Fantasy Bone Song

[Eliruz]

Eden|Custos|Human Form
Car to Villa
scorpiodragon Shaded Kipsy
​

Eden relished the fresh air and the relaxing music vibrating the car around her. She quickly rolled down her window, allowing the wind to comb through her hair; the ocean breeze carried so many new scents, it overwhelmed Eden with excitement. Closing her eyes for a few moments and letting a hand get pulled slightly into the wind. As she heard Ordan speak over the whipping wind in her ear, she leaned back into the car and had a huge, genuine smile tugging at her lips.

'Another hour until relaxation and swimming!' She thought to herself, joy overtaking any second thoughts she had.

Turning back to the open window, her jade eyes continued to take in the beautiful dense forests and greenery. Throughout the long drive and amazing scenic drive, Eden decided to stay awake for it all, allowing herself to be transversed in the nature around them. Eden breathed in slowly and exhaled when they soon turned onto the hidden drive.

Adesina, in the meanwhile, was silently watching the many trees and vegetation go by, admiring the beauty of the nature around them. Getting lost in her thoughts, the vampire alpha hadn't notice that they had even arrived.

 

[scorpiodragon]

Posting for Lenny:

Arriving at the airport ember clung onto larkin from previously onto his arms to soon after piggy back riding him, being mates at last Ember nuzzles into Larkin's neck as she starts to purr lightly. Finding a clothing store on the way out she whines and whimpers as she really wants to go there to purchase new items , pointing to the store she whispers into his ear. “Can we get new clothes pleeaassseeee??"

 

[Shaded]

Larkin A. Andley
Interaction: Ember (Lenny)

Arching a brow, the male had been observing as the pack left the jet, and when they arrived at their destination he had gladly let her clamber onto his back. He didn't really protest since she was relatively light to him. "Yeah, where should we go first?" he mused while letting his hands loop around her legs to keep her up without tumbling off too far to the side. Letting his blue eyes flick around the area, he sucked in a fresh breath of air from the new island, he was quite fond of the fresh breeze that brushed past him. "Do you want swimsuits? Dresses--any in particular to your tastes?" he had been alive for when most of the clothing items were first created. Bouncing as he walked teasingly to jolt her awake a bit he proposed again, "Since we aren't with the pack we can go find something to eat too! Get a bite here and there after going to the beach--" he turned towards Ember, leaning back his head to give her a light and quick peck on her chin.​

 

[scorpiodragon]

Ember eagerly nods in happiness as he gives her approval and in fact encourages to go get clothing for herself. being kissed on the chin made her blush a light red "y-yes that sounds like a great plan." as she hopped off of him and in a way sprinted into the boutique. going down the isles of clothing she observed and inspected the clothing, trying to find something that might fit her interest as she bends over to inspect on a bikini set on the lower shelf. finally managing to reach it and grab it she finally finds larkin behind her as she blushes yet again. clearing her throat she moves on the subject " i umm. i need your opinion for how it looks on.." she blushes before rushing to the closet and locking it.

 

[Shaded]

Larkin A. Andley
Interaction: Ember (Lenny)

Waiting for her to plop down on her own feet, he watched as she rushed off eagerly. He didn't have the time to really register the pinkish rosy blush spreading over her features before she made a run for a shop. He followed behind at a slower pace, his blue eyes looking over the different clothing that were spread out within the store. He had been looking over at a few shirts before he watched Ember make a b-line towards some swimsuits, and following after her as to not loose the eager mate of his. Larkin was nearly beside her when she bent down and grabbed a piece she liked before twirling back up towards him quickly. Observing as she cleared her throat and asked him for his opinion later on he nodded, "Sure--" and she was off again. Chuckling he moved off towards the wall, his back leaning against one of the pillars used to keep the building up with the ceilings that hung low slightly. He was waiting near the dressing room, having heard her lock the door he felt satisfied that she was enjoying herself.

Silvia A. Brandt
Location: Hawaii
Interaction: Jaehwa Kipsy , Custos

Smiling, Silvia nodded her head, “Yeah, it can be rough with turbulence—I guess I never knew that planes could have that affect on people,” she mused scratching at the back of her head. Flipping the red hat off, she held it in her grasp while her blue eyes flitted over Jaehwa she noticed he did seem a bit distracted and quickly let him get back to it. She felt bad for having him do all the work, so maybe when it came to their hotel she could help somehow for Jaehwa’s help and Ordan’s decision to pay for the expensive trip. Before long and a snap of the fingers she was sitting in the car with Ordan behind the wheel, her eyes casted towards the side with her eyes looking over the terrain. She hadn’t been to Hawaii or off the main U.S area, so going to a few secluded islands with volcanoes was a startling dream coming to reality. Turning g towards the pack, she shuffled her hands together watching as they got along either in silence or softly speaking to one another. Turning away towards the window again, she wondered what might they do in Hawaii, if they were to go straight to the hotel she might try and find a shop to buy clothes at while they all unpacked their things.​

 

[scorpiodragon]

Khenan, Larimar & Abha
Location: A rural beach
​

The water was still and calm, the surf lapping gently at the white sand of the shoreline as the moon pushed and pulled the tides, a moon that was always hidden within the day. A black wolf rested on his haunches as he stared out at the ocean, a pup resting at his paws. Further down the beach, a pale woman walked. Far enough away from any human settlements, the four explored the beaches of the United States, having taken shelter within a sea cave off shore, swimming towards the beach to enjoy the sand under paw, the pup having spent some time bounding through the surf under her papa’s watchful eyes. “Larimar. You should get inside. The sun cannot be easy on you,” spoke the wolf without turning.

The woman turned and looked to the pair of wolves. “It is a bit harsh. I miss it dearly.”

The black wolf chuckled. “Indeed...Abha would hate to lose her cousin. Geisha should be back soon hopefully. You know she went to one of those mystics.”

“Geisha always believes in that fortune telling and prophetic visions,” said Larimar. “Something about us joining a pack in America or something.”

“She interprets vague words as meaning something deeper yes,” spoke Khenan. He turned his head as he heard his cousin’s footsteps head towards the sea cave, the woman soon disappearing beneath the water. Watching as she reached the slippery rocks and climbed up them before ducking into the cave, he turned his head back towards the ocean and then settled down on his stomach, resting his head over his daughter’s shoulders, the pup sleeping soundly after her papa and aunt had worn her out.

