#fenixtj

She nods at this, her old neck bones popping again, "Yes, your kith and I know that conversation, while pleasant, it not meant to be some gushing stream, but rather dolled out, appropriately, drop by drop. The tea is prepared with meticulous care and soon each has a cup.

Jessica sips, and waits; as the elder and host, the sluagh has the first move.

She seems to savor the silence, before saying "One hopes all is well with you and yours, Young Jessica? "

A mere courtesy? or perhaps an opening

Or both. "At the moment, I am grateful to say yes. We are on alert, of course. There are those who feel they are in opposition to us, and that we are at war."

"War seems so simple a solution, to the unimaginative." She tuts "They bring it, because they think it will be an easy path. Foolish of them. Yet sometimes it cannot be avoided"

"I regret it is the path they have chosen. I don't see war for us, but I will see to our defense."

"Indeed, what is the latest trial you face?" A sup

"Constant vigilance, and resources stretched thin."

"I see... perhaps I could assist you with some of that. So the boys tell me." The boys have their own table nearby, watching with interest

"I would be grateful if you could, as I'm sure all Renaissance would be. And of course, as the County prospers, so do those who live here. I would rather direct our resources to improving the County and living circumstances for its people than on war and defense."

"Of course.... ask what you would, Miss Jessica. The worst I can say " A sip "Is no"

Jessica explains about the bugs and the unclear forces behind it. The potential threat to a childling of Skyhook. The rumor of an elder sluagh with a wheelbarrow.....

(pause)