#fenixtj

"Is there juice, please?"

Vaeltilde motions "Jonna? " She says to a boggan "Fetch juice of very sorts for the Countess Elenaor and her court"

The boggan bows and scrambles to do so.

The Aesin says to them "As I am the highest ranking childling, it's my pleasure to tend to you . They'll have more than one kind of juice. Jonna is very good at her job"

"A grown up ruler wouldn't need a servant's name to get things brought to them by the staff" Brathel snickers just loud enough for the childlings to hear. Adults might not

Another boggan brings Jessica some coffee. It's rich and an offer is made of sugar and cream or she can have it rather black

"That sounds..." A pause, and Brathel gets a silent look of withering disdain.

Vaeltilde looks..less sure of herself as if knowing Jonna's name let along using it might indeed make her look..weaker

"How good it is to know my hostess treats all with courtesy. It is the mark of true nobility to make all feel their value is known."

She will take it black this time.

Vaeltilde smiles "Among the Aesin, all in the great hall must be provided for"

She nods. "A ruler's responsibility."

Ariel says "And just good manners"

Vaeltilde starts to agree with Ellie, but then looks startled as Ariel pipes in , then just says "yes. Oh. I must show you all around when I can. "

The Baron for his part speaks to Jessica "We have a banquet prepared that we think will truly amaze. I hope you like sea food?"

"I do."

"I see food, and I like it." Salma whispers. "Especially for dessert."

"I would very much like a tour. May I bring my companions?"

Vaeltilde says "Of course"

"Wonderful. Though I think it sounds like dinner is first..."

"Excellent" Baron Tidemarch says "i've been meaning to talk to you... regarding increased mer activity"

"No," Vaeltilde says "The wilders and grumps will eat first" she says "They're going to discuss important politics" Envious

"Your heir does not eat with you?" She asks the Baron.

"I deal with some unpleasant realites. It is best not to subject the young ones to it"

Meanwhile, Salma notices the dessert table... one corner has a plate full of these:

Ariel sees it too, and she tries not to lick her lips

Jessica nods. "Perhaps a chance to freshen up first?"

"Of course" He nods And motions "Dame Milini, please escort the Countess to where she can freshen up?"

The sidhe woman in black and silver dress bows "Of course"

"So will we be at a childling's table, or do we eat later? Oh, Vaeltilde, I had a taco from a cart for lunch!"

"Just out in the street, and the cart had an umbrella!"

Jessica nods. "I thank you, and my Court thanks you." She pauses naturally to see they are also welcomed and cared for.

"Did. .you like it? I mean, are you hungry now?" Vaeltilde says

It seems yes, her court is being treated well. The girls have quite a chat going

"I could eat, but I am not starving, so I could also wait. But it was a very exciting procession..." And she's telling all about the different people, and city sights "..there's this statue of a lady, and she must be 60 feet tall, painted all over with flowers!..."

Jessica nods at this, motions to Duff to attend her, and follows Dame Milini.

Dame Millinni says to Jessica "Countess, just so I dont' seem like I'm hiding anything, I'm Ailil."

She nods understanding. "Why would not telling me that seem like hiding something?"

"Some assume that if you were black and silver, and are Ailil you're trying to masquerade as an Eiluned. Which is silly. Most folks trust Ailil more" A smile "How is Mitra if I might inquire?"

Vaeltlide is intereted, and proud "Oh yes! that statue was made by..."

"She was well when last I saw her."

"I thank you for that. " A nod and she's lead to a changing room. "You'll find everything you need in there, would you like assistance and or company? "

"Mr. Duff will serve."

"As you like"

(the Kids) "I've tried really hard to study all the landmarks in our barony" Vaeltilde says then whispers "Though Brathel says they'll never accept me"

"Well, I wouldn't listen to him."

Jessica steps into the changing room.

Jessica gets a chance to freshen up. Fine make ups, all sorts of hygene projects

Warm water and soap, first, and then a few other touches. Not make up, though. And a change of clothes. And she emerges. "Do you want to clean up?" She asks Duff quietly.