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Fantasy Before the Autumn Tithe

Liza had noticed Adonis, but she had elected to ignore him. It was obvious he had been out doing who knows what last night. As was his habit. She wasn't intending to be rude either, she didn't think he was the worst. But, as she was oft reminded, Liza tended to see the best in others until absolutely or unavoidably proven otherwise. Still, for the sake of a decent interaction being her first Liza had been attempting to shuffle Callie through the parlor towards where she assumed other family would be. But of course, Liza was not so lucky. She nearly collided with Callie as the girl appeared right in front of her. Jane filled the now vacant space behind her and Liza could hear her stifle a giggle.

"It's alright." Liza attempted to shepherd the curious but overly skittish child onward but sucked in another startled breath as the girl reappeared in front of her again. It was an odd, mind-jarring ability. Liza hadn't yet given her child's gift much thought. Her mind was on other more pressing issues, like ensuring she settled in well enough not to use whatever gift she had to run away. But it seemed the girl was getting the hang of her gift even if she didn't know it and that meant that Liza would need to start intervening and getting information about it, preferably before dinner. Grandmother would be impatient to learn of the new Stelorana's gift. And how they could be a benefit to the family.

"His name is Adonis. He is an uncle of ours. He's not someone to be frightened of despite his looks. Just don't have a staring contest." She warned lightheartedly. She could vaguely recall brighter times surrounding Adonis when he would challenge one of the younger Stelorana to a battle of will. His gift versus their strength of will. It was amusing to watch one struggle to move or to disobey a simple directive while staring into Adonis' yellow eyes. That had been a game they'd played on lazy evenings. She could recall being scolded once or twice for the antics that had ensued during those younger years. Liza found herself casting a glance at her uncle as they left the room, a bittersweet feeling turning the corner of her lips into a slight frown.

"Come along, the others will be this way." Liza and Jane led Callie into the adjoining room. It was essentially another parlor but larger and had more seating as well as a piano and several shelves stocked with books. And milling about were several other members of the Stelorana family. As they entered it was impossible to not hear Jasper's joyous call welcoming them and alerting his mother and father to their presence. Jasper was one of the most exuberant members of the family, Liza thought wryly, but she couldn't say his attitude was an unwelcome one he always made one smile.
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James couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and amusement at Rell's failed attempt to break the icy tension in the car. He didn't need a gift to read his mother's mind in the moment either. They both knew that Rell had not inherited Victoria's smooth tongue. Still, he couldn't blame Rell, the silence was stifling. It was bothering him even through his stubborn belligerence. He squirmed slightly, discreetly brushing a fleck of dirt from his arm before sneaking a glance up at Rell. He could never keep his anger at her stoked for long, and try as he might it evaporated almost immediately when the two were with their mother. He still tried to remember that Rell was twisted around their mother's finger and that that felt like a betrayal, that it made him feel even more insane than he already did. But he quickly let those feelings fade, focusing on his mother's voice instead. He knew better than to have too many thoughts in his head around her.

"Ah, wonderful." He mused, then looked up at Victoria with a forced smile. "It's been too long since I've seen the dear Aunties." He answered, feeling his heartbeat count the seconds he stared at his mother before smiling again and breaking the eye contact. Looking away felt like breathing after being trapped underwater, and he stared out the window as they reached the Snow Chapel, ignoring that sticky feeling on the back of his neck like she was still rooting around in his head.

As soon as the car came to a stop James helped himself out, reaching in to offer his sister a hand out of the car. It was a small gesture of amity and he hoped she'd accept it in both its intended purposes. He hated being cross with Rell, more than he enjoyed being a pain to their mother.
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Sigarda had been up early this morning, which was not atypical. She liked to sit in bed and just observe the world around her, and mostly the woman beside her. This morning though basking in the morning atmosphere was a limited time frame. They had to be up and ready to attend this brunch! Sigarda wasn’t nervous per se, though she was always cautious around Victoria. Especially now that they had Jenny. Being a Stelorana on its own was not a guarantee that one would be aligned with the darker aspects of the family. Some needed time and adjustment, and others just never took to the darkness as easily. Jenny was one of the softer-hearted members. And Sigarda did not find that she minded this. She had made it clear to Astrid that she would do whatever was necessary to protect their child and allow her to be herself.

Sigarda woke Astrid up slowly, savoring the quietness with her before they got ready and she went to wake Jenny. The little family was a special case among the family, because of Astrid's status they had a second home in Dunwich. So they would often spend their time at this second home instead of the Stelorana Manor. It was a nice reprieve at times. Astrid didn't have as hard a time adjusting as Sigarda did though. Sigarda had grown up in the manor, surrounded by the family. Moving away from it, even to be with the woman she loved had been a transition. She found she quite liked the peacefulness though. And the privacy!

"Jenny? Are you up? We'll need to leave soon." She rapped her hand against her daughter's door just loud enough to ensure she was heard before cracking the door slightly to peek in, repeating her name.
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Octavius had considered Victoria's invitation for a while before approaching Vivian with the idea. He was at a loss on how to "handle" his daughter at this difficult stage and time in life. He knew that though they both grieved the loss of Juniper deeply it was hard for them both in vastly different ways. He had lost his wife, his best friend. Vivian had lost her mother. And Octavius struggled to feel adequate in the face of that loss. He tried at first to comfort and support and not be overbearing or too distant. But the uncertainty of whether he was accomplishing the goal of being there for his beloved child had just caused his grief to fester more. He'd been advised to take it slow, to allow them both to heal in their ways separately and together when it was not forced. Truthfully Octavius just missed Juniper so much, and he wished that their little girl didn't have to feel that loss. He'd have done anything to remove it. He'd have done anything to have Juniper back. But that was not a possibility.

"Vivian, the brunch will be soon. Do you want to go?" Octavius presented the option with some timidity. He was a burly, almost rough-looking man. His gift of strength came with a scar in the shape of boar tusks protruding from the corners of his mouth. He was not one you would consider meek and mild. He was not a mean person though, and most knew him to be quite sweet and gentle, especially with the young Stelorana. He was a family man in every sense of the word. "I believe Victoria said that Jenny, Sigarda, and Astrid will be there as well."

He didn't know for certain the purpose of this brunch, and he was always a little skeptical of Victoria's plots. She was a great schemer, and one of the pillars of the family, but also ruthless in her way. She'd been Juniper's sister and they'd all grown up together, though she had been several years older than them both. Still, he'd gotten accustomed to avoiding her gaze. Juniper had always teased him for being wary of her gift, slyly asking him what he was so afraid she'd learn about him if she read his mind. Octavius sniffed slightly, trying to change the route his mind had taken down memory lane.
 
Calliope takes a short breath, peeking through the room at Adonis again. She knows the appearance of a hung over man, but obviously given her new role in the family perhaps it's best not to mention it. She gives a soft wave to him before being shooed along by Liza.

Besides, she had bigger concerns right about now. Upon hearing Jasper she will freeze a little. After all she remembered him from last night was being frightened by him. Quickly she goes back to clinging to the back of her mother's dress, clearly quite intimidated by all this.

Meanwhile inside Selysia had just returned from some morning work in the statue garden. There were no true statues in the garden, they're all former humans she's turned to slate. She keeps them alive, keeps the grounds tended to, and un-stones them if required.

Today was just cleaning each, nothing too hard. Easy in comparison to wrangling her rowdy son. "Jasper, sweetie, please calm down. She was a bit flighty last night, we want a good first impression don't we dear?" She turns to her husband, seeking support in the statement before smiling as Jasper announced their arrival.

Wordlessly the stand and walks to the parlor door, opening it with a grin. "Elizabeth! Oh my and who's that hiding behind her? Hi there sweetheart~" Selysia coos humming happily to herself.

Callie hides further behind Elizabeth, quietly accounting for where everyone was (where's Jasper?) and silently noting how this woman didn't even seem to acknowledge Jane...

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Rell gave a soft smile as her brother took up the conversation. Happy that things didn't turn into conflict so quickly. Instead she simply enjoys the ride.

She steps out with her brothers help, giving a smile and soft "thank you-" as their mother steps out on her own, handing the ledger to the driver. "Take this to my office, do not lose it" he wordlessly drives off as Victoria steps to the host to get everyone seated.


Rell leans over to James and says. "Thanks for coming, i... I know it's not your favorite thing but, it makes it easier yeah? Plus it's nice to get out the house, and the view here is pretty good right?"

The host begins to guide them and Rell strives to move in tandem with her brother. She sits down next to him as the large table in a private room is placed out for them, with a big window looking down upon the rocky cliffs and harbor below.

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Astrid was not like her wife. She was a night person, she hated being up before noon, though since her marriage not two and a half years prior she's certainly had to get used to it. The pair were the definition of opposites attract, had it not been for Astrid being the granddaughter of the current King of the Crown Isle, she would have never been in this situation. Yet here she was, far from any chance at the throne, but not far from power.

Marrying into the Stelorana has plenty of benefits, like a powerful surname and free reign over Dunwich. She groans softly as she's woken, the black haired lady grumbling and instead hugging her wife like a big teddy. "Mnh.... Not yet... Five more minutes-"

Which coincidentally, is the same response Jennifer had! Jenny had joined the family only a month into her parents marriage, her visions appearing to Sigarda on the day of her wedding. It was practically blessed from that moment forward. She whines softly as she hears the knocking on her door. She looks so much like Astrid, her black straight hair just being a lot longer, down to her knees instead. But her eyes are all Sigarda, all four of them.

They... Might be a little late-

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Which is better than Vivian and her father. Vivian's been somewhat estranged from him ever since her mother Juniper died three months ago. He had always been a stabilizing force but, Juniper was the real one who taught her.

She glances down at her hands, clawed, looking like burnt wood shaped into hands. They marked her as hemokinetic, someone who can move blood with a mere flick of the wrist. It's powerful, and deadly. On her first day in a panic she accidentally exploded the head of a maid. But juniper never scolded her, she instead taught her, raised her, showed her how to control her power by controlling her emotions given that both were so closely tied to one another.

