I literally just slept for like a week.

[ Jade's voice is a little hoarse, her hair wet from a shower, and she still seems vaguely sleepy. ]

Did I miss anything exciting? Any more giant attacks? -- how is everyone, anyway? Yes, hi, even people I don't know yet, how are you doing?

[ FILTERED TO ROXY: ]

Hey! I met Callie! At home, I mean.

[It's late when the feed comes on. Not obscenely late, but late enough that there's a little surprise in it all the same. It's been almost two weeks since the Muspelheim trip, and Samantha's seated in the lab at her shop, working on something that looks like a potion.

When she glances up at the feed, she gives a short, curt nod. Her voice has an audible rasp to it, like she's been sick for a while. It's not full-out laryngitis, but the girl probably won't be shouting again. Dying in Asgard has its costs when you've done it this often.]

Utgard's lovely this time of year. For those of you who just got back from the shopping trip or who were expecting a package, drop by Pinch sometime in the next couple of days. There's a little tariff we need to discuss. [Once again, it's code to the conspirators that they need to meet one more time about this.] And for my delivery girl, stop by this evening if you have the chance.

[She took a sip of tea to sooth her throat and grunted once. The rasp hadn't gone away, but she knew it wouldn't. It was so strange to feel some part of her not working right after coming back. But, then again, that old escape clause didn't work back home anymore did it?]

Blessed belated Yule and midwinters. You won't be hearing the C word from me, so don't expect it, but thank you for those who gave me gifts. Let me know if you liked the mittens. In the meantime, I'm catching my stock back up here at Pinch. Potions stock should be back to full stock in a week or two. Thanks for your help, Merlin. Probably no new product until after that. But, since it feels a little like the world's ending, just a reminder. If you lovebirds are planning on using the end of the world as we know it as an excuse, Pinch has most of what you need in stock...

Especially if you're not the same species. [cough] We stock a few pain relievers, ointments, allergy medicines that sort of thing. You'd be surprised at how different species react oddly. So, if you're getting any funny ideas, be safe out there. [Was that a wry grin on her face?]