiSOwBj3Noq1D6Q&usqp=CAU)?”

KEAGAN

Once she was done, she showered Tomi with small pecks. Her heart just melting at the sight of Tomi giggling and she could not wait to spend time with baby Sky. She wasn't cruel enough to just take the kid away from Rikke after personally handing her over.

Looking up at the choice, her brows rose at what the shirts said. "Cute, you've got them couples outfit." She laughed, "Should we give the 'Part I Cri' to Tomi and the other for Sky?" She reached a hand out, motioning Luke to hand her one of the jammies before her own daughter caught her eye, "Sky... really passed out in your arms there." That kid was in such a deep sleep that Keagan doubt there was anything that could wake her right now.

LUKE

The Paladin could feel the absolute adoration being felt for her daughter from both Keagan’s _and_ Rikke, and it was almost overwhelming. Luckily it was tempered a bit by the conflicting emotions both women held. Both wanted to spend more time with the little bit but neither wanted to keep the other from her either.

After Keagan had Tomi all set, Rikke broke the stalemate by offering up Sky to Keagan, and then taking Tomi herself and heading back down. “At least we know Rikes can take a hint better than I could, apparently,” she joked.

Walking closer to the pair, she gingerly ran a hand over the baby’s head. “I can’t believe I even _remotely_ had any hand in this wonderful little girl coming to be.”

KEAGAN

Once Sky was back in her arms, Keagan's smile widened even further. Although the kid was still asleep, both mothers couldn't keep their eyes away from her. "She looks just like you, so there's no denying that." She joked as she eventually brought her eyes away from Sky and up towards Luke. "And from what Rikke said, the Holstein genes are *very* strong."

She leaned in and risked a gentle kiss on Sky's forehead. "God, she's so beautiful. I can't believe we get to see this again.. to hold her like this again." She mumbled, "...We should get her changed.. but I don't want to wake her up." She almost whined.

LUKE

Lucas took in the sight before her, and knowing that she actually got say ‘my girls’ and have it be true in every sense of the term…it was a lot, but in the best way possible. She gave a small chuckle at Keagan’s response before stating, “In my defense, I have no idea _what_ I looked like before the age of like three. There aren’t any baby pictures of me at this age. _And_ even after she got older, I went years without having a reason to even fathom it was a possibility…” Luke leaned down to place a gentle kiss to Keagan’s forehead. “I get to say she’s _our_ baby now…I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank you enough for such a gift.”

As Keagan did her best not to wake Sky, Luke just playfully rolled her eyes at the last comment and snarled, “Well, you know, I can’t exactly control that -that I know of- but if you happen to decide you’d like to test _your_ genetic chances again, just let me know.” She winked, before glancing at the baby again.

“I think I have an idea…” she said, before reaching for a blanket to spread across her chest. As gently as possible she placed one hand on Skylar’s head, while her other arm came up to her chest. Closing her eyes, she concentrated and in a fraction of a second, she’d managed to orb Skylar into her waiting arms, quickly wrapping the blanket around the now naked baby. Glancing at Keagan as the woman now held an empty jersey she said, “Okay, so step one is done. And she seems none the wiser.”

KEAGAN

"The red hair came from *somewhere*." She chuckled softly, leaning into the kiss slightly before she looked up again with a smile, "She's a gift for the both of us." She couldn't stop herself from giving the baby another kiss on the cheeks. Keagan was *obsessed* with their baby because how could she not? Skylar was such a beautiful child ever since she was wee little.

"Oh? You're already thinking of having another one?" She peeked up with a smirk, "I'd like to focus on the current baby for now." She already missed out so much the first time, she wasn't going to make the same mistake again.

Keagan didn't even had the time to say anything before her baby was orbed out of her arms and into the Paladins. Tossing the jersey off to the side, she picked up another diaper. "So.. I'm not doubting your skills, but could you orb her into the diaper and outfit? Come on, lay her down." She motioned back to the bed.

LUKE

“Well we _eventually_ solved that mystery,” she whispered back. “There’s just something about getting to do this again, only this time I won’t constantly feel like I’m fighting an uphill battle over every little aspect of her care because I’m ‘not the parent’, ya know? I get to enjoy my time with her and not feel like some imposter, stealing precious moments from someone else. I’ll get to be with _you_ as we watch her take her first wobbly steps and not feel guilty or like I’m just a place holder.” It was truly a blessing in disguise.

Luke raised her hands in defense and said, “Hey, I said it was up to you. But for the record, these beautiful little nuggets do tend to take a while to bale anyways.”

As she held the sleeping baby she glanced down and said, “I could probably just carefully lay her down on the diaper, and then orb her into the onesie laid out beside her, so for her there’s hardly a difference.”

KEAGAN

It was endearing to see Luke so excited and eager to spend however long this baby phenomenon was going to take. "I look forward to experiencing all those moments first hand this time." She looked down and then and smiled, "How I possibly spend all those years away from you, I have no idea..." She mumbled softly as she stopped herself from laying on the bed next to the kid. It was *very* tempting to spend every moment with Skylar right now.

"Even if we were to consider another one, we'd have to speak with Sky first. I don't think springing a baby onto her would be the best idea."

"I feel like there's some line we shouldn't cross when it comes to orbing but I'm not sure what it is yet." She chuckled, "Are you sure you can orb her.. right into the onesie? That sounds like it takes immense precision."

LUKE

"Oooh, my vlogging equipment is _sooo_ much better than the dumb camera on my old phone. I can take so many more pictures of you guys just being all Calvetti and aggro over lack of munchies all the time. Ooh, ooh, I can set up a mommy-and-me photoshoot for you guys in matching outfits. Or, or, I can grab like a fresh baby book for you to detail the little moments this time around or...uh...I could- I could stop talking, and just let _you_ tell me what it is you'd like me to do. Yeah, that one's fair."

Already feeling embarrassed by her rambling, and the idea that maybe Keagan thought Luke was trying to take anything away from the woman -which she would absolutely _never_- the subject of another baby suddenly seemed like maybe she'd overstepped on that front as well. "Oh, you know me, I often disconnect my mouth from my brain and stuff just comes out. Focusing on the present is honestly the best course of action." If it sounded like she was backtracking, it was only because she felt that's what Keagan wanted to hear. Truth be told, if asked under any other circumstances, the same woman who once claimed to never want a child in her life, would gladly admit to being okay with the possibility of another child...or three...or nine...

The embarrassment, the slight shame, and her own overthinking made it to where as light as Keagan's words were likely meant, they managed to pierce and completely take the wind out of her confidence sails. Looking somewhere between disappointed and sheepish, Luke just nodded and said, "Yeah, I think you're right. Now's probably not the time to be testing those kind of things out. Besides, Little Bit's never been much of a light sleeper." She then proceeded to ease the sleeping baby into the onesie. "You're more than welcome to go ahead and snuggle up with her. I can go back down and handle whatever's going on downstairs."

KEAGAN

Keagan only watched endearingly as the Paladin rambled on about the different options they could do for mementos. When Luke began to look rather sheepish, the mother wolf reached out and gently held onto the other by their upper arm. "Luke, it's okay. We could even do all of them if you want - also, I think it'd make more sense if you were in the pictures as well. You're her mother too so we are *all* going to be in matching outfits.

A brow rose when it sounded like the woman was backtracking on everything she said. "Hey, I didn't say there wasn't a possibility...it's certainly .. something to think about at some point." Her thumb ran circles as she talked - hoping that it'd ease at least some of the.. anxiousness the other was showing. "Do you want more kids?" She smiled, "A brother or a sister for Sky?"

Leaning in, she gave a gentle kiss to Luke's lips. "Since she's already been orbed once, I don't see the harm of trying to get her into her diaper and onesie. So stay with us?" Keagan slung her around around the taller woman's neck so that her thumb was now stroking against the back of the other's neck. "I'm sure everything is handled downstairs, we've got Rikke and Nix there at the very least." She joked since they all knew that Lyra was *not* the responsible one.

LUKE

She knew the touch was meant to be reassuring, but her instinct was tense at the sensation before easing into the hold. Were it anyone else, Luke wouldn't have given it a second thought, but if anyone in this house would notice the shift, it'd be Keagan... "Sorry, I just- Some pretty major things have happened in the last week and I guess it all didn't really _hit_ me until now. Which, I mean, timing right?" she chuckled. It was a bid to lighten the mood, but it came out a bit more uneasy sounding than she'd have liked. "Anyway, you're right. We're all going on this roller-coaster ride _together_," Luke said, a genuine smile softening the grip of anxiety on her.

The small circles were like a switch. Her brain went from trying to process hundreds of thousands of things at once, to just focusing on the here and now. Luke dropped her head to rest gently on Keagan's as she contemplated the question. It was means to draw more comfort, but also to hide what she was sure was a stupid look on her face at the mere idea of a possibility for them to grow their family. "I just," she began, "I see you with JJ and Lyra and I can't help but think that I'd love nothing more than for Skylar to get the same. I know she has her friends, but I don't know....maybe it's really just me projecting and wishing _I'd_ had more siblings...or better ones anyway..."

She was in the process of shaking her head when she felt a warmth on her lips, that was not only becoming all-too familiar but, certainly her favorite, very, very quickly. Nodding, Luke silently agreed to stay, a small chuckle bubbling up at Keagan specifically _not_ naming Lyra. With the baby now dressed, and still very much asleep, the Paladin grinned and said, "She clearly takes after her mom in the sleep department." She'd let Keagan choose which 'mom' that'd be.

KEAGAN

Keagan did notice the sudden tension when she first reached out however, she kept her smile and strokes steady. "And you can take all the time to process them. One thought at a time." If anything, there was always something major happening in Fallcrest. The way she had to process things at her own pace too when it was her first *day* at work. "And Luke, all the ideas you may have in store... We are very likely to do every one of them. I don't know what they could be, but I'm sure we'll get to them." Keagan chuckled.

"....Do you think you can handle a mini-Lyra?" She joked before giving a small nod. "Maybe giving Sky a sibling or two wouldn't be a bad idea. I would like to hear what Sky thinks about that. The kid can't answer us right now though." She looked over to the bundle between them.

Her brow rose at the comparison. "You call her "mini-me for a reason." She snorted. Those cheeks of their daughters were so rosy, Keagan could not help herself from gently pinching them. Still, the baby did not wake. "At least we don't have to be too careful about being quiet."

LUKE

Luke nodded along as Keagan spoke. "One thought at a time is just about all my battered brain can process without overheating and just turning off completely right now," she mumbled, before blue eyes met hazel and widened as she added, "...that was supposed to an inside thought...my bad." Honestly, the last thing they needed right now is to have to be reminded of that reason as to why the last week had led to some major adjustments. Taking the opportunity for a quick change in focus, she chuckled mischievously at Keagan's assurance they would do all her ideas. "Famous last words, Cal."

Brows furrowed in confusion as she replied, "I live with a mini-Lyra. Are you asking if I can handle a micro-Lyra?" She was ninety-nine percent sure the question was a joke, but there was still that one percent chance it was serious and a means for Keagan to begin the process of easing her off idea of younger siblings for the twins...Luke didn't even realize she'd been holding her breath until she was forced to take one so she could actually reply to Keagan's wish to give the girls the final vote. "For a second I really thought I was going to have to sow my wild oats by plowing different fields," she said before immediately adding, "Kidding. Very much kidding. I think the fact my little unicorns don't already have younger siblings is a clear testament to that."

There was no way Lucas was fighting on her that one, because she was technically right. She did however chuckle as she watched the woman go in for the babies' cheeks. "So that's where the cute aggression comes from," she teased back, before raising a brow at the last comment. "Wanky."

KEAGAN

Lucas' brain was definitely going through it as of late, the recent events being the latest source. If only she had been around, maybe she could've at least prevented Ricky's actions. She smiled softly, "Well, we definitely don't want that. If it helps, we've got two baby girls right in front of us to focus on." Her eyes then rolled when Luke's mischievous streak came back right after. "Sure but this is a rare moment so I don't see why we wouldn't take advantage of it."

"They also take after you. Let's not forget what the twins were up to growing up - or so you kept telling me." One would think there was at least one twin who was calmer, but the two of them were basically partners in crime. Even Keagan felt bad for every girl who Luke dated because they got in the war path of their daughters. Her eyes narrowed playfully before reaching over and lightly shoved the other.

"While I don't know if we can all handle a third Lyra, at the same time, I don't know if the kid could handle these sisters." She laughed as she watched Skylar's hand reaching out for her sister in her sleep. Her little face turning into a frown when she couldn't find who she was 'looking' for. "Here you go, baby.." She whispered as she carefully slid the kid over a little so that Sky could grab onto Mila. "I see nothing's changed."

LUKE

At the mere mention of the girls, Luke's focus was already completely enraptured in watching the rise and fall of their tiny chests, the small little twitches of their noses and the corners of their lips sporadically as they dreamt on. "I know I've been referring to them as my mini-mes and we even started a band called Copy and _Paste_...but it is still so overwhelmingly mind-blowing to think _I_ somehow managed to luck out and have even the most microscopic involvement in these _two_ perfect little girls being here right now...or at all really." If the awe in her eyes wasn't enough, the awe in her tone as she spoke should do it. Looking back up at Keagan, she held the same level of reverence for her as she did the babies between them. "Thank you doesn't even begin to scratch at the surface of the gratitude I genuinely feel for you. Not only have you been my best friend for so long, and you see _me_ in spite of all my attempts at mirages, but the fact that in order for me to get the chance to call myself a mother _you_ had to reciprocate my feelings and be willing to take such a journey with me -even back then- I just-" she stopped to swallow back the emotion in her throat before she risked waking the girls. "Words aren't enough, but I hope to be able to find a way to show my gratitude for the woman that is you some way, some how."

LUKE

Grinning all Luke had to say was, "You've officially been here to witness their day-to-day for almost _three_ consecutive months now. Surely you don't need anyone describing their personalities to you." At the narrowing of hazel eyes, Luke felt a spike in her heart rate -and was almost certain the mama wolf heard it- as such a look was usually followed with Keagan kicking someone's ass. She did find reassurance in the fact even Keagan wouldn't risk the girls for a fight, and could only chuckle as she was finally met with nothing more than a shove.

"There was a time when we weren't sure those sisters could handle _this aunt_, so I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt...if they so feel up for the task once they're back to being adults, of course," she noted. Luke watched as Skylar immediately managed to wrap herself around her sister, only to the proceed to try to..eat? Miles..."Babe, I think they might be hungry..."