But without Juniper... Without Mom... She's got no one to teach her anymore. The person she loved the most in the world, the woman who saved her, was gone. She has to learn everything else all on her own, and Vivian isn't sure she's up to the task.

She sighs, slipping out of bed and pulling on her thick welders gloves, tying the ends and fully covering her gnarled hands. Long as she does that her abilities are hidden. Only then does she open the door, coming face to face with her father. They'd never had a bad relationship, it's just what they had was different. It wasn't the same, and often seeing him only hurt her more, reminding her what she now lacks.


"I... I dunno... I think I'd rather just stay here..." That's the expected answer. She didn't really want to leave the house much right now. Sometimes not even her room.
 
Jasper gave his mother a pout as she tutted at him but settled next to Daniel who had given his wife a bemused smile and ruffled his son’s hair as he plopped down.

“Exactly right. I’m sure you’ll be able to play your games with the little one once she’s more settled.” Daniel would not say it in front of others but he loved to point out to Selysia that their boy’s over abundance of energy and attitude was all her doing. In fact he and Jasper shared a very familiar look as Selysia greeted the new little family at the parlor doorway. Jasper had to nearly lay over his father to see past his mother, catching a glimpse of Calliope as she tried to hide deeper in Liza’s dress. He snickered and pushed himself to the edge of the loveseat, eager to interact with his new cousin. He had rather few around the manor and so, was eager to ingratiate himself with this one. He was always looking for new playmates! And despite her very tearful entrance last night Jasper thought she’d shape up to be a delightfully fun cousin!

Daniel gently pressed Jasper back into the seat with a stern look before he stood and joined Selysia. He smiled brightly, his eyes meeting those of the nearly concealed toddler, amused at how shy she was. It was a jarring difference from their child. They hadn’t necessarily made proper introductions last night and a second impression couldn’t hurt. Jasper had been sure to regale both of them of his brief but terrifying moments with Calliope after her arrival. The boy had even reenacted appearing out of thin air in front of her and her shriek of terror. Daniel still felt like laughing just thinking of the memory.

As was his usual course of action he happily let his wife lead the way. Some in the past accused him of being henpecked but he would disagree, icily. He also liked his wife’s personality and how she took charge. Daniel placed one hand on Selysia’s back as he joined her, letting her know he was there. He briefly considered how different their little family must appear, with their son’s almost glassy skin and the clumps of slate protruding from his wife’s body. And then there were his black and blue extremities. He looked frightening from a medical standpoint that was certain. He wondered how the poor girl would handle seeing some of the rest of the family. He supposed he only had to wait until dinner time.
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Liza let Callie press herself into her skirts, reaching down and resting a hand gently against her back, not attempting to dislodge the child. She couldn’t easily move either. That didn’t seem to be a terribly big problem though as Selysia and then Daniel came to greet them immediately. She smiled in return and looked down at Callie, giving her an encouraging nod.

“I thought it would be wise to introduce Calliope to everyone before dinner tonight.” Liza glanced at Selysia and Daniel before addressing Callie. “Callie, this is Selysia and her husband Daniel. You met their son Jasper last night.” Liza looked up and caught a glimpse of Jasper, sitting impatiently in the chair like a puppy in time out.
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James wasn’t sure how to respond to that exactly. He wasn’t quite sure who it made it easier for, or what it specifically was. But all the same, it was nice to walk into it feeling like they were a team. It had been a long time since it had felt like them against the world.

James kept a polite grip on his sister’s arm as they were led to the table and helped her with her seat before he lowered himself into the chair next to her.

“At least the view is nice.” He leaned over and whispered in her ear. He did have to admit that it was good to be out and about in this way. He hadn’t been needed outside of the manor for what seemed to be the last two months. Sometimes he wondered if he’d been grounded and simply forgotten. As the host brought the table drinks James realized just how hungry he was and started determining his selection.

“Do you think we’ll be busy tonight?” He asked nonchalantly, concealing their conversation with the menu. He had to admit that Rell was right, it was nice to get out. He’d not been involved in any of the family business for several months. And that was how it worked, Stelorana’s business wasn’t all mess, a lot of it was planning and patience. But James was not a patient person. And he was growing bored, stuck at home trying to stay in line and maintain a good appearance. He had been thinking about going out and finding a way to do something for himself for a while, and he had several ideas he just wasn’t sure if he could bring himself to go through with them. And he wasn’t sure if he should include Rell, she tended to tattle.
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Sigarda gave an unconvincing groan as her wife mumbled for five more minutes and let herself get pulled back into a hug. She returned the sleepy display of affection, and after the requested amount of time, she untangled herself planting a kiss on Astrid's cheek before leaving the room. She would hear the same half-conscious request from Jenny. Unfortunately, her daughter was denied additional time, Astrid having already given her five extra minutes. Sigarda gently picked up her daughter, holding her close and taking her back to the room where she carefully tossed her onto the bed next to Astrid with a lighthearted grunt.

"Five minutes is up, my ladies." She stated, kneeling on the bed next to them and shaking them both gently to wakefulness. "You will not make us late for this event!" She said forcefully, pulling Astrid up out of bed. Sigarda was much tougher than she appeared. Most thought the angelic woman was well, angelic, but Sigarda was a force of her own. Sure, her gift was only good for healing, but she had taken the time to learn how to handle herself in the ways that counted. Her family had a reputation and she had intended to embody it. Now, after meeting Astrid, which wasn't necessarily a plan she'd had, her intentions with her life had changed a bit from what it used to be. But she was okay with that.

After the slow ordeal of getting her wife and daughter on their feet and ready to leave the trio were finally walking into the Snow Chapel! Sigarda didn't care much if they were the last to arrive, but she didn't like being the last to things, it made it harder to have the upper hand when walking into certain situations. Not that she expected to have the upper hand during this brunch. Still though, being late was not on the list of things Sigarda enjoyed being. She pulled out the chairs on either side of the one she had chosen and helped Jenny and then Astrid into their seats, giving Victoria and her company a warm greeting. It did appear that her brood was not the last to arrive.
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Octavius nodded as Vivian gave her answer and rubbed a thumb along the side of his tusk. He had known she would answer that way, neither of them had left the house or really their room in the last few months. Really, for the last year. He hated to be forceful with her. He knew how much she was hurting, how much Juniper had meant to her, and had helped her. He was trying to figure out how to fill that void. And he wished there was a manual to follow. He was good at following instructions, and at figuring things out with a manual or a diagram to go off of. He had often gone down to the garage and tinkered with the family car from time to time, chatting with the chauffeur during the evening hours.

"Truthfully I don't either.." Octavius crouched down with a little sigh and did his best to hold Vivian's gaze. He left his mouth agape as he tried to decide which thought to say. It felt like there were so many rattling around in his head.

"Yknow, your mother would...well, she would tell us to stop moping." He said with a bittersweet chuckle. He hated how uncomfortable he felt around Vivian now. It made him feel guilty. And it bothered him that he couldn't figure out why or get over it. He wished Juniper was there to help him, it was always hardest when she was gone. He just hoped that he and Vivian could get through this, he couldn't handle losing his wife and his daughter.

"How about this, Viv," He offered, looking at her with as much of his old co-conspirator look as he could muster. He and Juniper had often "played sides" with Vivian when she was younger, each trying to earn more of her affection. Naturally, Octavius knew Vivian was closer to her mother and he could never blame her for that. Octavius tried his best to supply an offer that would be good for her and get her out of the house. Get them both out of the house. So he offered for them to go to the brunch for a short while, just enough that an appearance would be appropriate and then they could go and do something that she loved to do, something they had often done as a kid.

"You can choose, and I won't force you, it's...it's only if you want to." He made sure to add. He didn't want to accomplish this by making her feel she had no choice.
 
Callie squeaks at Selysia giggles, clearly charmed by just how skittish the young girl was. Of course, Callie was not as amused, in her mind this half stone lady, see through skinned boy and half rotting man are all slowly closing in on her- She's never been that good with pressure, even despite all of Liza's comforting words... as soon as all the attention in the room was on her, she breeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeathes in, almost like a tell to Liza at this point what was gonna happen, before she suddenly blips out of existence.

In reality, Callie had scooted behind Jane instead, given she was a little further behind her mother, a new hiding spot for the moment though she can only keep the gaze of her aunt off of her for so long. Selysia blinks in confusion briefly, before glancing around and finally landing her eyes on Callie. She giggles, giving a half jokingly forgiving pat to Liza's shoulder. "Oh my quite a gift on her hm? But she seems like a sweetheart, awe I'm sure she won't give you too much trouble will you honey?"

Callie didn't respond, just staaaaaaaaaring at the half-stone woman with her big round eyes.

Seems her integration process would be a little difficult...

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Making it easier was a funny way of talking about it... Rell often did what she did for the sake of very specifically making things with the family flow nice and easily, her mother being the most grating issue. She loved her family, almost as much as she had a general distaste and disregard for those not in the family, she would do anything for it's members. Making it easier was just what she did, every day, as much as she can.


"Yeah it's a good spot, not too fancy either, no chance of running into another noble family and having to put on too many airs yknow? Juuuuust enough to chill out" She sighs happily blinking as his ask over plans for the night, work specifically. "Oh, I mean probably yes-" She turns briefly to her mother, but sees her already speaking to her accountant, which she had brought with her (seperate car of course) to speak with if they were the first ones there, get some work done. They are quite early so, it makes sense. She shrugs "I'll just assume yeah, lots of chaos happening in the steel district, another union's formed and you know how the Crown gets about that stuff. Can't have what happened in the east happen here." She shrugs. A waiter brings water, sets out some appetizers on the house, but Rell doesn't seem to even notice him, taking one of the snacks and starting to eat it.

"I'm sure if we ask for a day off though they can send someone else. I mean Jasper is nearly the age to start going out and doing stuff. I'm sure he'd be a wiz with a gun, they make them so easy to use nowadays..." She quietly hums to herself "Though Auntie Selysia may be against it... Well anyways, it would be fine to let the unions run amock for just one day. Why? You got an event you wanna go to or something?"

