Getting Ones Bearings (Attn Xeph but open :) )

It didn’t hurt to be twenty-five and full of energy. It had been a big day with the flight and getting tossed around and finding his new home but Drew was still half bouncing. The city was different from what he was used to and he spent a good deal of time staring and gaping. He had a lot of exploring to do. Sounds, smells, sights all pilled on him at once and he had to make a concentrated effort to pay attention. If it hadn’t been for Xeph and Nikhila being with him, he would have gotten distracted and charged off in about twenty different directions at once.

He really did pay attention to how to get to the towers, and how long it took. He was looking forward to starting with Meridian, but grateful he had a few days before he was to start. If nothing else, he probably needed to make at least one or two practice runs.

Stuffing the bus schedule Nikhila had given him in his pack pocket, he followed them into the restaurant.

“So we’re talking raw fish here?”

He’d had some sushi but not much. Arizona was notoriously land locked.

Xeph allowed the valet to park his car for him as they made their way into the restaurant and were seated at a table suitable for three people who topped six feet. They'd done a wide circuit of Nachton from the cofort of Xeph's SUV and were admittedly all hungry at that point.

It was fortunate that he and Nikhila had already had a chance to gawk at Nachton's sights. It was a remarkable city, especially for people who came from nowhere. Canberra had been spectacular, but Nachton was another beast altogether. Where Canberra gave a sprawling impression, maybe because of the planned green areas within, or the river dividing it, Nachton gave a high-tech modern sort of feel with its skyscrapers and grid-like roads.

Xeph grinned at Shiye from across the table and said, "Well? What do you think? And when does your internship start?"

He had no doubt Drew would get along just fine in Nachton; the young man seemed friendly enough and his father and grandfather had written well of him.

"Honestly, I'm not sure what to think. It's different."Â?

It was really, really different. Drew hadn't had the chance to travel much. Sure, some with playing baseball but not a lot and nowhere like Nachton. And he'd tagged along with his father, grandfather and occasionally an uncle or two on various pack errands but it had been a rare occasion for him to leave Arizona.

"It's damned big,"Â? He grinned an apology at both of them for the profanity. He hadn't meant to do that. "It puts even Phoenix to shame."Â?

To date Phoenix was the biggest city he'd dealt with. Granted it wasn't anything to sneeze at but tended to be sprawling rather than vertical.

"If nothing else it puts me in mind that I should do some more traveling."Â?

Unlike some of the Kadzait Drew wasn't a wanderer by nature. He knew where home was and he was attached to it. But if he was going to be any kind of a leader at all, he was coming to realize he couldn't stay totally isolated.

"The gig starts next week though. I thought I'd give myself some time to settle in before charging headlong in to musty files and un cataloged artifacts."Â?

“I think that might be a very wise idea.”

Nikhila whole-heartedly approved. She’d been to the Reservation and seen Bitter Springs, isolated did not begin to describe it. Especially how far out you had to get to the Pack’s home. Drew’s father did his best and encouraged his people to grow and learn but opportunities were limited.

Of course, she also didn’t think he should travel like she did. No he should keep his roots and just let them grow and expand.

“There are plenty of places to see even just a day or a weekend from Nachton. It’s a good place to start.”

His planning surprised her, it shouldn’t have but it did. Nikhila was half way tempted to call Kem but wasn’t sure what she would say. Warn him about the ball of energy that he would be housing in his archives? Ask him to keep an eye on the young man? No, this was Shiye’s venture she wouldn’t intrude.

"You make it sound as if they need ten or twenty interns," Xeph said with a laugh. "Musty files? I can't imagine they just store them in boxes. Not in this day and age anyway."

The waiter showed up, and Xeph wasted no time in ordering a sushi platter for three as an appetizer and a 'salad' of steak tartare in sunomono served over cucumber. He'd had that particular dish before and it was irresistable to anyone who preferred their meat fresh.

Xeph ordered a Kirin Ichiban for himself, then glanced at Nikhila and added an order for a pot of jasmine tea. Raising his eyebrows, he looked expectantly at Drew for the remaining drink order.

“Yeah I thought I might go terrorize New York and Washington at the very least, at least I’ll be able to say I’ve done it.”

Although truth be told Drew was a bit intimidated by both cities. He’d seen maps and wasn’t optimistic, but damned it he was gonna try.

Drew laughed and did his best to look heroic and super hero-y… ish.

“Not with me around. I can file like no one’s business and do the work of at least three interns. Well two and a half I’m sure. Probably any way.”

It all depended on what they let him get up to. He was also having nightmares about knocking over priceless artifacts and shredding original manuscripts. But he wasn’t too worried, it was all just nerves he’d be fine once he got there and got going.

He’d seen the menu and read the descriptions and what Xeph had ordered sounded good and rare… rare was good; rare and good went hand in hand for him. Although he did wrinkle his nose at the beer selections, well nothing was perfect. He settled for a coke instead. Maybe he’d need to look into setting up to brew while he was out here, on a small scale any way.

She smiled a thanks to Xeph, suitably impressed at his memory. It was just a drink order, but she felt like being pleased with him. Nikhila had nearly given up on vegetarianism while her tastes didn’t care over as strongly from one form to another they did carry over a bit. Some days she wouldn’t touch meat, some days fish, some days she was quite carnivorous. Today, she was happy enough to go with the flow relatively certain the suggestion of a nice green salad wouldn’t go over well.

She visibly flinched at the idea of Shiye going to either city on his own. But she didn’t discourage him. She’d just worry a bit while he was gone and help Xeph explain it to his family when he wound up in Canada with out a passport and unable to get back into the States.

“Try not to scare the regular staff. I’d hate to lose a good contact because you tackled some one to save them from a paper cut.”

It was a gentle warning. She’d seen him get enthusiastic and when he could reign himself in it was a wonderful thing but when he couldn’t… Well at least he was very good at apologizing and putting things back to rights as well as he could.

She saw the Alpha almost the second she entered the room. Seated next to him were a very pretty, exotic looking woman, and a guy closer to her age who looked a lot like guys she knew in Elko. Though none of them bore any striking resemblance to either of the other, she guessed they could be family. God knew she and her parents didn't really favor each other any more than these three, yet she was, without a doubt, the daughter of Helene and Rocky Molinero.

