#earthrunes

A sigh and a nod. "Difficult. I would tell you to be cautious, but I am sure you are. Varich have ambition."

"One reason to find a liaison and visit more often."

A deep breath and a sigh. "Rivervale seems to be in a similar situation. Connor's father...or more precisely, his aunt...seems to be determined to become more closely connected to our Lodge."

"Connor... the pooka boy, right? Wait, isn't his father....??"

Frank nods grimly, sips his coffee.

"Baron Aidenn Lowell...ap Ailil." Her tone is somewhat resigned.

Jessica exhales, nodding.

"And his aunt?"

"Also Ailil, but less trustworthy."

"She visited and offered Connor one of his father's treasures. It turns out she had no permission to do so."

Jess frowns. "That seems.... poor judgement."

"It does. It seems reckless."

"Do you think it was?"

"It is hard to say. I think Baroness Nadeen might know better. She is our go-between between Rivervale and Silverwolf."

"Might ask her."

"We have spoken of it. She is still investigating."

Jessica nods, sips.

"How are you guys?"

Brekke blinks, looks at Frank, rests one of her hands atop one of his, then looks back at her. "We are well."

Siv in the distance appears to be engaging in a sword dance. One misstep and slashy pokey

"Good." Jess smiles a little and sips her coffee.

Frank squeeze's Brekke's hand.

Brekke nods. She also tries not to focus on Siv's flirtation with mangling.

"So mom, what is this.... paste on bread, here?" She points to one of the Scandinavian treats.

"Ah, it is like Ha-Pa. Sweet, a bit of chocolate. Try it." A pause. "Unless that one is the liver spread...."

Jess pauses, bread halfway there.....

Frank lifts an eyebrow.

"You will have to find out." Brekke gives her an innocent grin.

Jess rolls her eyes, but eats it. And swallows. "It was.... not the chocolate."

And so, Brekke, Jessica and Frank bond over Norwegian food... and the surprises it can bring.

Frank puffs with amusement.

"Live and learn."

And they watch the celebration of the youngest member of their family.

((End Scene))