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Jenny whines loudly as she was scooped up by her mom, squirming slightly in her arms before simply turning intangible, no longer able to be touched, and hopping right back into bed as she turns physical again. Sigarda probably knew this trick plenty by now, and by the second time being scooped out of bed she'd clearly given up and just groans as she's thrown onto her other mother. Astrid was happily asleep one moment, before suddenly- "OOF-" A six year old has been thrown right at her, not hitting her but still. Okay maybe she played up the impact a bit to mess with her wife but still! Quite a way to start the day.

Jenny meanwhile was all pouts. "mmhhhh I dont wanna get up... besides... Victoria's so weird..." Jenny had only been here for a good two years at this point, she hasn't fully accepted this place as home, or at least has been refusing to say it, but she's no longer actively surprised by the oddities! She generally knows the whole family, who they are, what they're like, and has come to appreciate her new moms.

Astrid sighs, staring at the ceiling for a good ten seconds before giving Jenny a pat. "Cmon, we can't stay in bed all day, your mother's right Jennifer" The rest of the morning goes fairly similar, with Astrid in a jokingly begrudging tone complied with her wife's desires, not hindering the trio quite as much as their daughter. Astrid dressed up in her usual, a nice button up shirt with a vest over top. nice black slacks and shiny black shoes. Her sleeves were rolled up to show off her arcane tattoos, something she's felt a lot less self conscious about showing off when compared to the rest of the motley crew in the Stelorana family. She went ahead and got Jenny into a pretty little white sunday dress, humming as she had that conversation she always had with Jenny as she helped her get ready each day. "Come on now dear, you shouldn't keep hiding them, its not gonna make them go away you know?" Astrid parts Jenny's hair, which black similar to Astrid's but far longer than the latter's, and covers most of her face, including her extra pair of eyes which are a bit offset to the outside corners of her main eyes. Jenny shakes her head as Astrid tries to pull her hair up into a ponytail, glancing to Sigarda for some form of 'protection' "nono- I-I just, it's weird... I dont want people to stare...." She's not used to it still, not like people wouldn't stare when they see Sigarda and her angellic appearance.

Regardless of the morning fussing, the group would arrive at the Snow Palace, Astrid holding Jenny's hand, who was in turn holding onto both's hands, standing between them. Astrid gives a polite nod and smile to Victoria, who proceeds to shoo off her accountant and smile as she looks to the couple. "Ah, there you are, I hope there was no trouble getting here? I chose somewhere nearby in hopes it would ease the burden." She gives a smile to Jenny, who proceeds to avoid looking Victoria in the eyes, glancing over to her cousins instead, giving a nervous wave to them and getting back an enthusiastic wave from Rell.

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Vivian has been a wreck for a while. It was practically two weeks after Juniper passed before she spoke a word. Juniper was practically her whole world, especially given the rest of the family had seen her as somewhat of a threat, a gift that made her volatile, just as likely to hurt the rest of the family as it was to hurt its enemies. Only Juniper endured for her, and now she was gone. Even if her reputation had changed in the eight years she had been here, a part of her still felt like that isolated little girl who kept hurting all the people around her, who kept accidentally killing maids, who left those she incidentally touched with internal bleeding and bruises, even if her gloves were on.

Octavius would feel that power from her, all tied to her emotions, his blood would feel like it was buzzing in his veins, twitching and jittering no matter how much Vivian tried to hold that back. She stepped back to try and mitigate it, avoiding eye contact with her dad as he proposed the brunch to her. She hesitated to answer, a part of her knowing that if she just pushed everyone away, she would be left with no one willing to try anymore eventually.

Vivian takes a long inhale, before sighing.

"I'll go... just... I'll skip the next one, so just tell her if she asks again that I don't wanna go." A compromise, she could isolate herself later, but this time she would comply. Slowly, she steps out of her room, still not making eye contact with Octavius she mumbles out "I... guess we should go, shouldn't be late..."

A car is prepared, a silent ride with Vivian staring out the window the whole way. Octavius can practically tell her mood by how the blood in his veins moved. When she was notably sad it buzzed, but ever since Juniper died that buzzing was always there, like a constant pins and needles, even with the gloves holding it back, making her somewhat unpleasant to be around. But that's where Victoria saw potential in her, imagine letting her release all the power in the home of an enemy family, oh she had just so much potential! Not that Vivian was quite excited to make due on it.
 
Liza couldn't help but smile as Callie reacted to the attention. It wasn't kind to the girl but she couldn't help it. She had pieced enough of Callie's gift together to know that her taking that breath was a signal that she was about to use it. She hadn't quite figured out if it was teleportation or some sort of time effect. She wanted to sit down with Calliope later, after dinner, and see if the girl could shed some light. It seemed she was quickly getting the hang of using her gift. She smiled at Selysia and nodded, turning to look behind Jane.

"She will be just fine with time." Liza gave Callie a wink. She wasn't so worried now, Callie was skittish but Liza felt like they'd made enough of a connection that they would be alright. For now, she just wanted Callie to settle down enough to stop using her and Jane's skirts as hiding places. She took a step back, coming shoulder to shoulder with Jane and putting a hand on Callie's. "It's alright dear. Let's go have a seat and get something to eat. What would you like?"

She led her little crowd over to the furniture and sat down, prompting Callie with another gentle smile and gesture. She watched as Daniel also led Selysia towards their seats, the man reaching for a steaming mug on the side table. She wondered at how Daniel was compared to Selysia, he was quiet and observant, and a man of few but energetic words. She smiled at Jasper as the boy squirmed in his seat, trying not to startle Callie but also desperate to interact. She glanced at Callie and then back at Jasper, hoping her child would take the hint. Be brave, make a friend.
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Jasper looked at his mother, his legs swinging off the edge of the couch. He wasn't sure how much longer he could sit silently. But he also remembered how Callie had screamed and cried when he'd found her last night. At the very least, she wasn't crying yet! And perhaps with Liza and Jane with her, she'd be more open to chatting with him. He glanced again at Selysia, silently asking for permission to speak and more importantly move. Jasper Stelorana was not a still being, and he often occupied his boundless energy by playing in the shadows. It was an entertaining time when Selysia would scold him and prohibit him from shadow-hopping around the house. Fortunately, Jasper was a favored child and he often avoided such punishment.
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Daniel sipped on the cup of coffee and sat back down next to Jasper, leaving room for Selysia to sit should she choose to. He could tell that she was excited about the new child and that the new child was not as enthused. It was amusing to watch the new arrivals adjust. He could hardly remember how his first week had been. But he recalled the same on-edge feeling, the same uncertainty. It had been hard for him to adjust after what he had experienced. The mind-boggling knowledge of existence that one received a "sneak-peak" of upon their awakening in the Black Slate Room was difficult.

"Calliope, it's wonderful to have you with us." He spoke softly, leaning forward and putting a hand on Jasper's knee, his son was edging his toes closer and closer to the shadow of the couch. "I hope you rested well." He smiled, again glancing at Selysia. He hoped that her exuberance would not startle Callie too much. "Jasper would love to show you around the grounds whenever you feel up to it. It's supposed to be a beautiful day today."

Jasper had practically begged his parents to help the newcomer get familiar with the manor. And he presented himself as the best tour guide given how much time he spent exploring the manor and grounds. Immediately the boy broke into a grin and bounced in the chair. "We have an amazing statue garden! That's mum's work! I can show you everything!"
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James immediately wished he hadn't asked Rell. He wanted to trust her but it was difficult. He pressed his lips together as he focused on the menu, mulling over how to answer. He could see the appeal of beginning to train Jasper. The kid had an excellent gift to be used as the family's assassin. It was a dangerous game, there was no way Selysia would accept such a task for her son, Rell was right. He chuckled at the thought of Jasper popping around the shadows and shooting a gun. Selysia would have a fit, but that was definitely a pawn their mother would love to have in her hand.

"I haven't decided yet." He settled on. He eyed Rell as she took some appetizers and helped himself as well. Could he trust her? He could use one of his lesser lucrative options in case this team-up backfired...He felt his frustration rise again. He wanted to be able to share things with his sister without questioning her likelihood of betraying his actions to Mother. Still, perhaps it would be good. Maybe a chance for them to bond over something outside of family business and affairs. He shot her another side look and groaned slightly before leaning closer.

"You have to swear you won't rat me out. Or I won't let you tag along. Ever." He hissed at her from behind his menu, careful to avoid looking too suspicious. Mother was occupied with her work at the moment but he caught a glimpse of Astrid and Sigarda approaching and shot Rell a warning look before straightening up, lowering the menu, and greeting the arriving company warmly.
______
Sigarda and Astrid had had many moments spent discussing Jenny's appearance. Of course, it was not an easy thing for a child to adjust to. Astrid attempted for the hundredth time to soothe their daughter's self-consciousness. She drifted up to the pair as she caught Jenny's pleading eyes and smiled calmly. Kneeling beside her and brushing a strand of hair out of her face, Sigarda squeezed Jenny's hand.

"They'll stare regardless, my love. But you don't have to take that step yet if you're not ready." She stood and kissed her forehead and then glanced at Astrid with a small smirk. Sigarda was a competitive person, and she enjoyed the little moments when Jenny would reach out in whatever form for her. It was not a jealousy-fueled competition, and Sigarda made sure her wife knew that. To be fair, there were plenty of cherished moments between each of them, and Sigarda did not doubt that Jenny loved and relied on both of them fairly equally. It's just that she knew which of them truly knew the family and understood what that entailed. But Astrid was a quick learner and Sigarda relied on her especially.

Sigarda sat down quietly, before answering Victoria. "That is much appreciated, Victoria." She glanced at the other side of the table at Rell and James and offered them a smile, catching Rell's enthusiastic wave to Jenny. "I trust business is going well for you?" She queried, watching the accountant scurrying away.
_____
Octavius felt relief escape him in a slight sigh and he nodded enthusiastically. He could feel her unease and he tried his best to mitigate it. But he was still at a loss, despite having made some progress it felt! So he stood and nodded, eager now that some progress was made. He felt the buzzing in his veins and he took a steadying breath. His gift it turned out, had been a helpful advantage, his superior strength came with the added benefit of more durability. But the buzzing was hard to ignore even for him. He wasn't so worried about her hurting him though. He had been uneasy at first when Vivian had initially arrived at the manor. Watching the aftermath of a child exploding heads would do that. But it wasn't a fear Juniper had allowed him to sustain, and he had been proud that the two of them had come to acknowledge and overcome the hesitations. Vivian was struggling much more since Juniper's loss and he knew that made it all the worse, given how closely tied her gift was to emotions.