Geisha
Location: Airport, Mentioned: Boreal Pack
​

Geisha stroller through the parking lot before entering the airport and heading towards the meeting point to see if what the mystic said was true about strangers from the mainland and their enemies of sun and moon coming to Hawaii as well. The werewolf watched the passerby head past her so far the smells were overwhelmingly human. Too much so that earth and fire were covered up. She was getting hungry and undoubtedly the rest of her kin were as well, particularly little Abha. Her brother and cousin didn’t believe much in visions or the subtle mysticism of prophecies and omens, fortune tellers passed off as crazy but Geisha did. This she would follow this lead until she discovered the truth for herself or the deception.

Rhea & Oliver
Location: Airplane to Car
​

Rhea and Oliver disembarked the plane when it came to a stop, Oliver shielding his face in Rhea’s neck at the bright sun as he pulled out an umbrella he’d packed with him, opening it and holding it up over the half-diving’s while walking to the car. Rhea let him get in and then took the umbrella, closing it and sliding into the seat next to him as they waited to see where they were going next. Not seeing Larkin with them, Rhea rumbled to herself, Oliver's hand resting on her thigh and squeezing gently to calm the girl. “Calm Rhea,” said Oliver. “I am sure Larkin can catch our scent even if he does not come with us.”

“He is a vampire darling.”

“He is also older than us lark,” said Oliver I return. “He may be able to stand the sun longer like my mother. And if he should get lost...well he is obviously outta practice and tis his own fault for what happens to him.”

“‘Tis not our job to watch over the sun and moon?”

Oliver removed his hand from Rhea, giving his blood a hard long stare, eyes turning red. “We’ve not been called for that nor tis our job none more,” spoke Oliver. “Ye forget what papa said.”

Rhea bowed her head. “Aye mine brother.”

 

[Kipsy]

Jaehwa
Location: Outside the Custos villa | Interacting: Ordan ( scorpiodragon ), Custos​

Jaehwa's eyes went wide. Had he heard that correctly? "A villa? Secluded beach?" He couldn't help but lean forward in his seat a little. "How much did you spend on us? We would've been fine in a hotel..." Despite his words, he only grew fonder of the alpha, and it was evident in his voice. "You spoil us," he said, shaking his head with a smile. Of course, Ordan would go out of his way to make this vacation special for them. He should've expected as much.

Throughout the hour-long ride to the villa, Jaehwa remained semi-silent, occasionally humming along to whatever popular song came onto the radio. The scenery was stunning, every inch of the vast landscape bringing awe to the omega. The grass was a vibrant green, the trees blew gently in the wind, and every once in a while he caught a glimpse of the ocean in between. At one point, he swore he saw a waterfall in the distance along with a rainbow. It was a literal paradise and he couldn't wait to explore it.

Wonder shone in Jaehwa's eyes when he finally stepped out of the vehicle and stretched. The villa was just as beautiful as the vegetation around it. He couldn't believe it was real, that he was actually going to stay in such a place. The feeling was akin to the one he felt upon first joining Custos with Ordan. Seeing the estate for the first time had felt like a trip to fantasy land. This, though... this was something else. Perhaps it was because it was new, but it felt different than the home. Not necessarily better or worse; simply different. It wasn't just that, though. He felt special, and it was incredible. There was a part of him that thought he didn't deserve this, but he pushed it to the side.

"Well, what should we do first? Ruin the interior of that awesome villa, or check out the beach?" he joked, a little breathless. "We could go shopping, too. Or exploring. Or--" He stopped himself there with a happy bob of his shoulders. "I say we check out the beach, but it's up to you guys." He spoke as though he didn't have a choice, like he couldn't go off on his own. It was a little silly, he knew, but he couldn't help himself.

 

[Kipsy]

Xen
Location: Custos home​

Hunger. It rumbled rawly in Xen's stomach, causing him to double over. He winced and let out a hiss through clenched teeth, resting a hand against the bark of a tree to steady himself. In his other hand, he grasped a small stuffed teddy that he'd had with him since, well, forever. When was the last time he'd eaten? He couldn't remember, but it for sure had been a while. Breathing in harshly, he straightened and pressed on, stumbling amongst the trees. There was a faint light in the distance. He approached it, desperation watering his eyes. It was a house, and a big one too. Standing still for a moment, Xen debated his options before heading up to the back door.

This wouldn't be the first time the rogue had stolen from another person. He'd done it plenty of times before, and not just for food. There were occasions when he even took showers in strangers' bathrooms just to feel a bit better about himself. Still, he never enjoyed what he had to do. It wasn't something he wanted for himself. This lifestyle didn't suit him. But what could he do? He had no home to go to, no family waiting for him, and he'd be damned if he let some orphanage take him in. No, he could take care of himself, but...

Turning the knob slowly, Xen crept into the house. He found himself immediately lost, wandering along the hall in a crouched position to stay silent. Where was the kitchen? He sniffed the air, his acute senses kicking in, leading him to the food he desired. His stomach growled at the sight of fresh groceries in the fridge. Urging it to be silent, he slowly slid out an apple and shut the refrigerator door. There were no meals, but some fruits would be more than enough for the hungry boy. He bit into the apple greedily, a loud crunch echoing the mostly silent interior. He just hoped no one was around to hear it.

 

[scorpiodragon]

Ordan
Location: Outside Custos Villa
​

There’s was a good deal of silence until he’d turned on the radio, until Jaehwa questioned him. Turning briefly to see Jaehwa leaning in his seat to face the alpha and for a while he decayed on a seeing the omega before he commented Ordan spoiled the pack. Least I can do. Even if this is one memory that may be altered or taken. “Several thousand dollars for a three and a half weeks vacation,” said Ordan. “You all deserve a vacation and Silvia needs training in shifting. The beach was a bonus with the possibility of shifting if needed taken into consideration.”

When Ordan had stopped the car, it seemed the girls hadn’t realized they had stopped. Jaehwa was first out as Ordan killed the engine and popped the trunk, the omega like a child as he observed his surroundings, staring in awe at the entire drive down the hidden and private road. “We’re here ladies,” said Ordan as he glanced in the rear view mirror at the three girls crammed into the back.

And like a child, he wanted to go exploring and rattling off everything he wanted to do. “Should I sign you up for surfing lessons while we are here?” Questioned Ordan teasingly before getting out, his words spoken to said omega. Jaehwa eventually stopped long enough to take a breather. “Go explore or whatever you wish to do. I’ll take the luggage in. If you like it at the end of the vacation, I might consider buying it.” Ordan had went all out on this vacation, a memory he wouldn’t mind keeping.

