#rivervale_lodge

“I believe we have already addressed the topic of a family vacation.” That seems to settle it for her.

"Yes'm." Frank says comfortably.

"Yes, mother" Siv says a bit more contritely

She notes the subdued response, and adds, “...which I intend to enjoy.”

Siv smiles

Brian isn't sure what to say but does follow "I hope you all have a grand time."

“Thank you. We will be visiting Siv’s sister, Jessica. Have you met her?”

"I don't believe I have had the pleasure" Brian says

"Oh she's great" Siv says excitedly "Can't go into all the details here, but she's so fierce and controlled in turn. She's got a spine of steel she has. My sister does the impossible jjust being there"

“She is doing very fine work in Mexico.” Brekke is clearly deeply proud.

"Helping so many people" Siv chimes in

Frank's small smile is more visible with the trim he has.

"Took down a nest of snakes. They call her 'Flame Free.'"

Frank’s expression makes Brekke grin.

And Siv's own smle grows

Bancroft nods "She sounds very dedicated. I have heard a few things. Mr. Teaneck doesn't have any employees there, but he does try to keep an ear out"

"Mmph. If she needs help from Mr. Teaneck, she'll let him know."

Brian raises a brow but eats his food.

"He didn't mean anything by it dad, he's just saying she's got a rep" Siv says

"Mmph. A good one." Frank agrees.

"Indeed" The young man says "Deservedly so. This is ... an excellent meal"

"it is," Siv says "Even Aunt Kerri would be hard pressed to top it"

The meal is, of course, delicious

"Let us not challenge your Aunt Kerri right now, Siv. She is still recovering from the last party."

Frank nods, and seems proud. "She did amazingly well."

Siv smiles "True. She was great. But despite the trouble it gave her, I'm glad it went down that way, you know?"

She does look thoughtful

"Mm. I still need to speak to a certain young lady about that."

Frank sighs. "It's falsely representing you and the organization that really -gets- me."

"oh it..wel, good things came out of it"

Siv says.

"Yes. As you point out, Siv, it all went very well, but it sets a dangerous precedent. I expect she means well...in her way. But what she did was not acceptable."

"Not at all." Frank affirms.

"I have to agree, it's a threat to the authority that's the risk. Howeveri t's meant" Bancroft says

Siv looks at him, "Pretty sure other boys would agree with me because i'm pretty"

"Then they would do you disservice. And you're pretty even when I disagree" Brian drinks

Brekke carefully schools her expression, but her eyes may give her away by twinkling amusement, just a bit.

They complete the excellent meal, and order coffee. "And...I think dessert is in order."

"Yes. Siv how is gymnastics?" Brian asks.

And Siv tells, over Dessert, and chatters about how Whitney has gone to ap rivate school and is no longer a problem. Weird huh?

(End scene)

------------Later....___

"Dad? You're picking me up from school?" Siv says

"Do you mind?"

"no, it's great" She hops into the passenger side "You don't even have to hide from all my friends"

"I don't?"

"Well, not today I guess' She says

"Thanks." Dryly. "Listen, can I tell you something?"

"Oookaaay" Guarded but ready "I guess"

"Mm." He negotiates a turn. "So your mom and I want to invite you on a quest into the Dreaming."