"Of course, you don't have to attend another one." He could understand her hesitation. She certainly had a lot in his opinion. He wasn't unaware of Victoria's desire to use her gifts for the family's benefit.

The car ride was pleasant if not mildly uncomfortable on account of the nervous feeling caused by her influence on his blood. But he did his best to ignore it. Luckily the view was enjoyable and he attempted to make some lighthearted conversation with her before deciding he was probably making it worse. She was going out on this trip with him and he was grateful enough for that! When they arrived at Snow Chapel Octavius led her quietly to the table greeting everyone cheerfully and apologizing for interrupting Sigarda and Victoria's conversation. He let Vivian lead them to wherever she wished to sit and as he was taking his seat realized suddenly how out of place he felt without Juniper there.
 
It was odd sometimes how new members of the family reacted to their gifts. For some like Vivian it was a steep lifelong learning curve. For others like Callie here, it almost came naturally to them, not to say it wasn't difficult. Breath in, her hair rises, and breath out, her hair falls again, time moving only when she breaths. It's like the universe itself was telling her to breath normally, and breath consistently. The moment she lets it go automatically things start moving just a bit too slow for her, just like how when she was hyperventilating, time rushed by her, only contributing to the panic attack. A temporal metronome, no matter what, breathing once a second on the second, her own movement through time accommodating her in response. It did little to calm her, actually making the situation worse-

Right now she was doing what her therapist used to call 'anchoring' where you find somewhere or someone you know and are comfortable with. Right now, that is Liza, and she has seemingly no intent to branch out from there. Had she not been practically escorted out by her from the bedroom earlier Calliope Stelorana would still be sitting in her room right now wasting the day away.

Callie quietly nodded along to her mother's question of what she wants to eat, to which she softly said "anything... uh- yeah... just... anything-"

Selysia sat with her husband and boy, waving over a servant and requesting breakfast for the group. The young man nodded with a smile, wordlessly going off to the kitchen to get some of the cooks to start preparing more for the group. She glances over at Liza as she comforted Callie, resisting every urge in her body to coo over how cute the scene was! After all, she remembered taking care of Liza when she was little, now look at her, all grown up! Oh just adorable.

Callie found it a bit less entertaining, averting her eyes from Jasper, not making eye contact with anyone right now. Somehow, this was almost worse than last night to her. Last night, she could cry, she could run, it was all new, with no expectations. But now the very next day she has to act like these are her family, people she's known forever! I mean sure she's now gotten at least somewhat comfortable with Liza and Jane, but this was all so new to her! Her breathing quickened, though all that did for everyone else was make her move slower. She gulps, normalizing her breathing, and glancing over at Jasper. She hesitates again, looking up at Liza with a 'do I have to?' look. Not to say she dislikes Jasper... she's just hesitant.

Food is set out before them, a plate of eggs, bacon, some cooked mushrooms with a bit of tomato and a glass of juice for each family member.

The youngest takes a second, peeking over the table towards Jasper, looking back to Liza and Jane, before quietly saying. "I... thats.... s-sure... I'll see the statues..."

Selysia gave an ear-to-ear smile, humming in satisfaction before petting her son's hair softly "After breakfast of course, you both need some energy for the day. Calliope dear you must be starving after all, I assume your host had hardly eaten before you arrived." She tuts softly, ignoring any confused expressions Callie made in reference to a 'host'. What host? The host of the house?
______________________________________


Rell blinked in confusion at James's sudden insistence on secrecy. Sure, Rell was her mother's attack dog, but above all she valued the family. Should anything her mother did hurt the family more than help it (far she she considers it at least) then she'd cut it there. So, of course, she nods, and promises. "I won't say a word okay? I know you don't like Mom, and the stuff she and I have to do for the family, but, I won't rat you out to her for nothing ok?"

She reaches forwards, and takes her brother's hand, giving a smile. Her gift is an odd one, a replay system for physical feelings, usually used to impart crippling but nondamaging pain upon others, making them easy to take alive. But, it does have its uses outside of combat, as Rell proceeds to give James the feeling of their first hug back when the two of them were little. Briefly, james could feel everything, the clothes on Rell's back, the cool air of the manor, but most of all his own embrace squeezing him softly and Rell squeezing back.

"So... what's going on- ah-" Rell pauses as she notices more family walking in, giving James a look and saying "Just, tell me later during brunch, we should go say hi yeah?"

"Auntie Sigarda, Auntie Astrid- ah- hi Jenny!~" Rell gave a big smile greeting them, as the others did the same. Hugs are exchanged, followed closely by small talk.

Victoria is the next to greet them, without hugs though. "I'm glad you two could make it. I trust the journey was pleasant? I didn't see your car arriving."

Astrid gives a small chuckle, smiling as well as she states "Ah no, Sigarda insisted we walk, after all we're quite close."

A smile from Victoria as business talk comes up. It's her two favorite topics, herself, and how she makes money, who wouldn't want to hear about that? "It's going well. The family's stock portfolio is up, and given a new trendy love for tulips in the low country our import taxes are higher than average. Just a small strike in the dockyards but we should be clearing that up quite well. How about you, how're the Royals treating you? Been to Capitol lately?" The city itself needs no name, Capitol is the biggest city in the Crown Isle, followed closely by Dunwich. It's where Astrid was born, and lived most of her life, but hearing the name brings a smile hiding an internal grimace. "Oh it's lovely up there this time of year, thank you for asking." Subtle venom in her voice making Victoria glare at her.

Small talk is briefly interrupted by Victoria noticing Octavius and Vivian arrive, a smile creeping its way across her lips. "There you are, I was worried you might not come... Vivian dear how are you?" Is she... ignoring Octavius? Well... Vivian is old enough to make her own decisions- or at least old enough to be fooled into thinking she can.
 
Liza watched Callie, happily letting her gain her footing and hopefully confidence. She didn’t miss the way the girl seemed to cling, looking at her as if asking for permission or help. It made her feel a little better and gave her hope that she was settling in. As she sat watching the little girl she became more aware of the way she breathed and the way that she seemed to waver with each breath. It was like a film with missing frames. It was intriguing!

Liza quietly helped herself to a piece of bacon and sipped the juice after the meal was set out. She was still too nervous. The dread that was preparing itself for tonight made it difficult to enjoy the morning’s meal. She met Callie’s pleading look as she brought the glass up to her mouth and simply smiled, doing her best to convey that it was Callie’s choice. She was relieved when the girl agreed and gave Selysia a quick smile. It would be good for Jasper to burn off energy and hopefully, the boy’s eager attitude would rub off on Callie and help her settle in.

She felt her smile falter at the mention of the host and hurriedly sipped her juice. Intentionally avoiding her daughter’s confused look felt despicable but Liza wasn’t sure she was quite able to have that conversation with her here and now. She glanced at her from the corner of her eye before calmly agreeing with Selysia.

“Yes, be sure you eat enough. The cook will likely not allow any snacking for today.” Jane’s voice spoke up behind Callie on the couch, the maid sitting straight-backed and patiently watching the family members eating their breakfast. Jane might be allowed wherever Liza was but her privileges ended there. While acting as Liza’s mouthpiece she was effectively just that. She could not speak of her own volition and she could not partake in meals. Liza had tried to have that stipulation lifted in childhood but the family did not see Jane the way she did and therefore the girl remained a special attendant and nothing more.

Jane did sneak Callie some encouraging smiles though as the girl looked between her and Liza. It made her happy to have another member of the family treat her as more than just a maid. And it seemed that Callie was a sweet and gentle sort, and had already treated her more familiarly than the rest of the family.
______
Jasper let his mother run her fingers over and through his hair with a faint smile, glancing over at his dad as the two dug into their breakfast. He snapped his attention back to Callie as she agreed to join him, smiled bigger than even Selysia, and mumbled something unintelligible through a mouthful of eggs.

“We can start with a tour of the house! I know the best spots for all sorts of games.” At times and on occasion the younger members would entertain themselves with games and run amok inside when the weather did not permit excursions. Jasper was known as the hide-and-seek champion in the household.

Daniel chided him softly but didn’t hide the slight crinkling at the corners of his eyes. Jasper choked down the rest of his eggs. He had been stuck inside all morning, he lamented. Which was mostly because he had woken up only within the last three hours. But also because he wasn’t allowed off his parent’s proverbial leash until after breakfast. Selysia had a rule about them eating as a family and once he was off running around it was hard to find him again.

He was also excellent at tormenting the cook and pilfering snacks when the staff’s back was turned. He puffed up a little as he remarked that the cook wouldn’t miss some of the food for this evening. Jasper would have to wait for Callie to finish eating and glanced at her plate, swishing his legs as he lounged impatiently between his parents.
______
James lets out a small breath and nods curtly. He knew Rell would say something like that. She was a loyal person after all. He just had a habit of questioning loyalties. Mostly how loyal she was to him over their mother. But she was right that he didn’t like what they did. He supposed that if his gift had been less useful as an enforcer for the family his pacifist nature might have been allowed to be maintained. As it was he did his best to avoid most engagements in violence, and now that Rell was there and most pliable to that their mother had stopped requiring him as much. But still more than he’d liked.

He started to consider how to reveal his evening plans to Rell and then stopped as the rest of the party approached. He glanced at Rell after seeing who it was that had arrived and nodded. Then he smiled and greeted Sigarda and Astrid warmly, giving Jenny an enthusiastic hello as well. He did enjoy this branch of the family tree. And Astrid had interesting perspectives on life, being an outsider of the family.

He hung back in the conversation as Victoria began sharing current business happenings and smiled softly as Astrid and Sigarda countered his mother’s comments with their own. Astrid had no problem keeping up with the Stelorana's. After all the Royal Witch was powerful in her own right.