KEAGAN

There was a reason why it was not a surprise to anyone when they revealed who was the biological parents of the twins. And there were *two* of them which was a blessing on its own. She felt the same about them lucking out. And as often as their family pointed out, it was very interesting to see what traits each twin took from both of them. Her lips twitched in amusement when Luke looked up, only to *thank* her - again. "I am just as thankful because they wouldn't be here without *you*." Keagan could feel it in her bones that if it weren't for Luke, the twins wouldn't be here - there might be children, but it wouldn't be *them*. "You're a big part of why the twins are who they are " She chuckled. "You don't have to prove anything, you're their mother. You've already done so much. Much more than you seem to believe."

She let out a soft snort after her shove. The twins both took after them without question. "Apparently your traits and my traits combining is just.. chaotic?" Not that it was a problem as evidence shown with how much the family adored the two girls. Her eyes looked down again, watching them in silence until another thought came to mind, "To think Miles got all your height." Right now, the babies were the same size more or less, but Miles did get that growth spurt in the end.

"It'd be interesting to see what sort of kid will come after these two.." The twins were a nice balance, Keagan could only imagine what a third kid would be like. As much as she'd like to keep pondering on it, Sky's actions caught her attention at the same time as Luke's pet name for her. "Oh baby." She laughed as she gently pried Sky off of her sister. "We should wake them up to feed them... Otherwise Sky might just.. inhale her cheek. Are the stuff still downstairs? I can go fetch them - and see how they're fairing with Tomi."

LUKE

Luke knew there was no point in arguing over the matter, and honestly it's not like mattered in the end. After all, Keagan was right. The twins were who they were because of the circumstances they were brought into, and that included Luke herself -in one way or another. So ultimately, it all came out in the wash. Also, there was really no 'arguing' with a Calvetti so... "Well, here's to my memory being up to par so we can keep up with them at this stage again," she chuckled.

"Makes sense. We balance each other out because of the traits we _don't_ have in common, if these two have a similar mix of traits between them, they'll be keeping us on our toes for the rest of time," she said, though there was zero reproach to her words. If anything, it almost sounded like she was looking forward to it. Probably because she was. At the mention of the height difference, Luke practically pouted. "Ugh, it's been one week and I don't think I'll ever hear the end of it from Skylar. I swear that kid seems to think I have much more control over things, like the divvying up of genetics in-utero, than I actually do."

"Hmm, I think the most prevalent and constant traits in our offspring so far have been kindness, loyalty, and chaos so...maybe this is meant to be a refresher of sorts, so we can both remember what it's like to have little spastic nuggets around and be sure ourselves before we pose the matter to the girls," she chuckled. At the matter of feeding the girls, Luke gently stood back up, and said "I think it'd be easier to just pop back downstairs and feed them there. If there's even the vaguest hint that they might be awake, there's only so much Rikke, Nix, and Erin will be able to do to keep Lyra from barging up here anyway. If you'll grab Miles, I'll grab Sky, and then you can hold my hand so we can orb down."

KEAGAN

"Are you saying that they don't keep us on our toes already? Because I'm not so sure about that." She laughed, "The mischief that they get up to - with you and Hunter at times." She was merely joking but some of those videos she saw did concern her from time to time.. Most of the time. Keagan was definitely glad that the girls' individual channels weren't in the same genre.

She shrugged, "She either thinks you didn't have much control over it or I just gave her too much of it." Her eyes rolled, "I don't want to admit to which side of the family her dramatics come from but my sister is Lyra." Keagan wondered if the trait just liked to zone onto one sibling per generation. All or nothing. "

Keagan smiled as she looked down at the two girls, thinking of the qualities they did have in chaos. How thankful she was they turned out the way they were and to know just how loved they were amongst everyone around them. "If we make it through .. however long this is going to last." The older woman stood up at the suggestion and picked Miles up carefully into her arms before reaching out her hand. "Lyra is still going to know where we are." She pointed out regardless if Nix and Teg were still able to keep the Hurrnado at bay.

LUKE

“Not my toes,” Luke replied nonchalantly. “My day job has kept me fit enough to keep up with them easily, and now I can _orb_. But baby brains? Completely unpredictable, along with their moods,” she said, a tinge of fear in her voice at the last bit.

“Do wish she’d been allowed the braincell during science class,” Luke remarked, before Keagan’s next comment made her groan and roll her eyes. “Why couldn’t she have gotten JJ’s genes,” she whined, knowing full well there was zero would change about either of her girls.

Luke scooped up Skylar and let out a light laugh as she said, “Jesus Cal, you make it sound like a pair of twins is going to be what takes us out.” Reaching out her owns hand, she gently took Keagan’s and gave it a reassuring squeeze. “Lyra is only physically allowed to enter specific areas of the house thanks to the wards Erin and Tomi so graciously put up for me after I found out they’d done it to their own room…”

KEAGAN

"It seems that they're still somewhat aware of who everyone is, so that might mean they've retain their memories moreorless - but that might make them twice the handful than when they were actually this age." There wasn't much they could do as preparation since, as Luke said, the kids were unpredictable.

Keagan shrugged, "She.. strangely takes after Lyra quite a bit... Let's not have Lyra know that." She assumed her younger sister didn't know about it because she had a feeling Lyra would point that out at every opportunity. "At least Miles doesn't take after her as much?"

Within a blink of an eye, they were in the kitchen and the older wolf carefully sat Miles on the table. "They warded their own room?" Her eyes narrowed, already knowing the reason behind *that*. As long as it doesn't stand in the way of emergencies, Keagan was fine with that. "Here, can you make sure Miles don't fall off while I go grab their bottles?"

LUKE

“That just means we don’t get the reprieve of them not figuring out we’re practically wrapped around their tiny little fingers until two years in,” Luke half grumbled, though the grin on her face made it hard to make it a genuine complaint.

At Keagan’s words Luke simply made a motion of zipping her mouth shut and throwing away the key. As they materialized in the kitchen, Luke was already being assaulted be the sounds of their incoming visitors even as they’d managed to make minimal noise. “There wasn’t much they did in the way of hiding _it_, so…”

She moved in closer so she could place a hand on Miles even before Keagan asked, just smiling at the woman as she nodded. “Don’t worry, I’m sure I’ll have plenty of willing hands offering assistance soon enough.”

KEAGAN

Keagan smiled at the *fact* that the two babies had every member of the Calvetti-Holstein family wrapped around their fingers, not just the two of them. "They are definitely spoiled for a reason - One would say that's our fault so we can't complain."

Her ears picked up on the noises coming from outside the kitchen and she was already bracing herself for the moment Lyra was going to *burst* into the room. Lyra did not walk into one, she blows in like the hurrnado that she was. "Preferably not Lyra's hands."

She hoped either anyone but Lyra came in first so they can prevent the youngest Calvetti from getting to the babies before they get the chance to feed them. Keagan went to get the milk prepped and carefully swapped a baby for one of the bottles.

RIKKE

The older Paladin had been able to keep Lyra at bay by using Tomi as a distraction, but once the baby had been picked up by her own parents...all bets were _off_. That woman was primed and ready to use any excuse to get back upstairs, but her plans were thwarted by Teagan and Phoenix at every turn. Eventually, it got to the point the woman forewent excuses all together, and then it required Erin to give a bit of helping magical hand. After all, Lyra was still a wolf -even though she seemed to completely forget that when Teagan managed to get a hold of her...

Rikke sensed her charges shift over to the kitchen at almost the exact same time that Lyra picked up their scent. The two witches and Teagan seemed to catch on just a fraction of a second after them, but the youngest Calvetti sibling was off, and so was Rikke. Using some quick thinking, she just orbed over to the kitchen, managing to arrive just in time to intercept the small woman by scooping her up in a bear hug. Ignoring the complaints from her 'captive' she turned to offer the two mothers a smile. "So, interesting night no?"

KEAGAN

It was almost certain that Lyra had a radar on them. Honestly, Lyra would perhaps be the best agent if she used her skill set on anything else side from *gossip*. She could already hear the footsteps running towards the kitchen and just as she looked up, she saw the eldest Paladin hugging Lyra to prevent the woman from taking another step towards them. A brow only shot up in amusement at the sight before sending Rikke an apologetic look.

"The babies were getting hungry so we're just grabbing them some milk. They're going to sleep afterwards." At the latter, she gave her sister a stern look, silently telling her that the babies should not be disturbed during that time. "I.. think you guys were having a harder time than us though."

TEAGAN

He'd taken off after Lyra as soon as he'd clocked the look on her face, but despite his many amazing attributes, he was still only human. And one with rather short legs at that so...When he finally reached the kitchen, it was to the sight of Rikke managing to have corralled the young wolf in a tight grasp. Though based on the look currently on Lyra's face, she wasn't exactly doing much in the way of fighting to get out of that _specific_ position...

Turning his attention to his nieces' instead, he smiled and said, "Looks like the pups are looking sleep _while_ they eat as well. They get that from Spooky. Girl once inhaled an entire party size bag of Doritos without once opening her eyes." Letting a small sigh, the short king just grinned and said, "I can only speak for myself, but things have become slightly more manageable since Erin noted that Rikke was technically Luke, but single. Even if the poor girl did mean it as a joke."

LYRA

Not actually fighting out of the hug, Lyra leaned in a direction slightly to take a peek at the youngest members of the family. "I think itty bitty sky is inhaling her drink - like look at that speed." If anything, Lyra leaned *back* into the paladin, smile adorning her face when Teg mentioned that Rikke was technically an available Luke, "We're definitely not saying that Rikke and Luke are the same person, but tall, hot, and seems to be capable of doing many, many things? Uh, yes please." No shame at all there.

"The Holstein genes are quite strong." She pointed out, physically pointing at Rikke, to Luke, to the twins. "Like *uncanny*." Lyra was enjoying being in Rikke's arms *very* much and did not care for the looks she may or may not be getting from everyone else.

RIKKE

Rikke wasn't entirely sure how she was feeling about the manner in which Lyra was reacting to being 'held', but if her arms around the small woman's waist were the only things keeping her feet off the ground and away from the babies, then so be it. It definitely helped to actually have the babies insight now as a distraction _and_ reminder of why she was enduring...whatever the hell this was. "Things that include orbing you directly to your parent's house in the blink of an eye, so maybe don't push your luck?"

There was a streak of pride that she couldn't help but feel at the validation of how her family genetics were clearly visible in her three youngest descendants. "I will say, this is probably the most women we've managed in such a close succession, generationally speaking. I was the youngest of many children, all boys. Three sets of twins though, so at least now you know where those two came from."

KEAGAN

While Lyra immediately quiet down since she surely didn't want to be orbed to their parents' place, it didn't stop the look on her face when Rikke mentioned about being the youngest of many children. Keagan could only let out a sigh and a stern glare. "Three sets of twins? Wow, I don't suppose you were part of those sets?" She asked, and immediately regretted because Lyra was *very* intrigued for the answer. "Feel free to orb my sister to my mom whenever you wish, by the way. You have full permission for that."

Her eyes looked down at both the twins, only to discover that the one in Luke's arms had consumed the bottle way faster - which really shouldn't be surprising. "Do you think she's still hungry?" The kid look like it might just eat the bottle if she could.

RIKKE

The Paldin was very close to just taking up the deputy on her offer, and orbing Lyra away, but that had the potential of backfiring in the sense that Ianthe could then wonder aloud if Rikke had been bested by Lyra...Not yet. "I, uh, was not. I was more of what modern folks would refer to as an 'oops baby'. The second youngest was twenty-two years older than I was, so needless to say, my parents were more than happy to let him and his wife take over where I was concerned once they found they couldn't conceive of their own. A rarity for werewolves, but back in those days not as entirely unheard of as it is now."

The blonde watched as Luke went about keeping the almost bottle in place, while fixing up a second, and then swiftly swapping them out without the baby even noticing. "And it is moments like this that remind this is technically not the first time these girls have been babies," she chuckled.

KEAGAN

Keagan looked up when Rikke answered the question about being an 'oops baby'. That seemed to be a common theme in the family, and she did not expect such a large age gap between the two youngest siblings. Moreover, did their own set of twins consider as oops babies? No one would have anticipated their arrivals. "Oh? Your family were wolves as well?" What a coincidence.

Luke was definitely more fluent in dealing with them and watching her swap bottles with ease further proved that. However, one could say that as long as there was food, Sky would have been oblivious either way. "I'm glad we got to get this chance again to experience it.. Although it's clear as day that Sky had always been about the food since day 1..."

RIKKE

A look of confusion came over her features before it gave way to realization. "Right, you guys would only have access to Holstein information going back to my arrival in the town. But yes, the Holstein pack was one of the most well known in wolf packs in the North. It originated in Oslo, Norway but when hunting got heavy the pack was forced to migrate through Sweden to Copenhagen, in Denmark. We lived on the outskirts of the actual populous in peace for several generations more until the hunters caught up with us. I was only able to escape to America because my own wolf never triggered, and due to the Paladin process, now it never will."

After such a topic, the eldest in the room was more than happy to have her attention brought back to the two, currently tiny, reasons that everything she'd been through was worth it. "Well, now we know it's not her fault. She just gets wolf-hunger from both sides," Rikke chuckled before tapering off and saying, "I'm just kidding. I don't actually know how that would work or even *if* it would work..."

KEAGAN

Keagan gave a look of sympathy for hearing that Rikke's family had been a victim because of hunters. "...Despite circumstances, I think I can speak for everyone here that we're very thankful you're with us here today." Because without Rikke, they wouldn't have the family they do now. "Who knows? Maybe the wolf gene actually got passed down in some way or another? At this point, I think anything can really happen." One would think that was a joke but her kids were literal babies at the moment, Keagan doesn't think anything could surprise her now.

"With that being said, I think Sky is just naturally a glutton. Miles did not try to eat her sister." She laughed before leaning to give both her girls a kiss on their cheeks, ignoring the small whine from Sky for interrupting her meal.

LUKE

Luke looked somber as Rikke related just how many links there were in the awful chain of events that ultimately, in an ironic twist, led to the family's remaining living members to their happiest point. Of course, that look was completely replaced as the mention of werwolf genes was reiterated by Keagan, her eyes immediately locking with Teag's across the room. They didn't a 'twin thing' to know they were both already thinking the same thing. Of course, both immediately went back to their respective tasks so as to not raise too many questions.

