#fenixtj

Mitra looks at Jessica "I do believe you have to judge now. Shall I break out the 8 ball?" Wryly

Piper steps down off the stage after speaking to the others, head a spin with the giddy effect of the crowd. And gratefully accepts Adam's hand, stepping down.

He kisses first her hand, then steps close and kisses her lips.

Nancy says "Folks, Toss a coin to your musikers, or at least their hats! Mingle, enjoy, and meal..food is replinished and yes, that includes the ever popular churros. Also brought in is a roast boar from the DeBuke area."

"Churros!"

Childling squad cheer!

or at least Ellie.

Oh not just Ellie!

Even Vaeltilde 's eyes light up "They are SO good"

Salma cheers in delight!

"I've never had roasted boar. I hope it's like carnitas..."

Jessica stands and murmurs to Nancy. "Can you let Maria or Roseita know that I'll meet with the other Freeholders separately? And Ellie and her childlings too, afterwards. Can we gets some plates sent in ?"

"Sure, though they've got the banquet table set up already.. "She says "Have the holders and you meet there first while we set tables and such out here for most others?"

"Yes, please. And, thanks."

As the childlings of more than one hold charge the churros table like the ravening creatures they are... some music continues from others who weren't as good but hope to cash in.

How much sugar can Ellie eat in one day?

"Ahem" Ash says . It would appear there will be limits "Rosa and Maria tell me you girls need your greens too"

Salma nods soberly and fills a plate with salad. It sits before her, and seems to stay the same although whenever the Dame looks back, she is chewing. Crunch, crunch.

Ariel eyes the greens, and munches the lettuce, but she shovels the peas around.

Jessica will make a round of the room to speak quietly to each participant, congratulating them on their efforts and the good reception they received.

Carefully brushing the crumbs to the floor, a churro is passed under the table to Ariel.

A wagging tail might be seen sticking out under the tables

Azul is happy to try anything

Like beans?

Green beans are good for pups!

After one of the servers insists on presenting Piper with a plate piled high, she stops by to greet the childlings... and if a meaty shank happens to slip beneath the table - she winks and holds a finger to her lips to any childling who noticed it.

"You did wonderfully, Piper!"

The freeholders go back one by one into another room

WAG WAG

"Thank you, Lady Ellie. You three inspired me, so I owe that to you as well." A grin to the girls.

"You were SO Good"

Ariel

"Your rendition of Sharona was GREAT. I know a few little girls back in Rivervale who might like it. Maybe you'll give me permission to play it? With credit, of course."

"Maybe Ariel could come play a duet..."

"SURE, but some credit to Phoebe too, she helped me!" Ariel says "Tell me if they like it?"

Adam hangs around Piper, happily munching on his food.

Jessica passes Duff as she heads to her meeting. "Thank you." Quietly "We'll talk later?"

"Of course! Phoebe's incredible." She says, honestly. "And I'm sure they will." A smile to Adam. "Maybe not Lily, but I think Lydia, and... mm, maybe the lodge boys too. They seem clever enough to enjoy books with girl characters. "

"Look forward to it" He says

Jess nods and steps out.

"Do you think your little sis would like the spooky song Phoebe sang? I know you didn't care for it... but..." looking to Adam.

Salma frowns a little. "You should take that one back to Rivervale so it's not heard here." She says softly. Poking at a leaf on her plate.

"Oh, Salma..."

"Mmm?" Mouth full, Adam shoots Piper a question with his eyes.

Salma's ears droop a little. "Sorry, Princesca. I will try to like Ahpuch's song."

Rejoining Adam, and taking a bite of a roll. Chew, swallow. "I was just thinking, that it's a shame that sluagh can't easily enjoy live music. Maybe there's something I can play for Lilly sometime."

"Last time I looked, she liked bedtime songs. Lullabyes, you know?"

"No no, Salma. You must not like something you don't like."

"Maybe because those are soft and quiet?" Thoughtful.

"Well, yeah. And she's little."