Glancing at the girls again, the alpha shook his head. Jaehwa seemed set on the beach. Heading towards the back of the car, he opened the trunk. “This place has sixteen bedrooms and ten baths. Some with king or queen beds and some with twin or double beds. You can choose your rooms now or later. For now...go enjoy yourselves, however that may be. Adesina, if you wish to go out, wait a tad while I get out the umbrella, that should shield you from the sun’s rays.” The only thing he had not invested in was security, that could be easily fixed if the alpha did patrols of the area regularly. It had a lot more features. A spacious luxurious kitchen with dishwasher, a patio with bbq grill and backyard, laundry room with washer and dryer, a pool with hot tub, play area with a few beds that were child sized, and lots of windows for natural light.

Ordan began unloading the bags from the car, waving off help if his pack would try to help. They were here to enjoy themselves, never mind that he was meant to relax. Ordan would fin something to do when the bags were put in the house, and he wanted to give each of them spending allowances while here for gifts to remember the trip by. Ordan already had four thousand set aside, one thousand for each of them which should be more than enough.

Finding the umbrella, he pulled it out and set it against the car, before continuing to empty the trunk until everything was piled out. Shutting the trunk, Ordan picked up two suitcases and turned to carry them into the villa.

Kipsy (Jaehwa) Shaded (Silvia) Eliruz (eden & Adesina)

Zumitri
Location: Custos Home
​

Zumitri had showered and slept, the trip entirely unexpected which left the doctor in Ithawell watching the house and no testing done. Having given strict instructions to Ordan’s pack, he had been entrusted with watching the house and given orders of his own. After waking up, Zumitri had made himself a quick meal, went to the hospital to check on production of the secret wing and then headed to Custos to check on the house. Everything seemed silent as he pulled up, the doctor shutting the car off and walking to the door, frowning as he saw the door was slightly ajar. Ordan....you forgot to lock the house, he thought to himself as he turned and heads back to his car, reaching in the glovebox and pulling out a gun with a few various bullets....never knew what one might deal with in Ithawell.

Zumitri loaded the gun with two of each bullet...regular, UV and silver...snapping the barrel into place and releasing the safety as he walked into the foyer and shut the door behind him. Hearing the sound of the fridge opening, Zumitri frowned to himself as he followed the noise and poked his head around the corner after moving towards a wall. One of the lucky ones that didn’t have many issues aside from no longer liking fireworks and a limp he made an effort to hide, Zumitri still fell back on his own training with the intruder’s race being unknown. Peering around the wall, he removed the safety, putting his finger on the trigger of the gun. Ordan would likely panic and shoot the kid first. Zumitri saw it was a kid and was willing to attempt talking before relying on cleaning up blood and brain matter. “You’re trespassing,” Zumitri said.

Kipsy (xen)

 

[scorpiodragon]

For Lenny:

As Ember was changing she felt a sense of closeness with Larkin as she felt like she can really rely on him with her life. undressing she put on her bikini quickly and took a deep sigh. Making sure she is secure, she sighs softly and walks out in a nice blackish blue two piece bikini to show to Larkin. "D-do you like it?... " she asks nervously, obviously being self conscious with her body infront of her mate.

 

[Eliruz]

Eden|Custos|Human Form
Villa
scorpiodragon Kipsy Shaded
​

As soon as Ordan announced they'd arrived, Eden snapped out of her adoration of the nature around them. The female quickly opened her door and squeezed herself out to find a large building; 16 rooms? Multiple rooms? Her heart nearly exploded with excitement and admiration for her pack mates; this week was what they all needed, just to relax. As soon as Ordan began grabbing bags, Eden thought for a moment.

"The beach is an awesome idea! Good thing I decided to wear my swimming suit underneath," the huntress mused and glanced over at Jae, "I've never been to a beach, so this will be a great opportunity!"

With a warm smile, the tanned female surveyed the area to possibly find the entrance to the beach. Her eyes followed the drive and found a second path that seemed to be made of sand; that must be the way out to the beach.

"I'll meet you guys there!" She spoke one last time before making her way down to the trail, sand getting into her socks and sneakers; it wasn't a pleasant feeling but as soon as she saw the view, it was spectacular and took her attention away immediately. A beautiful wash of colors painted the sky that reached down to hug an ever-expanding crystal blue mass, that lapped at the white sandy beach.

Eden stood there for a moment, taking it in before making her way down to a spot underneath a tree to stash her overlying clothes that hid her jade green two piece that was adorned with beautiful beads in certain places. Shimming out of her shirt and sweat pants, she kicked off her shoes and socks; her figure was petite and athletic, but still lean for her size due to her position as hunter. Eden quickly pulled her hair up into a ponytail before walking towards the crystal blue waters, the soaked sand beginning to leave her footprint in it.

"It's beautiful, Ordan, thank you for this; we all needed this.." She spoke to him through the mindlink, her tone filled with absolute joy.

Adedina|Custos|Vampire
Villa
scorpiodragon
​

Adesina stepped out of the car and shut it after everyone was out. Her gaze flickered towards Jae, who was absolutely excited and spouting about the beach; ah, the beach..she missed being able to go out in the sun to enjoy the warmth. Sometimes she wished she would've been turned by a werewolf, not a vampire. Snapping herself out of her thoughts due to Ordan's words.

Smiling warmly, the vampire alpha looked towards the house. "For now, I think I'll stay here, look around and get familiar with the house; maybe get a room set in place." She replied and went to help carry luggage in but was soon refused by Ordan.

 

[Shaded]

Silvia A. Brandt
Location: Hawaii
Interaction: Custos

Once the car came to a stop, Silvia looked towards the front as Jaehwa and Ordan led the charge once more to step out of the car, and not having luggage she was stepping out slower than the other two girls left back in the dust. Bringing her blue eyes up to meet the sky, she briefly caught the sight of some birds soaring around before she glanced downwards at the pack. Ordan stated she needed practice shifting—and she was a little unsure of that process. So as a ploy to distract herself she focused on the excitement the others had and attempted to grow eager as well. She didn’t exactly know how much everything cost, but she could place her life on it that it was way too much to ever repay him for it.

