Unsurprisingly there weren't any children's books in the library, Maria had asked Pepper whilst they were trying to track Tony down for his bath; he'd legged it at the mere mention of the word. Phil said that he'd get Fury to send some tomorrow, he would have suggested a trip to library but seeing as they were all currently under house arrest this wasn't an option.
The house arrest issue was proving to be a nightmare already, a trip outside for the little buggers would at least tire them out a bit, stop them from vandalising their current living quarters, but until S.H.I.E.L.D. worked out how they were going to break the news to the public, that their city's greatest defence (and enemy) were now reduced to the age of kindergarteners, any interaction between the kids and the outside world was strictly forbidden. 'Easy for Fury to say,' Maria thought bitterly as she battled with Thor, Loki and Steve at bath time, (Steve complained it was too hot, Loki insisted on bubbles and as soon as Thor got in the bath all of the water seemed to get out). He doesn't have to deal with them.'
They were all slightly calmer after their quick baths, though it has to be said, not a whole lot cleaner, that paint was a complete asshole when it came to causing stains. It could go on the banned list along with trips outdoors and foods high in sugar. If the kids weren't careful Lego would go on it too, Maria was fairly certain she'd had some bullet wounds that had given her less grief than treading on a rogue Lego brick.
"So how have they all been then?" Pepper asked, managing to grab the two agents alone once the kids had returned to the living room and their games.
"Childish," came Maria's retort, not missing the opportunity to make use of her sharp wit.
Pepper frowned, not amused.
"They've been fine Pepper," Phil assured her doing his best to not chuckle at the younger agent's comment, "A little restless but fine."
Pepper nodded "And this…state; is it permanent?"
"We don't know, we have experts running tests but it could be a week or two before get the findings in, and several more to find a solution. Until then, it is best we keep them contained, at least until Fury finds a way to break the news to the public."
Pepper nods once more, seemingly understanding. "And what will happen if the world needs them in their absence?"
Maria answers this time, keen to remind the woman that the world can function without the Avengers. "Shield is constantly monitoring potential threats Miss Potts; if any situation arises you can be sure that our agents will handle it. Moreover the Avengers greatest adversary is currently sat in your living quarters helping to build a fort out of cushions; I hardly think he's going to be any great trouble at that size."
Pepper chewed at her lip, unconvinced "And you're sure he doesn't remember anything of his adult life?"
"He doesn't appear to," Phil replied, beginning to stroll down the hall towards the area where the kids were playing, "none of them do, a few familiar traits but other than that a blank slate."
"Is a blank slate good or bad?" Pepper asked, once Phil had disappeared from their sight.
Maria shrugged, "I'm not sure, it is what we make of it I suppose," She smirked slightly at Pepper's confusion. "I think we deserve a drink Miss Potts, don't you?"
Okay hey, short little filler chapter I know but I just wanted y'all to know that I'm back; FINALLY. Sorry it took so long, but with college and exams and everything else I guess I came to neglect this story. I hope you'll forgive me. However I do have a question for you; seeing as I'm out of practice, to the tune of several months for this story, I was wondering if any of you had any ideas regarding what to put in the next few chapters or so, suggestions would certainly be appreciated. All the best, Eleanor x
