#fenixtj

They sit, and after drinks are poured. "Thank you for coming, Baron."

"Most welcome," He says, "I hope the transition is going well for you? Though I am sure it is busy"

She nods. "So far.... so good. Busy, yes. Baron, how can we help you? What does Tidemarch need?"

"And here I was coming to offer to assist you," He says, "Before I continue, my condolances on Ricardo the pooka. I would lie to say he was a friend or even if I knew him well, but I know he was much beloved and was quite the hero." Somber there

Jessica is carefully stoic. "He is a hero, and will be honored as such, yes."

"That is partly what I wanted to talk to you bout. I Know you plan a Fiesta in hsi honor, but Samhain is also overlapping.. and might steal some thunder fromi t. If you like, I will take on Official Samhain offerings at my hold... and the day time festival is yours. "

Jessica considers this, then shakes her head. "Thank you, no. As much as Samhain is a... difficult time for me, this first united Samhain should be here. It is a day we remember our dead and hope to see them again. It's meet for Ricardo."

"As you wish, will you be expecting the barons to show then for it? "

She nods. "I think just for the start." She pauses. "You've met your new counterpart?"

"Not really no and certainly not since her elevation. I'm not even sure what title she's picked for herself to be honest, I have heard of her, of course. Tweak is somewhat infamous among some nobles, and beloved by her fellow crafters."

Jessica nods. "Well. It doesn't have to run long."

"Then I will be there," he says "You asked what Tidemarch needed earlier?"

"I did."

"We rely heavily on mortal tourism, and the beaches. But we are also considered the only place all Houses are welcome," He says, "I hope to continue it as a haven of sorts for same."

Jessica starts to object.... then stops. "I hope so too." After a pause.

"I know, Balor is rightfully hated, and Leanhaun are charming but dangerous, Ailil not much better, but they must be allowed somewhere in this County and , welll, I think I'm best equipped to offer them shelter when they need it."

"I agree. Thank you, Baron."

"I am also considering a few for permanent service." He says

Jessica shifts in her seat, but nods. "If you feel that's the right course of action, of course."

" I select by efficiency, they'll contribute to the County"

"Then they should be welcome."

"If I might suggest?" He says "I understand you're elevating and inviting knights to join your service. You might consider something outside your comfort zone, your excellency. It would send a message of unity"

"And you, My Lord?" An eyebrow, and she speaks without malice. "Are you thinking of a Gwydion or sluagh knight?"

"I'm not sure I've ever met a Sluagh knight" He admits, "But i do have a seelie one."

"Hmmphm. Please send anyone you feel would be a good match to Fenix. I will see them."

He nods "And if you feel the same about one of your knights that does not quite fit, let me know. I will appraise said person"

She nods. "Done."

"At some point in the near future, I'd like to speak with you and Tweak about how all this is going to work, and what our priorities are."

"But name the date and send the messanger," He rises "And I shall clear my schedule. Seeing as my offer of hanlding Samhain was declined, I best inform my steward we will not be hosting it this year"

"Baron, I do appreciate the offer but....." a deep breath "..... this first one, at least, is my duty." She stands as well.

"I respect that, thank you for having me, Countess" He bows

She bows in return. "We will meet again, soon, Baron. Thank you."

"Most welcome, " And he departs

Jessica watches him go, then wanders to the Balefire and sits next to it. "Well. What do you think?"

Almost a fiery question mark loop... hard one to read that Varich. Yet his hold is rich, powerful, and knows how to hook people. That much Fenix knows.

"Well, it is a good balance, a compliment, for the rest of us."