Glancing around she noticed two packmates dart off, the alphas staying back and speaking before parting as well. Silvia was going to help out but Ordan managed to shoo her and Adesina before she got the hint that he wanted to do it all on his own. Silvia was unsure if even that strain was good for his eye but let him do it. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, she knew she couldn’t go down to the beach with the other two, the only thing she had for clothes was what was on her body. Her pockets had her wallet in it with identification and such, as well as her own card, so she would probably head off on her own to buy some.

Though in her sudden mood she wanted to see the beach, she hadn’t seen one before and wondered what it was like to just walk along the shore and complain about sand getting on her feet. Walking away from the Villa, the young woman was hesitant before slipping her shoes off. Stepping onto the sand barefoot made her realize how hot it was, but she was drawn to the glittering and glimmering waves. The water calmed her, the view of the ocean was relaxing in some way as she stepped out to observe.

Larkin A. Andley
Interacting: Ember (Lenny)

While waiting, the male had been situated off to the side until he heard the click alerting him that Ember was close to being finished and that she just had to step out currently. Downcasting his eyes for a moment, he looked up when she began speaking to him. Letting his eyes wander over the fabric he nodded his head, blue eyes glimmering. “It looks great, but you make it gorgeous,” he mused the complement before stepping towards the girl. Examining his mate’s features he leaned down and kissed her softly on her forehead. “Would you like this one then?” he observed reaching out and brushing a strand of hair from the side of her face.​

 

[scorpiodragon]

Ordan
Location: Villa
​

Ordan watched the girls get out through the back window for a moment as he got everything unloaded, suitcases and carry on luggage. Eden spoke of the beach as well before heading down the sandy path towards it. As they had the place to themselves, Ordan did not warn the female hunter to be vigilant. Instead, as Adesina spoke of staying within the villa and exploring inside it with the possibility of picking out a room, the alpha nodded and set the bags down at the door before unlocking the villa and opening the door, allowing Adesina to enter first. Ordan followed his counterpart into the house and set the bags down in the living room before heading back out and bringing in Adesina’s umbrella, he had bought it for the vampire alpha after all. Setting it against a wall near the door, he paused on his way out the door as Eden’s voice came through, the wolf alpha chuckling to himself. “You’re welcome Eden. Enjoy yourself,” spoke the alpha mentally before making his way towards the SUV. Grabbing some more bags, the alpha thereafter made several trips to get everything in before grabbing his own luggage and heading off to look for his own room, a room that...if he bought the place...the alpha would have for as long as he lived.

Spoiler: Ordan’s Suite

Entering the spacious room, he dropped his bags on the floor and then headed towards the bathroom, examining the skylight above the bathtub. A door led out to a private balcony which the alpha appreciated before heading back into the room and then opened his carry on, pulling out four large bundles of money, setting them on the dresser. Perhaps he might need to consider hiring a house keeper before he left. Silvia was no longer there when he came back outside, the alpha surveying the front yard before heading over to his left to the tennis courts.

Mentioned: Eliruz (Eden & Adesina)

Akachi/Natasha
Location: Library
​

Akachi was waiting in the library, decked out in gray hoody and black jeans, the Shadow and former Acolyte of Emmanuel, sitting in a private study room as he waited for his guest to arrive. Sipping a water, he pursued a newspaper until a knock on the door arrived. “Shut the door,” Akachi said without looking up.

When the stranger had done so and taken a seat at the man’s request, the woman studied the stranger nervously, something the man must have picked up on. “For a lawyer, you are awfully nervous. Now...’y mistress wants to know...how will you serve and help the Blood Order?”

 

[scorpiodragon]

Looking back at Larkin, Ember blushed embarrassingly as she as kissed and given a compliment, giving release and ease on the tension of body consciousness. "T-thank you love.. I would love this one... but can we get a dress as well, for normal day clothes. you wouldnt want me to be walking around in the street in a bikini would you?" she mused as she kissed his lips once and walked off to the changing room to go back to her Pajamas. walking out of the room quickly enough she browses the isles and finally picks a dress and of course other clothing for other the dress such as undergarments , socks and bras since she had only one pair. Going back to the changing room she did the same method and slipped into the dress. popping out a bit more confident she gave a small pose with a win. “What do you think?" she giggles having fun at the shop.

 

[Shaded]

Larkin A. Andley
Interaction: Ember (Lenny)

Smiling as she went back to change, he was happy she was adjusting well, and observing as she closed the door to change he went back to the wall to lean against it. “I wouldn’t mind as much, I hear people who live near the beach usually wear shorts as their only coverage,” he snickered teasingly. Flicking his blue eyes towards a few other people that walked by he waited until she was ready to find more clothes. When she did, he hadn’t expected her to pick something out based on his time era of styling.

Glancing towards Ember as she modeled the dress he broke out into a grin, “I like it, it looks amazing,” he concluded. “After we buy all this, where would you like to go?” he mused, crossing his arms over his chest while raising a curious brow. “We have to show off your new clothes, after all,” he explained further. Even as he heard her giggle he knew she was happy, and in a sense that made him happy. “Do you want to go to another shop or walk around town?” he added.​

 

[Kipsy]

Jaehwa
Location: Beach | Interacting: Xiulan ( scorpiodragon )​

"Surfing?" Jaehwa repeated Ordan, humming as he thought about it. He'd tried back when he was five or six—and then he wasn't very good—but maybe things would be different now that he was older. As a plus, doing it as a pack would be a great way to bond. "I think we should all learn if we haven't already. It would be a fun thing to do together as a pack." He would love to give it a go. Overcome his undeniable fear of big waves. Conquer his anxiety. That would be nice for a change.

Seeing Ordan start with the luggage, Jaehwa headed over to help but stopped in his tracks. He could tell the alpha was serious about taking in the bags himself. “Alright,” Jaehwa caved, turning to head down to the beach. He followed Eden’s footsteps, but soon winded up trailing down a different fork in the path, one that was more covered with trees. Ending up a bit away from their side of the beach, Jaehwa admired the vegetation and the few birds he spotted. He’d worn sneakers for the flight, and as a result his shoes were filled with sand and small rocks. Despite that, though, he didn’t mind. The pleasant atmosphere made his mild discomfort well worth it.

Some sand rustled about in front of him and he froze, fear making his heart rate increase. After a pause, he moved towards it, crouching down and brushing away the sand. Was something buried? But then why was it moving? What he didn’t expect was to find a babe, small and covered with sand, hidden in the beach. Eyes widening, Jaehwa continued to gently brush away the dusty sand, making sure to remove the pebbles around her nose so she could breathe comfortably. Tears started to well in his eyes as he wondered who could possibly do such a thing.