"I did have to put Sky on these like trainer plates back when she was like five. Kid kept eating so fast I was constantly wither doing the Heimlich or reassuring Miles that no, her sister wasn't gonna die from the massive bite she managed to take out of her own mouth," Luke shared, glancing down at the tiny ginger just going to town on her _second_ bottle. "At least she made a career out of it."

PHOENIX

She had walked in much later after the rest of the family caught up with Lyra - and was not going to acknowledge that her cousin was not even going to attempt to get out of the Paladin's arms. Thankfully they drew the topic from *that* and learned more about the other. From where she stood, it was easy to catch Luke and Teg shared a look together and Nix, again, feigned ignorance. Whatever mischief they were up to, she did not want to know. She was already having a hard time getting Lyra to behave.

"I think she might need it again with the rate she's going through that second bottle." She nodded towards the kid who was already 3/4's on her way to the end. "Didn't you just give that to her? I don't think anyone in the family is as fast as her." Like who did that kid take after?

LUKE

Luke opened her mouth and then immediately shut it again. "I value my life too much to give you the full Fallcrest Pack eating speed rankings at this moment. Teag and I have been keeping track since were seven, and then Hunter took over for me while I was in Seattle -though she had no idea _what_ she was helping Teag with- and then I took over for Teag when he hit Philly."

Glancing down at Sky, she tsked and said, "Oh, we're going to want to make sure we burp this one really well. With how fast she's drinking it down, she's bound to have ingested a bunch of air into her gut too. Oh! Lyra can help burp the girls!"

PHOENIX

Her eyes immediately went straight to her other cousin after Luke mentioned that she valued her life too much. It seemed that she might not be the only one who thought so either because.. by process of elimination.. it wasn't a hard guess as to whom was number one on that list. "Did you all just timed everyone when you go out to eat? Because.. Maybe we shouldn't eat together now." She joked.

Subtly - or not - she walked over and pulled Lyra along with her to where the babies were. "Oh look, perfect timing." The bottles were just about done. "You're up." She said, although she was willing to take one of the twins too and help out.

LYRA

Lyra had been far too busy taking advantage of how distracted the older Paladin had been while sharing to genuinely listen to what was being said. Her hands were busy roaming everywhere within reach, without squirming too much -though that wasn't necessarily due to lack of desire to do so...- but after the woman's threat to be sent to her parents' home, she made sure to never actually _touch_ her more than the 'restraint' called for. Just the _ghost_ of a touch, as her hand hovered a paper's width from the Paladin's skin. She was too busy making her own faces, smirks, and grins at her cousin once she caught up to them to notice anyone else's faces.

Without absolutely no hint of shame, Lyra actually, audibly whimpered when Nix managed to drag her out of Rikke's arms and away. As she was pushed towards the women and the babies a startled look, mixed with confusion crossed her face as she asked, "I'm doing what now?!"

PHOENIX

All the smirks and grins Lyra had sent her way, Nix was giving them all back to her now as she gently picked up a baby and gave her to Lyra. "You are burping them. You know how to do that, yeah? Here, have Sky." Anything to keep Lyra busy - that wasn't her hitting on family members.

"Here, I can take Miles for a bit so you guys can take a break." She offered and turned her attention to said kid even if she had a feeling that the parents wouldn't leave or at least wouldn't go very far. Nix didn't see them as often during the first time around but she could tell just how attached her cousin was. Which was good. No one in the family wanted to see Keagan be so far away from everyone.

LYRA

Lyra could only send her cousin a look that said ‘well played’, as she was informed of what she had been tasked with while distracted. It was obvious to anyone that Lyra didn’t even know how to hold a baby, let alone _burp_ one. “Uh,” she began, as Sky was placed in her arms, “I- no? Why would I know anything about de-gassing an infant? I hardly know about de-gassing myself,” she admitted.

Glancing over as Nix offered to take Miles, she looked almost offended as she asked, “Well why can’t I get to burp the less gassy one? I mean, like, what happens if you do it wrong? Does she like, blow up like a balloon? Can’t we just wait for her to like rip one real good one instead?”

KEAGAN

Deciding to give Lyra a small break from Nix's teasing, Keagan went over to her younger sister and helped her get Sky in a more comfortable position. "Pat.. Yep, like that." She demonstrated a few times before letting Lyra do the rest. "See, you can do it. She's not going to explode." Nix purposely put Sky into Lyra's arms, Keagan was not going to interfere with whatever the two cousins were doing to each other.

"She may be a baby, but you're not going to break her." She smiled at the way Lyra was holding the kid. "Look at how Nix is doing it - just burp the kid, Lyr."

TEAGAN

Having grown up with the woman, and being the one to remain in the most constant contact with her, Teagan was almost certain he could almost _hear_ the werewolf’s thought process…or at least make a really good guess. “K, if you hadn’t stepped in Lyra was two seconds away from yeeting Little Red right back at Spooky just to get out of displaying _how_ much she _didn’t_ know about babies,” he noted, to a round of snickering.

“And before you go off about me showing off my own baby know-how, not only was I here for my nieces the first go around, but I’ll be more than happy to help out again…very few people can single-handedly manage them both on their own….and by that I mean one.”

KEAGAN

Keg smiled her friend, "I could tell." Why else would she follow up and helped Lyra with Skylar. "At the very least, I had to make sure she doesn't drop her niece." She gave a playful glare at her sister, though one could say it was a warning. Though that look shifted to a confused look when Teg would assume she'd got off on him. "You're always welcome to stay. We can always use the help." She refrained from saying that they might need help with *Lyra* instead of the twins. Who better than have Teg who knew her sister best?

Taking the empty bottle from the counter, she went over to the sink. "I don't think Mick's expecting me to come to work tomorrow, but I should actually let her know." Though she was already contemplating bringing them with her.

LUKE

Luke rarely fixed anyone in the cabin with anything more than, what most describe as, 'a failed attempt at a glower, but successful execution of mental calculus'. This time however, even as her eyes didn't change much in the way of expression, the slight eyebrow she raised in Lyra's direction was more than enough to make her friend actually right herself and begin to burp the baby properly. "Yeet my children, and I will _personally_ orb you to rural Mississippi."

She didn't bother addressing Teagan's offer to help, because honestly that was a given and always welcome. But Keagan's comment did make her snort in laughter. "Puh-lease, don't act like you aren't already thinking of how you're going to keep Nikk

KEAGAN

Keagan was very amused by how fast Lyra got to burping Sky from Luke's glare. "I'm sure Lyra knows better to harm the twins with everyone here watching her." Once she was done with the dishes, she returned to stand beside Lucas and automatically leaned against her. And yes, she did have a soft spot for her baby sister.

Her eyes rolled, "I will have to head in *eventually* because I took way too many days off, don't you think? They gave me a vacation at the start. And then so many things happened after that. I should actually go spend time at the office when I can to catch up on things." She sighed, "I might have to ban Nikki from entering my office.

LUKE

As much as Luke appreciated the slight little display of affection, she knew the woman well enough to know that leaning against her right now was mainly a subtle way to ensure that she didn't opt for lunging at her younger sister anyway. "You assume that Lyra has mastered the art of forethought," she replied flatly, earning herself a look of offense being thrown at her over Sky's head.

Luke just laughed. "You make it sound like you've been out of the office for ages. Mick gave you a _month_ off. It's only been _one week_, and you've already gone into the office to micro-manage Andy on _three separate days_. I would know, because one of those days was yesterday when, I assuming, you suddenly remembered I had to go see Col and wound up bursting in his office as he was pulling out a stitch, scared the shit out of him, and caused him to _literally_ rip me a new one...uh, a new cut, that is." She pointed to the smaller bandage now in place, her powers still not quite full-on as her body still processed the 'aftermath' after-effects. "I'm not sure you screaming at him 'why is it still bleeding' as your initial greeting helped matters either."

KEAGAN

Usually Keagan would have complained that a month was too much because it felt weird not to be working. However, now that she was *home* and her babies were literal babies, she was more than thankful of the time. "Has it only been a week?" Because with everything it honestly felt like more than that. She nudged the taller woman with the back of her head when she was made fun of micromanaging. "I apologized in the end." She muttered, feeling rather embarrassed but not wanting to admit that.

"And he's a lot more jumpy than I remembered." Her eyes rolled but still, she felt guilty for indirectly giving Luke another wound. "Anyways! I guess I don't have to worry about distracting anyone at work anymore."

LUKE

Luke simply nodded, hoping this little realization would help Keagan understand why the redhead was still actively processing the fact she helped make _two_ babies...that were now suddenly babies again. "Yup...though I think I can understand why it might've felt like a year. Quite a list of things have happened and now there's a new surprise to contend with." She rolled her eyes at the failed attempt to defend herself by the _Chief_ Deputy. "If it worked out anything like it usually does at home, I'm sure Andy will have nothing but wonderful things to say about you."

Luke fixed her with a look and said, "His door had to be replaced, also he mentioned something about you and your mom practically threatening his life the last time he saw you guys so....I'd be jumpy as fuu- uh, -udge too." She then let out another snort of laughter. "Yeah you do. You're going to go back in at least twice a week between now and when you're officially back, and you're going to be taking the babies with you because you can."

KEAGAN

"This town definitely has enough surprises to keep everyone on their toes." That was .. not a good thing since she hadn't even been officially in her office for that long. Not that she would trade it again to go back into the field but she could swear she had more peaceful moments out there. "Hmm.. I guess if Andy has to page me, then that's when we should be panicking." Wit the things she had heard and seen so far, Andy was more than capable enough to deal with anything that came their way.

Keagan wasn't even going to defend herself with what happened at Col's but she will forever remain behind her stance that the Alpha was too jumpy. Surely, her mom would also say the same. "As if you wouldn't be taking the twins with you either? Lucas, you would be the one to teach parkour whilst carrying them." She sighed, "We should really work out our schedules so that someone's with them everyday when we do have work."

LUKE

"If Andy has to page you, it's likely because one of your deputies is being a pain. I think if _Mick_ feels the need to page you, then maybe they need some assistance," Luke pointed out, already knowing that Keagan was just going to use _any_ excuse to go into her office whenever she felt the need to. It was _not_ in that woman's nature to be still and relax. Hadn't been since they were kids, wasn't about to suddenly start now.

"Been there, done that," she replied with ease, reaching into her pocket as her phone buzzed. "If anything, you should be happy this time I would be doing it with prior....experience...." Her statement waned towards the end as she was distracted by the comment she read, before just putting the phone back. "Col can't legally clear me for work for at least like 4 to 6 months, so I don't think that will be an issue."

PHOENIX

She didn't know what she was more intrigued with: Luke teasing Keagan, or Lyra watching Luke tease Keagan. Either way, she was sure her cousin was *very* fascinated by the scene. "I think it's a good thing you haven't been called in, Keg." She pointed out, "It means that there aren't any problems, why would you jinx that?" She snorted, as if she herself hadn't been on an extended vacation herself under the guise of family emergency.

"You know what, Lyr? I totally understand now." She referred to how Luke had not been unalived by Keagan with the things she revealed. Carrying the twins while parkouring? That sounded like something her older cousin would not want. "So that means you get to be with the kids 24/7 for the next 4 to 6 months?" Because that lowered the chances of needing any of them - mainly Lyra - to babysit.

LUKE

Luke looked pointedly at Keagan at Nix's words as she nodded, clearly indicating that the younger cousin had a point. "Words have power," she added, though even as she said it, Lucas knew that there were many a way Keagan -or anyone in the room, really- could turn that right back around on her. She briefly looked over at the 'Burping Cousins' as they shared a look that Luke recognized as the same one she often shared with the twins, Teagan, Hunter, Tomi, and now even Erin and Rikke. Sean was far too innocent to conspire with. She didn't take the bait, and opted _not_ to ask for clarification.

"Theoretically, yes. But even though I can't be cleared for my day job, I still have a brand to ensure continues to remain relevant so when the girls get back to their usual selves they still have an active fanbase to do what they've grown to love. So no, you and the rest won't be getting out of babysitting duty _that_ easily. I may be confident in my abilities to _teach_ basic parkour to kids while holding my own kids, but I don't think there'a many shoots where it would be advised that I bring two babies along. Dangerous, dilapidated, haunted."

KEAGAN

"I really do not want to know that you're parkouring while carrying two babies with you." She sighed, but there wasn't a much of a threat behind those words. If Lucas did it before, there was a very high chance she was going to do it again this time around. Even if she knew the younger woman wouldn't put the twins in harm's way, it was still.. stressful to think about. At least she drew the line at haunted places since most of them were most likely abandoned and old.

While it looked like Lyra was finally getting used to burping Sky, she could spot the little frown and pout on her face and so, Keagan walked over to save.. someone from the other before the crying started. And since she was there anyways, she also grabbed Miles. Having a twin in each arm was.. pure bliss for the Chief Deputy. "God, they're so cute." She muttered before giving each a kiss on the head. "I think we should put them in the cribs so they can sleep."

LUKE

Luke was quiet for all of two seconds before she asked, "Would it be better if I had more with me?" Even she wasn't entirely sure if she was just kidding or not at this point, as her mind was already thinking about the different maneuvers that would work and keep the babies safe. "I mean, I can't do it at the course at the gym and I would be way too stupid to think that would be a good idea to post on youtube, for various reasons, but the house is safe enough..."

Taking in the sight of the very content smile easily spreading over Keagan's face as she got to hold both of her girls in her arms, and just be...it was all Luke could do not to just melt into a giant puddle of emotions right then and there. "They take after their mother," Luke said with a grin. Glancing down at her watch and noting the time she said, "Yeah, I think everyone could probably do with some sleep. Rikke, you're more than welcome to stay over. Nix can show you to one of the available guest rooms." Was it payback for the earlier remark? Of course it was.

PHOENIX

"....I don't think that was the direction she was going for, Luke." She glanced back to her cousin, only to see her shake her head exasperatedly - clearly not wanting to give the Paladin anymore ideas. Nix also didn't want to add fuel to the fire so she focused on the twins instead even if they weren't paying any attention to her.

A brow only perked when Luke seemingly gave another jab at Keagan. The amount of chances that her cousin had given Luke in a span of a couple of minutes was astounding that both Lyra and Nix could not stop exchanging looks.

Until Luke decided to get Nix to help Rikke, because that caused her to *avoid* the younger Calvetti the best she could while giving a subtle glare at the one who gave the suggestion. "... Sure. I can do that." She looked over to Rikke to see what her opinion of this was.

