Family Ties

by albwtw

What if Diana hadn't been taken away from Adalind? What if the Grimms worked with her instead of against her? What if, by keeping mother and child together, a new family was made? A re-write of Season 3 and beyond.

30. Chapter 30

Family Ties Chapter Thirty

-G-

AN – Thank you so much for reading and all the feedback you give, be it in comment or review form or kudos or likes. It really means a lot to me and I hope you enjoy this next chapter.

I do not own any characters or stories from the tv show Grimm. Some dialogue is lifted from various episodes in Season 3 and Season 4. No infringement or copyright is intended. It's all for fun, no profit being made here.

Some text in this chapter comes from a prayer for the loss of a loved one. I am not completely sure of the origins of said text, and have not used it in its entirety, but hope it does not offend anyone and that it comes across that it is being used in a respectful manner to aid this story.

-G-

After Nick leaves, Adalind feels like the warmth in the room drops a little but that may also be because she can feel her worry rachet up. And possibly from what they have, as they eat the rapidly cooling drinks and food that the married couple brought with them. They talk quietly but Adalind struggles a little to join in actively with the conversation, still focused on what her daughter had revealed. To think that her daughter has been in pain and she didn't know. It leaves a horrible feeling in her gut.

"What else do we need to do, if we're going to do this?" Kelly asks.

"There is a potion that needs to be made and some talisman's we need to use when casting the spell," Henrietta instructs and turns to Rosalee. "You have many talents in this area, would you be willing to help?" Adalind can feel the Fuchsbau's eyes on her and when she looks up, Rosalee is regarding her.

"If Adalind is ok with that, then I'm happy to help," she states and Adalind feels a rush of affection towards the other woman. She doesn't have to be here, doesn't have to help them and to be checking in with her, that feels like respect and maybe the stirrings of friendship.

"I'd be fine with that," Adalind states, meeting her eyes. "Thank you for helping." They share a smile before the brunette turns to Henrietta.

"First, I'd like to read any original text we have on what we're doing," Rosalee says. "Then we can talk steps that need to be done and what we need to do for the binding."

"Binding?" Diana echoes and Adalind stills, unaware her daughter was awake and following their conversation. "Mama, what binding?" She turns to her daughter then and looks at her precious face.

"It's a spell, honey, that helps with magic, if the magic is not safe."

"For me?" Diana asks slowly and Adalind wraps an arm around her.

"Maybe," she replies. "If you want, we could use this spell to bind some, not all, only some, of your magic, so it doesn't hurt you anymore." Diana looks away, seemingly to study the air in front of her.

"No more hurt?" She asks quietly. "Keep the magic?"

"Yes, honey, you'd still have your magic," Adalind states. "But you don't have to decide right now. We're looking at the spell now so you can take time to think about it, ok?"

"Ok mama," Diana agrees before turning to Monroe and asking him about something that sounds entirely foreign to her but brings a smile to the man's face.

"Are you going to be ok here if I go help Henrietta and Rosalee?" Adalind asks and Diana bops her head in reply as the Blutbad looks sharply at her, studying her intently for a moment before nodding and Adalind moves to join the other two studying the books. They quietly discuss the process laid out in the book, possible origins and meaning behind the actions involved and what they need to do. Rosalee offers several insights and Henrietta talks through her opinions, which sets them off on several tangents.

It's only when Kelly walks back into the room that Adalind realises, she's been missing, though she can make several guesses as to what the female Grimm had been doing. She's staring at her phone and quickly joins Adalind.

"Nicky says his captain is requesting a meeting, soon as possible."

"What about?" She asks and Kelly shrugs.

"He doesn't say," she replies. "Just that it needs to be today." They share a look and Adalind sighs.

"Well, I guess we should find out what he wants." She turns to Henrietta. "I am sorry to put so much of this on you, but would it be ok to say we can meet here again?"

"I have no issues with the way this has fallen," Henrietta replies. "I offered you my help, and that offer still stands. If you need to use my home, then please, use it. I am also happy to play referee if needed."

"Thank you," Adalind breathes out and turns to see Kelly already on the phone, typing out a reply to Nick. She gestures to the books in front of them. "We'll have to put this on hold when he comes."

"I can work on this in the kitchen while he visits," Rosalee offers and so they work on moving everything to the other room and then setting up what is needed. It's a complicated potion that goes alongside the spell, needing time and certain steps, precise in their order, to get this right, as well as key ingredients. Kelly confirms when Nick and Sean are on their way and so they are able to get everyone in place, Monroe and Rosalee out of sight as they sit on the couches, and are waiting on the two police officers in the sitting room.

When Sean enters his eyes skim over everyone gathered before settling on Diana. She looks up at him from her seat beside Adalind and offers a small smile. It takes him a moment but he does smile back and Adalind breathes out as she watches the exchange. There is still a distance there, from both parties, but also an awareness. They mean something to each other now and she has to contend with the fact that, moving forward, he will be part of their lives. Much as she'd prefer otherwise, she has to admit that as long as they get to have lives, safe and happy ones, then that's something she can deal with.

"Daddy Sean," Diana greets and he walks forward to stand then kneel in front of her.

"Hello Diana, my beautiful princess," he greets back and that small smile widens on their daughter's face. Adalind looks up to see Nick stood off to the side and their eyes meet but she cannot read his face.

"What did you want to talk about Sean?" She asks after a moment of him just staring. He seems to shake himself then turn, so he stays in front of Diana but his body is angled to address the rest of the room.

"I have set a date for my mother's funeral," Sean starts.

"That's awfully fast," Kelly interrupts and gets an imperious look back.

"Due to my mother's condition, we were aware and she helped arrange many things so they could be accomplished in the manner she wanted." He explains. "As such, we had meetings and assurances in place for when the time came and so her funeral is organised." He looks away then, gulping slightly, before looking back. "But I received some unexpected news. My father will be attending."

"What?!" Adalind gasps, shock and horror erupting in her stomach as she sees both Nick and Kelly jolt. The King coming to Portland is not something she ever thought would happen, and never wanted to hear about, especially with it bringing him so close to her daughter. Sean's face falls into a frown and he looks between them all.

"I was just as surprised and even less thrilled to hear that," he admits, his tone tight. "But I cannot say no to my father so that was why I wanted to meet. You have to stay hidden. I do not want my father anywhere near Diana, so you have to go where you've been staying and then stay there until I can confirm he has left the area completely. I do not want to put Diana in any extra danger than she already is in." He meets her eyes squarely and Adalind studies him. He seems sincere and, for once, she cannot see any extra angle he might be playing. He seems to be, in a fatherly way, in protection mode.

"You want that?" She asks softly.

"I don't want anything to happen to Diana," he replies, voice less constricted but still stern. "I grew up in that place, and with a lot of unwelcome attention focused on me as I grew. I do not want the same for my daughter."

"If they're hiding, then we're hiding." Kelly states, gaining his attention. "That means no one will know where we are and we won't be available for meeting like this again, or pretty much any other kind of contact."

"That's fine," Sean says quickly. "That's what I want. You've been successful in keeping mostly off their radar so far, we want to keep it that way. Being so close is undesirable but moving now would be unsafe and risking our luck. No, it's best to just batten down the hatches and wait for the storm of my father, and everyone he will bring with him, to pass through. I take it Nick will still be able to contact you?" He glances back at him then and a look passes between them.

"We have secure methods of communication," Nick notes and Sean nods.

"Then keep it that way and I'll liaise through you." He turns back to Adalind then and takes a deep breath. "I would still like the chance for Diana to join me in remembering my mother. It meant a lot to her that she got to meet her granddaughter, and it meant something to me to see my family in such a way. It was not something I thought I would ever get to experience."

"Grandma Lizbeth," Diana says suddenly and Sean reaches out to offer her a hand. She takes it and Adalind can see as his much bigger hand folds over hers, his touch light.

"Yes, your Grandma Lizbeth," he replies with a soft smile.

"What did you have in mind?" She asks quietly, not wanting to interrupt their moment but also wanting answers.

"Not at the funeral but perhaps, once we are sure it's safe, you could join me for a blessing of her burial site, and join in with the sacred invocation of the loss of a loved one." His voice is quiet as he makes the suggestion and he even looks unsure. Henrietta stirs from her seat on the couch next to them, leaning forward to study Sean.

"Your mother had an awareness, and fondness, for such actions and rites. I believe this would be good for all involved." She states. Adalind glances at her before looking back to Sean, feeling uneasy but knowing how some Hexenbiests put power behind the acts that happen, even after their deaths.