“It’s okay, I’ve got you now,” he said as soothingly as he could, bending all the way over to lift the baby out from the hole he dug. “I’ve got you.” He felt faint, but there was no way he’d allow himself to pass out now, not when he was needed. “It’ll be alright.”

 

[scorpiodragon]

Basilia
Location: Master Rooms, Blood Order Headquarters
​

A knock on the door disturbed the couple from their sleep, Basilia opening her eyes as the door began opening. Leaning over Ken, she gently shook him before opening the drawer and again pulling out the knife from before. Unsheathing it, the woman turned halfway before throwing the knife at the person who entered her room. The Ascendant in question was forced to throw herself to the side as the knife embedded in the door jamb. “What the hell are you doing, entering my rooms?” Basilia questioned, eyes narrowing. “Do I need to clean house after all aside from myself and my Deputy?”

The girl swallowed as she pushed herself up to a kneeling position, not looking at her mistress. “Begging your pardon mistress but a shadow named Dominic was captured.”

The woman glanced at Ken before turning back to the girl. “How old are you?”

The girl blinked. “Eleven ma’am.”

“Eleven,” said Basilia. "How did Dominic get caught?”

“Captured by Boreal after a high speed chase, then was thrown out after being knocked unconscious.”

Idiots! The entire lot of them! “Who is available to terminate Dominic?”

“Ma’am?”

Basilia rose from the bed and moved over Ken, giving him a look that said he best not grab her again. Looking at the clock she saw the day had passed. It was now evening. The numbers glared 8PM. Striding over to the girl, Basilia grabbed her knife and sliced open the girl’s face, making her scream. “When I say do not disturb me, I mean it. Who is available?”

“A defiler I think. An MK-2 class.”

“MK-2?” She looked over her shoulder at Ken. “Very well. Inform it I will be there soon.” When the girl scurried out and shut the door, she turned to him. “Ken, are there more of you out there? I don’t know much so you’ll have to explain. That place you disappeared to...they’re good at keeping secrets.”

Ken looks calmly at Basilia as he is destined that she will have his offspring from all the time together they have spend but as he was spending time with her they were disturbed by the young girl as he just sat up on the bed. He was purely silent as he looked to Basilia and gave his confirming nod to her, he didn't care that she was all cut up and hurt really but it was strange to feel that it was a Blood Order member that was being harmed. As Basilia asks for information about the training facility he simply looks at her and rests a hand on her shoulder. "It's very complicated trust me... but all I can say is that there are more defilers and he will be better than me in performance... just do not abuse them with suicide missions.. Mk2 types are very rare..."

The woman looked at him. "More defilers," she said. Basilia flicked the blood off her knife and headed towards the sink, making her way into the closet and pulling out some sweats before pulling them on and then a shirt. "More idiots who seem incapable of fulfilling simple orders," she muttered under her breath. Basilia made her way towards the floor where she grabbed her bra and put it on before pulling a sweatshirt on over her head. Basilia was silent as she grabbed some boots and pulled them on, watching Ken as he lay there. "I assume you are not planning on getting up?"

"No. Quite comfortable here actually."

"Quite," said Basilia with a laugh before she got to her feet and sheathed her knife, putting it back in her drawer before leaving the room and Ken to do whatever he desired. Heading through the halls, she made her way towards the common area and saw the defiler standing there. "So...you come here out of the blue, the same day I come back to Ithawell. I'd say that's rather suspicious," she said. "I want you to kill someone for me. A man named Dominic who was captured by Boreal and bring proof that he was killed please and thanks," she said. Snapping her fingers, an Ascendant came forward with a file and she handed him the photo with the address after writing it down. "Destroy this when you are done. Kill and dispose of the body properly...I don't care how it is done or when. I trust you can handle a human who can't even do a job correctly? Good? The dismissed and try not to die."

Xiulan/Ordan
Location: Beach/Tennis Court​

Ordan could distinctly hear Jaehwa speaking of surfing before his footsteps disappeared towards the beach as the alpha had disappeared towards the house with bags, the alpha nodding curtly as the omega left at the suggestion of everyone learning to surf. He didn't know that they would be gaining a new pack member, none of them did after all and the time passed. Pacing the tennis court, the alpha looked for a tennis ball to throw against the wall, wondering if he should call Zumitri to check on his house. Deciding to leave it for a week and then check on the doctor, the werewolf alpha found a storage shed and opened it, finding a ball machine, rackets and balls. Grabbing one, he pulled it out and shut the door before tossing the ball against the wall and catching it. There was a risk, according to Zumitri, the alpha could end up blind from the attack of that pathetic human so he would need to improve seeing out of one eye for a while. Just in case.

At the beach the abandoned infant, only a few hours old, struggled to stay alive, some sand and pebbles around the child's nose, left to die of either starvation or the elements. Either way it would be a slow and agonizing death in which the infant would pass into the afterlife without help and none to care for her. For a while after her parents had left the child had ended up crying for her parents and from hunger, not even being fed before being abandoned, left to die. A custom still taking place in much of the third and fourth worlds. Yet as fate had been cruel to Malachi, fate was kind to this infant, a strange thing to think of. The infant, as she fell silent with the hours that passed, her cries growing quieter and weaker with each passing hour, stirred in a last attempt to survive though it seems highly unlikely. The child cried and stirred underneath the sand, attracting the attention of someone.

As she was lifted from the sand, the child opened her eyes to reveal two spheres of blue to look upon the stranger that held her, seeing a stranger who she couldn't place within her memories as ever seeing before. Words unknown were said to the infant as she saw clearly the strange features, the shock of dark hair and the faint glimmer of tears before Xiulan squirmed in his arms, opening her mouth to protest the feelings of cold and hunger. Litle did the infant know, this stranger was like her...a werewolf...though not at the same time for they were of two different worlds...and would take her in as his own child...much to his alpha's bewilderment and shock.

Kipsy (Jaehwa)

 

[scorpiodragon]

Ember during the meantime smiles happily at larkin and hugs him happily, kissing him over and over again as she is filled with joy. "I'm ok with going anywhere," she puts the clothing on the counter but is going to walk out with her dress on.