He felt his tongue slide between his teeth as Octavius and Vivian walked in, his eyes watching Victoria’s face carefully. James greeted them as well, offering for Octavius and Vivian to sit on the other side of the table by him. He enjoyed chatting with Octavius about the mechanical work the man enjoyed. And he liked Vivian, though she had always been a bit of a startling member of the family. He hadn’t seen much of her since Juniper had passed away. He hadn’t seen either of them much really, but he knew Vivian would be suffering the loss more apparently. And he also knew his mother was savoring the idea of having another child under her wing. No doubt Vivian would be a force to be reckoned with, but he wished she could be safe from that side of the family. She was not yet brutal. He could relate to how skittish she looked, especially recently.
______
Sigarda beamed as Jenny was greeted by Rell and James, glad that the cousins would be around to keep her company. James and Rell were good kids, though she had noticed that James and Rell seemed to have some unresolved conflict between them. She was not entirely privy to what it was but she had assumptions.

“Yes, and it’s a beautiful day out for it.” She reminded her, stepping just a little closer and placing a hand lazily on the small of Astrid’s back. Out of all the Stelorana’s Sigarda seemed the most overtly affectionate and she relished such displays.

Victoria filled them in quite extensively on the state of affairs and Sigarda nodded silently as she did. Victoria had always been business-oriented. Some would even call her a killjoy or a stick in the mud. Astrid’s retort about Capitol made Sigarda’s smile tighten and she refrained from jumping in, letting Astrid make her retort, her smile relaxing into a smirk as she gazed at her wife.

Sigarda hadn’t yet figured out if Victoria saw Astrid as an asset to the family or not. And if not, what the alternative was. Of course the Stelorana family was very pretentious in certain aspects, they were after all one of the Crown Isle’s elite. But they maintained that through an air of exclusivity and mystery. This meant that Sigarda marrying Astrid had inserted an outsider into the family. Albeit a relatively powerful and well-connected one. Which was likely why the marriage had taken place at all. Though even with those prospects some members still disliked having outsiders welcomed in. But that was the older generations. She truly wasn't sure which side of the argument Victoria had fallen on.

As the conversation fell upon Octavius and Vivian's arrival Sigarda turned to observe, after greeting Octavius with an embrace and a whisper of encouragement. It had been many months since she'd seen him and it was good to see that he had come out of the house. She knew he was not the most social of the family.
______
Octavius escorted Vivian silently to the private area Victoria had for them. Each step closer to the table had felt more laborious than the previous and he felt like the buzzing in his veins had become louder, but he realized that was likely just his pulse beating in his ears.

As he had expected Victoria gave her attention to Vivian, hardly looking at her sister’s widower. He stood behind his daughter and stared stoically at Victoria. He knew he didn’t have the tact needed to navigate this social arena. And currently, he barely had the emotional stamina. He always felt out of place when Victoria was around, a little off-put and out of rhythm.

“Thank you for the invitation, Victoria.” He didn’t expect much interaction with her, she tended to ignore him, and he ignored her. But he still needed to make an effort. He rubbed a thumb along one of his tusks as he accepted James’ invitation to sit. Now that he was here he was struggling to avoid the thought that had been bubbling uncomfortably in the back of his mind over the last few days. What had the purpose of her invitation truly been?
 
Calliope was dealing best she could. In her last life she was always an anxious person. It was hard for her to deal with these sorts of things healthily, or directly. She at least found Liza and Jane's presence to be comforting, but they have different hopes for Callie, different intentions. Not malicious, but they take her out of her comfort zone, and to Calliope Stelorana that itself is enough to make her quite unhappy.

Instead she quietly distracts herself from her soon to be maligned time with her loud and scary cousin by asking harder questions. Perhaps if she makes people here uncomfortable enough they'll decide perhaps it's best to keep interactions short? Well, at least, the other three might.

"Why isn't Jane eating?" She quietly asked, knowing silently at least one answer to that question. After all, a servant eats first to be prepared to serve the family yes? Or... Is it after as a show of obedience? She can't remember her late Victorian manners...

"Oh she's just the help sweetheart." Selysia directly states. "She's already eaten, besides it's just family at the table." She may be kind... But Selysia is still a Stelorana.

She avoided eye contact with Jasper. Silently working through her food and just trying to keep calm. A little disassociation perhaps? Means to keep herself from panicking further. Even small things, like knowing she's going to be left in the care of a loud brash family member is enough to set her off. Things are only going to get harder for her. She clears her plate, but doesn't budge from her seat. She gives Liza a begging look of 'please don't send me off please don't send me off'
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Rell signed softly as her brother stiffened up. But she quickly fell back into the easiest way to deal with things, just smile, nod, and be nice. Practically acting like a mere accessory for her mother at this point.

She'd smile, engage in small talk, chat around, but not much more. She was ornamental until otherwise stated.

Astrid noted that. Gods the people of this family were so weird. Good thing weird meant adorable sometimes. The witch pulls an arm around her wife as they sat together. She glances at Victoria, knowing the woman would look back at her, right in the eyes. The gaze was caught, and Astrid loudly thought 'Remember, unlike the others, i can feel you prodding in there. Your magicks smell of stale perfume and greed. Don't let it rub off'

Perhaps James would catch it, the silent exchange between the two as Victoria chuckled. "Astrid dear, how goes your work with the lurkers. I trust my funding is making well use? I'd hate to see it wane"

Astrid's face doesn't flinch, but she grips Sigardas side tighter revealing her frustration. She worked for the family of course. Currently getting money from Victoria to pay to search for a consistent arcane path to tracking deep ones getting too close into Benefactor territory. It would save them all a headache, assuming it works.

"Oh it's going quite fine. What's this I've heard about your factories rioting?" "Oh my are they? Well, we can sort that out in a night can't we Rell?" Rell blinks, before giving a smile like a called on puppy and nodding. Victoria chuckles and adds "Ah but you two don't put down many rebellions do you? Perhaps Jennifer will when she's older won't you dear?"

Jenny blinked as Victoria spoke to her. She was bad at maintaining eye contact, even given her extra eyes. She looks down somewhat and doesn't respond.

Waiters begin approaching, getting everyone's orders. Jenny leaves her ordering to her mothers, turning slightly transparent from the attention Victoria had given her. Vivian asks for nothing, but feeling bad, Rell suggests the waiter return later for her. Rell gets a nice average breakfast platter, Astrid a club sandwich, and Victoria has some caviar.

While the ordering happens, Vivian softly whispers to her father. "I... Think i shouldn't have come..."

Ordering finishes, everything's (mostly) set, and so Victoria continues business. "Speaking of clearing out the uncompliant. Vivian, dear, I've heard you've been going through more maids than usual?" She chuckles as she sips a martini she ordered, Rell doing similar. Jenny just turns more transparent, clearly uncomfortable with the topic. "Mh... I guess-" is all Vivian gives her Aunt as she fiddles with the utensils laid out before her. "I see, well, I was wondering if you'd ever considered putting that energy somewhere a bit more productive." She hums softly, sipping her drink again before stating. "Your mother entrusted in me continuing your training after she passed." A hitched breath comes from the hemokinetic girl, as everyone nearby would feel a pricking in their veins, but Victoria continues unhindered "You really should continue her wishes, at least sit in on one job, you two wouldn't mind would you?" She asks Rell and James, though, there's really no question there, just a statement of the answer she wants. Rell of course, nods.
 
Liza finished her plate silently, letting the others chatter. She kept Callie in the corner of her eye, watching the girl. It was obvious she was nervous, and Liza almost felt bad for pushing her. But she also couldn't afford to let her hideaway. It was better for both of them that she learned to handle the discomfort and face her fears. There would only be worse ahead. If only Callie knew; in comparison to her new future an afternoon with Jasper would be idyllic.

Callie's question caught Liza and Jane both off guard, and Liza barely suppressed a cough as she painfully swallowed. She could vaguely sense Jane stiffen as attention was called to her. At the very least, the response was an expected one, but it still caused her to stiffen as well. It was sometimes easy to forget that that was how the family saw Jane. She had to force herself not to look at her companion. She had learned many times as a child that treating Jane with anything above civility was not met with the most understanding.

She felt another pang of guilt as Callie pleaded with her silently, but she gave the girl an encouraging smile and nodded. "You'll be just fine. I'll be here, nearby, if you truly need me." She added as she motioned for the plates to be cleared. She was confident that Jasper was a safe cousin for her to be introduced to and forced into proximity with. He was loud and well, boyish, but a sweet child and clever. She was sure he would care for Callie and do his best to make her comfortable. He would undoubtedly see her nervousness as a challenge to overcome.
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Now that the table was filled and his and Rell's conversation untimely ended James fell back into silence, watching the interactions and feeling pinpricks of anxiety and irritation at their mother's callous prodding. He always enjoyed watching Astrid interact with Victoria. She was one of the few who could truly counter her sugar-coated venom. It had taken him a long time to realize it was because Astrid was somewhat immune to his mother's gift. Somehow her magic use allowed her to sense Victoria's probing. He wished she could teach him how, but he had not been brave enough to ask. He had learned as a young boy that secrets were not safe. And he was already holding too many for his liking.

He did miss his little cousins, James quite enjoyed the children and their interactions. But he did not see these two often. And given the barbed remarks being made he realized that was quite possibly safer for them. Beneath the table he fidgeted with his hand's carapace, running a sharp spur of bone across armored knuckles, the noise hardly noticeable under the general din of the restaurant around them. The movements became quicker as Jenny and Vivian became obviously uncomfortable and James found himself glaring openly. He averted his gaze for a moment, taking several steadying breaths before raising his eyes again. As he did, Victoria turned to him and Rell. He could see Rell nod out of the corner of his eye but he remained stock still, his face blank. He did his best to look neutral but he knew his eyes were narrowed slightly, and his jaw was twitching from the pressure of keeping his teeth clamped together.
______
Sigarda maintained her silence but watched Victoria and Astrid carefully, deliberating. She could tell when Astrid and Victoria were having moments in the privacy of their minds. It was something in the way Astrid's chin would raise just slightly higher than normal. She would never stop admiring the defiance. But she did wish these interactions didn't have so many tactfully laced insults and veiled threats. Sigarda hated the way Victoria played with words. She much preferred a straightforward altercation, and with Victoria, that was never an option. The woman always seemed to have the upper hand. But that was why Sigarda loved Astrid so much, Astrid had a way of matching her.