RIKKE

It had been an incredibly long time since Rikke had been able to witness -let alone be a part of- such a genuine, familial camaraderie that it was honestly not even a true chore to have had to wrangle Lyra as part of the deal. Sure, she had a kind of family relationship with Jack, Hanu, and even Maths, but that was a byproduct of their kind of career -both mundane and supernatural- while this? This was just family being _family_. Something she hadn't been allowed to be involved in since she left Denmark, really.

It didn't keep her from noticing all the little silent looks being thrown around, and if anything she found herself sharing a few with Teagan as they themselves found amusement in how sly the two younger cousins thought they were being. Honestly, if they had both just literally been holding the double _aftermath_ of Luke and Keagan having done far more than just throw quips at each other, what surprised them about the fact Keagan wasn't swinging yet?

The invitation to stay was unexpected, but wholly welcome and it was probably clear by the look on her face. "Oh, uh...I mean, if it's not too much of an imposition, I'd greatly appreciate that. As their Paladin it gives me the chance to more closely monitor them and try and sort out the ins and outs of this change, and as their relative who missed out on the first eighteen years, it gives me an excuse to be around," she admitted. The only thing that gave her pause was the glare that Phoenix suddenly sent Luke's way... "But, it's no trouble, really. I'm sure I can find my own way with some general direction..." Rikke trailed off a bit as she looked about. "...why is this still called a cabin, again?"

PHOENIX

She really should've known better than to tease anyone in this household because payback would be ten-fold everytime. When Rikke started insist that she could find her own way around, Phoenix shook her head and walked right over. "No, no. I can give you a tour while we're at it." She sighed, "That's what we've been saying but it started as a cabin and will forever be called a cabin, no matter what shape it ended up being - according to Lucas."

She started off in the direction of where the guest rooms were. Once they were getting near the rooms, Phoenix motioned towards them, "Take your pick - Lyra and I are in that one over there so depends how far you want to be from us?" Was it a joke? Even she wasn't sure.

RIKKE

She nodded and took the smaller woman's lead, though still apprehensive. Phoenix was the one person that didn't seem to take the news that she was Luke's ancestor quite so well, and now the suggestion of helping her to a room had the woman glaring at the redhead. At her words, however, she did join in on the congenial conversation. "Ah, that makes sense then. If growing up in this spot was home to Lucas, the term 'cabin' became less a descriptor of the building and more a word synonymous with home. It's rather similar to how I always address returning to the station as 'returning to the stables'. It's what I grew accustomed before, and now that I have my own memories back, it's become a habit," she chucked.

As they approached the rooms, she took note of how Phoenix specifically mentioned where she would be and distance. "I think given that you were here first, it's more of a matter of how far _you_ would like me to be, no?"

PHOENIX

"I don't know if the cabin was home for her, but I think all the renovations she did with Sky surely made it into one." Nix spoke too soon when she thought it was a good thing that they were keeping things light between them as they were finally left alone for the first time in a while. She still didn't know how to feel, knowing that the other was basically Luke's ancestor, and Lyra's teasing did not help at all with that. They eventually had to deal with all of that someday, but the shifter didn't think Rikke was going to bring it up right now in the middle of the hallway. "

She leaned against the wall behind her as she look down the hallway where her room was. "I'm fine with any room you choose, but the question is more so.. how far you want Lyra to be from you?" She looked back up at the Paladin, "I may be her roommate, but there is nothing on Earth that could stop Lyra from visiting you. We're just thankful all the rooms are sound-proof, though I could always add an extra layer for you if you want?"

RIKKE

"I think that just goes to exemplify that home to her is less a place and more the people she cares about. I'm almost certain they could've kept the cabin as it was, but as along as she had the twins with her, she'd have been okay with calling it home," Rikke noted before adding, "Though I'm sure the demolition and renovations were a much more fun approach to things." The entire place still felt like something out of a story to the Paladin, to be honest. In none of the times she'd been awake had she ever encountered something grand and yet cozy, whose design somehow managed to takin into account all of its occupants. From the low counters to the high door frames.

Her attention was drawn back to the witch as she spoke again, her answer only earning a low chuckle from the older woman. "I find far more telling than you might think how in one breath you've managed to state you're fine with whatever room I choose, _and_ also drag up your cousin and her habits. It's like tossing a snowball at someone and then immediately dodge behind a tree for either safety or to avoid the consequences of your actions," Rikke noted, before looking up and down the hallway and then pointing at the opposite end. "I think I'll take the hint though, and just head over there. Have a good night, Phoenix."

PHOENIX

"I'm pretty sure the demolition was one of the bonding moments she had with the twins. It's a good stress reliever - or so I'm told." She shrugged, "I think everyone is just impressed because it doesn't seem there is anything that she doesn't know how to do. If she doesn't, she actually takes the time to learn - or maybe it was just trial and error, but either way, Luke might give the Irwins a run for their money."

Her cheeks did flair a bit when the other caught onto what she was doing and had the decency to look embarrassed for having done so in the first place. "Wait.. that.." She looked down the hall, feeling bad that the other decided to choose one so far when there's really no reason to. "You don't need to do that. Honestly, you can choose one closer, I'll be fine with it." She made a point to end the sentence there unlike earlier. However, she was back to the first problem she had - not knowing what to say next. "I.. " She started before she realized that they were still in the hallway so she quickly pulled Rikke into the closest room and shut the door... And add an extra barrier just in case. "Sorry, it didn't seem like a good idea to have this conversation in the hallway when there's a very curious wolf in the house." She took a breath before trying again, "I.. am sorry if I had been making things.. weird and I promise, it's nothing you've done. You haven't done anything. I'm just.. I got *very* hyper aware when we learned that you're my cousin's best friend's... great grandmother. Like I was literally .. grinding against you on the dance floor - only to find that out. It just tripped me out a lot more than I realized.. Lyra's also no help if you consider her personality."

RIKKE

"Photographic reflexes _are_ technically something that we made paladins have as an ability, to help in adapting to whatever time we awake in faster, so I suppose something of that may have been passed down," Rikke noted, "Granted, it's all still so new it's hard to tell what powers she was born with and which were just now triggered so, she may just really like learning and trying knew things...?"

Rikke stopped when asked to wait, and listened as she was told to pick whichever room she'd like, but when it became apparent that Phoenix was having a bit of hard time getting words out, she just offered her a sympathetic smile and waved a hand as she said, "It's okay, Nix. You don't have to say anything. You don't owe me any kind of explanation, especially not this very mohhh-" Her words trailed off into a sound of surprise as the smaller woman suddenly pulled her into the nearest room. The surprise gave way to confusion -and maybe slight concern- as she sensed the extra magic being added, but that was cleared up at the reminder of Lyra.

Sliding her hands into her back pockets, more so because she didn't really know what to do with them, she listened to the woman speak, and the sympathetic smile returned as she glanced down to meet her eyes. "I too, am sorry if you felt ambushed into providing an explanation just now, that...wasn't _necessarily_ my intention. But, it _was_ starting to get really hard to overlook how awkward things had suddenly become and I guess-" she shrugged and sighed "-I guess I just panicked a little. You really are one of the only close friends that I've managed to make since -sorry for highlighting this- the 1890s, so the thought of losing that and not really understanding why was more than a little upsetting," she admitted. "The fact that you're a great dance partner is just a bonus as far as I'm concerned, and for the record, I was in stasis for the vast majority of the time between getting here and now."

PHOENIX

Nix only chuckled when their age gap was emphasized once more. "I get it, and I'm sorry. It *is* fun to have you around, hanging with us, with the twins - the fact that we get one more helping hand to keep Lyr at bay. You have no idea what a blessing it has been." She chuckled softly, "You've also been a really good dance partner too - It's just.. Like I said, learning that.. I basically *hit on* my friend's *ancestor* ... one that you're *both* part of the family tree as well - that's.. th-that's something to wrap my mind around." She gave a wry smile at her reasoning.

Her hand pushed back her bangs before her back leaned against the closed door. "But I am sorry - for causing you to.. well, panic because I should've .. spoke about this a lot sooner. The constant teasing from Lyra *really* didn't help things - but I shouldn't really pin the blame on her. I was pretty scared to confront it myself. Clearly - with all the avoidance." She rambled on.

RIKKE

She couldn't help the smile at the thought of being welcome and wanted as part of the fold, chaotic as it could clearly be. "I'll take Lyra duty any time if it means I get to be around the three people that are, essentially, the result of all my past sacrifices. Don't get me wrong, the knowledge that my existence as a Paladin means I keep others safe as my charges is a reward in itself, but seeing that what I went through has yielded _three_ supernatural...unicorns -for lack of a better term- is a unique experience all its own," she admitted, unable to keep the slight 'awe' from her voice.

At the mention of being hit on, her expression changed to one of faux confusion. "Oh, is _that_ what you were doing? I wasn't really sure what that was all about, been a minute since I've gotten to socialize. I just thought modern people were _overtly_ friendly in general," she teased, before her expression grew serious again, though a soft smile was still in place. "Take all the time you need. I know that _I_ am certainly taking it one day at a time. However," Rikke paused, ensuring she had the woman's attention, "I would like to ask -and I also think it might help your dilemma- that you please not just reduce me to 'a friend's ancestor'. I _am_ here. I am alive and I do have a personality of my own, not one that's been ascribed to me by whoever's reading about my life," she chuckled. "I'm related to Lucas and the girls, yes, but I'm also just Rikke."

PHOENIX

"I'm glad you think so because it's going to be you, me and Teg keeping an eye on her." She smiled, "Everyone was blown away when we learned that the unicorn twins were *literally* luke's kids. We were all wondering where half their traits came from because they for sure did not come from Dicky." She snorted. They always joked about it, so to think that it was true - that was a feat on its own.

Phoenix, being far from the confident dancer she was at the club, met the Paladin's eyes with a hint of bashfulness along with the lingering embarrassment. "Yes... I can do that. I *will* do that." It did feel like an insult to refer to Rikke as Luke's ancestor and already, Nix felt guilty for thinking so in the first place. ".. To start off with though, do you want to continue with the cabin tour? Or do you want to rest for the night?"

RIKKE

"Something tells me, for at least Teagan and I, it'll be _her_ keeping _both eyes_ on _us_." There was a cross between a grimace and a smile that followed those words, but the chuckle that came with it was genuine enough. Taking a deep breath, the mirth seeped out of her at the mention of Richard Benson. "I can't say I ever had the displeasure of meeting that man, but after what I had to see in the woods when we found Luke..." She trailed off as her jaw clenched tight enough for the tendons in her neck to show. The memory of the redhead's state, the pain in Keagan's eyes as Rikke states there was nothing she could do for the woman... Easing up on her jaw she just said, "Let's just say it's best we never meet."

Rikke had never been one to really push anyone's boundaries, so when the witch went bashful, the paladin took that as her sign to ease up on the teasing. Instead she just smiled and said, "All a girl can ask for is the effort." She thought about the question briefly before saying, "Cabin tour, please. If I'm going to be orbing Lyra from one place to another or orbing myself to get to her or others, it would definitely be nice _not_ to end up in a wall...?"

PHOENIX

"Oh that is a given, Lyra has eyes on *everyone*. Aunt Ianthe had always said that she would've made a great agent.. if only her motivation wasn't simply *gossip*." Her eyes rolled before her expression completely falling to a grimace, "You're better off not ever having to, not missing much anyways. I think I can say on behalf of everything that we're glad that he's gone from our lives." Not that Phoenix was around him all that often compared to everyone else.

At the answer, Nix lifts the barrier she threw up temporarily. "Sure, we can go floor by floo-ow!" From her attempt to find the door knob behind her, her elbow smacked right into it. The witch stilled with her eyes closed at the numbing pain, "Just.. give me a sec.. but as I was going to say, we can go floor by floor - the basement might have to wait until tomorrow, it's where the girls live, but right now, it's just Erin because.. well, *babies*. Anyways, this hallways is mostly guest rooms.. So far, it's just you, me and Lyra here."

Once the rambling was done, and Nix got her shit together, they stepped out of the room and the witch guided the other to most of the rooms on each floor, pausing long enough for Rikke to have a grasp on what they are before moving on to the next. By the end of the tour, they were now by the stairs. "Et voila, chez .. Calvetti/Benson/Holstein. And questions?"

RIKKE

"Yeah, not what I meant and you know it. A Paladin's senses are just as heightened as any other super with the same ability, so her little psuedo-rubdown did not go entirely unnoticed," Rikke pointed out. "Though, now I know who to go to when I need information...wonder what stories she'd be willing to share about you guys growing up." She would never go through with the implied threat, of course. Rikke would learn about Phoenix only what Phoenix wanted to share _herself_. Taking another deep breath she just said, "No use wasting time and breath over something useless."

Rikke had already moved closer towards the door, with the implication being that they would be exiting. However at the woman's cry of pain, her attention was immediately drawn over to where she held her elbow. As the woman continued to ramble on -likely to distract herself from the pain- Rikke was able to move her hand and see a sizable lump beginning to form. Without a word, she simply held her open hand over the area and allowed a her healing power to do the rest. The golden light that emanated from her hand fell over the entire afflicted area and the lump was gone in no time. "It's probably going to feel a little warm and tingly for a bit, but it should be all good now."

As they ended the tour, Rikke had to admit that there was still _so_ much about modern-day technology that she still had yet to get a grasp on, and it wasn't just the electronics aspect. She was massively impressed with the shower in the guest bathroom. Hot water had been quite the commodity in _her_ childhood... "Yeah, does this place come with a map?" she joked.

PHOENIX

"Lyra.. is not one for subtlety." Phoenix snorted at the thought that Lyra would attempt to *hide* anything she does. No, her cousin was loud, if anything. "We've always thought that Lyra should come with a warning sign because she absorbs information like a sponge.. and will also let the world know. On the other hand, if you're trying to dig up stories about me, I usually visit during summer break so there might not be as many stuff about me."

Although it was healed already, Phoenix still had her hand over the spot because.. the tingly feeling Rikke warned was there and it felt.. strange. She wondered how it'd feel for a Paladin to heal a major wound. It was one thing to watch her cousins have faster healing abilities, it's another to just to have the pain disappear just like that.

"We'll have to ask Erin or Tomi to draw one up. Last I heard, the sketches that Luke and the twins provide them are.. chicken scratch. It seems that drawing is one of the skills they didn't perfect." She joked, "Not to mention, the floor plan might change again when the kids are back to normal. Who knows? They're constantly renovating something." She paused, "If you do happen to visit the basement, it's going to feel like an entire separate house, so I guess.. brace yourself?" Now that the tour was over with, and they sorta talked things out, Phoenix didn't feel the need to escape at the first chance possible.