 

[Eliruz]

Adesina/Eden|Custos|Human Form
Beach
scorpiodragon @ anyone else
​

Eden made her way into the water, the warm body lapping at her toes and soon her legs as she waded in; a content sigh left her lips as she let herself soak in the sun, the beautiful scene, just everything. Her jade eyes flickered down to the crystal blue waters and she started to walk along the beach. She was just about to take another step when a tide caught her off guard, causing her to face forward with a yelp into the water belly down; luckily her arms came up and covered her face before she hit the salty water. Quickly pushing her small body from the water and shaking herself off, she grumbled quietly and quickly made her way back to her clothes. Now coated with white speckles of sand along her legs and torso, she snagged her clothes up and tracked her way up to the Villa once more.

"Hey, where were the bags put? I had..a mishap at the beach and need to shower, maybe just get everything in the way of selecting a room out of the way." She asked Ordan through the mindlink, hesitating to ask to speak with him; she felt like it was now or never on this trip, but she also didn't want him to just..be nice and go along with it. Shaking her head, she held her clothes loosely in one hand and tried to wipe off the white specks from her body with the other.

Adesina, meanwhile, was making her way down the halls, familiarizing herself with the many rooms. Finally getting to a room and opening the door, she glanced around and nodded; this was the room. She smiled and walked in, kicking the door closed with her heel lightly.

Spoiler: Adesina's Suite

Maliki/Evangeline|Future Lichen|Vampire
Airplane to Airport (Hawaii)
Shaded
​

After a short trip to the nearest airport, Maliki, Evangeline, and Silas boarded the first flight they could get their hands on for Hawaii, per request of Maliki so he could speak to Larkin and Sienna. Maliki, being the weary father he was, eyed the two young vampires nearly the whole plane ride, even as they conversed quietly about the smallest things, such as the beverages or even more broader topics that sparked their interest. The older vampire grumbled to himself nearly the whole time and had his arms resting on the arm rests, his fingers digging into the first-class leather.

The ride was a pretty long one, which prompted Evangeline to close her eyes and relax, though she didn't doze much except a few times. There was a time where her head bobbed and fell onto Silas' shoulder, which caused Maliki's gaze to snap up towards the two, a low and inaudible hiss leaving his lips. He would correct her position and rest her head back properly before glaring towards Silas for a few moments and went back to whatever he was doing at the time. Soon enough, the pilot came onto the intercom and announced their arrival, which was a huge relief to not only Maliki, but Evangeline as well; she had many cramps in her muscles from sitting still for so long.

Turbulence began shaking the airplane before they hit down on the smooth runway and were taken to the connecting tunnel that led to their exit gate. Having selected first class seats, the three were allowed to get up along with the other few people in First Class and exit first. Evangeline carefully picked her small carry-on up off the floor and stood, her arms stiffening as her body stretched upwards, her fingers brushing against the ceiling of the cabin barely. Maliki allowed Evangeline and Silas out and smiled to his daughter which soon turned to a dangerous glare as Silas made his way past the older vampire.

"It feels great to finally move around!" Evangeline commented joyfully, happy to just be on the ground. "It does, quite so, dear daughter."

 

[Kipsy]

Xen
Location: Custos kitchen | Interacting: Zumitri ( scorpiodragon )​

The apple hit the floor and rolled by Xen's feet, followed quickly by the teddy. He spun around to face a man. His eyes glimmered with fear. Trying to step backward, he tripped over his own feet and hit the ground. That didn't stop him, though. He pushed himself further away until his back was flat against the cabinets. This was as far as he could manage to get in the time that it took him to see a gun in the man's hands. That revelation froze him up entirely and he didn't dare move any further.

"I'm sorry," he said, keeping his voice level despite his terror. "I know it's trespassing." It was true: Xen knew what he did was wrong. But that wasn't enough incentive to make him ignore what this opportunity had once been. Now it looked as though he was just going to die anyway. "I'm just so hungry, I... There weren't many other options." His eyes lowered to find the stuffed bear. Slowly, he reached out for it, glancing up at the man every once in a while. "If... If you're going to kill me, could... could you at least let me hold it? It's the only thing I've had with me for as long as I can remember." The one constant he had. The only thing that stayed with him from his past life, whatever it might've been.

Jaehwa
Location: Beach | Interacting: Ordan & Xiulan ( scorpiodragon ), as well as anyone else who heard him yelling​

The baby was crying. She was moving. She was alive. And Jaehwa gasped out in relief. "Oh thank god!" he sighed, grateful there was enough strength left in the small child to have caught his attention in the first place. He pulled her closer to his chest to keep her warm, cradling her akin to how he'd learned when first holding Nisha. Standing up, Jaehwa scurried back to the villa as quickly as he could without putting the babe at risk. He continued to hush the child to the best of his ability, telling her over and over again that she would be okay, unsure of what else to do as he hurried to the large home.

"Ordan! I found a baby on the beach!" he yelled as he pushed open the slightly ajar door, feeling the need to notify the alpha of the newborn. "I think she's hungry; do we have some formula here? If not I need to drive to the store and--" The omega was on the verge of hyperventilating, the adrenaline rushing through him utterly overwhelming. What if the baby was sick? She had been out there under nothing but a thin layer of sand for who knows how long. Did the cold make babies sick? Why didn't he just automatically know these things?

Briefly, Jaehwa processed the smell of her in an effort to see if he could tell whether she was okay. The distinct scent of a puppy's breath caught his attention and it soothed him almost instantly. "Ordan, I think she's a wolf, too," he said, stunned by it all. "She smells like a puppy." It seemed oddly normal to him, as though all babies should emit this scent, but he knew Nisha hadn't. In any case, he tried to shake off his panic and focused on rocking the babe back and forth in his arms.

 

[Shaded]

Silas R. Landon
Location: Plane to Hawaii
Interaction: Evangeline/Maliki Eliruz

Having gotten on the plane with the two vampires, Silas hadn’t anticipated meeting someone older than himself—he knew her father had been born far before him but he never truthfully anticipated that he would stick with the female to meet her father—yet there he was with her and the older male on a plane to follow his pack. Casting his dark brown eyes towards Evangeline, he would occasionally switch to Maliki. Silas has noted the behavior of the male towards him, truthfully he didn’t know what that was about. He hadn’t spoken too much aside from replying to questions, maybe it was the fact that Silas was around when Maliki couldn’t to protect Evangeline, not entirely his problem.

He did grow a more casual way of speaking with Evangeline though, growing comfortable with her was not hard to adapt to. When they did converse, Silas didn’t feel like he was chatting with a stranger any longer—and as the plane was dismissing passengers, he left room for her to exit first before Maliki let him off next. He didn’t bother returning the glare from the older male, there wasn’t a grave important involved with it so he brushed it off like he did in his youthful days. Back in the day he faced worse than glared and snide remarks, and shaking that off he trailed behind Evangeline.