Her grip tightened reflexively as Astrid's did. It was almost funny how she could predict each step of this brunch. It was the same interactions so frequently. It helped growing up in the same house, day in and day out with the Stelorana's in all their wicked glory would give one such insight. It was why she had been so eager when Astrid had come into her life, and so grateful that they were able to live apart from that. At least with a degree of separation or two.

"Or perhaps not." Sigarda growled softly. Giving her daughter a comforting hand on the shoulder as she tried even harder to become invisible. Sigarda did not have anything cheeky or strategic to respond with. And she didn't care to. She let Astrid handle herself because she trusted her and knew she could. But the angelic woman drew the line at comments towards Jenny. She knew that kind of action was the last thing Jenny wanted to be involved in. And that being around Victoria was no pleasure either. And she intended to make it clear somehow that Jenny was off limits. Sigarda knew too well what Victoria did with children.

Luckily, that was all she managed to say before the server came to take orders. Sigarda asked for what Jenny had wanted and then gave her order, a serving of Latkes with smoked salmon.
_____
"No, you're alright, you're doing great. We'll leave soon. Just hold out a little longer for me, alright, Viv?" Octavius tried to quietly reassure her, but truth be told, he was feeling the same way. Watching Astrid and Victoria talk just made his dread about the event come back in force. Perhaps this was not a good idea.

Octavius flinched as Victoria turned her attention to Vivian and his hands curled into fists. He almost couldn't process her comment, his jaw going slack. And then she was already continuing and he felt panic, almost as strongly as he felt his daughter's pull on his blood. The server had already come and gone and there would be no divinely timed interruptions for him and his wife was not here. Octavius cleared his throat, willing himself to fight against the uncertainty and fear he'd been wallowing in for months. Vivian's stammers and the newly emboldened buzzing in his veins made his lips curl around his tusks.

"Perhaps you forget, Victoria, but only her mother passed." He narrowed his eyes and forced himself to glare at the woman. He felt his blood boiling from his child's anxiety and his own, but he gritted his teeth. Victoria wouldn't be scared —he knew that. But it would be enough for him to take the attention from Vivian, and to let her know that she wasn't unprotected just because her mother was gone. He was still her father and he was not going to let everything Juniper had done for their daughter go to waste by letting Victoria undermine him and make her more anxious about herself.

"And you should know better than to listen to the servant's gossip." He added, feeling breathless as he tried to keep his voice as level as possible. His mind was racing, an abstract of anger and grief and panic. He had honestly forgotten what it was like to stare at Victoria like this. He hadn't looked at her so directly since they were much younger. Juniper had always teased him about looking like a beast but being nothing more than a scaredy-cat. Truthfully, he wasn't, but Victoria, above all the rest of the family had always made his skin crawl. And now that the words had left his mouth and reality was hitting him full force he was wondering just how it would be if he said he and Vivian were leaving right now. Did he have the courage for that? What message did that send? It would look like a retreat, but Viv would be away from here and less upset. These choices were always out of his expertise. This whole ordeal felt like flailing about in an ocean.
 
Calliope gulps as her plate is taken away, shrinking back further. She can see the look in her mother's eye... which- ah the fact that she even internally called Liza her mother makes Callie feel so odd. This whole thing is just so strange, a process of relearning herself, knowing she's forgotten large swathes of a former life and feeling those being quickly filled in by these people, whom she knows aren't the right answer. But, what more can she do? At least they were nice... and well- there's always the chance that she is just delusional... maybe she is just a four year old with a mixed memory, a part of this family she doesnt know, a soul made from the ether between the universe?

She sighs, swinging her feet softly, knowing she can't do anything about it either way. Perhaps she should be panicking more, but right now she just needs somewhere quiet and isolated. Playing nice today should at least give her that leeway so she can find the truth for herself.

Calliope glances up towards her cousin Jasper. He's like a dog that you haven't brought outside all day, bouncing and raring to go.

Softly, Callie says "Do... you wanna go now?" Asking out of the vague hope that perhaps, a one in a million chance, he suddenly no longer feels like it???

But, Selysia seems to have other plans. She places a cold stony hand on her son's back encouragingly, giving a warm smile before saying. "Well, go on Jasper, you're excused. Show your little cousin around." Before with a softer voice saying to him "Be gentle with her... alright?" She smiles as the pair head on off, turning over to her niece with a smile. "She seems lovely dear, a bit jumpy, but kind." She pauses to check that the kids are gone already, before glancing back to Liza. "Now, dear... I wanted to prompt you beforehand but, the older members of the family have been speaking" She pauses, looking to her husband as if to ask if it's alright to say, before deciding for herself and adding "-including Grandmother... We were discussing when you might be getting married? I trust you've already had this talk with your parents, but the questions will only be increasing in coming time of who you might be ending up with." In a fantastic show of dramatic irony, she glances to Jane, awaiting Liza's answer.
_____

Astrid has never had a good relationship with Victoria, though it's never been directly antagonistic. Perhaps a part of both of them appreciate having someone who can push back against the other in a world full of yes men. But the end result is still similar no matter what these women's internal machinations end up as, a battle of passive aggression good enough to win an Olympic medal once this inevitably becomes a sport.

Jenny at this point became intangible, Sigarda's hand going through her as she shrunk back a bit listening to Victoria speak. She's still totally visible, just unable to be touched, hiding behind her hair. Like Selysia said, she's a lot like Callie, the main difference is Jennifer's detached standoffish nature that isn't shy but rather simply doesnt want to interact. Verses Callie, who seems spooked like a cat you just pulled out of the bath each time someone tries to speak to her. Jen blinks as she sees her mother's hand passing through her and lightly mumbles an apology before becoming tangible once more.

Victoria simply doubled down on her insistance on everyone doing their fair share of the work. "Well, what have you been training her to do? Your job Sigarda? Or Astrids? You know James here killed his first disloyal worker at the meager age of eight?" She takes a puff of her cigarette before putting it out in a nearby ashtray, speaking through the smoke. "You really need to remember to pull your weight in the family... Influence, wealth, and power don't come by reading books in a cozy nook at home..."

Vivian shifts at that statement, as if it was partially aimed at her, which gives Victoria the perfect timing to go in on her next, especially given Octavius' interjection. She chuckled at him, sipping her wine as she states. "Yes well then that remaining parent, wherever they are, should really begin her training. I mean twelve and not working? We're not running a cha- ah allow me to correct myself" She shifts so she can lean forwards in her chair and emphasize the point. "My money isn't going into a charity here. I've been working my dearest James and Rell to the bone to make up for the slack that the rest of the family has been lacking in, and I brought you both here not just because it's good to see family and have nice meals together because I love you and all that..." The way she says love is like she has a contract requiring her to, but, she didn't sidestep the word, which has to count for something. "-but also to remind you to keep up your end of the social contract like how Juniper used to before she wasted away like I always told her she wou-"

THUD

A buzz in the blood of those at the table, as a server who was about to bring out bread and such drops dead on the spot, Vivian's ungloved hand pointed towards him, having crushed his heart inside his chest. Silently, the young girl puts her glove back on. Jenny has already turned invisible, and likely won't be reappearing for another few minutes. Rell puts hand on her brother to relieve any pain from the terrible buzzing sensation in all their veins, and Victoria sighs. "Tsk, I suppose you're right, that was harsh." She waves a hand at the other servers, standing there terrified as a few unfazed Stelorana servants slip by and carry off the body.

Vivian glares daggers at her aunt, and Victoria stares back, smiling.

"You have a killer's heart, just like Juniper, with the sharp features to match. Perhaps I was wrong, perhaps the Stelorana aren't down the skills of a high assassin... for after all, surely you wouldn't waste her skills as an enforcer would you Octy?" She belittles his role in the house, favoring the role Juniper once took, creating poisons and the likes, a single prick killing with certainty. Nothing like the brute strength of her father.

But Astrid couldn't take much more of this. She would have barked back, but unfortunately, Victoria was right. Of the family, they were the slackers perhaps ignoring Carmilla given the few times she's useful the job is done in certainty. Victoria knows this, but her piece is said, as food is laid out for the groups, and she gestures to them all. "Regardless, I thank you all for attending, please, eat, enjoy this calm time we all work so hard for." A light jab, but seemingly the last one, as she eats her light plate of food, and other than responding to the few last remarks of those around her, she seems to turn everything from a group discussion back to individual talks, the tone of conversation turning lower, lighter, and more private. Jenny even eventually reappears, sheepishly starting to eat her food, a nice calm family brunch.
 
Liza couldn’t help but chuckle as she watched Callie timidly interact with Jasper, who seemed ready to pop out of his seat with energy. Liza watched Jasper stand up and smile at his mother’s permission. She even caught his slightly sheepish look at whatever Selysia whispered to him. She was quick to turn her attention to Callie, though. She was a little worried the girl would get too overwhelmed with Jasper.

“If you need, you can come right back. But Jasper is sweet and will ensure you’re alright, I promise. Have fun exploring, dear.” Liza tried to make her comments light, hoping it wasn’t stressing her too much to have Liza acting so familiar with her. This was a hard adjustment, Liza wished it would soon even out. Especially for poor Callie’s sake. Liza almost felt guilty for sending her off with Jasper, the poor thing had looked at her so pleadingly.

The air had barely stilled with Jasper and Callie leaving before Selysia filled it again. And Liza quickly wished she had gone with her daughter. She wondered how long that line of questioning would take for Selysia to tug at. Jasper took after his mother.

“She is, but I have full confidence that she will settle down and adjust well. She is lovely.” Liza unconsciously scooted closer to Jane. She didn’t realize she had done it until she brushed against Jane’s elbow when she stiffened at Selysia’s next conversation piece. Liza felt her throat tighten as she swallowed hard and blinked at Selysia, seeing Daniel behind his wife make a slightly awkward face.