Feeling a little on display just standing there, Jillian strode across the room with a purpose, a little more quickly than she started out, once a waiter seemed headed in her direction.

"Sir?"

No standing next to the man who looked just like the man in the photograph she held in her hand, Jilli spoke hesitantly, now not so sure she should have come, even if security had told her it was fine.

Dressed in a black skort and red blouse, only slightly less pressed than they were when she changed into them at a small gas station outside Nachton, Jillian Talia Molinero was tired, and excited, both nearly beyond belief.

"I'm Jillian, sir...I've arrived a bit early, and don't mean to impose, but your security guy said it was okay if I came here." Smiling at all three at the table, Jilli suddenly hoped the floor would open up, and swallow her whole, leaving her somewhere outside by her car where she could make a fast get-a-way.

But the floor didn't open up, so she kept herself standing there, trying to remember to breath, as the seconds dragged on.

"I don't know where to go now, Mr. Xephier."

As the waiter disappeared with their orders, Xeph became aware that someone was standing just off to his side. At first he didn't realize they were attempting to draw his notice, thinking perhaps it was another diner being seated, but when Nikhila coughed softly and looked over at the person, Xeph followed her lead.

A softly-spoken word made him nod out of habit, and when the girl focused his attention on her, he smiled at the sight of her. She sppeared younger than she was, in the way of their kind, and she looked much like the picture he'd seen.

Xeph had known Jillian would be showing up at some point this week; his two "arrivals to look for" had been her and Drew, and now they were here. he was impressed that Jillian had found this place but glad she had. Xeph had a protective streak, and knowing this young one had no family left brought it to the forefront. He was happy to have her under his eye in Nachton, rather than risking her safety on the long road trip out.

"Jillian," he said, standing politely. "It's good to see you here and safe." He offered her his hand; she was an adult and he imagined, while young, her parents' deaths wouldhave aged her considerably. He didn't think she'd appreciate being treated like a child tonight.

"Why don't you join us, and let me introduce you?" Xeph slid the fourth chair at the table out and waited to see if she would occupy it.

"it's more than okay that you're here. I had hoped for you to meet my friends. They live at the Den as well. This is Nikhila Gounder, who's the Dean of the Academy and teaches several courses there, and this is Drew Benally, who is new to Nachton like yourself."

To Nikhila and Shiye, Xeph said, "This is Jillian Molinero. She'll be joining us at the Den."

As an aside, Xeph added, "and if you need to be formal, it's technially Dr. Xephier. But you're welcome to call me Xeph. Everyone else does."

He added the last with a friendly smile; Xeph almost never stood on formality, but he'd known plenty of folks in the past who had thrived upon it. Some people preferred to remain distanced, and if Jillian was of that sort, he didn't mind.

"We've just begun," he said to Jillian. "Why don't you have dinner with us? Afterward, we can get you settled into the Den."

Before the large man addressed her, it occurred to her that she had just interrupted the people sitting before her, and felt her face burn to scarlet, though being partially of latin descent, in the darker lighting it hopefully wasn't too noticeable. And when Xeph so graciously welcomed her, she breathed just a little easier.

She took his huge hand and firmly shook it, just as her father had taught her so many years ago, as a small child. She also accepted the chair, with a quiet 'thank you', as she smiled again at the other two people who turned out not to be related to her new benefactor at all.

"It's nice to meet you Ms. Gounder...I may be taking your classes this term, since I'm hoping to attend the university here."

Looking at the younger man next to her, Jillian sat a little straighter. Though he was older than she, it was comforting to be in the company of someone more her peer than the other two, and he helped set her at ease even more so.

"And Mr. Benally, it's nice to meet you as well."

She might have gone on to ask him more about Nachton, the local pack, and a bunch of other questions, had she known him better. Until she did she had no way of knowing how he felt about people her age, so she stopped herself from running on. Sometimes people of his age had no time for people of hers, and she didn't want to start off in Nachton making a pest of herself.

"Thank you Xeph, I am a little hungry."

Which was an understatement but one she hoped no one found out about. She was financially safe for a while, due to her parents life insurance, and her father's prudent handling of the families funds. But knowing she might not have any regular income in the immediate income made her equally as prudent with the money she did have.
In light of this, she had only eaten a small breakfast earlier that day, and hoped her growling stomach didn't give her away before she had put more food in it.

"I apologize for interrupting you all...please...?"

'Meh.'

Hammer rolled his shoulders as he crossed the parking lot to the front of a small sushi restaurant. The Alpha had mentioned an informal get together was happening and showing up to introduce himself was probably prudent. Still, social gatherings were not his style but the Alpha's request carried weight. He had not spoken to Xeph since their last meeting in the Halls but he wanted the Alpha to know that he did not carry any grudges and was even up for a party.

He stooped down to enter the door and scanned the small place, immediately seeing the Alpha and his party. Hammer smoothed down his uncharacteristically stylish red tie and adjusted his cuffs as he walked over to the table. With a nod to the table he introduced himself, announcing his arrival.

'Xeph, Nikhila.' Ahh, the foreign pack mate again. Xeph favored her company, interestingly enough. Nodding toward the new faces he gave them his best face - which was still very stoic and emotionless.

'I'm sorry if I'm late. I'm Iov Hammerthynn. Good to meet you all.'

Nikhila was remembering in a hurry what it was like to be involved with the Alpha of their Pack. Fortunately she had patience in spades. The young woman seemed to be watching and hesitant but as Xeph had mentioned they were expecting two new arrivals it didn't take much of a leap to figure this was the second and with a subtle hit to Xeph they'd gotten past the first hurtle and made introductions all around.

"Welcome."Â?

Jillian still seemed a bit nervous even as she decided to join them, and Nikhila was trying to play why they would be an intimidating group. Perhaps she was just a bit shy. She also offered her hand.

"Actually it's Doctor as well. But outside of a class room Nikhila does just fine."Â?

Before he could say anything Nikhila made to head Xeph off at the pass.

"You're the one who started in on titles. So you don't need to look at me like that."Â?

