#fenixtj

"Then it seems you have what you need from me," A sip "But there is something I would have from you, in partial payment"

Jessica nods; this is expected.

"What is your mortal middle name?" She inquires

"Um." she blinks "Michaela."

"A lovely name" She nods "And gracias , senorita for sharing it. My next request is this... if I, or another sluagh I name, are caught by Baron Tidemarch, will you use your power to overide his judged punishment?"

"Not as a blanket promise." she says honestly "However, I don't countenance blind bigotry or petty vengeance. If I become aware of a sluagh in Sunkissed Waves who is not being treated fairly and with as much mercy as possible, I will investigate."

She nods, "You would have done this anyway without my asking, wouldn't you?" She says this after a long moment of pondering, realization

"Yes."

"Then, it would appear, in a way, we began this with me in YOUR debt," A put upon look "Trolls , forgive, make bargains frustrating at times."

The boys nod , Ahpuch "SO frustrating" /"It is known" Adler agrees

The old hag smiles as the young ones appease her, as is proper, then nods mmmph, and looks to Jessica "It speaks well of you, young lady."

"I'm honored you would say so, Senora."

A sip "De Nada. " A pause then "You seem a private person... I can empathize. If I may suggest, talk to your duke. He is under pressure to find you a match. He has refused, for the Liam lord is wise...but some seek to work around you through him. Perhaps now is not the time, but if you're interested in names of who is trying this later, then come see me again."

"I appreciate the warning." dryly.

Senora Dolorhuesos shakes her head "I sympathize. Were it my affairs, or lack there of, others would meddling, I might contemplate a light poisoning as a 'hint' to respect my privacy. There is much to be said for spinsterhood, but wehther it is for you, or not, is not for idle gossips or political deal breakers. mmmph!" Her whisper gets a bit louder on the mmph

"I may understand the apparent political necessity, but I will not bow to it."

"Just so" The old hag nods

Jessica sips her tea.

As does Senora Dolorhuesos. The next several minutes are spent in relatively... pleasant silence.

There's something to be said for a quiet tea.

(End Scene)