RIKKE

"I never would've guessed," she said flatly. "She usually so reserved," she said with a grin that belied the sarcasm. "A very _selective_ sponge, maybe. I think I've lost count of how many times different people have told her to stop hitting on Luke in front of Keagan." Rikke let out a light laugh and said, "Trust me, if I wanted any 'dirt' on you or anything, I'd have already gotten it. You're sacred Cousin Summers are safe unless you decide to regale me with those tales on your own."

Rikke chuckled at the slight dig at the girls' artistic skills. "Well, considering they have both a music room that is for instruments -of all kinds- and a music room that is for recording music, I would venture to say that their artistic skills just went in a different direction is all." At the mention of approaching the basement, Rikke just shook her head and said, "I...don't really think I'll be going anywhere near the basement unless there's an emergency. With all three girls being my charges, I can keep their emotions out of my own head as with any other when it's one-on-one, but when all three together, _that_ becomes a quite a bit harder. And to answer the question I'm sure is to follow, no actually, it has not gotten easier with two of them being babies."

Having noted that Phoenix had kept hold of her elbow throughout the entire time she was showing off the cabin, Rikke gingerly placed a hand of her own on the other exposed side of the elbow. "Is everything alright?" she asked, concern lacing her voice and taking over her face. "Did the healing not take or did I miss another injury?"

PHOENIX

"She finds it fun to tempt fate where Keagan's involved." Lyra had done many things that Nix would never dare to do. One could not begin to know what is going on in her mind and Nix was just glad there was only one of Lyra since it took three people to keep her at bay. "Fair, I suppose I could give them *some* slack. They did make a career out of it, and from what I remember, they *all* know how to play more than one or two instruments." Apart from all the jokes, Phoenix was pretty impressed with how Luke and the kids got that media gig going. They even got a tour out of it and all. "Well, if there's a good time, it might just to take a look when it's only Erin down there. Sky's upstairs and Tomi's with the Izzy and Brax."

Arching her arm a bit, she looked down at the spot where the bruise would have been before shaking her head. "Oh no, it's - it healed, see? It's all gone. Since I'm more witch than wolf, I'm not used to my own wounds to go away so quickly. Even if I try to use magic to heal it, it's not quite the same, and like you said, there's this tingly sensation." She dropped her arm, "This whole instant healing thing is sure handy."

RIKKE

"Is it really tempting fate, though, if we all pretty much know that the worse Keagan is going to do is just send her back home? If anything, I'd be more concerned about what Luke might do if she oversteps, but even then they've known each other so long I can't see the kid doing anything that _permanently_ harm the wolf." She was careful in her word choice, because there was zero doubt in her mind that if pushed far enough, Luke would not hesitate to toss Lyra over one of the landing railings... "It's apparently the direction the kids wanted to go, so Luke found a way to help them do it. I'm still new to fold, but from what I can tell, Lucas has been a parent to the girls even before she knew they were biologically hers." At the suggestion of checking the basement out while Erin was alone, Rikke just shook her head, blonde mop swaying to and fro in the process. "Nope. Rather leave them their sacred space."

Her focus now on the arm, Rikke's brows furrowed slightly as she still went ahead and gave it another once over. "Well, injuries aren't necessarily cut and dry -no pun intended- so just because the bruising on the surface is gone, it doesn't mean everything is fine...." Satisfied that the healing had worked, she added, "Though I suppose that'll be something to keep in your back pocket in case a door decides to attack you again." At the mention of the tingling she lifted up the elbow a little and proceeded to wrap both of her hands around it, applying some pressure. "The tingling is kind of similar to when your foot goes numb, a little pressure will make it feel weirder at first but, eventually it makes it pass by faster. Usually, the more times the person is healed the less awkward it feels, but if we get to _that_ point, then either it means we have a very accident-prone charge or we just suck at our job."

PHOENIX

"Hmm, and being sent to Aunt Ianthe is the last thing she wants." She shrugged, "Maybe she'll remember that she's a wolf if she manages to cross the line with Luke - that hadn't happen yet. I'm kidding. As long as Lyra doesn't do something that would put the twins in harm's way, I think she's safe?" As annoying as Lyra was, Nix hadn't seen her upset Keagan enough to have the older Calvetti retaliate. "Yeah, Luke's been taking care of the twins as if they were their own since day 1 - There's a *very* low chance of that changing now that we know for sure she is the mom - other mom. "

Phoenix allowed the Paladin to thoroughly inspect her arm to her heart's content. Her eyes focusing on her arm, then up to meet Rikke's eyes once she started explaining about the tingle. "I hope this isn't a way to curse me to be injured more often just so you could heal me." She laughed before giving a shrug, "I should make sure that I don't get injured around you, or you'll start thinking I'm very accident-prone. My elbow hitting the door knob clearly isn't doing me any favours."

RIKKE

"Only because it would keep her away from her main source of gossip, because let's face it, your aunt isn't going to do much more than Keagan," she said with slight snort of laughter. Honestly, anyone in the family retaliating against Lyra in earnest was a joke. "Now that you say that, I think I should keep a closer eye on Lucas for a while. She hasn't been through a full moon since her powers were triggered, but she's also not the kind of person to wait around and have something just happen when they can try and 'investigate' on their own." Rikke looked a little confused for a second before saying, "They need to figure out nomenclature, because mom and mom is going to get old fast."

Rikke laughed at the 'accusation' and began to ease off her elbow as said, "Trust me, a 'synthetic' Paladin's ability with magic is very basic. Such a curse would be well beyond me, and honestly the cursing I do involves certain words that can't be said in household with babies." As she eased her arm back down, Rikke just gave a small shrug and said, "Lucas and Miles are exceedingly accident prone, and they're still impressive in their own right. I don't see a few bumps and bruises here and there taking anything away from you."

PHOENIX

"Well, if she's away from the gossip, that's good enough for most of us." She chuckled as well at that. "Please, keep an eye on her. God knows what would happen if something happens happen to her. The least we could do is prevent Keg from murdering the hospital staff." As if it wasn't already proof enough during recent events. "She's already talking about going parkouring with babies.. I think that's a pretty fair judgement." She also paused to think about the name conventions, "That .. is something they need to figure out - we.. have the advantage of just calling them by their names."

"Who knows, maybe it's another surprise for all of us - Magic curses are a lot more trouble than they're worth. At least in my opinion. Clearly there were a few individuals who had a different sentiment about them." She said deadpanned. "With what they're up to, I can see why I wouldn't have them beat.. Maybe that's also another reason to keep an eye on them even past the full moon."

RIKKE

"Fair one," she eagerly agreed. "Oh, I would hate to have to find. I'm beginning to regret having shared the fact that our family were wolves, but on the other hand with how magic has been lately -like in general- and also the fact we still don't technically know all of what those three can do, it's better to avoid possible surprises. Which reminds me, I don't know if you were able to tell or not since you had Miles and both babies were asleep anyway, but they have actually retained their powers. So, seeing as you, Erin, and especially Teagan don't have wolf abilities, just be careful of any projectiles and avoid them biting you at all cost. I know the idea of keeping wolfsbane in a house full of wolves sounds like asking Supergirl to hold our kryptonite, but I think you might want to keep a stash in case of emergencies."

Rikke went quiet for bit, feeling that synth Paladins were the result of a magical curse all its own. She did manage to nod in agreement, because after all, she felt she'd know. When it became obvious that either her words had gone over Phoenix's head or she'd opted to ignore them altogether, she simply laughed at the suggestion and said, "Well, they are my charges after all, so that won't be too hard." Letting out a breath she said, "I think we should probably join everyone else and head to bed. Something tells me this baby adventure is only going to grow more chaotic."

PHOENIX

"Knowing Luke.. it wouldn't be too surprising to find her testing out just what is it she can do as a Paladin before letting the twins in on the experiment." Her nose wrinkled, " A third of the reason why Keagan's stressed is because of Lyra, another third is Luke and the remaining is the twins combined. Just all sort of chaos with the four of them." She joked before nodding at the warning. "We'll give them all the toys to bite on so they don't bite us." Her lips went into a line when wolfsbane was suggested, "I .. will think about it - I'd rather not put my nieces or anyone else in danger by having it around. Although - would my wolf side trigger if I do get bitten? I am related after all."

Julia

It was the weekly movie night and while she would love to be the one cuddling with her kids but as always, Levi and Embry had other plans - Evan being that other plan. On the bright side, the siblings were bonding and that was already enough to land a smile on her face. A kid on both sides of the half-demon, Julia almost felt bad for the girl constantly being sandwiched between them.

Having them alone for quite some time now, she figured they were due for a refill on popcorn which was when she decided to take come out of the bedroom to take a peek. At first she thought it was the movie they were watching, but considering it was a Disney movie that they all re-watched many, many, *many* times - she did not recall babies crying at this point of the movie.

Coming in, one could not describe her surprise when she saw 2 babies sitting (?), or laying down on the couch. "...Leo?" She called out as she stepped towards the babies, "Obie, stop sniffing at them.." She gently pet the dog before completely pushing him away. "*Leo.*" This time a lot louder.

Leo

Considering her kids often decided she was the _second_ best demon in the room when the librarian was over, Leo had figured she could slip out to the small office she had in the suite and get a jump start on pending tasks. With any luck and she might get to spend the full weekend with her family -something Thyra might argue she could do at any time if she'd just let the woman do her job, but...

As entrenched as she was in her work, as soon as she heard her name called out, she shimmered back to the living room. "I'm here, what's wroooohhhh..." Leo trailed off as she noticed the babies, one looking barely larger than one of Obie's dog toys. "Uh..." was the sound of pure confusion until she realized the oversized garments they were wearing. "Wait...is that- are they- oh..." The last bit coming as just above a whisper as she knelt down in front of the babies before glancing back at Julia, "Our babies are _babies_."

Julia

Julia was making sure that neither Levi or Embry accidentally rolled off the couch. "Yeah.. they are.. but *why*?" Should they be concerned? Was this permanent? Why did this happen? The amount of questions that flooded her mind though she was easily distracted by the sounds of her children's giggles. Reach out, she brushed her thumb against those rosy cheeks of her oldest kid. "...You're as cute as I remembered.. a bit older though."

Letting Embry take hold of her fingers now, she looked over at Leo, ".. I don't even know who to go to to ask questions. Do you have any clue to how this could have happened?"

Leo

As Julia made her way to Emmy, Leo slid over to where Levi currently laid. “I didn’t know people could come this tiny,” she whispered as she removed the boy’s now very comically oversized glasses. Glancing back over at Emmy, she had swallow back a lump in her throat before even attempting to speak again.

“Uh, yeah. Questions. I can start by checking in the group chat and seeing if any other parents are facing the same. Maybe one will have an answer. In the meantime, I’ll send Jon and Andy out to get baby…uh…things and stuff and whatever…”

Julia

'Levi's also tinier than most." She chuckled softly at the sight of him. Reaching over and gently poking his cheeks, that too also earned a giggle from this child. "To see the two of them together like this.. I.. never thought I'd see the day." With that, Julia moved Embry carefully to sit close to her brother. In the meantime, Obie started whining so Julia lifted him onto the couch too, watching him automatically snuggle next to the older kid.

This was really tugging at every heart string. "..Yeah.. we'll need a lot - they'll need to get a lot of everything since we have 2 babies on our hands.." Their tiny hands and feets made it hard for the blonde to resist showering them with tiny kisses. "God.. just look at you guys.."

Evan

Shimmering back into the suite's living room with an armful of snacks, Evan immediately dropped everything on the spot, eyes going wide as she took in the sight on the couch before her. She'd left her girlfriend and her new bestie for only five minutes max as she remembered the snack haul she'd left at her place with all their favorites....and now in their place were....

"Babies..." she whispered.

Shaking her head to give her brain a jumpstart, she also took note of the fact that Julia and Leo were crying- _Leo_ was _cry-eeng_... "Uh, is that- are they- So I take it solids are off the table for a bit...?"

Julia

"Yep... babies." Julia didn't want to budge at all. "It just.. happened all of a sudden." She looked over to Leo, "Did anyone have any idea? ... Did it happen to anyone else? As adorable as this is.. This.. can't be a good sign.. or am I just being too pessimistic?"

It was almost comical how big the clothes were now that Embry and Levi shrunk. "Obie, grab that blanket for me." She pointed over to the fabric and the pup intelligently dragged it across the couch for the other. Then she made quick work to wrap the kids with it. Despite being wolves, Julia still didn't want them to feel cold.

Leo

"She's too young for you bro!" Was the first exclamation that came out of her mouth at Evan's statement, but there was hardly any seriousness in her face to back it up as the younger demon just rolled her eyes. At Julia's question, she glanced back up from her phone and said, "Paladins' prevailing theory is that it's related to the kickback magic from when the last seal was broken on the Nexus. Which means, much with other kickback magic situations, at least it won't be permanent or really have any lasting effects. We don't, however, have a way of knowing how long it could last. I mean, we were once stuck as our halloween costumes for several hours and then once stuck as the opposite gender for like a month...."

Julia

Julia could feel the younger demon rolling her eyes even if she didn't look in her direction. "So it's temporary." She mumbled to herself, wondering if that was a good thing or not. The fact that Embry was sitting in front of her as an infant was truly a blessing. She was sure she was about to burn a hole in her kid's cheeks by how much she's brushing against it. And when Emmy laughed and smiled towards their way, god, how her heart melted.

"I suppose we should make the best out of it?" She pointed her smile towards Leo. "Like.. a lot of photos will be taken on my part, that is for sure." She

Andy

It had taken a bit longer than she’d like to admit to get into a routine with her new duties, but after a week she was feeling things were hitting a stride.

And then her original boss sent a message that she and Jon needed to check the group chat and shop accordingly…the last part confusing her more than anything. That is, until she read the chat.

Now, she stood at said bosses door, after Thyra giddily volunteered to be her co-shopper over Jon and they managed to speed through the list. Entering using her pass, she trudged into the living room with all of their bags and a hotel manger trailing. “I think this is half the store.”

Thyra

When she heard about shopping for babies, Thyra volunteered to go because baby clothes were the cutest things. And she was not disappointed when they arrived at the penthouse.

"Oh.. my gosh." she whispered, clutching onto Andy's arm with excitement. "Look at them, Andy!" She was basically melting at the site of them and she hadn't even held the babies yet. While she would love to run over and play with them, she was wondering how Andy was holding up. "Annnd no we didn't get half the store, maybe one-third of it. The diapers and other essentials are on the way up - there were a lot of boxes. We brought up the rest."