She pleasantly needled him in his ribs, just to emphasize her teasing.

"It is very hard to intrupt family."Â?

It was all Nikhila could do to reassure her, that and smile warmly and not laugh at any one calling Drew 'Mr.' and look around for a waiter. They'd need another order placed wouldn't they, doubly so as Hammer arrived.

It wasn't tense, at least it didn't feel tense to her but after being something of a cross between a sounding board and a pressure valve one never knew. Although she was certain neither Xeph nor Hammer would do anything to make this less than a social gathering. Having faith in both men she favored Hammer with a calm yet bright smile.

"No, not late at all. I'm glad you made it."Â?

She had memories of the gnarled wolf through both Xeph and his father and would have liked him from those alone; her own impressions of the man were favorable as well. Recent events or not she was still please to see him.

"Have you met Drew and Jillian then?"Â?

Now this was more like it. People, Pack, Family! It was good. Drew couldn't help but smile and he couldn't seem to stop. If he'd been shifted he would have certainly been wagging his tail. Still working on this 'good impression' thing he stumbled to his feet after Xeph, hey at least he was trying, and also offered his hand. See manners, shake, good boy.

Drew actually did laugh at being called Mr. that was too funny. From the looks of things he and Jillian were about the same age. Hard to be 100% sure but still.

"Yeah no fancy title to hit you over the head with let's go with just Drew, I guess Andrew if you want but..."Â?

He trailed off flopped back in his seat an let her get settled and finally shrugged.

"What Nikhila said. I just blew in myself a few hours ago. Haven't even unpacked so we can be lost together."Â?

Yeah right, no one, well very few people, got lost the way he did. Still it would be nice not to be the only new face getting gawked at.

The next arrival startled Drew a bit and he wound up swallowing a bit hard. It wasn't that the guy was scary, well maybe a little, but totally unexpected. Lots of unexpected tonight, he loved it.

Again he offered his hand.

"Nice to meet you too. For the record though I'm Drew and she's Jillian."Â?

Not feeling at all odd or awkward about being slightly silly, he amicably pointed the young lady in question out.

Boy Nikhila had some interesting friends. He should have come out here a while ago.

Well, this was turning into quite the party. Xeph had left a message for Hammer but he hadn't been entirely sure his Beta would make it to the gathering. Nor had he been sure both new arrivals would be in town. Things had worked out nicely, though, and everyone was here. Hopefully, hungry.

Xeph hopped out of his chair as Hammer arrived, pulling it aside and sliding over another table to accommodate. The waiter was back in short order with their appetizers and Xeph ordered another two of the same to make sure everyone had a chance to sample and pick.

He chuckled as both Nikhila and Drew reassured Jillian that she wasn't interrupting. "See? It's just not possible to interrupt."

While the first waiter headed back to place the order for more appetizers, a seond showed up to take drink orders for Jillian and Hammer.

"Glad you could make it, too," Xeph said to Hammer as the Beta seated himself. "I wasn't sure you'd gotten the message."

He hadn't seen Hammer since that night a few weeks back, but he was over the anger he'd felt then. He'd given Hammer his job, and that was that. When he regained confidence in the Pipers they would be reinstated but until then they could perform reconnaisance around the Den and grounds.

Turning to Jillian then, Xeph said, "I don't think it will be a problem to enroll you at the Academy for the fall semester, if that's what you want. Hammerthynn, Nikhila, and I have all been known to teach classes there on occaision. Mostly Nikhila, though. If you're interested in biological science she's who you want to get to know."

Drew was the center of attention next as Xeph filled Jillian and Hammer in on his circumstances. "Drew here will be starting an internship at Meridian next week, working in the archives."

Hammer took Drew's hand and shook it with a firm grip. He nodded toward the young man and then to the little one called Jillian.

'Drew. Jillian. Pleasure.'

The Alpha made arrangements to find a seat for Hammer and he nodded with as much of a grin he could muster. 'I barely got the message, but I'm pleased I did.' Although you'd never know it by the blank expression on his face.

Turning toward Drew during Xeph's explanation he sat his large body into his very small chair. Tucking his tie and undoing the button of his XXXL blazer, Hammer commented on the newcomer's fall plans.

'Interning at Meridian, that's a fine establishment. What will you be interning for?'

If she didn't feel at home before, with the arrival of yet another very LARGE man, that was all changing. She gave the man a grin and nod.

"Hello."

Jilli was all of five foot six inches, and short even by her pack's standards, but her parents had been on the slight side as well, her mother only five feet eleven inches, and her father an inch taller. So she was accustomed to being among people of considerable height. Yet these men, standing so tall around her, made her feel significantly tiny. But it didn't intimidate her, at all.

Nikhila was gracious, and Jilli thought quite beautiful. She immediately took a liking to the older woman, placing her just this side of being her mother's age. There had been a couple older women back home who tried to pick up the slack of Jilli's missing mother, and Jilli appreciated them for that. Ultimately though she grew to resent their intentions a little, which was partially responsible for her leaving the pack and coming east. She was too old to be truly mothered, yet too young to give up the desire for such comfort completely. She guessed the decision on who she would accept that type of affection from needed to be hers, and not forced upon her by others.

Drew seemed wonderful...so unaffected by his good looks, or anything else, and Jilli was glad to shake his hand as she had just done with Nikhila. For a split second Jilli could see Drew as a wolf, and had to stop a giggle before it came out. The vision she saw was of one very large, slightly gangly, but ever so faithful, and loving a puppy.
Not that he was anywhere near the age of a pup, but his mannerisms were refreshing, and not conceited, or disgusting as many boys could be.

Xeph was so accommodating, and did it with such ease, Jilli felt less and less an intruder with each passing moment. She still wasn't saying much, but that was born from the respect she was taught to give to elders, her inquisitive mind wanting to take in all that was going on around her, and her need to speak well, when she did speak. Being raised as the daughter of an Alpha had taught Jilli it was necessary to be seen and not heard much of the time, and she would definitely continue that around THE pack Alpha, without a second thought.

She placed her order for food and drink, opting for a large glass of ice water, and a HUGE ahi steak, medium, with a salad, and rice. She wasn't sure if all of her pack could eat like wolves and not gain weight, but she could, and did, and with great gusto.