"You'll help?" Sean asked then. "I know of them, my mother informed me of her wishes and what rituals to perform, but I would not say I am confident in my ability to perform them." Though Wesen through his mother, she knows Sean has always lacked the ability to truly connect with the abilities other Hexenbiest and Zauberbiest can engage with. He is still stronger than most men, and does has a slight immunity to magical attacks, but cannot respond with any of his own.

"It would be a great gift, to honour and remember my friend in such a way. And to do so with the next generation of Hexenbiest would bring further blessing to such an event." Henrietta says, meeting Sean's eyes before glancing to both Adalind and Diana.

"Thank you," he says to her before turning back to Adalind. "Will you and Diana join us?" She wants to say no, in her gut she just doesn't trust him. But she can't see how he could spin this and Elizabeth was deserving of the acknowledgement from them, that meeting her and knowing her had been impactful to their lives. Especially Diana. She glances down to see her daughter staring up at her and she knows, without having to ask, that Diana wants to do this. She may not fully understand what it entails but she has recognised it was for the grandmother she has lost and so wants to be involved.

"We'll join you," she states and sees both Nick and Kelly share a look from the corner of her eye. "But only when it's safe. And if there's any hint of anything that makes me question Diana's safety, absolutely anything, then we won't be involved at all."

"I understand," Sean replies, shooting what looks like a relieved smile at Diana. "I'll make the arrangements but it definitely won't be happening until I am sure my father has left this city." He leans forward then and gives Diana's hand a kiss, which draws a light giggle from the young girl. He reaches out to take her own hand, giving it a slight squeeze and Adalind has to repress the shudder that wants to run through her. His touch just doesn't feel right. Rising up to his full height, he takes several steps back and then looks over the room. "Thank you for this meeting. I'll be in touch but otherwise, I expect I won't see you for the next few days, at least."

"May I have the details of the funeral?" Henrietta asks. "If possible, I would wish to attend."

"Of course, my mother would have wanted that," Sean replies and then goes into detail about the date and times set. He gives a brief goodbye to everyone else in the room but then walks out still talking to Henrietta, mentioning several names she might know that were also on the guest list his mother had indicated and left for him to arrange. Nick steps forward as soon as he's out of the room and comes to crouch down in front of them.

"You both ok?" He asks and there's no hesitation at all as Diana leans forward to embrace him. He shifts so he's on one knee, the other leg bent and let's Diana sit there like it's a chair. Adalind smiles at the sight and focuses on her daughter.

"You ok, honey?" She asks and Diana shrugs.

"Daddy Sean sad," she states and Adalind nods.

"We know, it's a sad thing when we lose someone we love," she acknowledges. "But we can do something to remember her by, does that sound good?"

"With Henri and Daddy Sean?"

"Yes, we'd be together to do some special magic to remember Grandma Lizbeth," she says and sees Nick's face flicker with something. "But not today, uh Daddy Sean will tell us when he's ready."

"Ok, mama," Diana replies and snuggles further into Nick.

"I don't like this," Kelly states fiercely and Adalind looks up at her. "I don't believe that-"

"I think this is something we can talk about later?" Nick interrupts and tilts his head downwards in Diana's direction. She can understand his point, knowing that something could be said that Diana shouldn't hear, but she understands Kelly's feelings as the other Grimm huffs out her agreement. "Besides, I do have to get back to work."

"No go, My Nick," Diana says, curling her hands into his jacket, and he smiles down at her, even as Adalind internally agrees with her daughter.

"I'll be back," he says. "You have fun here while I go do my job and then I'll come meet you before we go home, ok?" Diana reluctantly nods and slides off his leg, after a long hug, while Adalind gets his words stuck in her head as she watches him leave, Henrietta passing something to him as he goes.

Home. Was it home? It was a safe place, yes, and it provided shelter for them, as well as security and options for their wellbeing. It was a place, yes, a building with four walls that was secure, and once she might have thought that was all that was needed to be able to create a home. But now she's seeing that it's also the people, who are there with you, and Adalind suspects that her vision of home is now very much tied to several of the people in the room. She just hopes Nick feels the same way.

-G-

Back at work, they've been pulled off the earlier case as another came through, once again bearing the marks of a Jack case. It's not just the murders that aren't ok but the added layer that Nick is aware of that these deaths should not still be happening. Not in this style, unless they have a copycat who was inspired by the captain's actions, albeit whilst under possession from a spirit.

"You got any new thoughts about this?" Hank asks as they leave the newest crime scene and Nick shrugs with a grimace.

"Each as unbelievable as the last," he comments, scanning the crowd as they move past it.

"Hey, we deal with the unbelievable all the time." Hank points out and Nick huffs in agreement. A prickle of awareness shoots down his spine and then he realises they're being closely watched. He pauses by the car door, not getting in, and Hank copies his delay with a raised eyebrow.

"We're still talking about the case," Nick mutters quietly, looking at Hank but also scanning the crowd. "And I think we have more repeat actions to follow up on." Hank tilts his head then suddenly nods, pulling out his phone and looking as if, to anyone observing, that he's entering information into it. "Far right, follow the uni passing." Nick offers as direction and Hank glances up, swinging his phone around as he greets the officer passing them before turning slowly back to Nick.

"Got it," he says and Nick nods, knowing his partner has managed to take some video of the assembled crowd, even as his eyes sweep over them too. A familiar face pops into his vision and he gets into the car as nonchalantly as he can.

"You recognise anyone back there?" Hank asks as he starts the car.

"Pretty sure one guy in the back was Verrat," Nick says. "So, the royals still have eyes on me." As he says it a thought comes and he stills.

"What?" Hank questions as he takes in his body stance.

"What if I'm not the only one the royals have eyes on?" Nick says slowly as his thoughts come together. "What if they also have eyes on captain, and so found out about his possession and the acts he committed during that time?"

"You think they'd care?" Hank's face says what he thinks about that.

"I do if there was the possibility they could use it," Nick responds. "Especially if they could frame him for several murders and get him out of the way." They share a look.

"Damn," Hank breathes out. "That makes sense in a real twisted way."

"It also means we probably have a mole at the station," Nick points out. "So, we really have to be aware of what we're saying and doing." They'd probably have to warn the captain too, but as he's got the funeral to focus on its less likely he'll be as present at the precinct in the next few days so they have time to do their own investigating. "We have to tread carefully," Nick notes. "Go back to those first cases and then see if we can find out anyone who shouldn't have had access has, or anyone who we think is suspicious. Then follow any of those leads and hope we can catch a trail. And keep everything between us two, and Wu. No one else."

-G-

He'd been looking forward to going back to Henrietta's and then having a quiet evening at the loft after a long day looking at evidence and trying to see any connection that could be there. But Rosalee calls and says the Wesen council operative, Kou Kaufman, wants to meet so he calls his mother and says he'll meet them back at the loft instead.

Nick enters the Spice Shop to see he's arrived before the Steinadler so takes the time to talk to Monroe and Rosalee. They're both nervous about the coming meeting, with those feelings only growing as Nick reports what he's heard from Bud.

"I know you both have a lot going on right now but I just wanted to say thank you for continuing to help me, and the others, at the same time," he says in a break in their conversation, sharing a pointed look so they know who he's referring to.

"Nick, we're happy to help," Rosalee smiles and Monroe huffs.

"And your others, they're pretty special. Especially the young one," Monroe adds in, with a soft grin.

"Well, you made an impression and she's pretty fond of you too," Nick notes with a smile.

"Dude, she's not what I was expecting, at all, neither of them is," the Blutbad admits and Nick nods in agreement. "And seeing you, all together? Man, you're in deep."

"That wasn't the plan," he says quietly. "But … I really am."

"Well, life rarely goes to plan. And I, for one, am not complaining about that, as I wouldn't have my friendship with you, or my lovely wife, if it had."

"And we're happy to see you happy," Rosalee states. "But, have you thought this through? There's so much at stake here, and quite a few unknowns." He nods again, thinking of everything that has come their way so far and all that remains unclear. Yet, then he thinks of Diana grinning up at him and having her settle in his arms. Of Adalind, and the sensations she invokes as well as the warming comfort she has begun to provide.

"I faced unknowns with Juliette," he says quietly and both his friends still as they look at him, knowing what that relationship, and all its ups and downs, meant to him. "And we tried to move past them and adapt and be what we were before, just with this new circumstance between us. And try as she might, Juliette just couldn't get past those differences and I didn't really want to. I loved her but I also loved being a Grimm, and everything that it brought into my life. I didn't mean for it to put a wedge in between us but it did. And then this circumstance happened, and I discovered more things about myself, my abilities, as well as the world around me. It meant more and it wasn't something I wanted to give up. Then Adalind …" He sighs and runs a hand through his hair.

