#rivervale_lodge

"Yes, there are some parts that are quite dull... where I would put in a sword fight, or a scadalous tryst... but instead Jessica just makes a fair ruling to KEEP it dull" A sigh "She's like the UNfiona some days"

A chuckle, quickly stifled. "Thank you for your patience with her, Siv."

"Jessica is her own." Frank says quietly.

"That she is."

"Aye, and as she's amazing, she must be doing something right"

"Still , she can be trying" Siv says "But I forgive her her love of dull"

"As you forgive your old parents, I hope?"

"I am the soul of tolerance and magnamity" Siv says "Well, okay, work in progress, but yes. I love you both wouldn't change you."

"We are all works in progress. And that demands change, of one form or another. But I am glad you let us decide on our own changes. I hope yu feel that we continue to do you the same honor."

"Actually, I don't feel it, I know it" She looks at them "I didn't say it, but I should have. You and dad have given me a lot of road to walk on my own, but kept the light on here for if I end up circlihng back. A couple of years ago I think the idea of multiple partners would have freaked you out, but you both have been so supportive, or at least try to be. Just as an example. I do worry impressing you, and my insecurities have me open my big mouth sometimes, but your actions, if I stop to listen, and learn show that you've got my back"

"Always, Siv. And...we may still get 'freaked out' as you say, but...yes, the light is always on for you here."

"Always."

She gives each a gentle hug, then "Take a look at the books, mom. I tease about Jessica's boring moments, but there's some good parts. And.. I get the feeling where she fights to keep it boring and safe for her people, you'll be even prouder of her for that"

Brekke returns the hug, and pauses a moment before responding to that. "You are each responsible young women, in your own ways."

Frank's embrace is gentle. He nods in agreement with Brekke's words.

"We had good examples of responsible people to go by" She says after the hugs "Now, did you two want time.. alone to.. I don't know, be a couple? I don't mind"

A grin. "Go on, Siv. And give our greetings to Piper and Jonas, when you see them."

"I will and they'll be here for Thanksgiving .." And she waves and goes

"Jess will be, too." after she's gone.

"Good. It will be good to see them all here." A pause. "I suppose..." she muses "...that on average our daughters have the expected number of partners." Slightly wry.

A soft chuff.

"And they thrive." She absently runs her fingers along one of his horns.

He rests his head back, so she can touch. "They do. Both seem happy. Or, at least, content."

"Both seem purposeful, even if that purpose sometimes lacks focus. They are doing well." A pause, then her voice is more quiet, "Tell me your thinking?"

"On?"

She shakes her head. "Anything."

An inhale, and exhale. "I would not have sent the Fir Bhlog back through the rift; I would have destroyed it. And I would not have stopped to cast Omens or see anything behind it's appearance here."

"Nor would I, I think."

"I told Siv I would go handle the report of the creature, when she would have gone. I should have let her go. She was better suited to the hunt."

"Perhaps. But I do not think you unsuited for the task."

"I was. I couldn't find him." a massive shrug "No matter, I suppose. Siv found him and he's been handled."

"Unsuccessful does not mean unsuited." One finger lightly taps on his head, a chiding touch.

A soft grunt.

She is silent a few moments. "You will be here for Thanksgiving. You do not have a run." A question that's framed as a statement in hopes of forcing it to be true.

"Home the night before."

"Good." Another pause, then she sets down her mug. "Come patrol with me?"

"Of course." He gets to his feet with a grunt, taking a knee to lever up.

She waits until he is standing to rise. "Oak, stay and guard." She knows the dog will put up a loud alarm to alert others in the Lodge if need be.

And off they go together, to patrol.

(end scene)