Somehow she did manage to squeak out a response regarding her schooling.

"I would like to enroll for fall classes, but I haven't yet decided on a major. I don't think it will matter though, I'm sure I'll need biology and a bunch of other science classes...I know I'd like to do something in the form of research...clinical, marine, biological...maybe even microbiology...I do need to pin that down sometime, I know."

Thinking she would get her feet wet a little in each field, to help decide which one she liked best, Jilli probably would go undeclared for at least the first semester, or year, and nail down her basic classes, with some extra science thrown in if she could manage it.

"Good to know I'll have a whole den of professors at my fingertips."

Her acceptance of those around her was now as complete as it could be from just one meeting. However, those who knew her would see this readily in the way she now opened herself up. She wasn't shy, by any means, but she was highly respectful, and tried very hard not to insinuate herself into places she wasn't wanted, or accepted. Seeing they were happy to share their lives here with her, did more than anything could to reassure her, and waylay her few fears.

Hearing Drew was going to be working in some 'archives' didn't sound the least interesting to Jilli, but in all fairness she knew that might change once she knew what the archives were for.

"Meridian? What kind of company are they?" The large Russian man also inquired into Drew's employment, so Jilli sat quietly and waited to hear the answer.

Aware of pecking order and manners at the kill Drew held off a bit when the server came with the appetizer, but soon enough hunger and humanity over came the wolf and he chowed down on a bit. Smiling a bit sheepishly when he noticed no one else had snagged any.

He grinned at the big one eyed guy, not quite sure what to call him. Iov seemed way too familiar and Hammerthynn was a mouth full, and probably not nearly as taste as whatever it was that they were snacking on. No worries though he’d figure it out.

“I just finished up my archeology degree so it should be less files, records and news clippings and more artifacts. But my money is on sorting out field notes and fetching coffee. Very un Indiana Jones but a good foot in the door. I’ve got hope though, I read in one of the journals Meridian was just wrapping up a dig in Colorado so I might be extra useful.”

Mock the grad student all you want but he had some credentials, they might be extra glad they’d picked him. After all a dig in Colorado would make good use of his American Indian Studies degree too, especially given what he’d read.

She was a little thing but he approved of the order. Too many girls at school ate –nothing- Drew hated that. How could you enjoy yourself if you were so worried about what you ate.

Before Nikhila could say anything he leaned forward and confided in Jillian in a stage whisper.

“Just watch Nikhila and the microbiology. It’s scary.”

And could make your eyes bleed and lord who cared about mitochondria and mutations and amebas and viruses. Especially the viruses with Nikhila. It gave him the creeps to think about all these living things he couldn’t see. Nasty, just nasty. He much preferred his dead people and extinct civilizations.

Often more of an observer than an active participant Nikhila was quite happy to let the others lead the conversation and only speak up when necessary. She was still tickled by how enthusiastic Drew was about his job and suspected Meridian had no idea what they were in for. She was also pleased, if mildly surprised, Hammer would take an interest. That seemed above and beyond his speak when spoken to persona.

Sipping her tea she smiled and nodded to Jillian. It was good to see some one looking forward to classes.

“We should have fall enrollment up soon. The summer term is just wrapping up, almost finals time. And of course I’ll be happy to speak to you about your interests and what classes there are.”

If she was just starting out the odds were Nikhila wouldn’t have her in any of her classes right away. With all the other fun responsibilities her job entailed Nikhila found it prudent to limit herself to teaching upper division courses; but of course she had time, or could make some, to guide a new student. There wasn’t even a question.

“I’d of course suggest you start with the general classes and then decided where your passion lies. Much easier to go from general to specific than from one specific to another.”

She smiled softly, quietly and came down off her soap box. If she got started on a topic sometimes it was difficult to stop. And this was to be a light evening, as apparently Drew seemed to feel necessary to remind her. But she declined to respond to his teasing and kept her peace. It was just good to have family around.

Discreetly, under the table she let one hand rest on Xeph’s knee. She suspected he felt the same way.

Xeph helped himself to some tartare in sunomono as the rest of the drinks were brought out and the second set of appetizers arrived. There seemed to be little for him to say, as the conversation bounced around in quite the lively manner. Hammer was immediately drawn to the topic of Meridian, which didn't surprise Xeph, given Hammer's interests, and Nikhila and Jillian were already talking college.

"I don't really count as a professor," he goofed at Jillian. "I put comic books inside my texts."

Well... he wasn't actually lying, although he'd only done that in class a few times, all of them during his students' exams. Where was the harm in that?

Answering her next question, he said, "Meridian Apex Enterprises is one of the oldest businesses in Nachton," he explained. "They handle all kinds of research, from tehcnical to historical and everything in between as far as I know. They're well-known for their acquisition of archaeological and historical artifacts and they have an enormous archive as well, which is where Drew will be interning."

His answer didn't even begin to cover the range of talented employees Meridian had at its fingertips. Being part of the Stafford Foundation had educated Xeph on at least the basics of the Nachton superpowers. Meridian Enterprises was right up among the top few, including the Stafford Foundation and Duibne Industries.

However, he wasn't about to give poor Jillian a lecture on Nachton economics when she'd just rolled in. It took some restraint but he shrugged and said, "Anyhow, that's just a little piece of what they are. They'll love Drew and we'll probably have to pry him away with a crowbar."

Hammer sat back held off eating any of the appetizers at the table and elected to just listen to the conversation. He did not want to bore them with his quantum physics applications, hell he didn't want to bore himself. Social gatherings just wasn't his thing, but he was comfortable with listening to the chatter at the table and making an appearance as the Beta.

The talk of Meridian fascinated him however, with the murmurs of being parallel to Duibne Industries. Marthinus had mentioned a little of one of the city's powerhouses but made no move to comment.

He looked into the faces of his table mates and tried not to draw conclusions. The young lady was small and appeared to be very young. He would have to ask her about her family connections later. Drew seemed respectable and polite. Nikhila he had known for some time and with veiled curiosity watched her interactions with Xeph.