"Nick, we've both spent time with Adalind now, we can see she's different," Rosalee states.

"You don't really see it though," he says back. "For whatever reason, we've got this connection and through it, the dreams, the magic, we got to know each other. And we're similar, as well as being different, with both of us wanting to focus on a better future than what happened in the past. It wasn't like just a flip of a switch; I didn't go from hating her to knowing her and liking her overnight. But now, yeah, I'm willing to face the unknowns if I get her and Diana."

"And we'll be there for you, through it, as you've been there for us." Monroe claps his hand to his shoulder. "And I want to apologise again for Juliette hearing about things from us, that wasn't planned."

"Not your fault. I'm glad you've been able to keep your friendship with her," he says but doesn't miss the shift in Rosalee's face. "What?"

"She is my friend and I want to be there for her too," she says quietly. "But, it's not the easiest transition. She knows what we are but doesn't want to talk about it, so it's sometimes a bit uncomfortable when topics come up and she very obviously changes the subject."

"I'm sorry to hear that," he says, meaning it.

"It's alright. We'll figure it out. It's just not every day where you have a relationship that you've completely clean about your Wesen nature and then have it constantly swept under the rug. Usually, once you're out, you're out." Rosalee shrugs and Nick thinks he understands.

"And if we have to hear more about this new boyfriend, with his exotic accent and his talk of traveling around the world, man," Monroe huffs and Nick feels awkwardness settle into the conversation for the first time. He knows this information, Juliette told him herself, but it still feels slightly strange.

"You don't need to hear about that," Rosalee states and Nick tilts his head a little.

"It doesn't really bother me," he admits. "I mean, yeah, it's a bit awkward but I don't wish her ill will, so if she's found someone that can make her happy then I'm glad for her. And I can't exactly talk, forming the relationship I have, in the same time period no less, can I? No, I don't necessarily want to hear it but I'm not against her being happy and finding the life she wants."

"We get it, dude," Monroe says and Nick is slightly relieved to hear the knock on the door to indicate the arrival of their visitor and so the end of this conversation. He and Rosalee wait as Monroe goes to answer the door and they all stand together as the council operative they met before joins them in the side room.

"Good evening to you all," he greets with a nod that Nick returns.

"Mr Kaufman," Rosalee says and Monroe takes his place by her side. They exchange names again, as well a few minutes of slightly stifled small talk before the Steinadler takes a deep breath and finally approaches his purpose for being there.

"I have found sufficient evidence to support your claim and that a group are promoting blood purity in the area." The operative states and Nick spies Monroe roll his eyes. This meeting is already off to a slightly tense start and Nick can't see it improving.

"So, our word alone wasn't enough?" Monroe growls out.

"The council investigates these matters so appropriate action can be taken," Kaufman replies and as much as it might be infuriating, as these are his friends and their lives it's affecting, as a cop Nick understands about doing your due diligence and proving facts before moving forward. Doesn't mean he feels any less frustrated.

"So, you have the proof, what happens next?" He asks.

"I have informed the council and they will reply to me with what steps are to be taken next. Either I will act alone and inform the group, and its members, of the consequences to their actions if they do not stop, or else other operatives from the council will be sent to join me and we will work on disbanding the group together."

"You'll inform them!?" Monroe shouts before abruptly turning away, running a hand through his hair as he mutters under his breath. Rosalee steps up then and stares the Steinadler down.

"The last time we were a target for a group like this my husband was kidnapped, beaten and almost killed," she angrily starts. "He was witness to another man's end simply because of who he loved and we were the ones who comforted his widow. And that was only possible after we were there to stop them, because of our friends, who figured out what was happening and came to help us. They saved Monroe, and me, and made sure that group couldn't hurt anyone again. Do you really believe informing them of their actions and the possible consequences they could face is going to stop them?!"

"The council has steps that need to be-"

"The council isn't doing enough!" Monroe roars as he turns back round, eyes flashing red briefly. "You're the ones that are supposed to protect us and the Wesen community! We have more support from a Grimm then we do you!"

"You find yourselves in a unique situation, yes, but-"

"I'll give you unique," Monroe starts forward and Rosalee hugs him to her side as Nick also steps forward. As much as he agrees with what's being said he doesn't want Monroe to get in trouble and taking this in a more physical direction will be of no help to anyone.

"Look. As I'm sure you understand, emotions are pretty tense here right now," he says, getting a huff out of his friend but at least he's not advancing anymore. "And as Rosalee pointed out, the situation we're seeing now is how it started last time, which led to lives being put directly in danger. You're here, seeing this too, so your next steps should already be happening, not just being talked about."

"We have our procedure to follow, Mr Burkhardt," he replies sternly. "As a detective in a local police force, I'm sure you would understand that."

"I do, but also as a detective I can say there's enough evidence here to be taking more direct action," he points out and the other man cocks his head to the side. "As well as an awareness of past incidents and their escalation."

"And as a Grimm?" He asks pointedly. "Especially as a Grimm who took action in the previous incident?" Nick takes a deep breath at the reminder of that, his actions and the massacre he dealt out to the members of the Wesenrein. Memories come quick of that time, and the others since, that he entered 'zombie mode', as Monroe had coined it, and how his emotions and actions were affected. Not being fully in control of his actions is scary, especially as it had such an impact on so many lives. As a cop, he definitely would have preferred to arrest those involved and have them serve their time for their actions but as a Grimm, and a friend, he can say he is glad they cannot hurt anyone else again, ever.

Shaking the thoughts away he meets the other man's steady gaze and shrugs slightly.

"I'm not your typical Grimm," Nick replies with emphasis. "But I will protect my friends, and any other Wesen who comes to me for help, especially when they are being targeted in unfair ways." He thinks of Monroe and Rosalee, people he helped, who helped him, who have become such good friends and who were able to look around the fact he was a Grimm. Thinks of Bud and those at the Lodge. Others who he's interacted with along the way. If anything, he should be doing more.

"I can understand that, even if others may not," Kaufman replies, tone losing its ring of neutrality. "However, as an operative of the council I must-" The sudden sound of smashing glass interrupts and they all duck down as rocks are hurled through the window to their side as well as the ones above them in the roof. Nick covers his eyes so he can glance up as Monroe shields Rosalee and all the Wesen Woge. He just catches a glimpse of a figure as they turn away and after glancing to check if anyone's injured, he's moving to the front door.

"I see them, I'm going after the one on the street!" He calls as he moves to the front door.

"I will track the ones on the roof!" Kaufman pivots to the back door and they both exit as he hears Monroe's voice, high with concern, check on Rosalee. Out on the walkway he runs in the direction he saw the figure move in, moving as fast as he can whilst also straining to hear anything out of place. He just hears a muffled 'Go!' and the slam of a door as he speeds up but the car pulls out ahead of him and he just focuses on the license plate before a figure in black emerges from the window and aims a gun back at him.

Nick spins into an alleyway as the shots fire, missing him, and he has a fleeting flush of cold energy, his senses zeroing in on the sound of the car before he can feel everything slowing around him, his heartrate going down as the chill spreads through him with his mind starting to go blank. Taking deep, gulping breaths he pushes it back, now not being the time, even if he's angry and frustrated and so wants to get his hands on these guys, but not like this, he has to stay focused. Another deep breath and he's able to feel his heartbeat increase and normalise, hear the sounds of the street around him again. Pulling out his phone he quickly dials Wu and starts to rattle off information about what just happened and the digits he got from the license plate as he walks back to the Spice Shop.

Monroe and Rosalee are the only ones in the space and he glances around to see the damage. Several panes of glass are missing from the roof as well as one big section from the window in the side room, all in shattered shards on the floor. The rocks are all fist size and bigger, with two wrapped in paper, writing on them obvious.

"Are you both ok?" He asks as he steps towards them.

"We're fine," Rosalee sighs, though she looks pale and shaken.

"We're not fine, this is not ok!" Monroe growls out. "I can't live through this again! What will it be next? Will they take me again? Rosalee? This needs to stop, now!"

"I'm not going to let them hurt you, last time is not going to be repeated, ok?" Nick swears and they both look at him wearily.

"We know you will try Nick, but there's only one of you," Monroe says. "And I am not risking Rosalee."

"I don't want to risk you either!" Rosalee cries out and steps towards Monroe. He wraps her in his arms and Nick glances away to give them a moment. He hears Monroe's murmur of comforting words and Rosalee's soft replies, as well as the sound of lips touching, as they both breathe deep and cling to each other.

"Look," he says quietly. "I know last time was traumatic and not something any of us want a repeat of, and I can't promise anything other than that I will do everything, absolutely everything, I can so we don't have anything like that happen again. But I do mean it."