“Let me grab those,” he offered, holding his hand out to grasp the luggage she had taken down. Taking them in his grip he gave a first time smile towards the auburn haired female, brown eyes glinting knowing he either made her father displeased or made him angry—they were practically the same thing so he didn’t mind the reaction. Letting out an exhale as they began head out towards the aisle and down the tunnel attached to the plane and gate, Silas could already feel his legs adjusting from their stiff position to a more flexible feeling.

“I appreciate you all allowing me to travel with you, and paying for my ticket,” he stated—his accent was an odd one. It wasn’t southern nor unusual just a small blur of an everyday accent an American might have. Having a relaxed vibe to him, he turned to examine Evangeline ahead of him before there was room to walk with more space between them. He had to figure out where the pack went—not hard at all. The pack had an odor of their own, and when the time came and they were close he would have to mindlink Blake to inform him of the visitors, he might also need to reach out to Larkin as well.​

 

[scorpiodragon]

Ordan/Xiulan
Location: Tennis Court/villa
​

Ordan personally thought being forced to see out of one eye sucked. His aim was okay when throwing to his left but horrible with his right. If this is what is like to be blind, I don’t want it. Ordan shook his head a bit as he tightened his grip on the ball and chucked it at the wall as hard as he could, the alpha eventually letting the ball drop as he rubbed at his head. However, he soon heard two things. First was Eden who spoke through the mind link, speaking of having a mishap in the ocean while swimming. What, did she lose her...

Ordan coughed as his body stiffened, bending to pick up the tennis ball. As entertaining and amusing as that thought was, Ordan forced the thought and image that sprang to mind away. In his head Achilles rumbled in approval at the dashed image.
“I’d like to see that.”

“That’s highly inappropriate,” coughed Ordan.

His inner half just chuckled. “Or maybe we should try the o...”

“In the living room all the bags are,” said Ordan to Eden. “You can get your bags and head to a bedroom.”

“Since your bi there is always the option for one of the women and the omega.”

“I am not having sex with Jaehwa or any of the females on this vacation,” hissed Ordan under his breath.

“Well we haven’t been with anyone...”

Ordan broke into a fit of coughing, the former soldier’s cheeks burning and not from the sun either at where his monster was going with this conversation. Dear God....I need a...a shower. Preferably cold. Please don’t let them come looking for me. I don’t know how I would explain this.

Ordan distinctly heard Jaehwa’s voice next and put his head in his hands, turning away and trying to calm his nerves, lifting his head as he heard anxiety and possibly worry in the younger man’s voice. At first he didn’t process the omega’s words. Achilles took as long before chiming in in confused sarcasm.

“Baby? Damn the omega moves fast. Who did he sleep with to spring a baby on us all of a sudden? How did he hide it? Maybe he slept with someone before joining us? We should ask.”

Ordan lost it, going into a fit of coughing, Achilles input not helping the situation. Meanwhile, Xiulan has instinctively turned towards the warmth given to her from the person holding her, though continued crying, tears coming to her eyes. Having been left in nothing but a tough towel, she could hear judging noises made in her direction as she was carried away from the beach and back along the sandy path towards the villa.

Ordan opened and closed his mouth like a fish out of water for several minutes, both at what he was hearing and Achilles unhelpful and embarrassing suggestions. When he finally stopped coughing, he headed back to the villa, hoping his cheeks had stopped burning as he headed inside through a side door. “Baby? What...” Ordan started to question but stopped as he scented and saw Jaehwa in the entry with an infant in his arms.

Stunned, he was left to process this information and what he was seeing. The alpha shook his head and gathered his thoughts as Jaehwa questioned about formula and got a blank look in return. “I...I....d....don’t think s...so,” said Ordan at last. When he heard the child might be a wolf, he frowned and moved forward, taking in its scent and appearance. Blue eyes and fuzzy white hair. The distinct smells of sand, ocean air, and wolf. “SILVIA!” The former doctor would need to look at it or they would need to take it to a hospital. He didn’t ask any questions, the alpha looked close to fainting himself at this scene before him. Jaehwa hyperventilating or close to it, cradling a child that was apparently a werewolf by its scent and trying to remain calm.

Kipsy (Jaehwa) Shaded (Silvia)

 

[Eliruz]

Maliki/Evangeline|Future Lichen|Vampire
Airport to Car
Shaded
​

Evangeline was beginning to like the more subtle side of Silas, who was showing more of his kinder and more aged side; she had to say, she didn't expect it from him. Snapping out of her thoughts, she looked up and behind her at the tall brunette who offered to take her luggage. "Oh! Thank you! It's very much appreciated," she replied thankfully and felt her pale cheeks flare up and flush with a bright pink that dusted across her gentle features. Quickly, she looked forward and led them out into their exiting gate and towards baggage check/pickup. As Silas spoke once more, Maliki furrowed his brow at the man's kindness and toleration towards the glares, mean hisses, and such aimed towards him.

"You're welcome, boy. Don't make me regret it," he replied with a defeated sigh, "We have a car awaiting our arrival outside in the parking lot, level 2, row D."

Evangeline, spinning her dress outwards, squealed excitedly and laughed softly. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she quickly stopped and spotted her father's bag, quickly snatching it off the conveyor belt. Maliki smiled, taking the bag, and pressing a gentle kiss to his daughter's forehead before he grabbed Silas' bag. "Follow me to the car." The male kept ahold of the two bags and motioned them with a nod of his head for the two to follow. Evangeline flashed a beautiful, bright smile in Silas' direction in response to his first ever smile around her; it gave her a warm flutter within her stomach.

Eden|Custos|Human Form
Villa
scorpiodragon
​

Eden finally got a reply after a few moments of waiting, feeling a strong set of emotions flowing through the mindlink, her cheeks immediately heating up as they began to overwhelm her mind a bit; what was he even doing? Breathing in a shuddering breath, she just nodded to herself and quickly walked into the living room, shaking her head. "Alright, thank you. Also..can we talk later? I have some things to discuss with you," she replied through the mindlink, trying desperately to block out the flow of irregular emotions. She grabbed up her bags and made her way down to a room to shower.

