(I like the use of the teacup)<br/>Lyons said, "I saw your glare at Alyx. Go see the Captain. You're on duty until further notice."<br/>Johh bit his lip he replied, "Yes. Sir." He did not want his father to give him extra duty. He wanted to see Samantha.<br/>Lyons opened the door to his study for Alyx. He poured a small glass of brandy for him. "Drink. This will calm you. We have a lot to discuss."<br/>Lyons listened to him. "A guard, yes. Captain Artimus told me about your bravery and you kept a level head. Do you wish to be a soldier or serve here among my elite?" Lyons sat back in his chair and sipped his brandy. He liked Alyx and enjoyed the young man's company. He felt he had a common bond with Alyx.<br/>Kate helped Ann with the dishes. She and Ann showed Reika where things were in the kitchen. Should she get hungry or thirsty between meals she would be able to help herself. Kate and Ann wanted her to feel at home as much as possible. Ann adored the girl and found her a bit entertaining. She has a sweet personality and all was new to her. If Lyons would not adopt her she would. Ann said nothing to Reika at the moment. It was too soon.<br/>After the dishes were done, Kate bundled Reika and took her outside to show her the gardens and the snow had piled on the snow house they made weeks before. Kate warned Reika before Kate walk into it. "Here is it." She and Reika dug into the snow to find the entrance. Kate handed Reika a stick. "Draw a picture or make your make any where you want. It is tradition for all members of the family to make their mark in the snow house."