Should she tell him that there's more than one Steve in the Nexus? No, she decides, that's something Steve -- either Steve -- can share if they are feeling up to it. Besides, who knows if either Steve is from the same universe as Thor?

"The entire Nexus," she replies. "It happens in the Wilds, and with the portals in the Plaza, too. My theory is that reality here is inherently unstable, and only by repeated observation does something stay in the same place. Like quantum mechanics, except on a grand scale."

Now it is Adia's turn to walk a half-step behind, catching up once he reaches the counter. "Hi, Farel," she says to the barista, who has turned to acknowledge Thor, his expression unchanging. "I'll have a hot chocolate with whipped cream, too, please. A small."

Farel looks from Thor to Adia, then nods and turns towards his work station to begin making their drinks. Halfway through heating up a stainless steel container of milk, he says in a gruff monotone, "Decided to take someone new out for drinks?"

Adia laughs, her cheeks coloring a touch. "He's never had hot chocolate before. Besides, Caspar has taken at least two Nexus newcomers out for coffee, I need to catch up."

"Hmm." The barista doesn't comment otherwise, although a faint smile appears on his face. "You didn't tell your new friend about the chocolate whipped cream."

"Oh, that's right. Thor, would you like to try chocolate whipped cream instead of plain?"