Andy

Over the last year or so, Andy had grown to mitigate her bloodlust by simply shifting focus away from her sense of smell. It wasn’t one she relied on too often, and it helped to not feel like she was dying of dehydration out in the middle of a salt-water ocean. But there wasn’t quite as much she could do about her _sight_.

As she was distracted, it was easy enough for Thyra to coax her into doing exactly as asked and _looking_ at the babies. Why the more youthful the creature the brighter and more alluring their blood shone, she didn’t know. But it was enough to cause her to stiffen and force herself to remain rooted to her spot. “Yes,” she replied eventually, “They are rather captivating aren’t they…I think I’ll go ahead and give Jon a hand with the boxes.”

Thyra

She could tell by the way Andy stiffened that being around babies was.. going to be a challenge. So when Andy said she might just go help out Jon instead, Thyra didn't stop her. "I'll go with you. We bought a lot - I feel bad that we're getting Jon to bring everything up." She chuckled softly and gave the babies a small peck on their cheeks before getting up to walk out with Andy.

"How are you holding up?" She asked once they were in the elevator. "With Emmy and Levi being babies." She chuckled, "Something tells me that you're talking about a different kind of 'captivating' than I would be." She smiled as she looped her arms around the other's.

Andy

The vampire didn't even register she was actually going through the motions of breathing -even though it had no point anymore- until she heard her own sigh as the elevator doors closed. She felt like needed to catch her breath, but she knew that wasn't a thing, and the more she tried to fight it and make herself stop, the worse it got. So she caved and just took in deep breathes as if they had a purpose.

"I..." Andy trailed off, not really sure what order her words were even in for a second. Clearing her throat, she tried again. "I to keep a measured distance from kids. I think I briefly touched upon it once when Leo first wanted me to watch Levi for them...it's...it's a whole thing, but the most imminent one is the fact that the younger the living being, the brighter -I.E. more alluring- the blood call is. But it's okay, I doubt I'll be left remotely alone with either infant, and if push comes to shove you're clearly more than okay with watching over them so-" The elevator dinged and she was off at top speed, loading everything into the elevator at once in less than a minute. "Shan't keep them waiting."

Thyra

Thyra could only imagine that Andy saw everyone with heat vision, except blood veins. While it was understandable that Andy didn't want to be around the kids too long, Thyra was sad that she had to avoid them in case she endangered them. "From the looks of things, I don't think they'll need anyone to help watch over them. Did you see Leo?" She smiled as she looked up to see what floor they were on, only to see the elevator filled before she even looked back down when the door opened.

"....That speed must be so convenient. Is that everything?" She double checked all the boxes to make sure they didn't have to go for another trip down. "We should leave a small stash of supplies in her office later, who knows if she decides to go do some work with babies in her arms." She snorted as she turned around with a baby's outfit in her hands, "Oh my god. I thought [this](https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/S1b06523e1987442e8145e4786e8b791dN/Anime-Baby-Rompers-New

Andy

As she entered into the elevator herself and felt her cells literally settle into normal time, she let out a breath and hit the right button. "It really depends on the task at hand...and who you happen to ask," she replied cheekily, already doing her best to slip back her mask of easy-going detachment and snarky humor. Thyra was clearly having the time of her life right now and the last thing she wanted was to in any way, shape, or form, become the reason she didn't get to enjoy herself.

The thought immediately struck her that she might as well do all she could to let the woman enjoy the babies while she could, as obviously Andy wouldn't be helping her get any of her own for various reasons...but she immediately nipped _that_ in the bud. And instead concentrated on the bright orange _thing_ the woman was holding up. "I guarantee you that _now_ is going to be the _only_ chance you will ever get to put Embry into something like that, and no, not just because of the size." Just then the elevator dinged again, and Andy proceeded to pull out the shades she grabbed form the car. "Alright, let's get this sorted out."

Thyra

"... I can already expect the amount of work load I'll have to handle." She snorted. It was a good day when she could just stay in her office and do paperwork while answering emails because that meant that there weren't any trouble going on in the hotel. But they came oh so rarely because there will always be a guest who needed to 'speak with the manager'. But all that didn't deter her from her initial concern.

"I don't want to stay here too long if you're finding it hard to be around the babies." She took Andy by the hand. "We can like.. just drop off their things and go home too, you know." As cute as Embry and Levi were, Thyra didn't want Andy to be uncomfortable around them. She didn't know how much of a lightbulb they looked to the vampire, but surely, it was alluring enough that the other excused herself so quickly to begin with.

Andy

“I think it will all depend on how long this goes on for,” Andy noted. “I’m certain tomorrow will be a full day off for Leo, but I most certainly don’t see her stepping back for too long after. I mean, she did ask for a dual baby carrier so….Just, don’t be surprised if your boss micromanages you from between a baby sandwich.”

She smiled at the suggestion and simply said, “It’ll be fine. Consider this as the equivalent of bringing your recovering alcoholic girlfriend to a party. It’s up to the addict to learn control and resist temptation, not the responsibility of the world around them to suddenly go dry. I’ll keep myself busy, and if it gets too much, I’ll just say so. And for the record, you don’t ever have to leave a party early just because I do.” The last bit was added with a wink.

Thyra

"...She is definitely taking the babies to work as often as she can. I *also* have the feeling that she might get to take the babies to work more often than Julia could." She shrugged, "I guess I'll be keeping an eye on them if Leo needs to step out... Let's hope our meetings don't clash because you and Jon are next." She snorted. It didn't seem right to get their employees to help out either, not that it'd be a good idea because she didn't know how the kids would react to that.

While she didn't think Andy would lie to her, a part of her wondered if she'd actually say something. Still, she smile and gave a nod. "I know I don't have to leave early but I'd like to go everywhere with you." She hummed before the elevator dinged. "Where are we even putting all of these things?" She asked once they arrived.

Jon

He'd managed to remain quiet during the majority of the ride back up -due more than likely to the fact he hadn't had to witness the pair during the actual shopping trip as well- but as they neared their destination and the hotel manager managed that final line, he just couldn't hold his tongue anymore. "Have I told you recently how _nauseatingly_ enamored you two are," he stated more than asked, though the slight grin on his face made it clear he had zero actual problems with it. "You're almost as bad as my step-daughter and her 'best friend' except in their case they're both entirely oblivious to it. You both, on the other hand....well, let's just say we need to work on some restraint exercises for at least the big meetings."

Figuring he'd done his 'fatherly' duty and embarrassed the women enough, when the elevators opened he simply said, "I'm sure we can just set them up in the living room. The mothers are likely looking forward to getting to go through every little thing themselves."

Thyra

The manager made a face at Jon, not embarrassed by his teasing at all because Thyra did not care about how nauseating they were being. "Leo already doesn't let us be in the same shift." She chuckled, "So I don't think you have to worry about us being in the same meetings."

Once the elevator dinged and the doors opened, Thyra grabbed a box and moved it to the lobby. While Andy and Jon could handle all the boxes themselves, she thought she could contribute at least a little bit. After dropping off the box onto the ground, she wandered into the living room to see that babies were now changed and was .. playing with the dog? Playing was a strong word. The babies could barely sit up straight and the dog was letting them lean against him. "Ohhhhh, they're so cute! See, I told you the outfit was adorable."

Andy

Andy, for her part, simply smirked and said, "Oh, Jon's just jealous _his_ girl is on the other side of town for most of his shift. It's okay, we'll get you guys one of those Portal things that are basically a giant facetime screen." She proceeded to pull out her phone and mockingly gesture to the screen as if explaining it to someone who knew nothing about technology. Act like a dad, get treated like a dad. House rule.

When Thyra proceeded to pick up a box and walk out, Andy and Jon just looked at each other and shared an eye roll, because of course she would. If her build would allow it, she'd have taken more than one just to prove a point -much like Jon was doing. Andy sped through the majority and made sure everything was offloaded -twice- before heading into the living room herself. The shades did fuck all when it came to the bright-neon pulsing of the babies' circulatory systems, but she smiled at Thyra nonetheless and nodded. "Hey, it's a good thing you got them matching ones because it looks like they both really like the uh, things and stuff."

Julia

Hearing them return, she turned in time to spot them walk into the living room one after the other. "Is Serephina still at work?" She asked after hearing Andy tease Jon. "We've been on different shifts lately that I barely get to see her. When I do, she's usually hunting down someone for their reports. I do not want to get in the way of that."

Her attention returned to the babies. "I can't believe that they're almost the size of Oberion." Julia shifted from her spot and leaned against Leo. "Look at her hand, it's like clutching his fur." She tried to ease the grip a little so that she wasn't tugging on the dog.

Leo

She opted to keep an ear out for the group after the way Any had set off. She knew the risk towards the babies was practically nonexistent, but she couldn’t imagine it was a pleasant experience for the woman regardless. They’d managed to get the babies changed and settled by the time they all came in, Jon politely nodding and answering Julia, Thyra being engrossed with the babies and Andy…

Her own attention was drawn back as Julia leaned against her and then directed the attention to Emmy. Chuckling she reached over to help by offering the baby something else to latch onto. “Obie has always been her cuddle buddy, I highly doubt that’s going to be changed by something as inconsequential as her new size. My poor boy, on the hand, can’t even sit up on his own yet. Little man is living up to his nickname.”

Julia

"With how unfazed he is with her just leaning on him like this, I think he might be the least surprised about Embry and Levi become babies again." Her focus switched over to Levi who was just looking at them but unable to sit up. "Hey buddy.. What are you looking at?" She chuckled as she took his tiiiiiiiny little bitty hand. "Did you also want to lean against Obie?"

Looking at the two in comparison, she was positive that Obie might actually be bigger. Embry let out a sound which drew her attention back and she saw that their baby girl was reaching out towards her two mother. "Oh.. What's wrong baby?" Since she was seated closer, Julia lifted Embry off the couch and into her arms, "I think she might be hungry."

Leo

Leo went ahead and sought out the items she’d need before stating, “I’ll get a couple of bottles ready. With any luck and they’ll be down for the night so we can actually sort through all of this.” Having found the items she needed, the woman headed to the kitchen.

Muscle memory from her time helping with the younger fosters had her back within minutes. She handed Julia a bottle before scooping Levi up into her own arms. She reached out and grabbed a pair of bibs, handing one to Jules. “Don’t want to ruin their new fits.”

Julia

She took the bib from Leo and carefully got it around Embry, who seemed unwilling to wear it at first but then relented when she spotted her younger brother also sporting one. The baby had forgotten all about it anyways when she saw the bottle in her mother's hand. Julia carefully held embry in her arm as well before giving her the bottle. "Oh they must be very hungry." She smiled as she looked over to the brother in Leo's arms.

The shifter also came over and knelt next to her before unintentionally distracting the babies. "Did we get a crib as well? Because I think we need to have that set up because the kids might want to sleep right after this."

Andy

The current chief deputy took that as her cue and immediately went to pick out to of the boxes from the pile of things. “Just let me know where you want them and I’ll get them set up,” she said.

When Leo pointed her in the right direction she took off without question. Thyra was clearly enjoying herself and this little build would buy her some time away from the babies.

Granted, her speed had her coming back out with the trash before the babies had even finished their bottles. “Both cribs are set. We got matching sheets and stuff to make it easier to do laundry and stuff. I can set up the baby monitors in there too if you want.”

Thyra

She had noticed that Andy didn't step anywhere near the babies and was doing all that she could to be away from them. Speeding off to grab the rest of the boxes, and now volunteering to get those cribs set up. But because of that, the shifter thought her girlfriend would at least take her time with the cribs. Instead, Andy came out even before the babies were done with their bottles.

Getting up from her spot, she walked over to the boxes and got the monitors out. "I can set them up with you." It probably require two people to do the job but she wanted to be with Andy.

Andy

Seeing as Thyra had already gone through and picked out the monitors, there wasn’t much Andy could do except nod and agree to the help. “It shouldn’t be too hard,” she mentioned as she led them to the room. “Much easier than the hotel’s system for sure.”

Once in the room, the woman stopped for a moment and took off the shades. Pinching the bridge of her nose, she closed her eyes and took a breath. Feeling a bit re-centered, she turned to face Thyra with a smile and said, “Alright, what’s first?”

Thyra

Once they were both in the room, Thyra turned around and snaked her arms around Andy's shoulders. "How are you holding up?" She asked, "Do you need anything?" The baby monitor could wait a bit. "We can go home right after this, yeah?" Lifting one hand, she brushed away the stray hairs in Andy's face and pushed them behind the ear.

"How many are there?" She glanced over to the boxes of baby monitors. "I heard the higher the better - are there any wall mounts? We could maybe install them like CCTV." She offered, pointing at the corners of the ceiling.

Andy

She had spent literal years in isolation, and even once she was 'free', there had never truly been the chance that she would allow herself to get close enough to anyone for her mood or state of mind to even be a topic of conversation. Yet here she was, back in the arms of one of the two people who had ever known her so well that really, answering with anything but the truth, just wasn't even an option. Her own arms came to wrap around Thyra's waist, that sense of being centered now also one of being _tethered_. _Secure_. "Well, it's not exactly the best situation, but I've definitely been in worse," she admitted, before shaking her head a bit. "I'll be alright. This right here is more than enough already. Thank you."

Glancing over at the packaging, she said, "There's six video monitors and two sound monitors. They do come with wall mounting equipment, and I think we both know I could probably have them up and the batteries in the receiver ready to hand over to the moms in less than five minutes, so why don't _you_ tell me what your plan was when you offered to help?"

Thyra

Her eyes travelled back to the vampire with raised brow, stuck in between feeling amused and disbelief. "My *plan* is that you take your time." She chuckled, "The babies aren't even finished with their bottles yet - and if they were, there's still a few things to do before they're brought into this room." She shrugged. "And maybe I wanted to spend a bit of time with you - and give you a break from having babies in the same room." Sure they could just get everything set up and then *leave* but Andy might insist that she stayed behind and Thyra didn't want that.

"Should we set everything up and leave? Because I'll be fine with that too." Pulling away, she reached over to grab one of the boxes to read the details as she subconsciously opened the box. "Well, I won't be the one trying to install the ones that's supposed to go up in the ceiling."

Andy

In a bid to try and keep the mood light, Andy asked, “Oh, and just how we’re you planning on getting me to do that? We’re you going to ask nicely? Maybe sabotage the process or provide a _distraction_?” The vampire herself was definitely trying to distract away from the fact she clearly had been speeding so much it caused some concern for the shifter.

