#rivervale_lodge

"Sylvi found it so, yes. It likely will not always be safe," she points out, "but that is part of the nature of challenge, yes?"

Signe gets another ear rumple, and the stick goes flying again.

Edeweiles looks at Gerd, Gerd throws her own "Feeling competitive?"

Eddie shoots off

Signe is already on her way

And Gerd nods "I'm ready to fight when and if I have to. i don't know if I can be as charming as Sylvi. She's.. she's something but I can give my best"

A surprised look. "Gerd, I have come to think of you as courteous and respectful in your treatment of others. That can go at least as far as charm, if not further."

"Thank you, Chief. But I had my hateful and bratty years, I . .I am glad I've matured. My therapist says sometimes we project our loathing for ourselves onto others, so showing respect to others can help us respect ourselves"

"Interesting," she nods. "And if the Freeholder of Goldfinch has ever claimed to have never had a bratty period, that would be...a poorly remembered past."

A laugh escapes "Sorry, I guess there's that. Sylvi never denied it" The dogs return with the sticks. And yes, there's a contest going on on who can bring them back fastest "THank you,CHief. I DO want to help Marigold.she seems kind. And her daughter is stressed from what I hear, but It's nicer to be needed here."

Brekke puts a hand on her shoulder. "You have a kind and generous heart, Gerd. I am pleased to know this, and not at all surprised."

"Just being decent, Chief" A light blush

"That is far more than many do, Gerd. You do Rivervale proud."

"Thank you, Chief. I .. I shouldn't do it for praise, but its good to know. I had a whole lodge of good teachers and role models. Grumps, wilders, why.. even little brother teaches me more than he knows " a fond look at that

She nods, and takes the sticks from both dogs...then reaches over to where a longer branch rests. Picking it up, she instructs, "Edelweiss, Signe, both work together." And the branch goes flying!

They move, as the branch flies fast and far.... but Signe seems a bit thrown off. Edelwiess could gloat, but rather she grabs one end of the stick and holds up the other for signe. Signe catches on and clever pup gets the hint and gets the other side, and they return it as a team

"Wow, go aunt Eddie.' Gerd says "And Signe, quick learner"

"Well done," Brekke crouches down. "Drop." And once the dogs comply, there are ear rumples for both. "Very well done."

Gerd pets them "Think they'd like it near the lake?"

"Oh, yes. They could use a romp by the water. Let us go."

And off the four go, an experienced warrior and a younger guardian.. oh and their trolls

(End Scene)