#anywhere

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(We bend time and space)

As the three DeBukes are about to head out, it's up to the Chief to snare Ives

She tries to get him at a time when the other two are not nearby. "Ives, a moment, please."

The silent archer nods and rises from his arrow fletching, then speaks "yes, Chief?"

"I wished to ask your thoughts on your stay here. I was away for much of it, of course. I would like to know what you think of Rivervale."

He ponders thinks it over then admits , "Not as citified as I thought it would be. Almost like a lovely park in more places than i expected. Folks seem friendly, some chatty. Good feel for it. "

She nods. "I wonder, then, if you would be interested in staying? I think you would fit well with us, long term."

The young man is a troll and more reserved than his two peers, but he can't quite mask all his pleasure, "I would like that, and I thank you, Chieftain. "

A bit of a grin in return. "I am glad. I think you should return to the Farm to let them know, but then come back to Rivervale and we will arrange details. Agreed?" She extends a hand for a warrior's grip.

"Agreed" He takes that offered grip and returns it, "It will allow me to pick up a few things. Don't worry, CHieftain . I travel and live light"

Signe wags at him. She seems to find the boy tolerable

"I find that is often true of archers. May I...?" She indicates one of his finished arrows.

"Please" he offers it up to her, end first rather than point. She can see the crow feather fletchings are nice and even

She takes it carefully, turning it slowly and appreciating its smooth, straight line and the placement of the fletchings. A nod and she hands it back. "Excellent work. You hunt." She says it more as a statement than a question.

"Just with the bow. I can use a gun, safety trained but, well, it always felt like cheating to me, or at least ...too easy? I figured this place wasn't quite wild enough to indulge around here much"

"I eat what I kill, and don't leave much to waste" He adds as if that's im;portant

"Not much hunting right here, no, but there are opportunities not too far off. There are also deer herds that need to be culled; the state announces times and limits for that. That time is coming soon, now that the spring fawns are well-weaned."

"I'd be happy to bring the Hearth here some Venison" Ives assures

"Be aware that many here have not seen much in the way of hunting or butchering, and some would likely be sensitive. We will work out a place to prepare and hang the meat you bring back."

Ives nods to that. Clearly he understands

"Have you any questions for me?"

"You've answered some, Chief," But he considers "is there particular duties you will want me to focus on? And will I be mostly under Storm, Mountain, or Hearth?" he's used to the DeBuke way

"To start, you will continue with patrols. My first instinct is that you will be Storm, but that depends on your interests and focus."

A nod at that too, and he considers other questions "Will you have room for me at the lodge regular or will it help if I camp often?"

"We have room for the moment. Camping is an option if you prefer it, for now. The winter will not be here for some time. But there are other options as well. We will sort out lodging on your return. Some live at the Apartments...that may be a good solution, also."

A nod at that as well, then "No other questions come to mind, Chief"

"Good. Now, I have already told Chieftain Clem that I would speak with you on this, and she awaits your decision."

"I'll let her know, Chief. Thank you again. Way I hear it, a man needs to walk a road or two to understand his worth. Appreciate you letting me test that"

That bit of philosophy seems to please her. "I am glad that Rivervale will be part of your long journey."

The discussion over, she turns and departs with Signe, letting Ives gather his things.

Signe allows one pet from the boy and then is once more glued to her side.

And Ives gathers his things

(End Scene)