#fenixtj

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Jessica did not stay long at the funeral, and everyone understood that.

It was good to see family, of course, but.... not a time for celebration, no.

They were grateful for the wine and other liquors gifted. No doubt, the wake that followed made us of them

Diego greets her "How did it go? I know ou didn't stay for the after ceremony"

"No, I wanted to get back. Anyway, I'm not family and .... " she shrugs "How're things here?"

"And yes, it went... fine. I think. There was a little hickup, I think, but.... "

"Beltaine is prepped " He assures "Oh, the cats caught a mouse.. not a pooka, thank goodness. It got into the kitchen. I think Rosa wants go give Ramona a medal"

"A mouse?" a faint frown "Do we have a problem?"

"We're looking into it. " Diego says "We're looking for more signs. The hold is wonderful but it's mortal shell is a bit old"

"It may be we might need a bit of spackle"

"Mmm. We have craftsmen in the County, after all."

"Mmm you have a point. But we dcan't make the building look so good to mortal eyes that they think it's open for business" '

"Of course not. Maybe more of the work can be done inside, out of sight."

"And we can veil the ones who have to work outside." A nod

"That will work."

"Now, besides that, it went quietly. The nunnhi are offering us some decorations to add to the celebration. Some lovely baskets and other crafts. I accepted. you want them to feel a part of this"

"I hope we all do."

the satyr nods "You've a gentle heart, my friend. '

"Thank you."

"Can I get you a drink or anything? I'm sure you were well fed but we have food too"

"No, thanks, I'm stuffed." she claps his shoulder, gently "Thank you. How about -you-; you're good?"

"A bit tired but yes. "

"Anything I can do to give you a little room? Space to rest?"

"My room is plenty big Jessica, and if I told you it was lonely you'd sigh all put upon"

A smile though

"I -meant- space in your schedule, take on some duties for you." she says patiently "And I'm sure you can populate your room all on your own."

"Nancy is a big help though she's been working on your projects" he ponders "Maybe I'll enlist a bit of help from a childling. Give them an allowance. Though.. no, not the time to ask ariel. she lost her great aunt"

Jess nods. "She's stayed at the Farmhold for a bit; a DeBuke will bring her along when they are ready."

"Yes poor girl did not part on best terms with her"

Jess nods. "They're taking care of her."

"HOw are you doing ? I know you're close to Clem, is the Chief holding on?"

"She's doing well. She has to."

"The family seems to have accepted everything, and support her."

"Good. I admire the DeBukes. Defiant modernists. But ...they do tend to try to hide their pain a bit too much"

"Well. Trolls."

"True. i suppose we satyrs aren't perfect either"

"No one is." she agrees.

"Now, " he stretches "I think I'll go to bed. I suggest you do the same. Morning will cme sooner than we think. "

She nods. "Rest well." and heads to her quarters.

Jessica does sleep well, deep and resting

And she wakes to the smell of bacon. Looks like the DeBukes care package they sent her is already bieng put to use

(Fade to bacon)