Development of the French colony was still underway. There was still plenty of work to be done in turning the old stables into suitable living quarters. But considering how many likely Animalians are going to take up residence, the chateaux and the refurbished stables would obviously not be enough. As such, the French government were planning on expanding the colonial plans to the nearest village.
The village wasn't really the same as Lyre, Nevada. It lacked the unexpectedly ideal geology for creating underground homes like the Burrows or have access to hot springs. But there was scenic land around that should have enough room to build a large hotel. Of course, there's been some negotiating with the villagers regarding that. The villagers weren't keen about property values inflating above what they could afford. On the other hand, this expansion could bring in a lot of business and boost the local economy. Of course, the negotiations were talked about with greater finesse and complexity than the common layman would understand.
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Juliet was thankful she didn't have to deal with a majority with all the expansion plans, mostly the ones pertaining to her own estate. And they gave her enough of a headache already. On the other hand, she was finding herself with less to do. Her pupils weren't as interested in becoming ladies like they had been before. Juliet couldn't really stop them from pursuing other goals, though she had hoped they would aim higher. She hoped that after the initial thrill had worn off, they'll settle down and be ready to aspire for classier vocations. Until then, Juliet didn't have much to do herself asides from the occasional appearance at Belles Bêtes' piano lounge.
As such, Juliet was quite eager to receive a guest, particularly one with her own noble lineage. Countess Irena de Vasconcellos had come north in the spirit of goodwill to see how the French colony was doing. Juliet and Irena had quite a bit in common, especially with their respective governments expanding their lands into Animalian colonies.
"I have not heard much about your colony recently," commented Juliet.
"My government doesn't want details revealed until they're ready," said Irena, "You French are more of a tease than us Spaniards."
"At least we are more likely to step up to battle," said Juliet in a teasing tone.
"Only to turn and run away," jested Irena.
The customary ribbing of each other's country out of the way, Juliet asked, "What else brings you up here? I would think you'd want to oversee the construction."
"To be honest, I've been feeling a bit lonesome," said Irena.
"Because you're the only Pyrenean Ibex in the world?" asked Juliet.
"A little," said Irena, "You would think someone would have some interest in the ibex."
"At least they're not assuming you're involved with someone just because he's a similar species," said Juliet.
"Tyler was an interesting young man, but it wasn't meant to be," said Irena, "Honestly, I don't care if I have another ibex around or not. I just want some company."
"You don't have anyone else on your estate?" asked Juliet.
"My villa is smaller than your chateau and I was fairly self-capable even before I converted. All I ever really needed was a gardener," said Irena, "Now I find myself with more years ahead of me than I expect and little idea of what to do with them."
"I know how you feel," said Juliet.
"So, I was wondering if you and your students may consider coming down for a while," said Irena.
"Isn't it a little past spring break?" asked Juliet.
"You're the headmistress. You can decide when spring break is," said Irena, "Or think of it as an early summer vacation if you want."
"Are you really that desperate?" asked Juliet with a touch of concern.
"Not truly desperate, but I'd rather have someone to talk to in person rather than over a phone or computer," said Irena, "There are still no other Animalians in Spain."
"Have you asked your gardener if he would want to convert?" asked Juliet.
"Lopez? He may think it would be impudent to ask," said Irena.
"If there's one thing I've learned since converting, it's that old standards need to be loosened," said Juliet.
"That is true," said Irena, "I'll have to talk with Lopez later. But will you consider my invitation?"
"That may depend on how ready you are to receive guests," said Juliet.