"We know Nick," Rosalee replies and he looks back to see them both looking at him.

"I've reported the vandalism to Wu, along with a partial plate number I got from the car they drove away in, so we have that as well as the surveillance we set up that we can check. We're not heading into this blind; we know more this time and we have more in place. We can be better prepared." He states.

"You will also not be alone," Kaufman announces as he re-enters the shop and they all turn towards him. "I will report this further attack but I will also ask for additional assistance, as this was a direct attack that could have brought harm to life and clearly shows those involved have little regard for others."

"Caught on now, have you?" Monroe snaps but Rosalee rubs a hand across his chest.

"Thank you," she says to the other man, tone neutral if not also strained. "Any help will be appreciated."

"Did you catch up to them or get any information we can use?" Nick asks and the Steinadler nods, albeit slowly.

"He unfortunately had a significant lead across the roofs so I could not catch him, but my eyesight is extremely good so I was able to see who they were. Both Woged and retracted. I will draw the likeness and pass it on to you."

"That would be good, I can scan it and run it through our system," Nick states and the other man nods to indicate his agreement. Rosalee moves to give him paper and a pen so he can start sketching as Nick and Monroe walk around the room, leaving the rocks for the CSUs to check for any further evidence, and begin to plan how they can secure the shop for the night. In the basement are several sheets of wood they can re-configure to patch up the gaps in the window as well as some tarpaulin that could be a temporary fix for the roof and they make plans as they wait, Nick knowing they're going to be here for a while longer yet.

Wu joins them, alongside Hayes and another detective Nick hasn't met yet, who quickly question them all then instructs the CSUs once they arrive on site. Nick passes the human sketch on, whilst pocketing the Wesen version and Kaufman gives his statement before leaving to begin his own next steps.

He wants to head to the trailer but is aware that, with possible eyes on him still, he doesn't want to risk its location. It does remind him of another who could help, and do so much more from the shadows than he is able to do right now. Checking on Monroe and Rosalee, who both want to go home and are extremely thankful that their house is protected with Henrietta's magic, he offers them an escort home but they both decline. Getting to his own car, he watches as they lock up and pulls out his phone.

"Trubel," he greets. "How are you?"

"Good, Nick, good. Not been involved with any more Wesen fights and Josh and I have made good progress with his state of affairs." It's good to hear her voice, lighter than previously heard, and he has a moment to pause and consider what he's about to ask. She's away from all this right now and if he asks this then he could be dragging her back into something that could turn physical and violent, very easily and quickly.

"I'm glad to hear you're both alright," he sighs out.

"Are you ok, Nick? What's going on?" She questions, tone sharp now and he makes his decision.

"You know that situation I mentioned before?" He asks and she hums her affirmative. "Well, there might be another situation happening now as well."

"You need me Nick, I'm there for you," she replies instantly and he breathes out.

"This could get dangerous," he warns and hears a slight scoff from the other end of the line.

"I've lived through dangerous," she states back. "You helped me from that and now I'm in a much better place, because of you. I know what I am and what I can do, as well as what I can choose to do. Doesn't matter what it is, if it's dangerous or not, I'll be there for you. So, what is going on?"

"Well, there's what's appearing to go on and what I think is actually happening," he starts before launching into several explanations, though only going into limited detail with this conversation happening over the phone. She listens and asks questions of her own and he answers as he sees Monroe and Rosalee finally leave the shop and drive off. Juggling his phone as he begins his own journey home, really ready now to just get to the loft and collapse for the night, they talk for several more minutes before coming up with a plan.

"Thank you, Trubel," he says quietly, the thought of having some more support coming, who he absolutely trusts, meaning a lot to him.

"No thanks needed," she replies. "I'll keep in touch and see you soon."

-G-

Hot breath flutters over his skin as their bodies press close and magic sparks through the air. It sends energy skittling along his skin and he rolls her till he can settle on top, her legs parting to let him rest between. He's hard and hot and she's languid and welcoming under him.

His hands run from her hips up over her ribcage, fingers flicking out at the edge of her breasts, leaving little sparks of magic, before cupping under her arms and then encouraging them up, over her head, where he can hold them while stretching her body to his view. She bucks up against him and he feels her heat and wetness as they slide together.

"Please," she murmurs, eyes dark and blinking up at him. "Nick, please."

"What do you want?" He asks huskily as they shift so as much as their bodies are in contact with each other as possible. The hum of magic surrounds them and he breathes in deep as it seems to envelop them, their own bubble of magic and power and pleasure.

"Take me," she breathes out. "Love me."

"Yes." He surges forward to kiss her as his hips roll and she welcomes him inside.

Lightning seems to bolt through them as they connect and with a gasp his eyes open with a snap. Hers stare back at him, glowing white, and he can see a slight reflection of his own, shining black, as their bodies move and streaks of light and magic and power and something more wrap around them. It builds and builds as they move, hearts thumping and breaths gasping, racing some undefinable thing and all they can do is cling to each other as pleasure warps and light erupts and the cackle of power brings it all together, flashing like lightning in the night sky, their cries merging in the bubble around them as electricity sparks and seals this thing between them.

-G-

Adalind wakes with a gasp, her body still trembling as echoes of feeling from their dream wash through her. She can feel Nick beside her and turns in the bed they share to stare as he blinks heavily in the low light.

"Did we just …?" She asks, voice slightly hoarse, noting his body slightly quivering in movements similar to her own.

"I think so," he replies slowly. "I don't know … what was that?" They stare at each other and she notes his eyes are their normal steel blue, no shining darkness to be found.

"God, that felt so real." She nods and then slides a hand down her body, trying to discreetly check but feeling the weight of his gaze on her hand as she moves it between her legs. Touching herself, she feels her own wetness and gasps as it sends a thrill through her, even as it gives the feeling of being sensitive as though they had been together. Pulling back, she turns to him more fully but stops as he grabs her hand and links it with his own, twisting their pointer fingers together before moving back and in between her legs again, stroking slowly before pushing their joint digits inside.

"Nick," she gasps and he groans. Adalind pushes her head back into the pillow as the movement continues and he flicks his thumb out to tap her clit. "Oh!" She feels his head drop and kiss along the column of her throat as their hands settle into a rhythm. "We should … talk about … uh, this." She stutters out as their movements send jolts of pleasure through her.

"Alright," Nick replies talking against her skin. "We can talk … how you feel … uh, about how wet you are … after that dream." She whines and brings her other hand up to sink into his hair.

"We … felt like we … uh, we actually had sex … in a dream," she pants out.

"It was more … than just that," he replies, voice breathy and she can feel him press himself into her side. Her hips roll with their continued movement and she tries to arch into him, to bring him some pleasure as he encourages more in her.

"Your eyes … were uh, more," she gasps out.

"So were … yours," he says back. "And the feelings …" She trails her hand down his back, sparks of magic following her touch. He raises his head and kisses her, lips strong and passionate. Tongues battle and they trade breath as their lips meet, again and again, until Nick pulls back with a gasp when she shifts her hand down lower, into his sleep pants, and grasps him firmly.

He keeps up with his strokes and she matches his pace, hand curling around and adding extra twist to her movement. They both press closer, forehead to forehead, and work each other with their hands.

"Never seen … that before," she says. "Or felt …. like that …"

"Feels so …" Nick murmurs before his hips buck and he jerks in her hand. He groans, long and low, his hand losing rhythm with her own and almost slipping out of her as he comes before then re-joining her and speeding up, pressing high and hard and she shudders with her own release.

His head falls down, burrowing into her hair as they both gasp and relax. After a moment Nick shifts, pulling back and then is pulling his shirt off over his head before using it to wipe first himself and her hand clean, then to gently swipe between her legs and finally use the cloth to remove anything left on their hands. Once finished he throws it to the side and leans back on his back, Adalind quickly shifting so she can rest her head on his chest and his arm comes up to wrap around her shoulders.

"So … how you feeling?" He asks and she can't help the giggle that slips through her lips.

"Pretty relaxed right now," she murmurs and he hums, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "You?"

"Yeah, relaxed covers it," he replies before sighing. "As well as a bit mystified."

"That might be a good word to use," she comments. "From all that I know, and what we've experienced, we shouldn't have experienced anything like this at all. And the fact that it seems to be changing and evolving?" She shakes her head uncertainly against his chest and his hand runs up and down her arm in comfort.

"Hey, weren't you going to look into this more?" He asks, but there's no judgement or reproach in his voice. Just query after other conversations they've had.

"I was," she admits. "But most of my time recently has been spent reading and investigating anything to do with the binding." She feels the movement of his nod.