At the mention of a break from the equivalent of human LED headlights, and a little alone time, Andy knew she wouldn’t be fighting back at all. “We can leave whenever _you_ feel ready or whenever the moms kick is out, whichever comes first,” she chuckled. Walking over, she took The opened box and began laying out the individual items. “I think I can handle the ceiling if you can handle to instructions.”

Thyra

"Would it not work if I did all of the above?" She asked back because.. she would definitely have done all three. "..Would you have let me do all three?" Andy could easily work around her so it really was a matter of whether or not she'd let her. "Maybe if I held you in place?" She shrugged.

The hotel manager grabbed the instructions and carefully looked through it. "Oh here's the screws for it." She passed the other the little packet. "How long is the power cord?"

Andy

Andy locked her gaze onto the soft blue eyes looking up at her with an emotion the vampire was still learning to classify, but simply smiled and said, "You could just look at me like this for two seconds and I'd be putty in your hands, and you _know_ it."

Taking the small packet, she got to work on the individual cameras first, opening the backs and reaching for a second package. "No cord. I figured it'd be a hazard for Leo to whirlwind her way around her babies and then suddenly trip over one. I got the battery operated ones instead, but since they aren't included I have to sit here and add them to each one." Though her tone made it seem like an arduous task, she was done with all of them by the time she got done speaking. "Instructions have any limitations on range or suggestions on positions from up high?"

Thyra

"But I always look at you like this?" She chuckled, "Does that mean you're just always putty?" She was sure the two mothers outside could hear their conversation right now but Thyra couldn't help it.

"Oh, did we get extra batteries? We should leave a few spares - not necessarily in this room though - for when they run out of juice." She scanned through the instructions to find the answers. "It looks like they recommend them to be 3 feet away - further if possible. "How far is 3feet?" She looked up and then around the room. "I think we can have one around here? And then one in the corner up there?" She pointed towards the two spots she suggested.

Andy

Andy fixed her with a look and simply said, “What do _you_ think?” As much as she made it sound like it was just a matter of being whipped, Andy knew it was more than that. She didn’t give into Thyra because she was powerless to do otherwise; she did it because Thyra made her feel safe and _willing_ to do so. Giving in, for Andy, was a _choice_.

“Yeah, while you were ooing and ahhing at all the outfits, I picked up like four packs, not to mention we keep boxes full of them in supply. “Three feet is about a full-grown Thyra, give or take an inch,” she deadpanned, but places the monitors where the woman indicated. “Alright, looks like the hardware aspect is set. We just have to put everything in their private wi-fi network, and it’s set.”

Thyra

The manager just beamed at the answer. She knew how much it meant for Andy to be willing to put her guard down, so there may be a hint of pride and giddiness to know that Andy felt safe enough to do so around her.

Her nose wrinkled at the jab of her height. "I told you, it's just that all of you are tall, not that I'm short." Once everything was set up in their place, Thyra took one last look around the room to make sure they're all set before giving her full attention back towards the other.

"So do you want to go home, or try again with the babies?" She asked, "Or we could stay here for a bit longer but they might want to come in eventually."

Andy

Andy rolled her eyes and tried to look annoyed at the hint of snugness coming from the blonde, but her the woman's smile was too endearing and she just turned around to do something else so her own stupid smile wouldn't ruin the 'aesthetic' of the detached vampire.

"Yeah, see the folks in this hotel are _hardly_ the tallest people in town, Peque. Some of them make even Jon look short, so I suppose you really didn't have much of a chance, huh?" she retorted with a mock frown. She let out a chuckle as she began cleaning everything back up so it was safe for the babies and there were no tripping hazards for the moms. "Well, we definitely can't hog a room that doesn't belong to us, but as far as the babies go, I'll leave it up to you. If you want to see if they're still up and up for another round of...whatever babies do, we can stay. I'll be fine."

Julia

The mother wolf had been doing her very best to keep herself focused on the babies and Leo. Anything to not hear the two flirt in their kids' room. One would think she'd get used to it after being around them for so long but she could *feel* the cavities forming. With a quick glance towards the room, she looked over to Leo, "I'm not sure if they're here for the babies." She whispered softly before looking down at Emmy who seemed to be struggling to sit up, or turn over. Julia held up the baby and the baby immediately leaned into the crook of her neck.

"Hey baby.." She whispered softly, "What's wrong? Are you getting sleepy?" She tried to peek but with the angle they were at, Julia couldn't quite see Emmy's expression.

Leo

"Oh I can guarantee you Thyra is. Andy is only here because it's her job. From what we've learned about her new powers, it can't be fun to be around a pair so young..." She turned Levi over on her lap and began the task of getting him properly burped but patting his back gently. Glancing over at the blonde duo she said, "Considering they just ate their fill, it is very likely they'll be ready for some sleep soon enough. Fingers crossed and they're both at the stage where they can sleep through the night or at least most of the night."

Satisfied when she felt the familiar rumble of a little burp, she flipped the little boy over to wipe the spittle from the corner of his mouth and then proceeded to bring him to rest on her own shoulder, much like his sister. "Come on, we can kick the lovebirds out and get to setting up a nice place for them to drift off in."

Julia

"Was Andy fond of kids in the first place regardless of her new powers?" She sighed as she soothed their baby girl's back, rocking her slowly which was deemed very effective when she could feel her baby being more still with each passing minute. "I think Emmy is already well on her way to sleep." She chuckled softly before giving her a kiss to the forehead.

Walking into the room, she smiled at the two women who were in their own little world no matter the place or time. "Don't mind us." She laughed, "We're just here to get the kids to bed - thank you for getting everything set up." She added before going over to one of the cribs to set the kid down. Embry for her part, started to twist and turn in attempt to get comfy. Julia could only watch with a big smile on her face. She never thought she'd get to see this afterall. "Leo look.. She won't let go of my hand."

Leo

Leo thought about for a fraction of a second before she said, “Actually, yes. She was always a big hit with the younger fosters whenever she came around. It’s why I was so comfortable entrusting her to watch over the kids even _after_ everything.” Feeling the even breaths of Levi, the half-demon chuckled softly and said, “Well she’ll be playing catch-up with her brother. He’s out like a light.”

Following the older woman’s lead, she too headed into the impromptu nursery. “Actually do mind us. A lot. Your help is appreciated but there are plenty of other rooms in the hotel for you two to stare adoringly at each other in,” she scolded, before turning to walk over to Jules. “She feels safe with you.”

Julia

Julia never questioned Leo's decision so if she trusted Andy even if the younger woman was somewhat struggling in the babies' presence, Julia should trust that too. "That also explains why you made her the babysitter." She hummed.

It was truly amazing how the two could be in their own world at any given time. Instead she just focused her attention to the cribs. It felt like a crime to pry Embry's little hand off of hers so she didn't. Hence why the mother wolf simply leaned against the crib and smiled endearingly at the kid. It was almost hard to believe that she once left this baby girl behind. "You really think so? Part of me thinks that she doesn't want me to *leave*."

Leo

As the pair bud their farewells, she returned her full attention to Julia. Her response was to be expected, as Leo knew full well how much Julia till struggled with a sense of guilt over having left Embry to the foster system. She also knew it wasn’t that could just be smoothed over with words, but she’d hoped that her reassurances over their time back in each other’s lives would have helped a bit.

Regardless, expected or not, the words still made Leo’s heart ache for the mother of her children. She reached out a hand to gently wrap around both the baby’s and Julia’s as she said, “She _knows_ you won’t leave. She wouldn’t have let you in as much as she has, while her normal self, otherwise.”

Julia

Julia mulled over those words, not because she thought they were untrue but there will always be a part of her who would somehow think otherwise. "You're right." She leaned towards the taller woman as her eyes fell upon the joined hands. If she were told she'd have this moment when she first stepped foot in the Avraham's home, Julia wouldn't have believed it. "Part of me think she might still be resenting me about it - I'm just thankful both of you allowed me back in."

It was without a doubt that they wouldn't harm Levi because he was just a kid but Julia was still grateful nonetheless. "Baby.." She let out a soft chuckle. "She's got .. a really strong grip." At that she could feel the kid's hand *tightening*. "... maybe this is a warning."

Leo

"Embry is as transparent a person as they come. Believe me, there was zero hesitation in letting me know how annoying she found me when we met and how much she'd rather shove pencils under her fingernails than have any sort of bonding time. If she still felt _any_ resentment towards you, you would _know_," Leo pointed out. The hunter still remembered just how much work it took for her to get Embry to stick around her during the first pride parade in town.

At the mention of the baby's grip, Leo took note and said, "Oh, that must mean they've kept their powers...hmmm...we may want to keep an extra eye on her. She still hasn't tapped into her witch powers, but as a baby who knows how much control she'll have."

Julia

"Yeah.. I remember when we met in person." Boy, she was ever so thankful Levi, who was ever the social butterfly, was around to break the ice. "Not sure who she takes after." She was just very thankful that everything worked out in the end. "But I still can't imagine her not liking you from the very start."

Her thumb brushed against the little digits as she thought about the strength the baby clearly kept. "... Did the girls buy any small stuffed animals? I think Emmy might need something to grab onto. Almost tempted to give her a strength grip with how hard she's holding on right now."

Leo

"Yeah...that was a memorable interaction," she said, though her focus in hindsight was the pleasant contact between her fist and that douchewolf's face. It took everything in her not to provide a sarcastic reply at the question of who Embry, a girl show spoke her mind and didn't feel the need to hold back her opinion, might take after... "Could just be her own personal flair," she said instead. Leo chuckled and said, "She _may_ have liked me, deep, _deep_, down, but that doesn't mean she wasn't annoyed. I mean, she probably thought I was just going to be another face that stuck around for a while and then shipped her off. I don't blame her."

Glancing around the room, she found a pile of stuffies and picked the one she felt would be the most 'robust' and therefore likely to survive the night. Handing it over she said, "I'm definitely already seeing why we've evolved to the point our powers have to be triggered by something and why we aren't all just born with innate magical abilities. Can also see why some parents may consider binding their children's powers if they trigger too young."

Julia

She made a face because she was *sure* they both found it memorable for various different reasons. Her ex-husband definitely didn't have a good time when he came home later than night though Julia knew he deserved whatever reckoning that came his way. At the topic of Embry thinking her time with Leo would end up like the other foster families just had her heart aching. This will always pick at Julia's guilt but she was thankful that the younger wolf was willing to open up to her. "And now she loves having you around - probably still annoyed though." She joked.

"...Do you think her witch powers will get triggered?" She thought aloud since triggering the wolf was vastly different from when a witch gaining their power. Her eyes fell to the stuffed animal that was already changing its shape at the spot where Emmy was holding it. "... She's not going to hurt herself, is she?" She reached in to give their daughter a small rub.

Leo

Leo shrugged at the comment and just said, "Like mother, like daughter." It wasn't like Jules and Leo had gotten off to the best start immediately either. Much for the same reasons that Emmy was hesitant to make any connections, so too was a teenage Julia. Though they were unfortunately kept from each other for as long as they had, the two would always be far more alike than they may ever want to actively discuss. Also, Leo knew she was just as annoying now as she was then so...

"I can't say for certain, but one of the things that made it to where Liam was as spoiled as he was from the start, _was_ the fact that his powers came in early. Granted, that doesn't necessarily translate to anything, but it was something else my parents could brag about....until I came along and with half my magic already presenting from birth. Scion genetics and all that jazz. _But_, being spontaneously changed from an independent teenager to a helpless baby could be enough of a catalyst to do it. May as well keep an eye out just to be safe." Looking down at the toy Leo said, "Herself? No. Some unfortunate other party? Perhaps."

Julia

She gave a wry smile despite it not being Leo's initial meaning. Julia was aware of how she was when she first met the Avrahams. Granted, she was taken in by Leo's parents which would have given a whole different experience in general. "Seems like she takes after me quite a bit." She commented, smiling softly at that.

"What didn't Liam brag about?" Her eyes rolled. "Well, I guess we should keep a look out for anything floating out of nowhere." She snorted. "I never did ask though, what sort of magic did Liam have?" For someone who seemed very likely to show off, Julia did not have much recollection of it. "Oh, you're right. Look at that grip." She laughed out loud at how distorted that thing looked right now. "Maybe she's letting out some anger we don't know about."

Leo

"Well, not like she can really take after anyone else the room, dear," she pointed out with a grin that was more of a mask at this point. Matters didn't get any better at the comment about what her brother _didn't_ brag about. "Well, considering his rather pertinent role in us having this conversation, at this very point, because of this very baby....That's for you to tell me, but honestly I think I could do without ever knowing."

Leo made a face at the question and then let out a breath as she reluctantly said, "Yeah, we'll want to keep an eye out for things being _set ablaze_ out of nowhere...Liam was a pyro...in any sense of the word, really." The woman let out a chuckle and said, "Oh she's definitely letting out some frustration there, but not all frustration is anger-driven...again, she was just a teenager only hours ago."

Julia

Julia had a feeling that she should perhaps drop the topic seeing that it was never Leo's choice of topic to discuss. It wasn't when they were younger, and it didn't seem to have changed now even though Julia hadn't be around them since. "Oh.. She might be a pyro? ... Maybe we should look at fire-proofing everything just in case?" She didn't even know when or *if* those magic powers would kick in, but it didn't hurt to be cautious about it. "Then again, is the whole ancestry pyros?" If there were more than just fire witches in the family, Julia felt like it was just a gamble of anything.

Julia gave her daughter's nose a light tap before resting both her hands on the barriers. "She might also be missing Evan, she did whine a bit when she shimmered out of here. But Emmy~" She shifted slightly to the side, "Look, Obie's here with you."

Leo

Leo shook her head. "No, mom's an air elemental. To which I did once ask her if in the end that didn't just work like telekinesis, and then she proceeded to remove all air from my lungs with flick of the wrist," she said, before adding, "But it was like only for two seconds. We can't blame lack of oxygen for my lack of thought most of the time." She hadn't thought about the moment in ages, and now having the ability to look back as an adult -and a mother herself- it was definitely not as simple or funny a thing as she may have thought. "I think it's good that my parents are getting to know the kids with proper supervision...and that they've dropped the whole insistence that we visit for the holidays."

She let out a chuckle and said, "Wow...did you just compare our daughter's girlfriend to her pet dog? Also, based on what she did to that stuffie, I would _not_ but Obie in there with her."

