#fenixtj

"Who may have ravaged, or broken the escheat for all we know" she says

"May have.... " her views are clear.

The countess mmphs, lowers her head , and ponders

Jessica waits respectfully.

"Do you know where this Duff is?" She asks

"No."

"You are aware you're speaking to a Gwydion?" Raised brow

She has the grace to blush lightly. "I do not know where he is -for certain-. I have not found him here in Renaissance."

"But you suspect." A sigh "Let us save time and provide you an out before one of us feels insulted. Do you suspect he is out of the Kingdom of the Feathered Serpent?"

"I do."

"Well, that puts him far beyond my jurisdiction so the where becomes moot."

Jessica nods gratefully.

"I think I must also talk to the Baron Summerstrike. " Healed she rises, "I must hear both sides. You understand? I must not let neither kith nor house bias me in this, though I feel the pull of both"

"Of course." Rising as well. "May I offer you an honor escort to the border?

"My troops should suffice and you seem hard pressed as it is."

She nods. "The offer stands, Excellency."

"Appreciated" And the woman rises to go.

Jessica at least walks her to the door or trod. This may be the longest she's sat still since it all happened.

And out the woman goes. ALong with her escort.

Jessica flexes her shoulder to ease them, exhaling.

Little did she know that this was the last time she would see the countess....

dun dun dun...

(Maybe I"m teasing? either way, end scene)