Quickly setting her stuff down, she grabbed some fresh clothing and headed in for her shower. The bathroom decor was surprisingly luxurious and had caught her off guard, causing new emotions to well up, and they were ones that disturbed her peaceful thoughts with images of many unspoken things. Shaking her head and turning on the water to the tub, she began to strip her pieces of clothes off and stepped in, feeling the warm water envelope her sandy body.

Spoiler: Eden's Suite

 

[Shaded]

Silvia A. Brandt
Location: Villa Area
Interaction: Ordan/Xiulan scorpiodragon , Jaehwa Kipsy

Having gotten a taste of the sand between her toes, she was already in her way back to the villa when she flicked her eyes towards her current homestead. Tucking her strands of hair behind her ears she carried her shoes in her grasp before walking on more, she had been close to jumping into the water but the fact she didn’t have anymore clothes and all of her belongings on her. She truthfully couldn’t wait until she got out onto the waves, floating around and ending up drifting around to relax her nerves. Water therapy seemed fairly attractive to her. Hearing a shout, more specifically for her name, her head snapped up with the sudden vocalization of someone needing her had her panic. No one has really shouted for her before in the pack so that had to be because of a reason.

She wasn’t too far but she wasn’t close enough to see anyone, and so Silvia started off sprinting with her heart in her chest. She thought she could hear her heart beat follow the rhythm of her feet as she charged forward towards the shout. Sand flew up behind her while her shoes hit her wrists and arms while she ran, her hair was far from neat like it had been previously while barely being swept around by the sea’s breeze it carried. The young female darted towards the villa before scouring the area until her eyes frantically looked around as she stood at the door. Realizing she could smell Jaehwa and Ordan nearby, she seemingly went and nearly fell as she redirected herself towards the tennis courts.

Ending up slowing down, she strode in after reaching the gate, hand holding onto the the barrier before panting and trying to regain her breath. “What—what happened?” she questioned nearly finished before walking sandy bare footed towards a rather odd looking Ordan and Jaehwa who was facing him. She hadn’t spotted the baby in the male’s arms until she was beside him and saw the white fluff of messy hair. Her eyes nearly bugged out of her head at the sight of how sandy the pale child was.

Taking in an inhale, the female took note of how similar she smelt to the terrain, and quickly stepping in front of Jaehwa to observe the child cautiously. “Where did you find her?” she mused gently as to not disturb the child. Silvia was rushed before but knowing that no one was life threatening in danger aside from looking dirty. She had assumed it was female, and as she leaned forward to place her hand against her forehead she left it there to take her temperature. “She needs to go inside, with how pale she is and at her age—she shouldn’t be in the sun for long. We will need to bathe her too,” she started mumbling to herself of all of the things they’d need to do before glancing up at Jaehwa and backing up and away from the male to give him space. She had to stop storming her way through, it wasn’t her place but to heal and then move on. Clearing her throat she looked down, “I, uh, I think we should go inside,” she stated it differently this time and a little hesitantly. She wanted to hear the story of how he found her and hopefully move to help the child inside.

Silas R. Landon
Location: Airport
Interaction: Evangeline/Maliki Eliruz

Watching as her pale cheeks flashed with a bit of color, the male found himself at a momentary loss of words and reaction. Clearing his throat lightly he nodded before carrying the luggage he got his hands on. He truthfully couldn’t manage anything until they stopped near baggage—he didn’t even remember what he threw in his bag, he was never good with pack...or anything that is. The brown haired brute exhaled casually before nodding his head towards Maliki’s comment and response to Silas. Looking between the two, and then watching as Evangeline darted off eagerly with her father towards the car. When he had originally smiled towards the auburn haired vampire, he didn’t expect to be flashed a bright smile of her own. It complemented her features well, and to the point he almost stumbled before shaking his head clear from the action.

However as time passed, he watched how a father treated his child, an odd sight. Silas hadn’t experienced visually seeing a father in action, and so he kept his distance unsure what would occur, he thought it’d be similar as to having a male version of a mom—and his assumption was pretty accurate. Letting his eyes travel around the area as they walked through he garage, he noticed the palm trees and the view granted to him through the slits int he cement. “Would you like to meet them first thing?” he inquired towards the pair before walking alongside Evangeline to look at Maliki. “They should have settled already,” he wasn’t aware of how Maliki operated completely—if he was all work or if he prided on relaxing first.​

 

[Kipsy]

Jaehwa
Location: Villa | Interacting: Ordan & Xiulan ( scorpiodragon ), Silvia ( Shaded )​

Ordan had not been in the villa like Jaehwa had thought. He nearly dropped the baby when the alpha appeared from behind him, his heart stopping for a moment. At least he'd been heard and was going to get an answer about the formula nonetheless. Or so he'd thought. Ordan merely stared at him like a fish out of water with a flushed face and said he didn't know. This did not comfort the panicking omega one bit, who blinked away his confusion and stared back down at the baby as if apologizing. It was impossible for him to realize just how off-guard he'd caught Ordan, and he was simply bewildered that his alpha didn't have a solution for him. Wasn't it supposed to be Ordan's job to know what to do all the time? No, that was unrealistic... and he'd only just realized it. Guilt crept up through his throat.

When Silvia came bounding up to them, Jaehwa swallowed away the sick feeling of blame, for there were more important things to dwell upon. He nodded at Silvia's words, taking in what she said with a deep breath. "Alright," he agreed, adjusting his hold on the babe. He followed Silvia's lead and started to explain the situation. "I was just walking down the path and some sand in front of me rustled around. So, I crouched down and brushed it all away and she... she was just laying there, helpless and afraid." He cast his attention back to the baby with sorrow. "The poor thing. I can't imagine why someone would leave her, let alone bury her like that--" Even after trying out different scenarios in his head, he simply couldn't understand it. "I mean, just look at how pretty and innocent her little face is. Sure, it's dusty from the sand, but..." He trailed off, afraid his voice might crack if he continued. The last thing he wanted to do was sound weak in front of Silvia. It wasn't only the crush he thought he had on her--which he needed to debate some more, especially after she'd just gotten so close to him to take the baby's temperature--but the fact that she was a new pack member. He felt he had to be strong for her.

Shaking his head, Jaehwa sighed. "Should we sponge-bathe her?" he asked, turning to face Silvia. "When I did a little research a while ago, upon first joining Custos, I read that newborns should be bathed with a sponge or washcloth." Even so, he wasn't sure that what he read was necessarily accurate. Most of his sources were online. Silvia was a real doctor; she knew these things better than most. And Ordan seemed out of commission for reasons he didn't know.