Julia

It really took everything for Julia not to comment on Leo being suffocated by her mother even if it's for 2 seconds. The only things she was ever thankful for, were that she got to meet Leo because of them and that she got to have Embry. They may be better now, but Julia was still not comfortable letting the kids alone with them. She also threw Leo a look, agreeing that it was such a relief that they weren't badgering them to visit as often anymore. "So there's two potential magic she might inherit." It was said aloud more as a note to herself.

A chuckle followed immediately after because of course, that was the thing Leo picked up on. "No, I did not but you're right. Obie, you need to stay out of the cribs." She looked down at the pup who was already trying to stick his nose into said crib.

Leo

"All things considered, the way magic has been evolving over time, I wouldn't be surprised if she managed to inherit both abilities, or something completely different that was a recessive trait from ages down the line. I think the Nexus being in play now has made it to where the restrictions that the more powerful supers, like witches and demons, have put in place no longer really hold much water. I mean, the Paladins aren't even tied to the Nexus anymore so...anything could happen."

Leo just grinned, knowing already that she would be letting the kids know about this as soon as they could retain information again. Walking over to Levi, she just smiled as she watched him sleep peacefully. She reached down and placed _his_ intact stuffie in a far corner of the crib, given that it was almost his size right now. "Well, at least we only have one baby to worry about...unless _you_ happen to have some non-wolf ancestors somewhere."

Julia

"That is true.. I guess I'm a little excited to see what the future has for her, for both of them. I missed out on her first full moon, maybe this is just me trying to make up for it." She admitted. Leo was right - anything could happen. Everyone did say that Fallcrest had enough surprises to last several life times. There was never a dull moment despite the size of the town.

"Uhhh, that I wouldn't know." She smiled, "This is going to be as much of a surprise for you and it will be for me." A tiny smirk graced her lips, "Do you think there's a chance I'll suddenly get some new power I didn't know about?"

Leo

Thinking back on the exact night of Emmy’s _first_ full moon, Leo had to tamper down on the anger that threatened to bubble back up. The mere thought that Leo’s own, biological father caused the girl to trigger… “I wouldn’t really say missed out on much, but to be honest, Evan would be the best one to talk to if you want details.”

Leo pulled a face again as she said, “I mean, technically, I think the guild’s working on a way to make it a bit less of a surprise…? As for gaining sudden new powers, need I remind you that the town’s wolf pack’s two token humans just turned out to be anything but?”

Julia

"Evan?" Somehow she thought Leo would be the one to tell her, or at least tell her to ask Embry herself whenever this baby effect was over. "Maybe once she drops by then. Or I can wait." Julia gave a shrug before shifting her thoughts to the two former token humans.

"I don't really know who might in my family tree; I never found out." More like she never gone out of her way to proactively find out. "...Isn't this exciting though? Now we have absolutely no idea if either kid have another set of powers."

Leo

"It's a long story, but I'll go ahead and loop you into the fact that Erebus and his lackeys were in town the night she triggered her wolf. Obviously, being that it was fer very first full moon, the likelihood of her remembering anything herself is slim, and I...can only recall up to a certain point. Enter Evan! Who has been saving our behinds and those of many in this town for ages but, people still try to compare her to her grandfather. I know the feel," she said making another face.

Leo furrowed her brow slightly and said, "I don't think Luke would've either, being that she was adopted as part of a closed adoption. Seems that unlike my father, the Bensons didn't keep a detailed a ledger of her birth parents...obsessively." She took a deep breath and said, "It is definitely something, I'll give you that. I mean, this could be one hell of a wildcard. Tomi! She's the descendent of a Scion, and how many generations did _that_ little surprise stay hidden for?"

Julia

"Erebus came into town?" That she did not hear about. Her eyes widened. That alone was not good news. She may not know him personally, but she heard enough about them to know that they would not get along, which was an understatement. Her eyes narrowed slightly at the rough summary of the night they had, "..... Did Erebus try to hurt the both of you?" She could only assume that said demon would have been in town solely for the Nexus because why would that man step foot in Fallcrest of all places.

"Luke and Tomi were really a surprise. Paladin, and half-demon, half-wolf? That's pretty impressive. How are they handling that anyways? I can't imagine what Tomi is going through.." Having her wolf triggered was already overwhelming on its own with the heightened senses. Julia could not imagine what it was like to add on other powers.

Leo

In all fairness to Julia, this conversation likely should've happened quite a while back. Instead of risking waking the babies though, she guided them back to the living room and took a seat in an armchair so she could face the woman. "Erebus and the Scions actually made it into town twice," she admitted. "I know, that's not a small thing to neglect to mention, but Emmy and I have honestly been so focused on everything positive that has happened to us since then that it really did just slip both our minds to mention it....and also, the first time isn't exactly a memory that Embry likes to go back to often."

Leo rested her forearms on her thighs as she leant forward, and clasped her hands together, a rare somber look on her features. "It was our first Halloween in town, as a family for me and her. It started off pretty great actually, she was dressed up as Supergirl and I was Wonder Woman...but things took a turn fast. The Scions came in wanting to begin the process of opening the Nexus and the first seal requires the blood of a Scion's own offspring..." Leo went on to explain how the magic released from the Nexus turned them into their costumes, buying her some time but causing Emmy to be overwhelmed. How the magic wore off at midnight, and how Evan had come in to help for the first time. "Emmy would probably rather tell you what she does remember about our encounter with Erebus the second time, but the first time is a touchy matter for her...because...she technically watched me _die_...And because up until then she had been oblivious to the supernatural world, she felt helpless as it all unfolded around her. Luckily Jon and Evan were there with her the whole time until I came back, but-" She had to stop as the lump in her throat finally refused to be ignored. Swallowing she said, "I know it's something that still burdens her....and I wish I could find a way to take it away, but I couldn't even manage to stay alive like a proper grown-up."

Julia

The fact that Leo didn't give a direct answer as to whether or not Erebus hurt either of them was concerning. However, she wasn't going to fault them for not telling her - she wasn't around then, and when they did reunite, lots of things happened since. "That would explain why no one ever said anything about it." How a wolf was triggered was rarely a good memory so she understood why Embry wouldn't want to think about it.

Julia's own blood froze when she learned that one of the requirements of a seal was the blood of a Scion's offspring. Her first thought immediately went to Leo but she held back on commenting since it was obvious that Leo lived to tell the tale...

Until Leo told her that she literally *died* and was then brought back to life.

".. You *died*?" The disbelief and pain in her voice of just learning that had happened. Her heart also ached for Embry for having to experience that when she didn't even know what was happening. The poor girl must have been so scared when her senses must have amplified due to the fact that she was Supergirl for Halloween, and then having to see Leo of all people die.

Her hands reached out and rested on Leo's, gripping them as a gesture for comfort and support. "That's not your fault, Leo and she knows that." She sighed, "I wish I had been there for the both of you.." Julia waited a beat before asking softly, "How.. have you been processing this? That.. That you died.." She almost cringed since there wasn't seem to be a way to ask this *and* she did not want to repeat the fact that it was her own father who tried to kill her.

Leo

All she could do was nod in response, knowing full well that the question on the matter was less one that required an actual answer and more one of needing to repeat it out loud to make it register. "Yeah...guess I only have eight lives left now," she joked, though there was little mirth in her eyes even as she did so. "I figured starting at the beginning would help make sense of her _actual_ first full moon a little more. Erebus essentially lured me out to the Nexus again, because the second seal required the blood of a Scion to open. He claimed that the blood had to be drawn in combat but I think he genuinely just wanted to get to finish what he started..." she trailed off a bit, before shaking her head and pressing on. "Emmy's wolf was triggered because she witnessed the fight between my father and myself and was probably overwhelmed by the fear that I wouldn't be able to come back this time if he was successful. Both of us woke up the next day, back at the hotel, no idea what happened until Jon mentioned an injured Evan shimmering us back. Incidentally, that's the night Evan got her scar. She faced-off against her own father, Azrael."

It was honestly a lot easier to just info-dump right now than it was to dwell too much on the memory of it all. So when Julia's hands found her own, Leo had to look down just to keep herself from giving over to emotion too fast at just how _real_ this made things. The question made her glance back up, and she just offered a wry smile as she honestly answered, "Uh...I have..._not_."

Julia

She had heard how cruel the Scions were but to hear that Leo had been sacrificed for their goal was just unfathomable - not to mention her daughter's girlfriend was also injured by another member. Julia could not imagine what it was like for Embry to watch all of this go down, on top of getting her wolf being triggered. "...Oh my god.." She expressed as there wasn't anything that could truly describe how she felt towards many elements of this.

It also didn't help to know that Leo, who needed to process things since they were kids, did not find the time to do so for this whole ordeal. Not that she wanted to ignore all that her daughter had experienced but that will have to come later - when she wasn't a baby.

Julia also didn't want to pressure Leo into anything so she smiled softly at the answer. "Understandable, it seems that things had been busy since then." She couldn't even begin to guess where they found the time to find *her* after all of that.

Leo

The half-demon could once again, only nod in response. There really wasn't much that she could say that wouldn't come across as empty platitudes or -in her case- inappropriate humor and sarcasm. She allowed for silence to take over for a moment, needing herself to let it sink in that what she just shared was, _in fact_, something that they had been through and not something they treated as a weird, Babadook.

"I've kept them busy," she admitted, when she finally spoke again. "The busier I stay, the less time I have to think about the past. It's kind of how I learned to function...." Leo trailed off, as the implication that this was also how she dealt with how their younger interaction went south was made. "It has been a bit harder to keep as busy as I'm used to though," she continued, "I've pretty much retired as a guild hunter. After everything that happened, I couldn't bare the terrified look in Emmy's eyes every time she saw me and Jon heading out, never really knowing if we'd be back. I couldn't do that to her....I still can't, as evidenced by the fact that I wound up in the gym with everyone else."

Julia

Julia nodded, understanding why Leo made the decisions she had. "I can't emphasize enough that I'm glad the two of you found each other. I'm.. also not surprised that you gave up being a full-time guild hunter just so you can be there for Embry - I'm sure she appreciates that just as much.. However, as amazing as it is that you always manage to put Embry before yourself, Leo, you got to take care of yourself as well."

The wolf was very concerned since Leo admitted that she did not even process with the fact that she *died* since it might end up biting them back in the ass as reality often liked to do. "... I, for one, am very grateful that they managed to get you back." Perhaps it was a selfish thought but Julia would have never thought they'd be here today if it weren't for Leo.

Leo

She was quite for a moment, as she listened to Julia. Leo scoffed a bit and said, "Yeah, I suppose I started training when I was so young, that by the time Embry came around, I'd almost forgotten what it was like to be on the other side of that coin. To be the one left behind while the person you care about goes off on some secret mission. I was reminded real quick though." She let out a wry chuckle before asking, "Is this the bit where you tell me I can't put the oxygen mask on other people if I pass out from not putting mine on?"

Leo glanced over at her and said, "Can't say I have any complaints about that myself. Of course, all credit goes to Evan -again- for being a walking version of the library of magic. If you didn't like her as Emmy's girlfriend before, I think she's earned some brownie points now."

Julia

Julia nodded when Leo spoke about forgetting what it was like to be the one waiting for someone's safe return. "That is pretty much what I meant, isn't it?" She chuckled. "You're just as important to Embry as she is to you. Only makes sense that you both are safe and sound if it can be helped."

She then let out a laugh, "You say that as if I didn't like her in the first place - but we're not talking about Evan, as thankful as I am for all her help. We're talking about *you*, don't think I didn't see you change the topic."

Leo

"I know, and you're right," she began, "But as the guardian, now parent, I just feel that it's up to me to just _be_ okay so I can be there for her when she needs it. Whether I have some natural caring instinct I miraculously got from my mother or whether it's the life-long training of 'others first, always', I couldn't say. Besides, it's not like it's had a noticeable impact on me. There's been no detriment to my work and I'd like to think that it hasn't affected how interact with those around me, especial the kids....I mean, I _have_ been alright with the kids, haven't I?" The last question was one she hadn't really thought about now, but as soon as it was in her mind the fear of having acted untoward either of her children and not noticed it...it stirred up a lot of old sentiments.

Julia

She waited until the ramble ended before speaking up again, "You've been more than alright with the kids." She reassured, "Weren't you the one telling me that Embry would be the first person to let you know if she didn't like something? Contrary to her initial opinions about you, I'm pretty sure you're her favourite person." She teased before going serious again, "Leo, I'm not joking when I say that both Levi and Embry love you. The amount of giggles from Levi alone could tell you that."

Leo

Leo listened quietly as Julia spoke, uncharacteristically managing to bite her tongue on most things she might've put up an argument for. Instead, she waited until the woman was done to move from spot on the armchair, to on her knees before the blonde, bending down to warp her arms around Julia's middle tightly as she rested her own head on the woman's lap. "I have two sets of parents and I know I _never_ want to be like three-fourths of the set, in _any_ way."

Julia

Julia automatically had one hand on Leo’s back with the other starting running through the woman’s hair. “I personally don’t think you’re anything like that - but I might be a bit biased in my views.” She smiled warmly at the sight, “Jokes aside, I do think you’re doing really well with the kids. That was never the issue.” The wolf pointed out again. There had never been any doubt that Leo would put the kids’ well-being first but the problem was that Leo rarely put herself first.

Leo

She felft herself relax into the other woman with each passing stroke through her hair, and touch down her back. It was enough to slow her mind down to a point where she could take in what Julia was saying and actually realize that her anxieties had caused her train of thought to be derailed. She was quite for another moment longer before muttering out, "I suppose it wouldn't hurt to set up an appointment with a psych whose familiar with the supernatural world...maybe start learning to slow down and think of what something will do to me in the long run, and all that fun stuff that grown ups should do."

Julia

"I think that'd be a good start." She encouraged, "We can take it a step at a time. If it helps, we can even go to family therapy." Julia wants nothing more than to be supportive for the other. "Although we might need to wait a bit for Embry and Levi to revert back to their actual ages for that." Her fingers continued to run through her hair, "Whatever you want to do, I'll be right there with you, okay?"

Leo

Leo remained on her knees, but lifted herself up off the older woman, so that she look her in the eye. "Thank you," she began, earnest gratitude clear in her voice. "Thank you for my daughter. Thank you for my son. Thank you for being willing to form this makeshift, chaotic little family with me. And thank you for -miraculously- not having come to realize my obnoxious behavior was a detriment as time passed."

Julia