#rivervale_lodge

If Frank comes in, he will find Vali working hard at the census notes

If Frank doesn't come in, Vali is still working hard at the census notes

And Ives is explaining "Followed the redcap to that place on Martha. And I got to tell you, that's where I got half those chimera references. Gem Jays, some scooty ground hog horned thing, and an electric crate that near set my socks on fire, sir"

"That's just not typical for our area" Vali says surprised, "I wonder if that's why the Ailil were interested in the property?"

"You think that baron is doing experiments on Chimera there and some got out?" Ives inquires

"had to tell with Ailil" Vali says surprised

But he makes a note about this

Then rises "I"m going to check this out. Lead me there, Ives"

"Sure thing, Mountain" And Ives does

**************

Brekke comes in from patrol to find that Frank is already there. She grins slightly as she toes off her boots. "Frank. Good evening."

He hands her a cup of coffee, his beard shaped in 'smile.' "Good evening."

"All is well?"

She accepts the mug with gratitude.

"Yes. Just got in a couple hours ago. Run went well."

"I am glad. Come and sit." Instead of moving to the balefire, she takes a seat at one of the tables.

He follows and does the same.

She takes a sip, then looks at him across the table. "I have news."

He lifts a brow, inviting.

"I spoke with the Mountain earlier, and he told me something he learned from Piper before that. About the pregnancy."

"Is everything ok?" instant concern.

"They are well," she assures him. "Piper is very nervous, but that is to be expected with any pregnancy." A sip. "Especially in the case of twins."

A long pause. "Twins?"

She watches his face. "Twins. The Mountain determined this through use of Omen."

"I trust Vali, of course, but have they seen a doctor?"

"That will come soon," she assures.

'twins...."

"The Mountain seemed very certain."

'I'm sure he is."

A deep sigh.

She puts her hand atop his. "You are concerned."

"Aren't you?"

"For their health? Yes. For their welfare?" She shakes her head.

"They are in a tight financial situation that's about get tighter, they do not have enough room for two babies, Piper is physically small which could prove problematic on its own....."

"And that's just what I can think of while sitting here stunned."

She squeezes his hand. "All will be well, Frank. I am fairly certain of this. You know there are arts that several of us can use to help Piper. As to the financial concerns..." A pause. "I should tell you of my conversation with Baron Kealan."