#scarsdale

Lily had not met Zara's family - they are largely a loud and affectionately quarrelsome bunch. Tzipporah, the other newcomer, might also be uncertain what to make of Nockers and Kinain - but at least apples and honey are familiar.

There IS another childling there - for Jacob came with Miriam. And Vashti was also invited.

Vashti came, Shallimar seems to be busy.

The Uncles, of course, take delight in needling each other, and prodding at Zara's "Luftmensch." Hirim's suit, as always, is eye-blinding.

Lily shyly clings to Zara's side, at least at first.

Apple red-and-green plaid, with a honey-gold shirt and patterned bow tie. Spectator shoes and argyle socks.

"Mama, this is my friend Lily... tis her first Rosh Hashanah..."

"Pleased o meet you" lily whispers

Jacob yanks at his collar, annnd might make choking soundns

"I shall tend to some tea. Might I cut the apple cake, too?"

Of course she may, Hannah wannts to know how things are at that Runey Earth place

Lily asks "May I help you, Miss Zara?"

Vashti hovers near Hirim, as ever, enraptured

"Aye, Lily. We shall prepare for both us and those with less refined palates..."

"Sister likes getting fancy" Jacob observes

"You could do with some ceremony, brother."

"I'm wearing a suit" he protests as if that's enough

Lily rolls her eyes and looks at Zara "Boys take a lot of effort, don't they?"

Zara nods. "Aye, they do. Now, will you fold napkins for the tray, please?" Zara flits about the kitchen.

"Yes, Miss Zara " and the girl ggets ot it

As always, Zara can hear the chatter in the next room, family is family. Tziporah telling a story of a victorious shopping trip

Sluagh and regular versions of apple cake are sliced and plated, and tea is readied.

And fade to family, as Vashti and tizzy seem to be getting along. the Uncles get along in their own way, and Zara shares Hanna's contentment in presiding over it

(Fade to fam)