Jiao-Jie had laughed when the tale reached its conclusion, a merry little giggle that had been demurely subdued behind her small hand. She downed the remainder of her tea, and politely refused a refill, holding her hand over the mug. As the talk went from mischief to politics, her smile faded and she rose from her seat. Bidding those present a friendly goodnight, she retreated to the chairs to find her bed and enjoy a well earned rest.<br/><br/><br/><br/>