Xeph had spoken of his time with Nikhila and Hammer had taken notice of the increase of time together they were spending. Hammer had no opinion of Xeph's private life since the Alpha needed no guidance on personal matters from his Beta. Still, it was interesting to watch.

The ease at which everyone seemed to get along tugged a little at Jilli's heart. How similar it had been around her own dinner table, not so very long ago, when her mother had invited others of the pack to join them. Both her parents were super friendly, and her home had become an extension of that friendliness to all who wished to share it. One day she hoped she might continue with that tradition, and have a warm, welcoming home where others wanted to gather. But there were so many other things she wanted to accomplish before she could give serious thought to that matter.

"Archeology..." Jilli confirmed, and nodded her head in understanding. She did remarkably well by not wrinkling her nose in disinterest, never having seen much appeal in history, current or ancient. And even if she wasn't too enthralled by the subject, she had to appreciate the way those who were spoke about it. Hearing 'Indiana Jones' even pricked her interests a tiny bit. Of course Indiana was an archeologist, but somehow she just couldn't see how his romanticized version could translate to what Drew would be doing inside a building.

Without thinking Jilli began eating the appetizers that were set on the table. Almost unconsciously she picked up a little of this and a little of that, and consumed each morsel without even looking at what she was putting in her mouth. Her hunger was such that she needed to appease it, but her thirst for all that was going on around her was equally if not more important, and interesting.

Drew, Nikhila, Xeph, and even the big man all seemed genuinely interested in Jilli, even if in varying degrees.

Nodding at Nikhila's suggestions about classes reminded Jilli of conversations she had with her mother. College was something never questioned in her home; Jilli would go, right after high school, no ifs, ands, or buts. Neither of her parents had the luxury of attending, and both knew it was a necessity in today's world. They wanted everything for their daughter, and did what they could to see she got it.

Xeph's comments about comic books garnered a giggle from Jilli. She wasn't sure she believed him, but wasn't about to contradict her Alpha.

"I only do that with really important publications...Vogue, People, and PCGamer."

She winked at the elder man, not at all sure what those magazines were really, but having seen their titles on the rack at the gas station just hours earlier.

"Do you think they might have need of a part time 'gopher'?"

She asked, when Xeph explained about Meridian. Once the words left her mouth she felt instantly contrite, and wished she could have taken them back. She was so lucky to have the pack here to join, and such immediate acceptance, as well as offers of help with getting her set up in school, and a place to stay at the den...and here she was asking for a job! If she could have done so without looking even more ridiculous, she would have told him to disregard her question. But as it was she hoped maybe he hadn't heard, and the subject would just disappear.

Instead Jilli turned to the big man, and smiled. He was being very quiet, and she suddenly wished she had taken her lead from him.

Slowly, subtly, almost painfully Nikhila shook her head at the young lady. It wasn’t that Nikhila was worried about her study habits. Heaven knew she’d seen it all since she’d started teaching, although it was getting harder to keep up with all the technology out there.

“Please don’t encourage him. If one of the professors gets caught browsing through a magazine during a class I’m sure we’ll never recover.”

Unlike Jillian, she had no problem believing Xeph engaging in such an activity.

Like most of them, she sampled the appetizer, although perhaps eating more of the green stuff than some of the others. The idea of the young woman getting herself a job brought a mixed reaction from Nikhila, granted she’d had to work to put herself through school, at least most of it. Until she’d received word of her father’s passing. Both idea’s had pros and cons. She opted not to make any suggestion, it would be better for Jillian to find her own way.

Drew couldn’t help but notice the lack of interest in his passion. It wasn’t like every one was going to be enraptured with the subject but… nuts, this was his thing. Snarfing down another bite he nodded.

“Yup, archeology. Maybe I should get a hat, might make things more interesting.”

He mused allowed. Not a bad plan. How would he look in a fedora? Probably more than a bit stupid but it was better than a bullwhip. At the very least the hat was more subtle.

Haha, book in a book. Yeah been there, done that, got caught. Some educators had no sense of humor, Drew smiled at the memory. Apparently, it was bad form to read about the Maya while in a math class, at least if you were struggling in said class. Ah well.

Shrugging cheerfully, he answered Jillian’s question.

“Company that big must have something they need somewhere. If they weren’t keeping people in jobs I doubt the city would have much use for them.”

He read the news and knew when a big company was being courted by a city. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that must work here too.

Xeph gave Nikhila his most indignant look. "Hey, my students are maintaining a passing rate of 95 percent so I must be doing something right!"

He flashed his wolfish grin at Jillian, hoping the friendly banter was helping to make her feel at ease. He was aware of the circumstances under which she had come to Nachton, and perhaps they would speak of them at a later date. For now he wanted to supply her with something she was lacking, that every wolf needed whether they admitted it or not; Pack and family.

he laughed outright at Drew's suggestion. "Sure, a hat might help, but not an Indiana Jones hat. They're overrated. What about the kind of hat the guy from Monopoly wears. What is it? A Bowler! You could start a new trend. Classy, but rugged. The new archaeologist."

Smirking at the idea, he popped a few bites of sushi into his mouth, signaling the waiter for the rest of their orders, since Jillian had already gotten hers in. While Drew spoke to Jillian about her employment question, Xeph ordered himself a rare steak and a sashimi plate, then turned to the two youngsters.

"Let's worry about classes and getting settled. That's already a load to handle. Don't be too eager to go straight to work; you just got here."

It was said with a kind smile to Jillian, but inside Xeph wondered if Jillian was going to take on too much at once merely because she was the active sort, of if she was trying to cope with hr parents' deaths. He didn't know her well enough, but he resolved to keep half an eye on her.

Hammerthynn set his elbow on the arm of his chair and rested his chin in his hand. He was concentrating on the conversations at hand when he noticed the little one called Jillian was looking at him. He turned a lone eye at the young lady.

Mumbling through his fingers he said, 'May I help you?'

Figuring that being helpful was better than just sitting quietly, he tried to look interested instead of mildly annoyed.

Expecting maybe a smile in return, Jilli was only slightly mortified at being caught looking. She felt her cheeks grow warm, and slunk down in her seat a little.

"Uhm, no thank you sir. I apologize...I was just noticing how quiet you are...that's all."

