#scarsdale

Away in New York, Zara is holed up in the kitchen with Hannah... nibbling at a rather dodgy-looking kugel as the kinain washes dishes. Not much conversation, per se, as Hannah simply updates her daughter on gossip... Hirim shenanigans, visits from the nice sluagh girl across the street, what's happening with her book club.

Turns out that the Sluagh down the street may have terrified some folks that refused to take their lights down by the 12th day of Christmas

As it should be!

Rumor might abound that August is seen at the local court in a SLIGHTLY more favorable light. Baron? Bannerhouse? Hard to argue with success.

Other rumor is that there were two new Troll Chrysalids in the area. Some attribute it to the death of a dragon, but that's silly.

Zara... listens. It's a familiar rhythm, in a familiar place where she knows all the smells and shadows and secrets.

And, of course, she'll get the update on who has had children or grand children, who is getting married or divorced, who is moving...and who is coming back

And Zara does get a text later

From Earl TXT: not to pester, but I love you like crazy 🖤

TXT: 💙

And he does not pester. Sometimes one just has to express and then give space again.

Hannah, however, might mention some tasks to be done that involve the uncles... ones she'll do , of course, unless... a certain daughter wants to brave the lions den

Z will do Uncle Duty and spend the night in her own room.