"Of course, how is that coming?"

"Rosalee has the base potion made, luckily that can be done ahead of time and kept for a period until needed. It will need to be heated and have the final ingredients added, alongside the blood, but we have part one done." She details, aware he missed some of this when he went back to work and then called to help Rosalee and Monroe. She feels awful for his friends, and her burgeoning ones, but also can't help but feel glad that they got the potion finished, with their help, before this attack happened.

"That's good," he murmurs.

"I'm sorry I haven't done more research regarding our … thing," she says softly and Nick shifts slightly to gaze down at her.

"Don't be. It's not like you haven't had other things to focus on, and we've both said how we just want to know more, not stop it. It doesn't seem to be going anywhere, nor causing any problems, so it's ok if we focus on Diana and the binding and get to this later."

"That we know of," she corrects quickly. "And tonight was different. It was more and the magic …" She trails off as images and feelings come, from the dream and memory. She's never felt anything like that before and she's regularly in contact with one of the most powerful beings in their world. Diana's magic was amazing, and terrifying, and awe-inspiring, but felt so completely different to what she experienced with Nick in their shared dream world.

"Yeah, I felt that too."

"We don't know what it means so we have to be cautious," she states and he nods.

"I know and we will be. We can make sure we remember as much as we can, how it started and what we felt and how it's changed." He trails a finger down her arm and she shivers lightly at the feeling.

"Will that be enough?" She asks quietly and feels the movement of his shrug.

"I think we have to admit that we're operating here with unknowns and that we have to be cautious, yes, but also to just keep things as normal as we can." She huffs at that and feels his eyes on her.

"No part of this is normal, Nick, even for the weirdness of the Wesen world," she states and he chuckles roughly.

"Normal for us then," he corrects.

"A do-gooder Grimm and a trying-to-be-better Hexenbiest with her superpowered daughter and everything that comes with that?" She asks and Nick huffs.

"Well, when you put it like that …" He rolls suddenly and she finds herself under him once more, steel blue eyes gazing down at her in seriousness.

"We just keep trying," he whispers. "Try to build a better life, for us and those around us. Try to keep everyone safe and happy and not let others have control that would abuse it. Try to make sure history doesn't repeat itself and we learn from it and improve it."

"I'll keep trying if I can do it with you," she murmurs back. "And we promise we try together." He lifts a hand to cup her cheek, thumb gently stroking her chin.

"I promise," he says softly and a shock comes from his touch, a static feeling that also leaves behind something almost of permanence. She gasps at the sensation and Nick pulls away, though he lets them settle back into their previous position.

"Nick, what was that?" She asks in confusion, not having felt something like that before.

"What was what?" His tone is carefully blank.

"Nick …" she pushes up to look down at him and he sighs before meeting her gaze. "That was something."

"I don't fully know or understand," he starts. "But sometimes, as a Grimm, I can kind of make a promise and it becomes a vow, I guess, and it just sticks. With the magic, or whatever it is, in my blood and I have this awareness of the people I've made promises to." She stares at him quietly after he's finished and he waits, seemingly unsure of her reaction.

"You just promised to doing this together," she says quietly.

"Yeah," he replies simply and that one word, said in such a way, causes an avalanche of feelings inside her. Here is this man, who should be an enemy, who she's done some awful things to, who has forgiven her and is now making a promise that those she had much stronger ties to in the past couldn't make.

"Ok," she whispers, voice slightly choked and sees understanding wash over his face. They don't need to say anything else tonight, they've reached another point where they are learning and trusting each other. He tugs her down and she settles onto his chest once more, his warmth invading her from where they touch, and presses a kiss to her hair. She in turn touches her lips to his chest, right over his heart, and lets the hum of the magic, their connection, lull her back to sleep.

-G-

The next few days seem to pass quickly and yet also slowly at the same time. Nick spends his evenings with Adalind, Diana and his mother. Offering respite from their time being couped up inside and also gaining support for himself, where moments of Diana giggling and conversations with his mother filling a space in his soul he didn't know needed it. Time with Adalind, both with her daughter and without, spent learning each other anew, even as it also shores up what they've already discovered about each other.

Work passes in bits and spurts, getting cases and so having to follow the leads, whilst also investigating as much as possible into what happened at the Spice Shop, as well as all the Jack cases and anything that might be linked to them. Hank and Wu provide so much support, as well as different view-points, and the whole precinct is slightly off-based with the captain being in and out, more so than usual. The knowledge of his mother's passing and the date of her funeral spread quickly and the day before he's due to be out for the sad events sees him calling a conference for all the information they have on current cases.

"I've said before that this was top priority and I know you're working your hardest to solve this case but we need more. This has gone on long enough and we need to find this guy before it affects Portland as a whole. This is our city and we need to take a stand, not just for ourselves but for all the people that live here." The captain states and a ripple goes through the room. "Do what you have to do to get this done." He nods then retreats into his office but not before catching Nick's eye. Sensing he wants to talk, and an opportunity he can't pass up, he makes his excuses with the others around him and moves. Grabbing the packet and files from his desk he quickly joins his superior.

"You know more about this case than the others. Do you have anything more?" Renard asks as he closes the door and he sounds weary. Nick places all of his items on the captain's desk before holding up one of the files.

"We've narrowed done the type of blade that is being used, in an official capacity," Nick starts and then hands over the photo he has. "Also, been able to confirm the manner and routine in which the victims are being killed. There are inconsistencies, suggesting multiple culprits involved, though by appearances it is the same person." The captain swears and pushed back from his desk. Nick waits a beat before starting to gather the strewn about items. "Look, we'll keep digging. You probably need to focus on the other main event that's happening tomorrow." He only gets a nod in reply and so steps back to exit before pausing.

"Ah, captain, sorry, could you give me…?" He indicates the packet on the desk with a tilt of his head and the other man collects it before standing to give it over.

"Here you go," he states as Nick receives it.

"Thank you," he says and gets a nod.

"Happy to help," the captain replies before dropping down in his seat and Nick making his way back to his desk, package clutched tightly in his hand.

Going home that evening they start planning to actually do the binding, knowing they need time and that, as much as they can prepare, they don't know what will happen. If Diana will react well, what the magic will do, if it will even work. But they have to try and as Nick helps settle the little girl to sleep the night before the day they've decided to try, reading a bedtime story as Diana snuggles into his side and Adalind watches with a soft smile on her face, he internally shores up his promise to keep trying, to keep being there for both of them. So, they can all have better futures and better experiences than those in the past.

-G-

Adalind stares as they all gather in the kitchen, the light blue potion in front of them bubbling gently as it heats up and several vials resting in front of it, most empty but one already full with dark red liquid. Dropping down she gathers Diana to her and holds her daughter gently.

"Are you sure you want to do this?" She asks quietly, one more time. Diana gazes back at her before nodding. "Alright then. I can't tell you how it will feel, I don't know. I hope it won't hurt, that isn't what this should do. But if you feel uncomfortable, at any point, tell me and I'll help."

"Ok mama," Diana replies and then steps forward to hug her. Adalind can't help but squeeze her tight and hold on for just a moment more before pulling back and offering her a smile.

"Alright, let's do this," she states and then looks up to Henrietta. The older Hexenbiest steps forward and picks up one of the vials as well as a small dagger.

"Think of what you want this to do," she coaches as Adalind holds her hand out. "This is to help not cause harm, to hold back that which would overwhelm. Magic to support magic and bring peace to your daughter's most innermost self and core." She closes her eyes and let's Henrietta's words wash over her as she concentrates on it all. Wanting Diana to be safe, to be herself and not have to constantly grapple with something far too big for her. To be able to use magic and not have it use her. For her daughter to discover the joys of being a Hexenbiest, whilst also carrying an awareness of what it can mean in darkness as well. To fix her past actions and make it better.

The prick comes and then she feels a squeeze around her finger before opening her eyes to see the red of her blood fill the vial. Henrietta nods and then holds both vials of parental blood above the bubbling potion. She Woges and instructs all those holding the talismans to hold them high, forming a ring around the potion. Adalind holds Diana's hand and they all watch as the red liquid pours down and mixes with the potion, the colour changing from blue to red then back again. It continues to flicker in colour and bubble along but does nothing else. No merging of colour, flash of light or transformation as they expected. Adalind glances to Henrietta who doesn't drop her Woge and considers the potion herself.

"What's going on?" She asks. "Is it not working? Do you think the blood wasn't right? Why aren't we seeing the next phase? What do we do?"

"All the steps and ingredients were correct," Rosalee says. "We should be seeing what is described as a reaction and combination of all the components to then create a potion in a personalised shade."