She hoped he didn't think she was staring at his eye...or missing one...his scar. In her pack back home there were two men who had lost eyes...one was a quite older man ...even older than Mr. Hammerthynn, (not that she knew how old Mr. Hammerthynn was, but she considered most over thirty old), and one was one of her friends, her age. She had no clue how Mr. Gorshin had lost his eye, and being so old she respectfully never asked, she also would never ask Mr. Hammerthynn, yet she had seen Justin when he had lost his eye to a virus, and been around while he retrained himself to wearing a patch. As was probably natural, depth perception was the more difficult part of the process to get used to, but he managed to do so quickly in Jilli's mind.

In any event, the missing eye and scar was not so new to Jilli that it required study. No...for a few seconds she felt more kindred with Mr. Hammerthynn.

Averting her gaze and focusing on the food for a few moments, Jilli managed to recover and rejoin the conversation going on around her.

Slightly discouraged to have her plans on getting a job somewhat shot down, Jilli accepted that for now, knowing she would talk to Xeph later, when she could voice her concerns in private. She knew he meant well, and understood why he would feel as he did...in a perfect world she really didn't want to work until she was out of school as well. But she wanted to be a burden even less.

Looking at Drew now, and imagining him dressed in a bowler, Jilli giggled, and shook her head. The fedora might be trite, but a bowler? If that didn't say stuffy, she didn't know what would.

"How about a compromise...a cowboy hat? Or even one of those Aussie jobs...the ones that look like cowboy hats with one side pinned up?"

At least those hats gave the impression they could get dusty and still look appropriate. A nice shiny bowler with a sheen of dust...not so much. And what, if not dusty, was archeology? She giggled again.

Mr. Hammerthynn aside, Jilli was rapidly feeling a part of these people. That she was becoming acclimated so fast reinforced her idea of coming. This was the very best idea she'd had in a long while.

Hammer could not help but grin a little behind his hand. He knew he came across as rude and gruff but Jillian was too young to appreciate his unfortunate (not to him but other people) indifference to people, whether he was happy or annoyed. He just looked annoyed no matter what.

Hammer waited, listening to Jillian finish her conversation when he leaned back over to her and moved his hand away from his mouth.

'I apologize, Miss Jillian. Don't take my indifference as rudeness. I'm afraid my talents were wasted on books than with social graces. And please, call me Hammer. As Beta you're welcomed to let me know if you have any problems within the den.'

He rewarded her with the best smile he could produce and hoped it was disarming enough. Hammer meant the offer of help but he inwardly wished she would not ask. Orientation was more Xeph's field but Hammer knew he had to make himself available to everyone in the pack, even the new, young ones.

Scaring them, although fun, probably wasn't a good idea.

“You’re engaging some very good substitutes.”

Nikhila playfully rolled her eyes at him keeping the mood light, almost frivolous.

Drew, however, was much more adept at this sort of thing and she was more than happy to let him take the focus with his fine hat. She wondered how much of Drew was actually him and how much was him trying to please others. It was impossible to tell, she doubted if Drew himself knew.

Not nearly as hungry as Xeph she discreetly slid in an order for the sashimi plate as well. If she hadn’t been around so much meat she probably would have tried something vegetarian, but the smell was getting to her and short of some wild game to catch this would do.

Happy to hear Xeph semi discourage Jillian from additional employment she actually flashed a smile at Hammer. That was down right cuddly by his standards and she was suitably impressed.

“I thought that was a top hat. Is an internship white tie and tails job? If it is I quit here and now.”

He said with definite while still letting his easy smile rest in place. Yeah even with his prejudice against formal wear archeology would win that round.

Laughing he vehemently shoot his head at Jillian while laughing and ordering a very rare stake, Drew did have some awesome multitasking skills.

“I could never pull off the accent for the one and only the rednecks wear cowboy hats and I’m far too sophisticated for that.”

A good-natured wink was tossed at her as he managed to say the last bit with something not quite but almost approximating a high-class English accent.

“OK I tell a lie. You know the rednecks but their super pointy cowboy boots and the huge ass belt buckles.”

Walk into a place with too many of those and you learned damned fast to turn around and walk right back out in a hurry. Especially if you were a lone and not in the mood for Geronimo references. Seriously, what the fuck he wasn’t Apache, they could at least pick the right tribe if they were going to be that way.

Xeph kept one ear tuned to the byplay between Hammer and Jillian, glad to see his Beta was going to behave and not scare the young one off. He hadn't apprised Hammer of Jillian's circumstances, assuming she would tell who she wanted when she wanted, hoping she would talk about it on her own.

To Nikhila, he simply shot a wide grin, shrugging his shoulders in a manner that implied he wasn't going to give away his secrets to her. At the same time he caught Drew's comment about accents, and just couldn't let it go.

"What about accents?" he growled, in a playful enough way. "It's not like if you wanted to learn it you don't have a living reference right here after all!"

He took a healthy swallow of his Kirin, and then added, "I will not, however, put another shrimp on anyone's barbie."

He detested that phrase, it being the first thing anyone asked him to say for them when they wanted to hear an authentic Aussie accent. It was followed very closely by Crocodile Dundee's knife comment.

Xeph did not do command pop culture reference performances by any means.

Her smiled grew wide when Hammer apologized, even if Jilli didn't really understand the need. The man was saying he had no social skills, when Jilli had only thought him to be quiet, and contemplative.

"Thank you...Hammer. Your apology is not necessary, but accepted. It is a welcome relief to know I have both you and Xeph here. I've never lived on my own before, and always relied on my mother and father for guidance. I know its up to all of us to eventually leave the den, so to speak, but I was hoping for a year or two more, I guess. Life doesn't always give you what you want. But I do feel much better knowing I can call on you if I need to."

She smiled again, hoping Hammer wouldn't grow to regret his words.

Jilli could talk about the loss of her parents now, but rarely discussed it thinking people felt awkward talking about death, and it really didn't serve any purpose. Besides that, for whatever reason, she just assumed people like Xeph, Nikhila, and Hammer knew. This assumption came from the fact that whenever someone new had joined her pack back home, her mother, father, and the other elders responsible for the pack knew almost everything about the newcomer. As far as she knew, all packs were like that.

