#anywhere

The Countess nods. "I will bear that sensitivity in mind."

"Thank you. You two are the women who I have respected most in life. And both of you, in your own way, have made me a much better me than I would have been. I wish you two could be friends, but that might be asking a bit much" A chuckle and shake of his head.

"After such a long time, I think we're comfortable as we are." She agrees.

"Careful, I might still ask that my togail boon that you two take a vakay at a spiritual retreat of my choosing together. Win or lose, I would likely be entertained" hint of a smirk "Of course, there might be consequences after for me. Speaking of consequence.. I should seek out Tiffany. I have to let her know about the togail.. maybe more"

"More? Oh, I don't mean to keep you."

"Are you kidding? I loved every moment" He confesses, "And later, I may see if you'd be willing to share some tales of Wilder Days younger you adventures... or if you prefer, make something up." He gives her a hug as few can, and then bows

She returns his hug, and sits for a time after, thinking......

And he looks at her fondly, watching her think. He'll never understand her fully, just as he'll likely never fully understand the chief, but then, he dosn't need to.

She smiles to him. "Come visit again, Vali. Be in touch."

"I will" He assures her, and then he heads off to talk to Tiffany

Leaving the Countess with much to muse on.

And so she does.

(End scene)