“I…um.” Jane’s mouth moved but Liza could barely make out her words. She had a brief moment of both women’s mouths hanging open before she could stumble through a response to her aunt. “It has come up…” Liza fought the urge to look at Jane in a panic. She had spoken with her best friend about this many times, confiding in her the trepidation of such an occurrence. Only Jane and Liza’s sister knew that once her visions of Callie had started so had her nervousness about the family’s insistence that she marry.

“Tell me Aunt Selysia, what do the others say about it? Surely there isn’t an arrangement being made yet?” Liza could almost hear a wavering in Jane’s voice and wasn’t sure which of them was the cause.
––––––

Jasper led Callie through the parlor’s door and out into the open space of the back lawn. Scattered, purposefully, through the garden were extremely lifelike statues in various poses. Looking out over the garden’s short hedges, Jasper grinned at Callie and bounced on his heels. He was the self-appointed tour guide, and it had been a long time since he’d been able to lead someone new around the Stelorana Manor and Grounds. He was trying to figure out what to show Callie first, and it was much more exciting to keep the house tour for last.

The boy might seem to be a spastic and energetic boy, which was true, but he did do his best to pay attention to people. His father had taught him that sometimes, listening and watching will teach you a lot about a person, even without talking. But Jasper struggled with that concept a lot. So he tried to get people to talk. It was more fun to engage with people than to watch them anyway.

“This is my mom’s garden. Well, sort of. She takes care of the statues! It was Aunt Juniper’s garden, too, but she’s…gone now.” He trailed off for a moment and then turned back to her and beamed, the momentary gloom dispersed. As he led her farther from the door, he slipped his thumbs through the belt loops of his navy pants, taking on an air of importance. “Sometimes, she lets me come and help.”

With a raised hand, he wagged a finger towards a large, quaint building towards the edge of the garden. “And the shed back there is where James hangs out a lot! Sometimes, he lets me in while he’s working. He collects bones!” Jasper stopped briefly to glance at Callie, fidgeting with his belt loops. “And we have a pond and a waterfall! In the winter we can ice skate! You’ll love it!”

He wandered through the outer edge of the garden with Callie in tow, bringing them up to the first statue. It was a

“So, do you know what your gift is yet?” He whirled around to face Callie with a curious gleam in his eyes, marching backward for a few yards.

“Don’t worry if you haven’t. Mom says sometimes they’re hard to figure out. I figured mine out before they found me. But it was really scary.” He took a breath, ducking around the corner of a hedge and peering at the statue nearest them. “I almost got lost! I thought I was going to die or something. But I bet you felt pretty scared too huh?”

He was trying to see if Callie would open up with him; it would be great if she would, but he tried to keep his mother’s caution in mind, too. He knew he was a talker; everyone made sure to remind him of that, and he did tend to have too much energy for most to handle. But he had a good feeling about Callie! She seemed like once she settled, they could have a lot of fun! And he would enjoy trying to guess her gift in the meantime.
––––––

Sigarda gave Jenny a comforting smile and nod, moving her hand to the back of the chair instead so that her daughter wouldn’t feel too guilty about turning intangible again. At the rate this meal was going she probably would and Sigarda wished she could too.

“It’s alright, love.” She whispered before turning back to Victoria as she continued.

She didn’t respond to Victoria asking what they were training Jenny for; she simply gave Victoria a dark look. The truth was that Astrid and Sigarda weren’t planning to make Jenny do a job like that. But Sigarda hated most that Victoria was not wrong. Astrid had been working diligently, and Sigarda was working within her place in the family. But it was true that they weren’t training Jenny for either role. And that was breaking with family tradition. Sigarda felt her cheeks warm, and she glanced at James when Victoria mentioned his first kill. She could tell that James was bothered by the statement, too, catching the way his Adam’s apple jumped in his throat.

Sigarda glanced at Astrid with silent frustration but also a pang of guilt. She wanted to make a retort but as usual, Victoria had the last word and they were frustratingly accurate.
______

Octavius flinched at Victoria’s words and then again at the interruption. The server’s body hitting the floor was less alarming than watching Vivian slip her glove back on. Octavius felt the anger from the disrespect to Juniper subside to fear and a new wave of grief. There was no way he was keeping Vivian safe from Victoria. And he wasn’t sure it was Victoria she needed protecting from. He swallowed hard and struggled to pull his gaze away from Vivian, as Victoria called him by his nickname. Hearing it made him flinch again. He turned sharply to glare at her. She was the last person allowed to call him that. And he made sure to think it as loudly as possible.

He didn’t respond aloud to what she had said. Simply sitting in anger as the food was passed around. Victoria always seemed to have everything planned and the fact that she had managed to reprimand everyone, and casually at that, all before they had been given their food was almost impressive. She had always had that knack. Octavius took a moment to eat, his tusks aching with an unforgettable memory. He glanced at Vivian, cautiously, worried about her but also anxious that interfering would accomplish very little. They would just eat quickly and get out as soon as possible. But perhaps it was time to give up his wishful thinking and accept that Vivian was a Stelorana, that he was a Stelorana, and falling in line with the family way was inevitable.
______

James flinched at Victoria, using him as a part of her reprimands. He felt some eyes shift to him, and he did his best not to avert his gaze. Under the table the fidgeting grew more frantic and he flinched as a sharp movement caused the bone spur to glance off his arm and hit his knee, slicing the pant and nicking his skin. He ignored it and stared at his mother. She wasn’t lying about working he and Rell so hard. But he didn’t like being used as a chip against his family. He could see the seething in Sigarda’s eyes, and how she had a hand protectively on Jenny’s chair. Hs poor cousin was doing her utmost to stay out of the spotlight and he felt almost guilty, not that he had any hand in what was being said.

He didn’t notice Vivian removing her glove or causing the server’s collapse. But the renewed buzzing in his blood and the thud quickly drew his attention. He had been unsurprised by his mother’s jab at Juniper, and Octavius. But more shocked at how Octavius had spoken up at all, and Vivian’s cold action had been even more of a shock. He felt Rell’s hand on his arm and the buzzing subsided, and he found himself glancing at her with a mix of relief and anxiety. At least that surprise had brought about the end of the whole ordeal, but James couldn’t help but feel like somehow that was an outcome his mother had been very pleased with. He knew that Vivian was the focus of attention given her gift.

As much as he hated to see it happen, none of them were able to escape the expectations. As Victoria had said, he’d started at eight. As Victoria made her final remarks and the food was delivered, James watched Vivian, his eyes searching her face as he thought. If Victoria did get her way and one of his little cousins was sent on a mission with either him or Rell, or both, how would that be? He hated the idea, and the possibility of having to have anything to do with the training of either of the children made him feel sick. Part of him was secretly rooting for Sigarda, Astrid, and Octavius to somehow miraculously keep Jenny and Vivian away. His mother might be proud otherwise use his “accomplishment” at the age of eight against them but she didn’t care that he’d had nightmares for weeks after. And how she’d punished him for trying to avoid doing his job after the incident.

The atmosphere at the table shifted again, dying down a little as they all ate and slowly started to chat again but James stayed quiet. He slowly picked at his meal, glancing around the table and listening to whatever snippets he could. He found himself glancing at Rell throughout the meal and wondered what she was thinking. Had she known this was the plan for the brunch? He knew Mother kept her more in the know than she did him so he wouldn’t have been surprised if Mother had told Rell of her frustrations with the slackers in the family. And he wondered if, despite his youthful diligence, she considered him among them.
 
Selysia was blissfully unaware of her niece's romantic situation. Not because they were both women, after all they were all quite odd, being gay hardly made any Stelorana bat an eye, look at Sigarda and Astrid for example. Rather, the idea of being even interested in someone both outside the family and not someone who elevates the standing of the Stelorana in general... well that's just untenable. She sipped at her tea, smiling knowingly at Liza's seeming discomfort, giving a knowing smile, despite being wrong in assuming the startled response was due to an idea of there being no directly suitable alternatives to single life.

She couldn't help but smile with mild excitement at the question of arrangements being made, wrongly thinking Liza would be just as excited about it as herself. "Well, I can't say for sure... but some of the family have been discussing you speaking with the twins or Vera, and a few other options..." She softly sips her tea, and sighs happily. "Oh it would be lovely for you to finally have someone wouldn't it dear?"
_______________________________

Callie quietly stepped through the garden, glancing about curiously at the many evidences of the family's wealth scattered about. Fountains and beautiful black statues, pagodas, swings, gazebos, and plenty of beautiful flowers. A few servants silently tended to the space as the pair moved about, trying as most Stelorana servants often do, to remain unseen for as long as possible.

The youngest of the family steps before a statue, its visage of a man screaming to the sky, reaching for something with a look of pure anguish across his face. Calliope shuddered softly, only taking solace in the fact that it wasn't real despite its seeming realism. She glanced at her translucent cousin as he spoke, noting that none of the statues seemed to have a speck of dust or dirt on them despite probably having been outside for quite some time now. Servants probably could have cleaned them, but Callie supposes it's good Selysia has a hobby.

She hadn't spoken, just absorbed what Jasper had been saying up until that point. Almost looking surprised as she was asked what exactly she can do.

The girl paused, considering for a moment. "Its... I uh... things stop when I hold my breath..." She wasn't sure how else she could explain it to him, especially given she doesn't understand it very well herself. Things have moved oddly ever since she got here, something she's gotten used to, her flow through time being asynchronous from those around her. Perhaps if she had more a mind for prose she would relate it to her own disconnect from the rest of the family right now, but she had more on her mind today.