"I wouldn't say that's that," Monroe adds in and Nick frowns. Adalind feels tears prick as she glances from the cauldron to her daughter then up to Henrietta, still Woged and seeming to be seeing something she cannot.

"Nicholas," she gnashes out, sudden and sharp, eyes still fixed on the cauldron in front of her. "Would you add your blood to the potion please?"

"What?" They all chorus.

"Now, Nicholas, we have little time," she instructs, voice deep with her Woge and Nick steps forward, grabbing the dagger she holds out and meeting Adalind's eyes. His gaze is questioning and she knows that if she were to say no, he would respect that and do nothing more. But they haven't seen what they should have with the potion, and she remembers Henrietta's previous comments about the connection between her and Nick, as well as Diana, so she takes a deep breath and nods, meeting his eyes steadily and internally hoping this works.

"Just a few drops," Henrietta says as he raises the dagger and Nick's lips press together as he slices his own finger then holds it aloft, over the potion. One, two, three drops join and then the potion reacts. Sparks fly and the air sucks in as steam swirls. The liquid potion bubbles up then rapidly reduces in amount and flashes, colour changing and turning to a purple that is strongly reminiscent of the colour Diana's eyes glow.

"Whoa," Monroe breathes out and Henrietta retracts and then steps forward to ladle what remains in the cauldron into a glass goblet. She studies it as it smokes before turning to Diana and handing the glass to the young girl.

"Drink it all," she instructs. Adalind smiles, making it as reassuring as she can as Diana looks up to her. Nick steps close and also offers a warm smile of his own and Diana nods, taking a deep breath of her own, before raising the glass, now no longer smoking but still a slightly glowing violet colour, to her lips before drinking the potion down in several loud gulps. They all stare as she lowers the now empty glass and then stands still, head tilting to the side, before glancing up and around.

"Is that it?" She asks in surprise, shocking a laugh out of Monroe as the others share intense looks.

"How do you feel?" Adalind queries instead and Diana shrugs.

"Did it work?" Kelly asks next and Henrietta nods.

"All the steps of the potion activating happened," she says. "It may be that Diana cannot yet feel the change but that she will when she next uses her magic."

"Do magic?" Diana asks quietly then tips her head back and yawns loudly.

"No, little one, not tonight," Henrietta instructs, kindly towards her and Diana nods before stepping closer to Adalind and leaning heavily onto her.

"Imma tired," she murmurs and Adalind drops down to her knees to support her daughter as she droops suddenly.

"Diana? Diana, honey, are you ok?" Nick steps to her side and places a hand at her back as they both crowd round the small blonde. The others also gather around closer and she can feel the tension in the air around the young girl as they all look to her.

"Tired …" she mumbles and then turns into Nick. He shares a look with Adalind before gathering her up into his arms and lifting up, Diana snuggling into his side and placing her head on his shoulder. Adalind stands close, stroking loose hair off her daughter's forehead.

"I think we have our answer of if it worked," Henrietta says softly. "It is working through her system, making her tired, which is a good sign."

"She feels warm," Adalind says, hand laying flat against the top of Diana's forehead.

"What do we do?" Nick asks and Henrietta smiles at them both as Kelly comes to stand right by them, eyes studying Diana closely.

"Take her home and rest, for all of you. There should be no other reaction."

"But what if there is?" Adalind queries, panic at the unknown clawing at her. "What if something else does happen? What if she becomes really sick? Or what if-"

"Then you will call and I will aid you in whatever way I can," Henrietta soothes, voice calm. "Remember-"

"And what was that about the potion not working until we added Nick's blood? What does that mean? Why did it work then?" Adalind interrupts again, looking between Nick and her daughter, as well as noting how everyone else looked confused too. Henrietta steps forward and meet her eyes, face calm and manner cool.

"I do not know," she admits. "But that is something we can investigate. I have my theories, which I will happily share with you however I feel we should focus on Diana right now. Remember, this is not a forceful act so should not provoke a violent reaction. We were unsure about how this would go but by all appearances this has gone exactly as described. Her body is going through change, magic is being used, the bubble made and incorporated inside her, so naturally she is tired. This is a good sign. But, with anything else, do not hesitate to contact me."

"And you can call us if you need anything," Rosalee adds in and Adalind nods, suddenly feeling almost as tired as her daughter appears to be. Nick shifts Diana up higher on his hip and Kelly quickly gathers the talismans and other items from the room as Adalind get their coats.

"Thank you, all of you," she says as they prepare to leave, making sure to look each of them in the eye so they know she means her words. She still feels panicky and unsure but knowing that they have help brings some relief. She won't fully relax until they know Diana is ok, and then try to understand how this all happened, but these people deserve to know what it means and how grateful she is for their help.

Kelly offers to drive so she and Nick climb into the back of the car, Diana between them and watch her carefully as they make their way back to the loft.

Diana doesn't stir as they arrive back, nor when Nick lifts her from the car or during the ride up in the elevator. She mumbles both of their names as Nick sets her down into her bed and Adalind pulls her shoes and bulkier clothing items off.

"We're here, honey, and we'll stay. Just sleep," she soothes and Diana mumbles something else before turning over and nestling under the covers as Adalind lifts them up. Both she and Nick step out to ready themselves for bed as well, but one at a time so Diana isn't left alone. She slides into the bed next to her, peering down at her and watching as Diana breathes. Checking her temperature, she is still warm but does not appear to have the heat that would indicate the presence of a fever. She appears to just be deeply asleep, a peaceful one at that and Adalind is glad to see no hint of pain on her face. Nick steps back into the room and then hovers by the end of the bed.

"Everything ok?" She asks as he stays standing. He looks strangely unsure, as if they haven't shared this space many times, by this point, before.

"Yeah, just … do you want me to join you or shall I-"

"Join us, please," she cuts him off. "I know we both feel safer when you're close." He nods at that then walks around to the other side of the bed and climbs in slowly, trying not to jostle the bed and wake Diana. He slides an arm around the pillow that both Diana and herself have rested their heads on and lies back.

"Night Nick," she murmurs, laying a hand on her daughter so she can sense any changes and feeling settled herself by his presence, so close by, and he gives her a soft smile.

"Good night, Adalind."

-G-

His phone ringing wakes him from a night of varied sleep, having woken several times to check on Diana as well as soothe Adalind from a nightmare, and he fumbles to pick the vibrating device up while not disturbing the other two occupants in the room.

"Burkhardt," he mumbles as the call connects.

"Nick," the captain's voice comes through and he instantly feels more awake. He glances at the two blondes resting next to him then carefully slips out of the bed then the room.

"Captain," he replies. "Everything alright?" It's been several days since they've heard from him, and then it was just a quick report that the funeral went well, so they've just been waiting to hear about when it's safe to move about more. They took the calculated risk to go to Henrietta's to do the binding, with his mother pointing out that the possibility of doing the spell while Renard's attention elsewhere was probably a good thing, as well as Nick having the weekend off so could be there to support whatever happened.

"I have it confirmed that my father and his entourage have left Portland," he states quickly. "A few members of the Verrat are still in town, but less than before as they are no longer sure they are looking in the right place, due to no recent sighting, or even any whispers, of Diana's, or the child's as they refer to her, presence."

"That's good news," Nick says as he paces the loft.

"Yes, as such I'd like to discuss availability for the blessing and when it can go ahead, with all of us involved."

"Ah, I'll pass that on and get you an answer as soon as I can," Nick replies. "Do you have a time frame you're working with?"

"Usually, the blessing would be done on the day of the burial, which we obviously couldn't do so, moving on from that, ideally we would arrange to do this as soon as possible." Renard explains and Nick holds in his sigh. Of course it would be like that. His captain's timing really was something.

"I'll contact them and ask, then get back in touch," he says and then ends the call, dropping his phone down on the counter then leaning over to lay his head on the cool surface.

His mother finds him that way and simply raises an eyebrow.

"Captain just called," he says and her face immediately shifts, lips quirking downwards.

"What did he want?"

"To let us know the king, and most of his entourage, have left Portland. So, he wants to arrange a time for this blessing ritual or rite or ceremony, and he wants it to happen soon." Nick explains and watches as her face closes off even more.

"Well, he can keep on wanting that. Just because he's deemed it safe to happen doesn't mean we'll agree," his mother replies, voice fierce. "And his is not the only timetable we have to work with."

"I know that. First things first we have to see how Diana is today. Adalind isn't going to agree to any kind of meeting or trip out if she's still affected from the binding." Kelly nods then glances towards the little girl's bedroom.

"How was her night?"

"She slept through it," Nick admits. "Adalind and I … we were the ones waking up and checking on her, and each other." His mother's face softens and she lets out a huff.

