#fenixtj

Adam looks over, concerned.

And she sings softly over to Phoebe,

"I'm writing a song all about you
A true song as real as my tears
But you've no need to fear it,
'cause no one will hear it
'Cause sad songs and waltzes aren't selling this year...."

A grin.

The other mortal glances at Phoebe, as well.

Phoebe grins back, then sings "I'll tell all about how you cheated
I'd like for the whole world to hear
I'd like to get even with you
'Cause you're leaving
But sad songs and waltzes
Aren't selling this year"

And she recognizes something in Phoebe's singing that resonates in herself. And she sings the next phase, adding a bit of emphasis, a little of herself, a little mournful energy, letting the sorrow carry on the notes...

It's a good thing that I'm not a star
You don't know how lucky you are
Though my record may say it
No one will play it
Sad songs and waltzes aren't selling this year...

And the girls harmonize, it's more than music, and for a second Phoebe is revealed and open to Piper. She's been hurt by those too powerful for her to resist. And there's a wound, and some healing... and more...

"It's a good thing that I'm not a star
You don't know how lucky you are
Though my record may say it
No one will play it
'Cause sad songs and waltzes
Aren't selling this year"

And perhaps Piper is revealed a bit in return, Phoebe recognizing a kindred soul of a sort, also hurt and healing, joining in together on the last few lines until the words fade away.

The little countess applauds!

Phoebe reaches out and touches Piper's hand in understanding.

Ariel does too! "That was great! "

"Wille'd be proud" Spencer agrees

Adam leans in to kiss Piper.

And a glance up at Phoebe, since he's right there. "That was amazing...."

Phoebe says "there's.... a strength in the words... the power of the troubadour, of the poet, of the writer.. but it shows the limits too"

She beams and returns the kiss, though she breaks off before she might usually, in deference to the children present.

"Phoebe is pretty amazing, you're not wrong."

"Even if you don't stay, you MUST visit, Miss Piper."

A grin. "I hope to. Thought I still haven't met your countess. I'm pretty sure she gets a say."

"She probably does get a vote" Spencer says amused.

"It was.. nice meeting you all," Phoebe says "Especially you, PIper. Thank you" As if a gift was given

"I'm sure we'll chat again before the competition." A stretch. "I could go for a rest for a bit. It's been a... busy morning."

"Indeed," Neema says

Phoebe withdraws...

"I got to get a room" Spencer says

"Already got one for you" Ariel chimes up and gives directions

"Rest is good! See you later!"

Slowly they scatter and part.

She reaches for Adam's hand. "Do you want to explore more? I could go for a bit o' quiet myself."

Adam takes Piper's hand.

"Let's go rest a bit." He draws her to stand and takes a kiss.

He can take the first, but the others are given...

"You really ok?" When they part.

"Better now. Wanna go finish checking out that room?" A sly smile.

"I was hoping you'd say that...." a wicked grin in return.

And so they retire for rest... or unrest!

*****

"There you are" Dame Ash gathers the childlings "History lessons young vagabonds"

Salma winces. "We were learning music history."

"It was music... and in the past..."

Siiiiiiiiiiigh.

"Wonderful... so you can name the first 3 Mexican presidents and the first five American ones?" She says

"George Washington! I know that one!"

"They were all called El Presidente." Salma offers.

"Mmm I bet there was more to their name than that" To Salma, then Ash nods "That's one American"

"Poop. I don't get to vote, not sure why I have to know em if I dont' get to vote" Ariel says

"Arieeeel" Firm voice

"Fiinnne" Sigh

"Do the other four matter?"