#fenixtj

"I like the shawl" Nancy observes

Jess takes a steadying breath. "Diego came up with it. And I'm grateful."

"I DO have excellent taste" Diego says "Okay, I think we're caught up more or less on gifts to offer up. Nancy, could you work with Fawn to distribute them to the nunehi who will enjoy them the most?"

Nancy says "Sure If.. ah, Jessica, if you're okay with me doing that?"

"Yes, thank you. Let's just make sure that it's... equitable, you know? Not this-for-that but we meet the honor they've given us fairly."

A nod "Right, personalized and respectful as much as possible" Nancy says "I'll be sure to say it is an honor to have them share Beltaine with us"

"Yes, definitely. Thank you."

Nancy nods taking some of the gifts "I'll go get Fawn then. " Chipper she prances off

"A few kind words goes a long way with that one" Diego chuckles "She loves to make folks happy"

"Yes." Jess nods. "Ok. Anything else? Do we need to resupply here?"

"I can handle that part of it" Diego says "I'll fill in some orders. I've got a system"

"I like a system. Ok. Thanks again." and she ventures back out towards the rest of the festivities.

She sees Duff talking to some Nunehi artists, "Oh yes, I think I could put that on your back without trouble"

He's a very good artists; the guests are in good hands.

And she sees Otem who appears to be making excuses and parting from a crowd of Nunehi women

She angles casually in that direction.

Otem has a vaguely hunted look, but she catches him from the side and he relaxes to see her "Jessica. This has been a fine party"

"I'm glad. Your people seem to be enjoying it."

"They are" He nods , a slight smile "Your customs and ours come to the same light, if in different ways"

"I'd be interested to hear more about your Beltaine customs. Althought, I guess you don't call it Beltaine."

"No, we don't, but I'll be happy to tell you more if you wish"

"Yes, please. Would you like a drink?" she indicates the laden tables.

"Yes, thank you" He says then in a lower voice "And I am grateful also for you providing me an avenue to avoid a crowd"

"I know how it is." she agrees, and they get drinks.

Fortunately, folks seem willing to leave a duo alone where they wouldn't a single person, so the two talk, much of what he says Jessica has heard but he has more details, more nuance

Jess listens along and asks questions when something doesn't make sense or at risk of misunderstanding.

Otem says "Do not be so sure it is your failing. We have our ...jerks as well. Who will take whatever you say in the worst way"

"Well, there's a lot of history there. And I'm not the best person to sort it out, necessarily. I never dreamed this place would be my home."

"It is hard to imagine that flame without your gentle hand running fingers about it with affection"

Her lips quirk briefly. "Hard to imagine my life without it now." she admits.

"It is a good fit" He states honestly

"Thank you for that."

"You are welcome, though it's just the truth" A sip "Tell me more of what Beltaine means to you?"

She does, providing the Fledgling's version for Wilders. And perhaps not emphisizing all the romance and/or sex but more on the turn of the wheel and balance and the advent of growth in its season.

It is that latter that seems to appeal to him, and he relates to. And so they talk, he listens, and they both learn.

It's a delightful time

(End scene)