Narrowing her eyes, Jillian regarded Drew again, this time when he talked of 'rednecks'. Growing up in Elko, Nevada, she was constantly surrounded by men, and boys in cowboy hats, and boots, though belt buckles were frivolous, and not really anything they found usefull. The hats were necessary due to the hot summer sun, and the boots were sturdy, and vital for the work they did. Taking the term 'redneck' as a personal affront to those she loved back in her old pack, Jillian now reconsidered Drew, and wondered what else he was prejudiced against. The wink was supposed to mean he was kidding, and that did soften his words a little, but Jillian still wasn't as sure about him as she thought initially.

"Have you had problems with 'rednecks'?" She asked, wanting to know if there was some reason behind his remark, or if it had been bred from stereotypes. It seemed strange that anyone in a position as they all were, with their unique differences would be bigotted, but then she guessed it was where they were all similar to those outside their lives, that made it possible.

She did have to give him points for his accent...she thought it was smashing, and couldn't control a giggle when Xeph spoke, accentuating his. Accents weren't foreign to her, but she hadn't heard them so often that she had become immune to them. She thought Xeph's made him even more the dashing leader, and wondered if it affected Nikhila at all.

No one had intimated any relationship between her Alpha and the exotic woman, but Jilli had seen the way her parents looked at each other often enough to recognize similar looks between other couples. One day she hoped to have a man look at her that way.

But not now. Now she had other things to concern herself with.

“Oh yeah like I need to be compared to the genuine article. No thank you.”

He gulped down some his coke before asking, in all sincerity,

“Why would you want to cook a perfectly good shrimp?”

Poor little shrimp. Drew hated waste like that. Not that every one liked their food still moving but still.

It was hard not to pick up on what Jillian was saying and not make a few educated guesses. Poor kid, having lost her family or at least her parents that had to be rough. He was not looking forward to the day either of his parents or his grandfather passed or any of his family really. Of course he could be dead wrong in his assumptions but…

Holy Hanna. He had not expected to be attacked like that. OK it wasn’t an out an out attack but he was obviously under suspicious of something; of what he wasn’t sure but it was out there.

But there were a few things going on here. One was the fact that Jillian had just made herself somewhat vulnerable, admitting something to them and he wasn’t going to take advantage of that. The other was that he had an intense sense of pride in both himself and his clan. And one of the rules was you just didn’t talk about this sort of thing. It was just part of being family. It was wrong, it was uneducated and unnecessary but you couldn’t force yourself to be accepted. Drew tried, he tried –hard-, still, you were going to get hassled.

Drew also knew that Jillian had no way of knowing exactly how isolated the reservation was and how his Pack was even further marginalized. Nor was he going to say anything. Instead, grinning in such a way that it made him appear even younger he shook his head. Using humor to diffuse some of how serious he was.

“Just the ones who are still playing cowboys and Indians. For some reason they don’t like me to be the cowboy.”

And the Indians still never won.

That’s all was all he had to say on the matter. Besides it would take too much to explain about how even the other Indians didn’t really care for him. And damned it he wanted to have fun right now.

The question didn't seem wrong at the time. While she had looked at Drew skeptically, her voice had been calm, and without anger. Yet when she sensed a reaction from Nikhila, Jillian reconsidered her thought.

Bigotry had no place in Jilli's life, and she refused to associate with anyone who couldn't show tolerance, at least, for those different from themselves. However, as she listened to Drew talk about 'cowboys and Indians' she got the feeling he, himself, had suffered the brunt of prejudice. This made her feel instantly contrite, and instilled the need to clarify her position.

Too, she got the impression Nikhila might be less than pleased with that particular topic of conversation, so for now Jilli let it all drop. She would speak to Drew later, and apologize, though only for her possible lack of personal knowledge, and not her overall position. Jilli would never apologize for the way she felt about bigotry.

Feeling like perhaps she had been the cause for the sudden quiet at the table, Jilli then too felt obligated to try and right things.

"Anyone seen any good movies lately?"

It must have been all the talk of things related to Indiana Jones, and the Crocodile Hunter that reminded Jilli of movies, because in truth she rarely attended them. Anyone who knew her would have instantly wondered where her question had come from, as it would have sounded completely from left field. At the moment it was all she could come up with, even if it sounded silly, and she again hoped the floor might swallow her whole.

More than anything she hoped her new Alpha didn't think the less of her for her question. It would have hurt her horribly to think her feelings on such things were considered wrong. If it was only that she hadn't chosen the best time to talk about such things, she could deal with, anything else might come close to crushing her ideals.

(ooc: all feelings and reactions of others mentioned above were purely assumptive on Jillian's part.)

Xeph listened to the conversation a bit more, wincing as Jillian inadvertently hit on what must be a sore spot for Shiye. He was aware of the situation Shiye came from, as it had been a source of a little bit of contention when he'd first become Alpha. It stood to reason that it would be an exposed nerve for Shiye.

Jillian did her best to cover up what she must have recognized as a bit of a mis-step by changing the subject entirely, even if not smoothly. Xeph was compelled to keep the peace between all of them, a feat made much easier with the arrival of the soups and salads that accompanied their entrees.

"I think the last thing I watched was the Birdcage, actually," he mused, trying to decide whether or not he was in the mood to choke down vegetables tonight. "It was on some cable channel a few nights ago. I hear it's one of Hammerthynn's favorites."

Discreetly, he kicked Hammer under the chairs, shoving the Beta's seat back a few centimeters. He could be subtle when the situation called for it. Hammer was copping out, however, playing strong-and-silent and trying to worm out of any socialization whatsoever.

Xeph wasn't letting him get away with it.

Oh good crisis averted. It just wasn’t Drew’s way to peruse the topic or explain himself. If she’d pushed, that would be one thing but she didn’t, so he immediately let by gones be by gones. Although he almost laughed at the clumsy change of topic; that was something he’d do. It was kind of nice to know he wasn’t the only goof that way and he couldn’t help but smile broadly at that realization.

“Man they never put anything good on the planes. I saw this dumb Made of Honor thing. Should have made them give me back the five bucks for my head set.”