"The joy of being a parent," she states. "The almost constant worry about your children."

"I'm not-"

"Nicky," she interrupts him. "Just because someone isn't biologically related to a child doesn't mean they can't be a parent. You become a parent because you care, you build that relationship and nurture it, and them, and help it all grow. You can't tell me you're unaware that that is what you're doing."

"I wasn't going to say anything like that," he sighs and glances towards the room to make sure they are the only two people hearing this conversation. If he concentrates, he can make out both Adalind and Diana's heartbeats, so familiar to him now, and both in the rhythm of sleep. "I'm just aware this situation is … complicated. And we haven't used labels or anything like that, we've just … become us."

"Not everybody needs a label," she replies and he nods.

"I know that, I just … I worry that this has happened in a situation where it's very close quarters and viewed as safe. I don't want any regrets, for any of us, if circumstances change and then feelings shift too." He doesn't want Adalind to view like he's the only option. That she has to settle with him, because he helped keep them safe and has provided for them. They've had many conversations about their family history, both still feeling the effects of actions happened long ago, and he doesn't want her to make choices based on fear rather than positive feelings. He wants her to know she has choices and he'll respect them.

"Nicky," his mother starts but he holds a hand up when he hears a rustle of material so nods his head in indication that they are about to be joined. She moves into the kitchen proper, putting on the coffee machine, as Nick hears the murmurs of conversation and more noises to indicate what sounds like two bodies moving and getting up. He hovers the other side of the counter and watches for when they will emerge.

Adalind slides the door open and gives him a hesitant smile before Diana then appears, still looking pale and sleepy, but moving on her own as they step down the step and approach.

"Hey, how you feeling this morning?"

"Imma tired," Diana murmurs and then her mouth stretched wide in a yawn. "Go bed please?" She blinks up at him and he shifts his eyes to Adalind to see what she thinks. She seems just as pale as her daughter and her forehead is crinkled with worry lines.

"I know you're tired, honey," she says quietly. "We're just going to have some breakfast first, ok? And then if you still feel like it, you can go back to bed, alright?"

"Ok mama," Diana replies and let's go of her hand to walk around Nick and join Kelly in the kitchen proper. "Nana Kelly, pancakes?" His mother nods with a smile down at her and she and Diana quickly start gathering the items needed to make breakfast. Adalind steps up next to him and they stand together, watching their two blood relations on the other side of the counter.

"You ok?" He murmurs and she sighs.

"I keep waiting for something to happen," she admits softly and he reaches out to cup her shoulder. "This all feels very anti-climactic."

"Yeah, I get that," he agrees. "But there's been no signs of any adverse reactions, so that good, right?"

"That we've seen yet," she mutters before shaking her head and turning into him more. "You were up early this morning?"

"Got a call from the captain," he says and she stiffens next to him. He uses the hand on her shoulder to pull her closer and offer comfort even as he keeps talking. "He wanted us to know that the extended portion of his relations have left town and that he wanted to arrange when this blessing thing could happen."

"Oh," she says softly. "That's good, that the king is gone." She stops talking then and Nick tilts his head to see her face more clearly. She's chewing her lip in what he knows is an anxious movement and her eyes are fixed on Diana. The small blonde is helping Kelly but her movements are slow and she makes no effort to use her powers, as she would normally do. Adalind sighs heavily then and looks up to him. "Did he say when he wanted?"

"Soon as possible," he replies. "Said something about how it's usually on the day of burial so this is already being done late." She rolls her eyes at that.

"He is right about that, but it's not essential. What matters most in these types of rituals is the coming together and act, rather than date and time. I mean, some rites do have them built into the ceremony, for example the night of a full moon is often used due to the changes in celestial energy, which can then be tapped into, but for most there is more of a focus on the intent of those gathered, than anything else." His mother pauses in her whisking to glance over as Adalind rambles and Nick can feel a slight smile pull at his lips. He knows she's only talking so much because she's worried but it also reminds him of how much she knows about these kinds of things. When she stops and sees them both staring, she blushes prettily.

"Ok, so we know we can push back a little on when this has to happen," he continues on. "When would you want it to happen?"

"Ironically, I think I'd prefer to do it sooner rather than later," she confesses. "I want Diana to have today to do what she needs to, whether that's sleep the day away or just do relaxing things, I don't mind. I don't want any pressure on her. After that, I don't really want it hanging over our heads and having Sean be in constant contact about when it's happening. If we agree a date and then do the blessing, that will be finished, and we can then hopefully start thinking about how we arrange a more normal, settled life for all of us." She looks at him then and he stares back, images filling his mind. He can picture that life. It won't ever be a normal one, he's a Grimm and she's a Hexenbiest and Diana will still grow into one of the more powerful Wesen out there, but that doesn't mean they can't build a home. Build something better and create a safe and happy place for them all.

"Alright, so I'll ask the captain about tomorrow, maybe? Or the day after?" The sound of sizzling fills the air and they break their gaze from each other.

"Let's check with Henrietta first," Kelly injects. "We don't want to get dates mixed up and then have it be just him and us."

"I want you there," Adalind states.

"I'm not sure the captain will agree with that," Nick says and she shakes her head.

"I don't care, if he wants us there then he'll have to accept our terms for coming along and that means you being there too." She huffs and Nick lets her have that, internally wanting to be there for them too.

"Ok, first call Henrietta, then call captain," Nick lists out loud.

"No, first pancakes," Diana adds in, making all the adults laugh and Adalind gives his side a squeeze before stepping around him to join the others in the kitchen.

"Ok, first pancakes," she states and quickly helps to get plates and sauces and anything else needed for their breakfast. They all sit round the table and Diana seems to perk up a bit, sat between Adalind and Kelly with Nick at the head of the table, talking about a story they read the other night and asking for more paper to do pictures and colouring. It's a relief to see her act like herself and they stay at the table long after everyone has finished eating, just talking and spending the time together. It cements that picture of the future in his mind's eye even more and Nick can tell Adalind is thinking the same as their eyes meet. He can't reach her hand from where they sit, so stretches out his leg so his foot can bump hers. A smile grows on her lips and he feels the comforting hum of magic start as she shifts her own so it rests on top of his.

Diana soon tires and asks to go back to bed, which Adalind agrees to and then follows closely behind. Nick makes the needed phone calls, discussing each conversation he has with Adalind and his mom before they finally formalise a plan that they are all happy with and he then relays that to the captain. Renard makes no complaint, even with Nick joining them, just accepts their proposal and gives them the details they want about which graveyard they will be meeting at.

That evening Adalind is filled with nervous energy as they talk through what will happen when they go to meet the captain and she explains to Diana the steps of the blessing, what will happen and the words they will use, as well as the intent behind each action. Nick listens along with his mother and they all ask questions, with her giving the best answers she's able to. Even though most of her day has been spent resting, Diana still requests to go to bed early and Adalind goes through her nighttime routine with her as Nick watches his mother gather some specific items.

"You going to check out the graveyard?" He asks and she nods.

"I know you said you know it but I want to know all possible routes in, out, around and even under or over. Knowing our surroundings will help if anything happens, but we're going to be out in an open-air space and I want as much intel as possible to make strategies that will keep us all safe." She shrugs into her jacket.

"We can discuss what you find out when you get back," he states and she nods before leaving. He tidies the space up and then wishes Diana a goodnight as she makes her way to bed before he and Adalind are then alone as the young girl falls asleep quickly. She looks a little lost and he moves quickly to her side, enfolding her in his arms as she breathes deep and tries to hold in her emotions.

"Hey," he murmurs and presses a kiss to her forehead.

"Sorry," she stutters. "I just … can't seem to settle on how I'm feeling. One minute I'm just scared then so glad that Diana seems to be ok then worried about what will come next for her and then I think about this blessing and seeing Sean and-"

"Adalind," he interrupts. "That's ok. You're allowed to feel all those things. There's a lot going on and a lot to take in."

"I know," she replies. "I just don't know what to do."

"There's not much to do right now. Let's go to bed and get some rest, before whatever comes from tomorrow comes." She blinks up at him and then nods slowly and he carefully pulls her with him to the other bedroom. They get ready together, sharing glances and touches that are meant to comfort and reassure, rather than excite. Settling under the covers Nick pulls her close and presses a kiss to the top of her head as she shifts to rest on his chest, both letting the haze of sleep pull them under.

"Sleep," he murmurs. "I'll be right here."

"Nick," she whispers back. "For you too."

