"Who is Penny?" Magnus asked.
Aiden's face brightened. "Colton Albright's adopted daughter. She's my godsdaughter. She's only four and has kicked the butts of the guys in some of our training drills," he said, beaming as if he were the proud papa.
Kari turned her face away so Aiden wouldn't see her smiling; he was such a softie.
Magnus chuckled. "I would love to meet her."
Aiden's eyes clouded. "Maybe we should let the city calm down a bit first."
Kari placed a hand over her mouth. Aiden was in protective papa bear mode. "You are so adorable!"
Aiden blushed. "I am a fierce warrior."
"You are cuddly," she teased.
"Humph," he said gruffly.
Eva spread her arms to herd everyone to the door. "I'll watch over pint-size; y'all get." She turned to the twins. "Go get your books. You can use this time to study." They groaned and lay their heads down on the table.
"What subject are you studying?" Adriel asked.
"Battle tactics and maneuvering," Neil answered. Nigel's face brightened as he turned to Aiden. "Maybe you can help us, Commander?"
Aiden smiled. "There are only two people who have ever scored better than I have in that practical."
"Who?" the twins asked together.
"My father, Byron McKenzie, who is currently the shifter elder and former Unit Commander." Aiden paused smiling.
"Who's the other?" Nigel asked.
Aiden pointed to Meryn.
Adriel's mouth dropped open. "You are not serious."
Eva chuckled. Placing her finger under his chin, she closed his mouth. "Better close that darlin', you're gonna catch flies."
Aiden nodded, a thoughtful look on his face. "She is ruthless and practical. She is willing to make the sacrifices needed to win the endgame." He stopped a moment. He looked like he was choosing his words carefully. "Witches, in particular, have always had a hard time doing these practicals. Everything about your gifts revolves around helping others, but Meryn is able to set aside emotion and make decisions that save lives."
"But she's nice," Neil protested.
Aiden's eyes turned sad. "It would be easier on her if she was heartless. She pays for every choice she makes; they weigh on her greatly."
Adriel frowned, looking at Meryn. "She may be small, but she has the heart of a giant."
Magnus clapped his hands together softly. "Okay everyone, clear out."
"I'll wake them an hour before dinner," Eva said, once again trying to get everybody to leave the room.
Adriel and Aiden headed to their mates and gave them each a soft kiss before leaving. Nigel and Neil rose and ran for their books.
Magnus turned to her wincing. "More paperwork?"
"Always paperwork," Kari said, laughing.
CHAPTER SIX
"Okay, explain it to me again, why is this one is chronological?" Magnus asked, holding up a stack of files.