Studiously avoiding his salad, he found something meat like to munch. So much better than peanuts. While doing so, he cast an inquisitive eye on the older gruff looking man. Some how The Birdcage just didn’t seem his cup of tea. But who was he to judge on appearances?

“Is it just me or are airplane movies geared toward women? I’m not saying that’s a bad thing but when I was looking at what they show it was defiantly lacking in action and adventure. More comedy and romance.”

That was fine with him, he’d just never waste money on the in-flight movie again. Every one had to learn these things for themselves.

Not exactly, how she would have preferred the situation to resolve itself, but it wasn’t Nikhila’s battle to fight. It was hard to remember that but she did. This was between Shiye and Jillian and it seemed to be good enough for him ergo it was good enough for her.

Eyeing both Shiye and Xeph she quietly said,

“Eat your greens.”

And let the topic switch, rather abruptly. She could see Aidan trying to nudge Hammer back out into the conversation and smiled.

“I can see where the social commentary would appeal to any number of people, and much more engaging than a documentary.”

Drew’s experience and good humor about his less than ideal on board movie was evident and seemed to be helping to right the mood somewhat. He did have a gift for that.

“But, no unfortunately as much as I enjoy the movies I have been so busy I haven’t had time to attend. I’m not even sure what’s out currently. The last thing I saw was on TV something animated called Perfect Blue. Very odd.”

She’d woken from a less than plesant dream, hadn’t wanted to wake, or more likely disturb, Xeph and hadn’t been able to get back to sleep and had wound up watching the film. It was good, but very different.

Hammer caught the last bit of Xeph's reply and huffed just as his chair jerked back. He gave his friend a snort and rolled his shoulders.

'Calista Flockhart played the daughter in that movie. Personally, I don't see what Harrison Ford sees in that toothpick of a woman.'

Reaching out he grabbed a sushi roll and popped it into his mouth. Turning again to his side he watched Jillian as she tried to stay awake. Either it was a long day or a long conversation, he sympathized with her just the same. With the smallest of smiles Hammer caught Xeph's eyes and nodded toward the sleepy female.

Xeph was about to turn to Nikhila and be stubborn about the salad when Hammer nudged him to draw his attention to the sleeping Jillian. He nodded his understanding, and, catching Drew and Nikhila's attention, signaled a waiter. Asking him to wrap everything, he handed Nikhila the keys to his car.

Gently shaking Jillian's shoulder, Xeph waited for a response before saying, "Hey sleepyhead. That's no way to drive. If you want to give me your keys I'll drive you back to the Den and get you situated in a suite of your own. It'll probably be a lot more comfortable than the table. Or you can leave the car here and we'll swing by for it tomorrow, but I assume all your stuff is inside."

Jillian certainly couldn't drive herself back in this state, and Xeph wasn't about to risk her falling asleep at the wheel and getting in an accident. Given her recent trauma, he figured she'd be receptive to his offer, or at least he hoped she would.

((ooc: Xeph out with Jillian if she approves, or with Nikhila and Shiye otherwise.))

If Jillian had been less sleepy, and not just awakened from the beginnings of a dream, she probably would have been so mortified that she would have turned several shades of red.

As it was, once she came too enough to recognize Xeph, and realize she was more than a little tired, and welcomed being taken care of, for the immediate future anyway.

Still lethargic from her almost nap, Jillian reached into her purse and pulled out her keys, handing them to Xeph without hesitation. She managed to stand, and smile at the others around her, hoping they didn't hold her terrible manners against her.

"It was lovely meeting you all, and I hope to see you again."

Unmindful of any liberties she might be taking, Jilli wrapped her small arm around Xeph's and followed him out.

(Jillian out with Xeph)

Oh thank, God. Hammer mumbled to himself, thankful that the social gathering was done. He stood politely as the ladies did and nodded toward Xeph.

'If anyone needs me, you all know where to find me.' With a nod he did his best to smile, which wasn't really a smile at all, and exited out of the restaurant.

((OOC - Hammer out))

Wolfing, so to speak, down the rest of his dinner and glaring at Nikhila for suggesting vegetables. Drew noticed things seeming to wind down. It was half out of his mouth to offer to drive Jillian back to the Den, he’d be OK if he could fallow Xeph or Hammer but things seemed to be decided. He’d offer to help her get it back in the morning. For him the little glitch was already in the past and he was more than happy to move forward.

One last good bite and he contentedly followed every one out, he’d probably have to unpack yet and was looking forward to exploring thing. He also absently wondered about Jillian and why she was so wore out. From the sounds of things she’d driven in and if she drove half as far as he’d flown yeah she’d be wore out. His random musings was interrupted and he found himself stepping away from Nikhila, something that had never happen. Apparently, even the nicest and most ideal of women had their flaws. Thank god, he was a guy, cause he knew that growl heard it every time some one got between his folks. The old man never did take that well, even if he could keep himself under control.

((Drew out too))

As thing naturally broke up Nikhila debated excusing herself and going straight on to the lab. She was already late and even though it was only the middle of the week, she’d more than put in her time. Especially considering she was a freelance consultant and had no set schedule to follow, but she was worried about her rogue. Although it was, if she remembered right, his day off; perhaps she could grant herself the same leniency.

Doing her best not to laugh at Hammer as he took off she merely smiled and followed every one out. She could almost see Shiye trying to be helpful and not sure what was the most helpful and would have laughed at that but some one had taken position of what was hers. Without thinking about it, Nikhila ground her teeth together and dropped back half a pace and growled. It was a half growl, the sound not natural to her human form; low, soft, not easily heard but clearly territorial. It was –not- at –all- proper to be hanging on to –her- mate. Apparently, Shiye heard it and she looked away, embarrassed, and followed every one out.

She’d not be going to the lab tonight after all, not unless Xeph was going out. Protective of a new arrival of not she suddenly found she had obligations to Aidan as well and if she didn’t she’d damned well find some. These were new feelings she hadn't had cause to deal with in some years. It was going to take getting used to again, but they could wait one night. All she could do now was vow to herself they wouldn’t effect her dealings with others. She'd managed to keep this part of her nature under control before, she could again.

((OOC… Nikhila out as well))