Diana is still lethargic in the morning and Adalind worries, while wringing her hands and muttering lots, that they've pushed it too soon to do this but now everyone is getting ready to meet and they are out of time to make any changes. Plus, she still does just want it to be over and done with. They are meeting Henrietta there and Kelly had already shared the plans she'd made for many different scenarios. His phone goes as they are discussing which way they are driving and he answers slightly distractedly.

"Nick!" Monroe's voice comes through, loud and urgent. "Nick, they've been to the shop again! We got another dead fox! Rosalee is freaking out and I am so ready to find these guys and gut them!"

"Monroe, wait, hold up, tell me what happened," he instructs as he moves into the other loft to get slightly more privacy for this conversation.

"We opened up this morning and there was a letter waiting for us and then, out back, just like last time, but more and the blood was everywhere and Rosalee is not ok!"

"Ok, I can come," he starts before pausing and then looking back into the other room. The blessing is due to happen within the hour and he can't just drop that to go to the Spice Shop, yet how can he not go to help his friends?

"Oh, Nick, please get here soon. You were my first call." The Blutbad's voice is tense and Nick lets the procedure and steps of a case take over his brain as he also tries to think how he can support everyone he wants to.

"Ok, I'll call Hank to come join me and we'll get Wu to alert the other officers on your case." He instructs. "Have you contacted Kaufman?"

"No, not yet."

"Then do that now and I'll let you know as soon as I'm on my way," he says, feeling bad about not immediately leaving to go to them but knowing he needs to sort out what's happening with Adalind and Diana. Monroe babbles a few more things, voice flipping between shock and horror to anger, before Nick finally ends the call and turns to face the others.

He goes back through and slowly explains what's happened, seeing Adalind's face fall before she seems to set her shoulder's and meets his eye.

"Go," Adalind whispers and then takes a deep breath. "You have to go and help them. You know more about this; you were involved last time and you can support Monroe and Rosalee."

"You wanted me there with you," he says as he wars with himself on what to do. As much as he wants, he can't be in two places at once.

"But they need you," she replies. "We have Kelly and Henrietta with us, we'll be ok. We're meeting to do the blessing and that's it. Go help Monroe and Rosalee." She smiles at him and he steps forward, hands diving into her hair and kisses her hard. She responds to him instantly, pressing back and he doesn't care that they have an audience, that his mother and Diana are right there. He holds her tight and pours his feelings into their embrace, the magic of whatever it is between them flaring before he has to pull back to let her breathe.

"Be careful," he implores. "Stay safe."

"Right back at you," she murmurs.

"I'm not letting them get further than an arms-length away from me," he mother states, every line of her body indicating how serious she is, and Nick pulls back to look at her and nod. He steps further back then drops to his knees to hug Diana.

"MoRo?" The little girl asks, having picked up some of their conversation, and her face falls into a frown.

"I have to go help MoRo," Nick replies. "And then I'm going to come and join you, ok? You stay close to your mama and Nana Kelly, alright?"

"Ok," She hugs him again and Nick holds tight before pulling back.

"I'll be with you as soon as I can," he states and Adalind nods with a smile while his mother meets his look with a fierce gaze.

"Stay safe yourself," she says. "And we'll see you soon." He nods, cupping Adalind's shoulder in one last touch before making his way to the elevator. He sees them standing and watching him leave and, although he knows going to help his friends is what he needs to do, for them and himself, he can't help but feel a prickle of danger. Whether that's for them or him, he can't tell, and it makes him feel hyper aware. And also afraid of what might be coming his way.

-G-

They stand in a circle, Adalind in between Sean and their daughter, opposite Henrietta, who stands on Sean's other side, and with Kelly opposite Sean. Diana sniffles a little and Adalind gripes her hand tighter. She still looks pale and Adalind worries that this is too much for her, emotionally as well as physically, especially after the binding.

Nick leaving in such a way, worried and stressed, and so close to them coming here has also had an impact and they are all on guard. Kelly's eyes are constantly scanning the area as Adalind, too, tries to use her senses to note anything that stands out in a weird way. So far, there's nothing but she can't help but feel like something is off. She just doesn't know what. Whether Diana senses something she's unsure of but her daughter sticks close to her and Adalind is grateful to have her presence right next to her.

Henrietta takes a deep breath and Woges, the air around them swirling with magic and a sense of deep emotion. Adalind had already explained to Diana the words that would be used but, as Henrietta starts the blessing, she looks to her daughter now to check that she is alright. Her eyes are downcast but she can see Diana mouthing some of the words as Henrietta says them out loud.

"As they enter a dream from which rebirth will arise," Henrietta states, tone grave but also, somehow, light. "I give thanks for the time spent together and invoke their protective light to guide me." Adalind takes her cue and passes around the candles and Sean steps forward to light them.

"We light a candle to bless this day," Henrietta continues once all of the flames have taken hold. "With the splendour of fire, the freedom of the wind. The stability of earth and the depth of the sea." Adalind watches as the fire on each wick flickers and moves and tries to settle her thoughts so she can think of Elizabeth. How she had been so worried about her and then how she had bonded with Diana and shown her care. That final conversation and her hand holding tight to her own, and then Adalind and Nick together. How now she feels sad that their time together was so short, and that Diana has lost her grandmother, as well as another Hexenbiest to learn from.

Henrietta raises her candle to chest height and they all copy her movement, Adalind glad she had tied Diana's hair back, just in case.

"Guide me through-"

"Wait," Kelly interrupts, tone sharp and they all look to her. The Grimm isn't looking at any of them, eyes focused and squinting at the candle in front of her. Adalind looks down and thinks she sees a strange, abstract red-light blink within the flame. "DOWN!"

Adalind and Diana both drop instantly, used to Kelly's commands and so the projectiles fly over them. Henrietta shudders as whatever it is hits her high on the shoulder and she Woges before it quickly retracts as she is hit again and she stumbles back. Sean manages to dodge what was aimed at them and then darts forward to catch her. Adalind has a moment to take in his unsurprised face and feels anger rise, hot and quick.

"You bast-"

"Move!" Kelly orders and Adalind obeys, swinging Diana up into her arms and following Kelly even as Sean shouts her name from behind them. She Woges and sends a wave of her power out, stopping any new darts from impacting them as they move, then retracts to pick up her pace.

They run back to the car, moving as quickly as possible whilst also staying as low as they can, making themselves into smaller targets. Kelly zig zags and Adalind does her best to stay as close as possible to the Grimm whilst holding Diana high against her chest.

They round the corner and are met with two bodies and more flying objects aimed at them. Adalind ducks and spins, presenting her back so Diana is away from them as Kelly surges forward, meeting them with full, deadly force. Another man comes and Adalind Woges, pushing out with her power and watches as the man sails through the air and hits their car, smashing into the windshield and not getting back up. Grunts and thuds come and she turns to see as Kelly twists a knife into one's neck as she kicks the other away them throws another knife into his chest. Light blinks on her chest and Adalind concentrates and wills a force in the air in front of Kelly's chest so, as the small darts come, they hit hard air and then fall.

"Let's move, now! Not the car." Kelly instructs again and they run, round and away from the damaged car and through the headstones of the graveyard. Adalind glances behind them and, although she can't see anyone else chasing them, she has the heavy sensation of being watched. This is the most in danger Diana and herself have been in since they met Kelly and she's suddenly fearful they've finally run out of time. It makes her think and she has to do everything she can to protect her daughter.

"You have to save Diana," Adalind pants out as they run. Her little girl is clinging to her and Kelly is hustling them on to move faster but she has to say this. "Should something happen, we get caught-"

"That's not going to happen," Kelly snaps. "Keep moving!"

"You can't promise that!" She retorts back. "But you can promise this, that you will save Diana. If you have the chance, you get her away. It doesn't matter about me, you take her and run and keep her safe."

"Adalind-"

"Please Kelly! Promise me!" She juggles Diana to free one arm and reaches to grab Kelly's hand. She squeezes tight as she stares at the older woman, hoping she sees how serious she is. It doesn't matter about her, all that matters is Diana and if she trusts anyone to keep her daughter safe, to raise her right and keep her far away from the royals, and anyone else who would use or abuse her, it would be Kelly. And Nick. "Please, promise me!"

"I promise," Kelly murmurs and she feels the static shock run through her palm, knows from Nick that it's from the protection magic she's just invoked with her promise.

"Thank you," she breathes before letting go and speeding up. Just because she's got that promise doesn't mean she's just going to give up. She wants the life she has just started to picture. Raising her daughter and being with Nick. Building a family together. Creating a home. She's not letting go of that vision without a fight. But knowing her daughter will be safe, no matter what happens to her, knowing she has people who will do what they have to, to protect her, that is also comforting. They have people in their corner and they still have a chance of surviving this.

-G-

AN – So … here we go, folks …