"I can show you, if you want..." She trails off a bit. It's fair to assume, knowing Jasper, he would be enthusiastically into the idea, and so the youngest of the family takes a second, drawing in a long breath, before her hair all stands on end as she holds her breath suddenly. Callie takes a moment to appreciate how quiet things were like this, how calm. She walked a bit away, taking a flower from the ground, and placing it in Jasper's hand, before sitting on a bench just in his view as her breath ran out and she gasped for air, time resuming once again.
_______________

From there, the brunch went the way of most Stelorana family gatherings. Business talk for the adults, a bit more civilized on Victoria's end as she briefly discusses the state of any assets the manages for those old enough at the table. Rell would ask Jenny how she was adapting to a lukewarm response as the girl finally turned tangible once more to eat her food. Astrid only spoke sparsely to everyone but Sigarda and Jen. Vivian though, would not stop side eyeing her aunt Victoria, only getting sly smiles in response. After all, Victoria was quite happy with the results. The slackers were reminded of their place, the kids were given offers, and she even got to brag a little bit too boot. Overall, a very successful morning, tipped off with a simple "Remember everyone, family dinner in the manor at six o'clock, Grandmother will be attending, do not be late. But again, thank you all for attending."

The Stelorana come into this new world with a set of memories, the capacity to be successful from the moment they arrive. Perhaps its a secret to their success that they can send their children out and put them to work so early. But, this latest generation has been resisting it. Just look at Jasper. Three years younger than his next elder cousin and hardly having been trained due to the coddling of his mother. Selysia would be dealt with elsewhere, but today at least should have set the record straight for a few.

Soon plates were stacked and taken away by the surviving kitchen staff, all still on edge from the sudden broad daylight murder the table's preteen had committed. Not that any consequences would reach them. No police officer in the city would dare touch them. Loaded out into their cars and such likes, some even walking. Off they went.
______________

Victoria had to head to a business meeting, taking a separate car from her two children. She didn't even really notify them, simply stepping in to a different buggy, giving them a small wave, and disappearing down the road as a second car pulls up to collect them.

Rell for one, this time felt a little relieved. Usually she practically worshipped her mother, but today James was in what she calls one of his 'moods'. It's a bit of a demeaning way to describe it, but it's how she justifies everything. Slipping in to her seat, she pats the space next to her and got comfy for the ride through the outer hills of the city to get back to the manor.

It was only after a few minutes into the drive that she finally broke the question, after checking that the window between them and the driver was fully closed to give them privacy. "Soooooo what did you wanna show me? Cmoooon I gotta know!" A curious grin across her face.

__________

Vivian and Octavious meanwhile would get into their own car, Vivian having been quiet throughout most of this, she finally seems to crumple once in the seat, placing her head in her palms and taking a few long breaths. She can't put together how to speak, and now she has to do all this again, going out once more, even if its within her own home it feels like she needs to make a second whole journey.


Vivs had killed before, accidentally usually, with the occasional one done out of anger. But never just for the sake of it. Never just for the sake of killing. She took a long breath out, closing her eyes and breathing in slowly. She finally looks at her father, eyes full of pleading, but not knowing what he could do. Finally closing her eyes once more and softly saying.

"Dad... I.... I think she's right... Someone needs to do Mom's job."

_________

Finally, Jenny and her moms started their walk back, once again taking them both by their hands. Two years so far, two very happy years, but they can't be happy forever. Maybe aunt Victoria was right? But then again. She looks to Astrid. Jenny was not able to do magic like her, and some other older family members might be a bit against her wasting her gift. Jen turns to Sigarda. Similarly, she can't do her other mother's job as a healer for the same reason. She's an all to common trait of being unable to be categorized. Unless she finds a unique way to perform her gift, or some new undiscovered abilities awaken.

She brushes a bit of hair out of her face, glancing around and seeing a few others walking about. Normal people, everyday people, trying to be subtle, yet failing to hide their stares. Quickly Jen covers her face into her hair again, a motion with Astrid noticed, but decided not to comment on, giving her daughter some privacy in her own mind, a courtesy not everyone in this family can provide.

Jenny finally breaks the silence, but unlike the rest of the family, cooped up with their thoughts right now, all Jen says is a soft. "Love you guys..." The gloomy girl not saying it often, she was more of a loving actions than loving words type, but from Astrid's subtle smile, it was much appreciated.
 
Liza and Jane gave each other a brief, meaningful look. Liza felt trapped and thoroughly jealous of her daughter and nephew’s current absence and gifts. If only! Liza hadn’t given much thought to marriage or another person to share her life with. She’d had Jane for as long as she could remember, her sister, and their parents. And that had been as much family as she’d wanted. And then The Benefactor had given her Callie. And so now, of course, it was expected. But, she’d figure out how to get through this, she would have to.

She smiled weakly as Selysia’s exuberance continued. She stifled a choke as the twins and Vera were mentioned. None of those options were ones she was even remotely interested in. The twins were younger than her and not bad by any means, not that she was particularly close with them. They kept to themselves, mostly taking care of their mother. And Vera, well, she was a recluse and a bit vicious.

“Yes, it would be lovely to finally have someone.” Liza couldn’t understand the feeling, but her heart felt like it was racing and dropping through the floor all in a heartbeat as she heard Jane say the words.
______

Jasper grinned as she opened up. Maybe she wasn’t so shy after all! He nodded eagerly as she offered to show him and watched her suck in her breath. It seemed like last night, with how she seemed to just disappear. He had barely blinked before there was a flower in his hand and she was suddenly sitting on a bench.

“Whoa! That’s so cool!” Jasper jogged over to her, clutching the flower. He grinned at her very big, watching how her hair rose and fell with her breathing. “That makes a lot more sense now! Does Liza know?” He wondered aloud as he hopped around in front of her. “Oooh, how long can you hold your breath?” Jasper hopped onto the bench next to her, sitting on the back of it with his feet on the seat.
______

James managed to endure the rest of the brunch, chatting meagerly with Rell and their cousin Jenny. He was still a little shocked at the twist this brunch had taken. He knew Vivian had many kills behind her —largely accidental— but something about seeing her kill the waiter just to lash out at Victoria was satisfying and frightening. If only he’d managed to lash out and shut Victoria up like Vivian had. Even though it hadn’t lasted and had likely played right into Victoria’s hand.

Once the brunch had ended with the promise of another tense family gathering in the evening, James gladly gave his goodbyes, preparing himself for the ride home. But he relaxed visibly once they had all filtered out of the restaurant, and their mother climbed into her own vehicle, leaving him and Rell on their own.

As he followed Rell into the car he watched the car holding their mother drive away. Then, he looked into the car as Rell patted the seat and gave a soft smile. As much as her loyalty to their mother, despite all that she had done especially to Rell, he was still glad he had her.

Folding himself into the car, it was slightly more cramped than the other car, James braced an arm against the window and enjoyed the peace before Rell interrupted it with her questioning.

“You’ll have to wait until tonight! It’s not something I have with me to just show you!” He met her curios grin with his own, feeling his nerves tingle along his spine. He wondered if sharing the secret place he ran off to to escape the family was a wise idea, or if he was more nervous that she would be disappointed or make fun of him. He also hadn’t prepped anything, this was all very impulsive and he hated being impulsive.

“After dinner, provided we don’t have a family feud. I’ll take you and show you.” Despite what she had said at brunch, James still feared their mother finding out and somehow ruining this small part of his life. “I don’t want anyone else in the family to know. And if you make fun of me at all, I’ll never speak to you again.”

James threatened jokingly, his eyes glimmering lightheartedly despite the tired smudges under them. He’d not been sleeping well lately, and he honestly wasn’t sure how late he’d manage to stay awake this evening. The idea of sleeping was tempting, but the afternoon was quickly passing by and there would likely not be much time for rest before dinner.

“So, you think Mom will get Vivian and Jenny now?” James asked with a sigh, changing the topic so as not to risk Rell pestering him more about it.
______

As Octavius and Vivian got settled into their car the driver immediately headed en route to the manor. Octavius didn’t mind that the ride was silent, it made the memory of brunch play over and over in his head though. He didn’t really know how to handle what had happened. He wanted to avoid all of this, pretend it didn’t exist. Once again, for the countless times, today he wished Juniper was still here.

He glanced out the window for a moment and then turned to watch Vivian, hearing her breathing change. She had been very quiet since she killed the waiter, and he was worried for her but once again didn’t know how to reach out. He was about to try when she looked up at him, her eyes begging him. Octavius reached out and placed a large hand on his daughter’s back, drawing her closer to him.

“I know.” He sighed, feeling his shoulders sag as he leaned back against the seat. “Your mother and I wanted differently for you. But I want you to know that this is your choice, and I am here for you, no matter what.” He looked at her again, taking in the troubled look on her face, how soft her voice was.

“What do you want?”
______

Sigarda led her little family out of the restaurant after the necessary goodbyes and happily took her daughter’s hand, leaving the occurrences at brunch behind them. As they walked, Sigarda replayed Victoria’s cold words, feeling more and more frustrated that they’d all been handled so deftly, so thoroughly. But that was Victoria’s specialty, she was a strong arm within the family for a reason. And she was right, they weren’t pulling their weight. Whatever their reasons were for attempting to buck the system, they had all been reminded that they were Stelorana, and that was out of their control.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Jenny brush her hair out of her face, showing her extra eyes for a brief time before the stares became too much for her. Even with Sigarda’s irritable expression and formidable, angelic appearance onlookers were still brazenly gawking as the trio walked by. Sigarda had long grown used to it, and Astrid was familiar enough with public image as well. It would take Jenny time but eventually, she would learn to ignore their stares. It seemed, after today, Jenny would have to learn a lot.

Jenny’s proclamation gave her pause, breaking her from her unhappy thoughts. She glanced down at her daughter with a surprised expression that quickly melted into a loving smile, her eyes shining slightly. At least this would not be lost. Even if they couldn’t keep Jenny away from the family forever, they would still have each other.

As they reached their home Sigarda glanced at Astrid, giving her a meaningful look as they passed the threshold. They needed to discuss brunch. Especially before dinner that evening. It would not do to be unprepared for a family gathering, let alone one with Grandmother attending. And not if there were to be any announcements or things being discussed as a family.

“Love, your mother and I need to talk, will you give us some time?” She released Jenny’s hand as they entered the house, moving to take Astrid’s now. The house had a well-sized study that Astrid had taken over quite thoroughly, and Sigarda led her there.
 
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