Oz chuckled, spooning chamomile into a squat clay tea pot. “My lovelies are well, Alpha, never you fear. They are a hearty bunch.” Well, with the exception of the basil, but Oz wasn’t about to bore Ava with his horticultural woes. He listened as his old friend and Alpha spoke, nodding to himself alongside Ava’s words.<br/><br/>He had suspected the Alpha’s mate of pregnancy for a few weeks now, but had thought it better to let the mated pair discuss things between themselves before mentioning anything. He chuckled at the man’s anxiety, pouring the now boiling water into the pot. “Peace friend, and congratulations,” he grinned, swirling the tea pot around on the counter, “It seems to me you are experiencing the same troubles all fathers do when expecting. To worry is natural, but to let that worry control you is unwise. We cannot control everything, no matter how much we try.”<br/><br/>Oz poured some tea in a mug and set it down in front of Ava before pouring himself some of the steaming liquid, holding the warm vessel tightly in his large hands. “The pregnancy will be eased with the help of the Ograndr, so if that is of greatest concern to you, I suggest you and Ana visit them. There are herbs that will help her.” He took the seat across from Ava and crossed his legs, fixing his alpha with a serious gaze.<br/><br/>“And if your pup is not the heir…” Oz sighed, looking down at the tea swimming around his cup, “We will proceed according to tradition, as we always have. I council you not to dwell on such things now, there is still a while yet until such bridges must be crossed. Drink, friend!” He encouraged, smiling as he too took a sip. After a moment his attention returned to his friend. "Have you spoken to your mate about your concerns?" he asked.  His eyes shifted to the door as a knock sounded, causing him to chuckle. Speak of the devil and she shall appear. “Please enter, Ana, I will get you a mug.”